Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
5
About
Minutes away from the city, this park has old redwoods.
Suggested duration
1-2 hours
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  • Jennifer Z
    San Francisco, California19 contributions
    Spacious, Shady, Well Maintained Sites
    This review is about CAMPING at Henry Cowell only. My family of 4 including 2 school aged kids camped here for 3 nights in July. Many of the sites here are generously spacious! The impressive site size was perfect for camping in times of Covid - I felt well spaced from neighbors. We had site 96 which though looks like it may be small on the site map, is actually decently large. Most of the sites were well shaded with tall study trees worthy of hammocks. We saw very few mosquitos and yellow jackets. The exception to the shady/ spaciousness were sites along the ridge in the 2-50 loop. However those ridge sites had beautiful vistas. The sites are so full of trees that one cannot view the loop roads, in case for example, you want to keep an eye on your kids biking around the loops. Dogs are allowed to camp here as long as they remain on leash. There are very few trials that are dog friendly, but the loops are plenty lovely for walks with dogs. The bathrooms were reassuringly clean. Many trash and recycling collection areas. Watch out for poison oak. Firewood is delivered to campsites for $10 a bundle. Easy 20 minute drive to Santa Cruz beaches, and less than 10 minutes to a supermarket in Felton. Highly recommend the Roaring Camp Railway ride for young and old alike.
    Visited July 2020
    Written July 26, 2020
  • wireless_in_CA
    United States4,829 contributions
    Worth the Drive to Hike Through This Amazing Park
    We’ve rode the Roaring Camp Railroad from Felton to Santa Cruz but never took the opportunity to cross the tracks and visit the park until now. Most of the trails are easy to navigate (Pipeline Road is paved) and dogs and horses were also allowed except where noted (unfortunately Redwood Grove Trail is the most popular). Inside the Redwood Grove Trail, lookout for the mother and father trees, banana slugs (stop 12), tree with albino leaves (stop 14), the giant tree (270 feet tall, 17 feet wide), etc. the high canopy of the trees obscured much of the sunlight in some areas. The walk was quiet due to our early morning visit but later the sounds of the Roaring Camp train escalated as they got ready for departure. We did not have trouble finding parking but it was good to arrive early as the lot was almost full near lunchtime.
    Visited April 2021
    Traveled with family
    Written April 5, 2021
  • SB from Oside
    Carlsbad, California45 contributions
    Beautiful place
    The drive on Hwy 1 to get here is also an enjoyable experience. There was plenty of parking in several lots. The loop is an easy stroll through the majestic redwoods. I went on a Tuesday around noon and could easily have enough space to take in the colors, scents and sounds without people right next to me. You can easily access the train next door from your parking space. You can hear it’s whistle occasionally and it adds charm to the experience. Not much in the way of food, drinks, coffee…you should bring your own and enjoy at a picnic table. There are porta-pottys and volunteer told me it’s because septic system is in need of repair. There are many different trails and places to breath in spectacular views. I’m so glad I saw this place and you will be too.
    Visited August 2021
    Traveled solo
    Written August 18, 2021
  • IntlEngineer
    San Jose, California6 contributions
    Breathtaking views
    Absolutely one of my favorite parks to visit in the Bay Area. The redwoods are among the most marvelous of any forest in California. It’s a popular destination so you will encounter people on the trails, but the park is big enough that folks get spread out so it never feels crowded even if the lots are full. I highly recommend the Observation Deck loop trail if you’re up for some mild elevation gain. The view from the top is great, and the biodiversity along the way is quite incredible for a 5 mile trail - you’ll feel like you went to 3 different parks instead of just 1. If you go in the summer or early fall, bring plenty of water and a snack. The rangers are very friendly!
    Visited February 2022
    Written February 12, 2022
  • 933cindyf
    85 contributions
    Awesome!
    Oh my gosh! My husband and I were in awe with the sheer size and the wonder of mother nature. That was the second state park we visited. The entrance employee noticed our paid parking receipt on the dashboard. He stated since we paid for one entrance fee it was good for the same day to other state parks free entrance for parking. This state park had a good layout map and trails were marked. We even saw a banana slug!! A fellow nature person pointed one out to us, so that we wouldn't miss it. This state park is a must!
    Visited November 2020
    Traveled as a couple
    Written November 6, 2020
  • Mark951
    Riverside, California212 contributions
    Great place to see redwoods
    This is a limited review because of severe storms we were not able to see everything. We were able to take the loop walk by the visitor center through the trees. The area is full of many different types of trees including redwoods. There is an audio tour you can download which explains the numbered signs. There is a $10 fee to enter and park. It should have been $9 but I did know there was a discount for seniors and the person in the kiosk did not mention the discount. We will return when the weather improves so we can check out the visitor center which was closed and also ride the steam train
    Visited January 2023
    Traveled as a couple
    Written January 29, 2023
  • Ranjeet T
    Cupertino, California3 contributions
    Tree bridges galore - of all difficulties
    The Fall Creek Unit is now my favorite place to hike in the Bay Area, by a factor of 14. Purisima Creek has 3 tree bridges right off the trail, Fall Creek and its surroundings has 40+ of varying heights, trunk widths, lengths, steepness and rottenness. There are 30+ tree bridges and cantilevered trunks between the Fall Creek trail junction with Bennett Creek Trail and the South Fork trail to Lime Kilns. The South Fork trail has another 5-10. Then, take the Cape Horn Trail to Lost Empire Trail to Big Ben (not the most impressive tree, BTW) , which has another 5 or so, including the one at Lost Camp that crosses a shallow pool with a small waterfall. Descend Big Ben trail to the upper section of Fall Creek Trail, where there are another 40+ in the Barrel Mill area, plus wading pools and small waterfalls and fern covered gullies. An adventure for any kid or anyone with a kid's heart.
    Visited July 2020
    Written August 7, 2020
  • Rachel K
    37 contributions
    All I can say is WOW! Must see in Bay Area
    I can’t believe I’ve lived in the Bay Area my whole life and had never come here to see these redwoods! It is one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever been. We did the Redwood Grove Loop trail (about one mile), and it was a very easy and light walk (no elevation), but with beautiful trees and scenery nonetheless. The pathway is also very wide, which makes it feel safe for socially distancing (and pretty much everyone was abiding by mask protocols). The parking can be a little confusing since there are multiple areas to park, so if you’re looking to do the Redwood Grove loop, make sure to park at the N Big Trees Park Rd Parking (101N N Big Trees Park Rd, Scotts Valley, CA 95060). Parking wasn’t an issue and it was a short walk to the trail. We can’t wait to come back and explore other areas of the park!
    Visited January 2021
    Traveled with friends
    Written March 7, 2021
  • Michael K
    929 contributions
    Convenient place to experience tall redwood trees in the San Francisco Bay area
    We visited the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park after stepping off the train at the Roaring Camp Railroad. The park is just across the railroad tracks. We only hiked the Redwood Grove Loop Trail which is less than a mile. Even on a Saturday it wasn't that crowded. I like the redwood trees at Big Basin Redwoods State Park better, but driving to Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is more convenient. Also, one can get access to food and restroom facility at the Roaring Camp Railroad just next door.
    Visited August 2021
    Written September 11, 2021
  • travelingCAgal
    San Diego, California735 contributions
    Tranquil & Beautuful!
    On our way from Los Gatos to the central coast we stopped here to stroll among the beautiful redwoods near dusk. It is a pretty park with a nice loop trail into a an isolated grove of redwoods. It is a wonderful place to explore the quiet beauty of nature.
    Visited March 2022
    Traveled as a couple
    Written April 1, 2022
These reviews are the subjective opinion of Tripadvisor members and not of TripAdvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
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Stephanie R
Texas, United States210 contributions
Jul 2022 • Solo
I love seeing redwoods, & this park had excellent ones! The trails were well maintained, marked so easy to follow, appreciated the handy trail guides. The little visitor center had nice small exhibits and the docents were very friendly and knowledgeable. The entrance into the park though had a terrible line, with only one person checking people in & answering questions. Parking was a little confusing. The worst is the lack of bathroom facilities. It looks like planning is for a nice structure but right now there are only port-a-potty’s and they are poorly maintained. Unfortunate for such a nice park.
Written July 12, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Ingo Schmökel
15 contributions
Jul 2023 • Couples
You not have to go to the MUIR or Sequoia if you wanna see some big redwoods - go to Henry Cowell Redwood State Park. It's easy to find beetween sillicon valley short before Santa Cruz/Monterey. Visiting costs USD 10,00. There's a restroom, a small shop and different parking lots. a round trail leads you through the biggest redwoods.The way is good enough for older persons and strollers as well. We've spent there a relaxing afternoon on our roadtrip "Highway 1".
Written July 24, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Dennis A
1 contribution
Jun 2022
Am a Docent at the Park. There are NO driveable roads in the Park for visitors. The Redwood Loop is less than one mile. It is ADA accessible. Dogs and bikes are not allowed in the Loop. Dogs and bikes ARE allowed on the Pipeline Rd
Written June 25, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Debbie L
43 contributions
Jun 2022
We visited with the family, reserving 3 separate sites. One of the sites was tiny, no room for a tent and completely open….no shade trees. That daughter was able to join her sisters larger shaded site with their family rents side by side. Tables and fire pits and raccoon boxes are provided at each site. The grounds were clean and beautiful with redwood trees. Lots of poison oak everywhere though! The showers were hot and somewhat clean. :-) The trails are moderate, not easy, but fun.
Written October 27, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Rich C
Rancho Bernardo, CA17 contributions
Aug 2021 • Family
We were staying in San Jose for our sons lacrosse tournament, so decided to take a short trip out and see the Redwoods during one of the mornings. It did not disappoint!!!

The drive was about 40 minutes from downtown, roads are a little windy, but not too bad. Park is well kept, clean bathrooms, and hiking trails are well marked.

We did the Redwood loop and a good deal of the River trail (4.0 miles overall.).Trails were well maintained and the scenery is unreal and peaceful.

If you’re in the area, just go, it’s awesome
Written August 11, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Erin M
Buffalo, NY17 contributions
Mar 2023 • Family
Spectacular park. Arrived by 8am. Completed Redwood Grove, Pipeline to Observation Deck and back with two kids under 10. Park rangers were super helpful and kind. Minimal muddy spots on trails. Actually spotted a banana slug thanks to another group on the trail. Trees were magnificent. Was at Big Basin 9 years ago and wanted to bring the kids there this trip, but with the fire recovery and all the rain we chose to come to Henry Cowell instead for this trip. So happy we did, it was magical.
Written April 2, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Barry and Nicol... G
Reading, UK1,044 contributions
Jun 2022
Henry Cowell Redwood state park is a good place for a stroll amongst the redwoods. There is also a train which the kids will love. Its get very busy and with the road works going on at the moment parking gets tough.
Written June 26, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

AnnieB2304
Claremont, CA168 contributions
Aug 2021
Lovely park to explore. Super easy 1 mile loop, that anyone can navigate without a map as it was fenced in. The loop was beautiful and peaceful, lovely forest.
There are many additional trails available, but those were harder to identify. Having a map would have been great, as cel service was highly limited.
Written August 15, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

muhlberg
San Francisco, CA258 contributions
Jun 2023 • Family
We camped at Henry Cowell and took the Redwood Grove trail all the way to Roaring Camp Railroad. Beautiful trail and fun to watch the train come through. Surprised though that it crossed paths with pedestrians all around and on the tracks. There wasn’t a crossing alert sign or barricade. Just a trespassing sign which didn’t stop anyone from walking on the tracks. Beautiful nonetheless. It’s about a 4 mile round trip from the campground.
Written June 11, 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Medas2005
Minneapolis, MN344 contributions
Feb 2022
Spent the morning in Big Sur and stopped here for a couple of hours on our drive back to San Francisco. Very easy to get to. The trees here are spectacular and much bigger than in Big Sur. Really loved the experience. Very very easy. Quite similar to Muir Woods park.
Written February 15, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

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Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park (Felton) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Information

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