Big Basin Redwoods, CA

Travel Dates:  April 2 - 9, 2009

This blog entry servers as a catalogue to myself for future re-visits and as a brief guide for those interested in visiting Big Basin Redwoods that have never gone.

This park is absolutely beautiful.  The redwoods are not as big as some of the redwoods you find in northern california (i.e. the redwood that is so big they cut a hole through it and you drive your car along the road right through the center of the tree).  None the less it is dense with trees and a joy to hike through and camp in.

How To Get There

The park is about 65 miles south of San Francisco. From Santa Cruz travel approx. 25 miles northwest via Highways 9 and 236 to reach Park Headquarters.  The drive from LA (according to Google Maps) is about 6 hours.  That’s taking the 5 and then cutting over to the west.  One could also take the 101 but I imagine that might be a longer drive and would probably have slower speed limits.

Cost

The campgrounds cost $25 and hold up to 8 people.  You are allowed 2 vehicles and I don’t remember there being a entry fee for the vehicle as there are in most national campgrounds.

Amenities

The campground has a fire ring, picnic table/s, coin operated showers, restrooms and a water faucet for washing dishes etc.

Things To Do

Hiking, hiking!!  There are many different hikes ranging from 25 minutes to a rather unimpressive waterfall to a 12 hour hike all the way to the ocean!  We did a 6 hour hike along a beautiful creek where the trail climbed and fell along the side of the mountain.  This particular trail was a long loop in which you got to see 3 small waterfalls, one of which (Berry Creek Falls) was quite beautiful.  There is a small town nearby (about a 10 minute drive) named Boulder Creek.  Here you can get most anything you would need.  In fact there is free internet access at a very bizarre and fun coffee shop.  Can’t remember the name:  Rainbow something.  If you need equipment (i.e. sleeping bags, etc) it’s another 10 to 15 minute drive and you are at a Target.

Final Notes:

The weather here was very moderate when I went in April of ’09.  A light jacket was all I needed during the day and a good sleeping bag took care of me at night.  Obviously check the weather before you go.  Also, as is usual, firewood is an issue.  You can buy firewood in Boulder Creek and there are many local who sell firewood along the road.  The campground itself does sell firewood but it can be scarce depending upon how many people are buying at the time.