Surrounded by towering redwoods and the fresh scent of the forest, Smithwoods RV Park offers a peaceful retreat for travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re rolling in with a big rig or a cozy camper, this hidden gem provides the perfect blend of comfort and nature. Smithwoods RV Park is more than just a place to park—it’s a gateway to scenic hikes, winding rivers, and the charm of California’s Santa Cruz Mountains.
With a history dating back decades, this family-friendly destination welcomes visitors with modern amenities while preserving its classic campground feel. Close to beaches, local attractions, and endless outdoor activities, it’s an ideal spot for weekend getaways or extended stays.
Location & Directions
Smithwoods RV Park is located in the Santa Cruz Mountains of California, near Felton. It’s a peaceful, family-friendly campground surrounded by towering redwoods, offering a relaxing escape while still being close to modern conveniences.
Address & General Location
Smithwoods RV Park is situated just off Highway 9, a scenic road that winds through the mountains. The park is near Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, which is known for its ancient trees and great hiking trails. It’s also only about 20 minutes from downtown Santa Cruz and the Pacific Ocean, making it a great spot for both nature lovers and beachgoers.
Directions
If you’re coming from different directions, here’s how to get there:
From San Jose & The Bay Area (North)
- Take Highway 17 South toward Santa Cruz.
- Take the exit for Mount Hermon Road in Scotts Valley.
- Follow Mount Hermon Road for about 4 miles until it ends in Felton.
- Turn right onto Graham Hill Road and continue for about half a mile.
- Turn left onto Highway 9 (Big Basin Way) and drive for approximately 1 mile.
- The entrance to Smithwoods RV Park will be on your left.
From Santa Cruz (South)
- Take Graham Hill Road from Santa Cruz toward Felton.
- At the intersection with Highway 9, turn left.
- Drive for about a mile, and you’ll find Smithwoods RV Park on your left.
From Monterey & South of Santa Cruz
- Take Highway 1 North toward Santa Cruz.
- Merge onto Highway 17 North toward San Jose.
- Take the Mount Hermon Road exit and follow the same route as above through Felton.
What to Expect Nearby
- Felton: A charming small town with grocery stores, restaurants, and shops. The famous Roaring Camp Railroads is here, offering steam train rides through the redwoods.
- Santa Cruz: About 10 miles away, offering beaches, boardwalk attractions, and a lively downtown.
- Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park: Less than 5 minutes away, perfect for hiking, picnicking, and enjoying the giant redwoods.
This RV park is in a prime location for a mix of outdoor adventures and easy access to city amenities. It’s a great choice for campers, road trippers, and families looking for a scenic getaway.
Amenities & Facilities
Smithwoods RV Park is well-equipped to provide a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience. Nestled in the redwoods, it offers a mix of natural beauty and modern conveniences. Whether you’re staying short-term or long-term, the park has a variety of amenities to make your visit relaxing and hassle-free.
- Full Hookup RV Sites
- Each site comes with water, sewer, and electrical hookups (30 & 50 amp).
- Spacious, level sites to accommodate different RV sizes.
- Many spots offer shade from the towering redwoods.
- Clean Restrooms & Hot Showers
- Well-maintained restrooms with private stalls.
- Hot showers available 24/7, great for refreshing after a long day.
- Laundry Facilities
- On-site coin-operated washers and dryers for guests.
- Clean and accessible laundry area.
- Clubhouse & Community Room
- A cozy clubhouse for socializing and group activities.
- Features seating areas, tables, and sometimes scheduled events.
- Heated Swimming Pool
- Open seasonally, providing a great way to cool off.
- Clean and well-maintained for both kids and adults to enjoy.
- Recreation & Outdoor Activities
- Game area with activities like horseshoes and other games.
- Nature trails nearby for hiking and exploring the redwoods.
- Pet-Friendly Atmosphere
- Pets are welcome, with designated areas for walking.
- Guests are required to clean up after their pets.
- WiFi & Connectivity
- WiFi available in certain areas for staying connected.
- Good cell reception depending on your carrier.
- Security & Gated Access
- Gated entrance for added safety.
- Staff available to assist guests.
- Nearby Attractions & Convenience
- Close to grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations in Felton.
- Minutes from Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and Santa Cruz beaches.
Smithwoods RV Park combines nature with convenience, offering everything you need for a comfortable stay. Whether you’re looking for full hookups, clean facilities, or recreational activities, the park provides a welcoming environment for all types of travelers. With its peaceful surroundings and excellent amenities, it’s a great place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of the Santa Cruz Mountains.
Activities & Nearby Attractions
Smithwoods RV Park is surrounded by towering redwoods and offers a peaceful retreat while still being close to exciting attractions. Whether you prefer outdoor adventures, family-friendly activities, or exploring local culture, there’s something for everyone.
On-Site Activities at Smithwoods RV Park
- Relaxing in the Redwoods
- Enjoy the tranquility of the towering redwood trees.
- Perfect for reading, meditating, or simply soaking in nature.
- Swimming Pool
- Heated pool (seasonal) for a refreshing swim.
- Great for families and kids to enjoy some water fun.
- Game & Recreation Area
- Includes games like horseshoes and other outdoor activities.
- A great spot to meet fellow campers and enjoy friendly competition.
- Walking & Nature Trails Nearby
- Stroll through the beautiful forested surroundings.
- Watch for local wildlife like deer, squirrels, and a variety of birds.
- Community & Social Gatherings
- Clubhouse available for events, gatherings, and activities.
- Occasional group events, depending on the season.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
- Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park (5 minutes away)
- Famous for its ancient redwoods, some over 1,500 years old.
- Offers easy walking trails and scenic hikes.
- The Redwood Grove Loop Trail is a must-see.
- Roaring Camp Railroads (5 minutes away)
- Historic steam train rides through the redwoods.
- Option to take a scenic train to Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
- Fun for families, history buffs, and train enthusiasts.
- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (20 minutes away)
- Classic seaside amusement park with roller coasters and arcade games.
- Enjoy rides like the Giant Dipper, a historic wooden coaster.
- Plenty of beachfront dining and entertainment options.
- Downtown Felton (5 minutes away)
- Small-town charm with unique shops and local eateries.
- Visit Wild Roots Market for organic groceries and local goods.
- Great coffee spots and bakeries to try.
- Mystery Spot (15 minutes away)
- A famous optical illusion attraction where gravity seems to work differently.
- A fun and quirky stop for all ages.
- Big Basin Redwoods State Park (30 minutes away)
- California’s oldest state park, home to giant old-growth redwoods.
- Offers excellent hiking trails and breathtaking scenery.
- Santa Cruz Wharf & West Cliff Drive (20 minutes away)
- Walk along the pier and spot sea lions basking in the sun.
- Try fresh seafood at local restaurants.
- West Cliff Drive offers stunning coastal views, great for biking or walking.
- Natural Bridges State Beach (25 minutes away)
- Known for its rock arch formations and scenic ocean views.
- Best spot for sunset watching and photography.
- Seasonal monarch butterfly migration happens here in the fall.
- UCSC Arboretum & Botanic Garden (20 minutes away)
- Unique plant collections from Australia, South Africa, and New Zealand.
- A peaceful spot for plant lovers and nature enthusiasts.
- Local Breweries & Wineries
- Visit places like Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing or Hallcrest Vineyards in Felton for local craft beer and wine tastings.
- Enjoy a laid-back atmosphere with great drinks and scenic views.
Smithwoods RV Park is in the perfect location to enjoy both the serenity of the redwoods and the excitement of nearby attractions. Whether you’re hiking among ancient trees, riding a historic train, or relaxing on the beach, there’s no shortage of things to do. It’s a fantastic base for exploring the best of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the California coast.
Camping & RV Site Booking Information
If you’re planning a stay at Smithwoods RV Park, it’s important to know the details about booking, site options, and policies. The park offers a variety of RV sites with full hookups, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience.
- Types of Sites Available
Smithwoods RV Park caters primarily to RV campers and does not offer tent camping. Here are the types of sites you can book:
- Full Hookup RV Sites
- Includes: Water, sewer, and electric (30 & 50 amp).
- Site Features: Level and spacious, with many offering shade from the redwoods.
- Accommodates: Small to large RVs, trailers, and fifth wheels.
- Pull-Through & Back-In Sites
- Pull-through sites: Easy access, great for larger rigs or quick overnight stays.
- Back-in sites: More privacy, surrounded by redwood trees.
- Booking & Reservation Process
- How to Make a Reservation
- Phone Booking: Recommended for personalized assistance.
- Online Reservations: Available through their official website.
- Walk-Ins: Limited availability, best to call ahead.
- Reservation Policies
- Advance Booking: Recommended, especially during peak seasons (spring, summer, and holidays).
- Minimum Stay: Some holiday weekends may require a minimum number of nights.
- Deposit: Usually required to secure your site.
- Check-In & Check-Out
- Check-In Time: Usually in the afternoon (exact time varies; check when booking).
- Check-Out Time: Typically in the morning.
- Late Arrivals: Must inform the office in advance to arrange check-in.
- Rates & Pricing
Pricing varies depending on:
- Season: Higher rates during peak summer months and holidays.
- Site Type: Pull-through sites might cost slightly more than back-in sites.
- Length of Stay: Discounts may be available for weekly or monthly stays.
- Cancellation & Refund Policy
- Cancellation Deadline: Must cancel within a specified time frame to avoid a fee.
- Refunds: Typically, partial refunds are offered if you cancel in advance, but last-minute cancellations may result in a forfeited deposit.
- No-Show Policy: If you don’t check in without prior notice, your site may be given to another guest, and the deposit is usually non-refundable.
- Additional Information & Rules
- Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome but must be leashed and cleaned up after.
- Quiet Hours: Usually from late evening to early morning to respect fellow campers.
- Campfires: May be restricted depending on fire danger levels; check ahead.
- Visitor Policy: Guests may have visitors, but they may need to check in at the office.
Smithwoods RV Park offers a well-maintained, full-service RV camping experience in the heart of the redwoods. With easy booking options, a range of site choices, and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s a great destination for both short-term getaways and extended stays. To secure your spot, it’s best to book in advance, especially during busy seasons!
Tips for Staying at Smithwoods RV Park
To make the most of your stay at Smithwoods RV Park, here are some useful tips covering everything from booking to enjoying the surrounding area.
- Booking & Arrival Tips
- Reserve Early: The park is popular, especially in peak seasons (summer and holidays). Book in advance to secure your preferred site.
- Check Site Dimensions: If you have a larger RV, confirm the site size before booking to ensure a proper fit.
- Confirm Check-In Time: Arrive within designated check-in hours, or call ahead if you’re running late.
- Know the Road Conditions: Highway 9 is scenic but narrow in some areas. If you’re driving a larger rig, take it slow and be mindful of sharp turns.
- Setting Up Your RV
- Bring Leveling Blocks: Some sites may have a slight slope, so it’s good to have leveling blocks on hand.
- Hook Up Carefully: Ensure your water, electric, and sewer connections are secure before settling in.
- Mind the Trees: The park is surrounded by redwoods, so watch for overhanging branches when parking your RV.
- Staying Comfortable & Safe
- Pack for Cool Nights: Even in summer, temperatures in the redwoods can drop at night, so bring warm layers.
- Keep Food Stored Properly: Wildlife like raccoons may visit, so store food securely and don’t leave anything outside overnight.
- Follow Fire Rules: Campfires may be restricted depending on the fire danger level—always check with the office.
- Enjoying the Park & Nearby Attractions
- Use the Laundry Facilities: If you’re staying for an extended time, the on-site laundry room is convenient.
- Swim During Warmer Hours: The pool is heated but can still be chilly on cooler days—go for a swim in the afternoon when it’s warmer.
- Visit Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park: Just minutes away, this is a must-visit for hiking among ancient redwoods.
- Ride the Roaring Camp Train: A fun and scenic steam train ride through the forest, great for all ages.
- Explore Downtown Felton: Small-town charm with unique shops, restaurants, and local markets.
- Connectivity & Entertainment
- WiFi Can Be Spotty: The park has WiFi, but due to the wooded location, the signal may not be strong everywhere. Consider using a mobile hotspot if needed.
- Download Maps in Advance: Cell service can be inconsistent in the mountains, so download any navigation maps before arriving.
- Bring Books & Board Games: It’s a great place to unplug and enjoy some downtime with family or friends.
- Be a Good Neighbor
- Respect Quiet Hours: Typically from late evening to early morning—keep noise levels low.
- Leash Your Pets: The park is pet-friendly, but pets must be leashed and cleaned up after.
- Keep Your Site Tidy: Dispose of trash properly to keep the campground clean and wildlife-safe.
A stay at Smithwoods RV Park is a mix of comfort, nature, and adventure. By planning ahead, respecting the park rules, and exploring the surrounding area, you’ll have a fantastic experience in the redwoods. Whether you’re relaxing at your site, hiking nearby trails, or heading to the Santa Cruz beaches, this park is a perfect base for your trip.
Why Choose Smithwoods RV Park?
Smithwoods RV Park is more than just a place to park your RV—it’s a peaceful retreat surrounded by towering redwoods, offering a perfect blend of nature, comfort, and convenience. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure-filled vacation, below is why Smithwoods stands out as a great choice.
- Prime Location in the Redwoods
- Nestled among majestic redwood trees, providing a scenic and shaded environment.
- Located in Felton, CA, just minutes from Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park.
- Close to Santa Cruz beaches, downtown Felton, and local attractions.
- Full Hookup RV Sites & Comfortable Amenities
- Full hookups (water, sewer, and electric) with both 30 & 50 amp service.
- Spacious pull-through and back-in sites for different RV sizes.
- Clean restrooms & hot showers for added comfort.
- On-site laundry facilities for long-term stays.
- Family-Friendly Atmosphere
- Heated swimming pool (seasonal) for both kids and adults to enjoy.
- Game & recreation area with fun activities.
- Pet-friendly policies so you can bring your furry friends.
- Nearby Attractions & Outdoor Adventures
- Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park (5 minutes away) – Hike among 1,500-year-old redwood trees.
- Roaring Camp Railroads (5 minutes away) – Ride a historic steam train through the forest.
- Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk (20 minutes away) – Enjoy amusement rides and ocean views.
- The Mystery Spot (15 minutes away) – Experience quirky optical illusions.
- West Cliff Drive & Santa Cruz Wharf (20 minutes away) – Walk along the coast and see sea lions.
- Peaceful & Safe Environment
- Gated entrance and friendly staff for added security.
- Quiet & relaxing setting, perfect for unwinding.
- Well-maintained facilities to ensure a hassle-free stay.
- Excellent Reviews & Guest Satisfaction
- Highly rated by campers for its cleanliness, location, and customer service.
- A mix of long-term guests and short-term vacationers, creating a welcoming community.
- Guests love the balance of nature and modern conveniences.
Smithwoods RV Park is an ideal choice for RV travelers seeking natural beauty, convenience, and comfort. Whether you’re staying for a weekend or a longer adventure, this park provides the perfect home base for exploring the Santa Cruz Mountains and beyond. With its beautiful redwood setting, great amenities, and proximity to top attractions, Smithwoods is a top pick for RV camping in Northern California.
Conclusion
If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway surrounded by towering redwoods, Smithwoods RV Park is a great choice. With its clean facilities, friendly atmosphere, and easy access to nearby attractions, it offers the perfect balance of relaxation and adventure. Whether you’re staying for a weekend or an extended trip, this spot provides a comfortable retreat for nature lovers and RV travelers alike.