Big Basin Redwoods State Park

State park · Santa Cruz County

Big Basin Redwoods State Park

State park · Santa Cruz County

2

California

Photos

Big Basin Redwoods State Park by null
Big Basin Redwoods State Park by null
Big Basin Redwoods State Park by null
Big Basin Redwoods State Park by null
Big Basin Redwoods State Park by null
Big Basin Redwoods State Park by null
Big Basin Redwoods State Park by null
Big Basin Redwoods State Park by null
Big Basin Redwoods State Park by null
Big Basin Redwoods State Park by null
Big Basin Redwoods State Park by null
Big Basin Redwoods State Park by null
Big Basin Redwoods State Park by null
Big Basin Redwoods State Park by null
Big Basin Redwoods State Park by null
Big Basin Redwoods State Park by null
Big Basin Redwoods State Park by null
Big Basin Redwoods State Park by null
Big Basin Redwoods State Park by null
Big Basin Redwoods State Park by null

Highlights

Backpacking, biking, camping, stunning trails, friendly rangers  

Featured in Conde Nast Traveler
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California Get directions

parks.ca.gov
@bigbasin_sp

Information

Static Map

California Get directions

+1 831 338 8860
parks.ca.gov
@bigbasin_sp

Features

payment debit card
wheelchair accessible parking lot
wheelchair accessible entrance

Last updated

Aug 11, 2025

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@travelleisure

The Essential Road Trip Guide to El Camino Real

"Visitors can stretch their legs among towering, ancient redwoods on numerous trails that showcase some of the region’s most iconic old-growth forests—an ideal stop for hikers seeking cool, shaded canopies and impressive trees." - Cu Fleshman

https://www.travelandleisure.com/guide-el-camino-real-road-trip-11768623
View Postcard for Big Basin Redwoods State Park
@cntraveler

Camping in California Officially Reopens Today | Condé Nast Traveler

"Travelers can now book and stay at 1,667 campsites at 28 state parks throughout California, including Big Basin Redwoods State Park in Santa Cruz."

https://www.cntraveler.com/story/camping-in-california-officially-reopens-today
View Postcard for Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Jerry F

Google
This is a great park for nature lovers. Absolutely fantastic and wildfire did not change a thing. I would say that there is a lot of mysticism in this park. Some trails are stunning, plenty of privacy so you can admire the creation in silence. Rangers are very friendly and informative. This park needs you. There is plenty of work to rebuild, but still enjoyed every minute there. One trail is spectacular. Ask the ranger :)

Samantha Allen

Google
This is a lovely area to explore. I would recommend spending a whole day or overnight to explore. There is plenty of woods, Forrest, hikes, and recreation to wander through. Be sure to plan ahead so you know where to go and what you are doing as well as how much gas you have. Once arrived, you will do more driving to reach either the basin or lake or pull off spots. Also, the weather is a bit cooler in the woods, so wear layers.

Ramesh KS

Google
Great place, but out of the way. The roads are windy and narrow getting there. Fewer people go there and so it is not as crowded. Good trails and beautiful.

Paloma R

Google
Did the Skyline to the Sea and Meteor Trail Loop. According to AllTrails app., it’s closed. Not exactly true. Since CZU Lightning Complex Fire of 2020, there are some detours. A couple examples, we didn’t see the waterfall. However, we came across many brooks and dams. 4.8 mi Distance, 2 hr 20 min Estimated time, 912ft Elevation, Loop. Our ETA was more like 5hours. BE SURE TO BRING ADEQUATE WATER AND SNACKS! According to staff, the fire melted away their water pipes so, no water stops. CLEAN porta potties at the entrance. Make parking reservations, otherwise you’ll be given a ticket number and you will have to wait to be called. We waited about 20min. Wear comfy hike shoes at least a half size larger- YOU WILL SWELL (my daughter and I learned the hard way 🤦🏽‍♀️). I attached current pic of map and scenery. Was definitely worth it for us.

Pratyasha95 Ds

Google
Went hiking at Big Basin recently and while the trails are beautiful and worth exploring, the signage definitely needs improvement. The trail markers are quite confusing — it’s easy to take a wrong turn and end up on a completely different trail. At first, we thought we were the only ones lost, but along the way we met several other hikers who were also unsure of the route. It would be really helpful if the trail signs were clearer and better placed, especially at junctions. A bit more attention to detail could really enhance the hiking experience here. Still, the nature and views make it worth the effort❤️

Helen Marquis

Google
Still recovering from the CZU fire in 2020, Big Basin is still well worth visiting as it steadily comes back to life. A number of the trails are still closed, but the ones that are open offer some stunning views. I did a 5.6 mile loop - starting with the Sea to Skyline trail, then climbing the Meteor Trail to the chaparral, and then descending via the Dool Trail. The views from the top were spectacular, and there were a surprising amount of flowers blooming in the relentless sun and heat. Once you clear the trees, it's very exposed, so take sunscreen and plenty of water. And make a reservation for parking at weekends as it regularly sells out. Weekdays are easier.

Manisha

Google
The hike to waterfall is closed but the Meteor trail is pretty beautiful and butterflies all along the trail make your day. I had just gone to the ocean view summit , the view was really good but there is no shade on main trail.

Shashank Maurya

Google
Scenic 17 miles drive with lots of view points. Photos include the pictures from multiple stops . It was very windy and deceivingly cold, so definitely check the weather before you go.