By Zack Ruskin
PART 2: CENTRAL CALIFORNIA
This is part 2 of our series Hidden in Plain site. In part one we we discovered a bunch of cool urban camp spots in Northern Cali.
Now we dive into Central California to check a couple additional cool spots.
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park (Santa Cruz)
Positioned in the perfect place for those in Santa Cruz to make a quick excursion into nature, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park’s biggest claim to fame is the site’s 40-acre grove of toweringold-growth redwood trees. With more than 4,650 acres of forested and open land to its name, Henry Cowell’s bountiful amenities include hiking, horseback riding, picnicking, and swimming. Technically open year-round, the park’s 107 reservable campsites are in a forest of shady pines and oaks and are just a half mile away from Santa Cruz’s famed Sandhills habitat and popular Observation Deck. For those looking to book a spot between Memorial Day and Labor Day, reservations are strongly recommended. Please note that Henry Cowell may infrequently close during the fall and winter seasons because of inclement weather. More info.
New Brighton State Beach (Santa Cruz)
Located just seven miles from the heart of downtown Santa Cruz, New Brighton State Beach takes its name from a famed coastal resort in England. Featuring stunning sandscapes and bluffs, New Brighton State Beach blends the best of the forest and beach together into a campground that’s also but a stone’s throw from essentials like grocery stores and gas stations. Where else can you leave your tent, head into town, buy a new novel to read, and be back roasting s’mores in under an hour? Enjoy sweeping views of Monterey Bay along with fishing and, when it’s warm enough, swimming and surfing too. New Brighton State Beach is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day and welcomes canine companions with certain restrictions. More Info.
Stay tuned for part 3 of this series, Southern California!
