Big Basin Redwoods State Park
State Park · Boulder Creek, California
Big Basin Redwoods State Park is in the Santa Cruz Mountains north of Santa Cruz and is commonly described as California's oldest state park, established in 1902 - confirm the date if it matters. It protects old-growth coast redwoods, which are among the tallest living trees, along with creeks, waterfalls and steep forested ridges. In August 2020 the CZU Lightning Complex fire swept through and destroyed the headquarters area, campgrounds and visitor facilities, and damaged many trails and bridges. Be clear before you drive up: facilities and many trails were damaged, and reopening has been phased, so what is open changes - confirm current status. Many old-growth trunks survived and are resprouting green from their bark, and the story of regrowth is part of the visit. It suits hikers and patient visitors, not those who want services. Day use may require a reservation, and fees apply - confirm both before you go.
21600 Big Basin Way, Boulder Creek, California, 95006, United States
State Parks has set day-use hours that run from morning until around sunset, with a limit on how many cars may enter, and in recent years entry has required an advance day-use reservation - confirm the current system, the times and the fee before you drive up. Hours differ for visitors, campers and trailhead use, and some areas have closed entirely while the park is rebuilt. Winter storms, landslides, fallen trees and fire danger can close the narrow mountain roads at short notice, and high fire risk can restrict use. There is little or no phone signal in the park, so check the official State Parks page and the road status the morning you leave, because the nearest services are far down the hill.
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