Lane Trail Camp

Hello, seasoned California backpackers and wilderness enthusiasts! If you're seeking a true backcountry experience that challenges your self-sufficiency and rewards you with profound solitude amidst ancient redwood forests, Lane Trail Camp is a destination you'll want to add to your list. Nestled within the vast and interconnected trail systems of the Santa Cruz Mountains, near Boulder Creek, this primitive camp offers a raw and authentic immersion into California's natural splendor. As locals, we understand the call of the wild and the desire for trails less traveled, and Lane Trail Camp perfectly embodies that spirit.

Lane Trail Camp is a hike-in, primitive backcountry campground, meaning it's designed for experienced backpackers ready to carry in all their essentials. It serves as a crucial overnight stop for those undertaking multi-day treks through the magnificent Big Basin Redwoods State Park and connecting to Portola Redwoods State Park. Reviewers highlight its suitability for "a two-day sea to Summit backpack trip" or "just a simple backpacking trip." What defines Lane Trail Camp is its minimalist approach to amenities. Importantly, "there is no water at this Campground," a critical piece of information for planning. Campers must either carry in all their water or be prepared to filter/pump from natural sources like Opal Creek, which is approximately two miles away, or opportunistic ditches after heavy rains. Similarly, there are "no tables" at the camp, requiring campers to be resourceful with their setup.

Despite (or perhaps because of) its rugged nature, Lane Trail Camp offers an unparalleled sense of wildness. It's a place where you can escape the crowds and truly connect with the towering redwoods and diverse ecosystems of the Santa Cruz Mountains. The challenge of self-sufficiency here enhances the feeling of accomplishment. While one past visitor noted discomfort with insects on a warm night, such experiences are part and parcel of genuine backcountry camping and underscore the importance of proper gear, like well-ventilated tents and insect repellent. For those who embrace the primitive aspect, the reward is a quiet night under the stars, potentially with the sounds of the forest as your only companions, far from road noises. It truly is a "great Campground" for those who understand and prepare for its unique character.

Lane Trail Camp is located in Boulder Creek, CA 95006, USA. However, it's crucial to understand that this is a backcountry trail camp, not a drive-in campground with a direct street address. Its location is deep within the interconnected trail network that links Big Basin Redwoods State Park (California's oldest State Park) and Portola Redwoods State Park. Access to Lane Trail Camp requires a hike, typically from designated trailheads within either of these state parks.

For instance, many backpackers access Lane Trail Camp from the southern portion of Big Basin Redwoods State Park, or via routes that might begin closer to the Boulder Creek area, leading into the park's extensive trail system. Reviewers mention hiking from "Waterman's Gap Trail Camp to Lane Trail Camp," indicating its role as a segment along a longer backpacking route. The use of a "shuttle service" also points to the fact that many multi-day trips involving Lane Trail Camp are linear (point-to-point) rather than loop trails, necessitating logistical planning for transportation.

Despite its wilderness setting, the area around Boulder Creek and the entrances to Big Basin are accessible from major Bay Area cities like San Jose, Santa Cruz, and even San Francisco via scenic drives through the Santa Cruz Mountains. However, once you arrive at the trailhead, you'll be embarking on a true backcountry journey. The remoteness of Lane Trail Camp ensures a genuine escape from urban noise and light pollution, providing a deep sense of solitude. Navigating to the camp requires careful planning with maps (like the official Big Basin trail map) and a good understanding of trail distances and elevations. The very act of reaching Lane Trail Camp is part of the adventure, solidifying its status as a destination for serious backpackers.

Services Offered:

• Primitive, designated campsites for backpackers.
• Limited amenities, focusing on a true wilderness experience.
• No potable water directly at the campsite (campers must carry in or filter/treat natural sources like Opal Creek, 2 miles away).
• No picnic tables at individual sites.
• Likely includes a designated flat area for tent setup.
• Typically includes a primitive pit toilet (outhouse) nearby.
• Requires a permit for overnight stays (obtained through Big Basin Redwoods State Park or California State Parks).
• No trash service; pack it in, pack it out policy is strictly enforced.

Features / Highlights:

• Ideal for multi-day backpacking trips, including "sea to Summit" routes.
• Connects the trail systems of Big Basin Redwoods State Park and Portola Redwoods State Park.
• Offers a true wilderness experience with minimal human impact.
• Provides solitude and quiet, away from road noises and crowds.
• Opportunity for intimate connection with old-growth redwood forests and diverse ecosystems.
• Excellent base for challenging hikes with significant elevation changes.
• Potential for wildlife viewing in a natural, undisturbed habitat.
• Requires self-sufficiency, enhancing the sense of accomplishment.
• Managed by California State Parks, ensuring preservation of the natural environment.
• Often used in conjunction with shuttle services for point-to-point hikes.

Contact Information:

Address: Boulder Creek, CA 95006, USA (within Big Basin Redwoods State Park backcountry)

Phone: (831) 338-8861 (Big Basin Redwoods State Park Headquarters/Visitor Center)

Reservations: Backcountry trail camps like Lane Trail Camp require permits, which are typically obtained through the California State Parks reservation system (ReserveCalifornia.com) or directly through the park office. It is essential to check current regulations, permit availability, and any fire restrictions or trail closures before planning your trip, especially since the CZU Lightning Complex fires in 2020 significantly impacted Big Basin. Please verify the current operational status of the camp and trails directly with the park.

For us Californians, Lane Trail Camp is a quintessential backcountry destination that speaks to the adventurous spirit deeply rooted in our state's outdoor culture. We understand that sometimes, the best experiences are found where amenities are minimal and self-reliance is key. This camp is perfect for locals seeking a challenging and deeply rewarding backpacking trip, whether as an overnight stop on an epic "sea to Summit" journey or a standalone primitive escape. Its role as a vital link between the expansive trail networks of Big Basin and Portola Redwoods State Parks makes it an indispensable part of exploring this iconic region.

The lack of water and tables, while a challenge, is also a part of its rugged charm, pushing us to be more prepared and resourceful. It strips away distractions, allowing for a pure connection with the ancient redwoods and the sounds of the forest – perhaps even the hoot of an owl or the rustle of a coyote at sunset. The sense of accomplishment after a tough hike, followed by a night under the stars in true solitude, is what keeps experienced backpackers coming back.

While recent events (like the 2020 CZU fires) have impacted Big Basin, the enduring spirit of places like Lane Trail Camp, along with ongoing restoration efforts, signifies a commitment to bringing these experiences back. For any Californian prepared for a primitive, hike-in adventure and seeking genuine wilderness immersion in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Lane Trail Camp offers an unforgettable and deeply authentic experience that truly embodies the wild heart of our state. Always check the latest park conditions before you go.

Lane Trail Camp

Boulder Creek, CA 95006, USA