McCormick Creek Camp & Gardens LLC

For Californians seeking a truly unique and sustainable camping experience amidst the majestic redwood forests, McCormick Creek Camp & Gardens LLC in Loma Mar offers a charming and tranquil escape. Described by visitors as "quaint" and "paradise," this campground stands out for its commitment to environmental stewardship and its welcoming, community-focused atmosphere. It’s an ideal destination for those who appreciate rustic charm, a connection to nature, and an eco-conscious approach to outdoor living.

McCormick Creek Camp & Gardens LLC is not just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a living demonstration of sustainable practices, integrated with small-scale farming and forestry. It provides a serene base from which to explore the towering redwoods, enjoy the fresh air, and unwind from the demands of modern life. For locals in California, especially those near the Bay Area, it offers a refreshing alternative to more conventional campgrounds, promising a peaceful retreat just a short drive from urban centers.

McCormick Creek Camp & Gardens LLC is located at 9921 Pescadero Creek Rd, Loma Mar, CA 94021, USA. This address places it deep within the scenic Santa Cruz Mountains, a region renowned for its ancient redwood groves, lush forests, and proximity to the rugged California coastline. Loma Mar itself is a small, unincorporated community that embodies the serene beauty of this natural landscape.

The camp boasts excellent accessibility for Californians, being approximately just an hour's drive from major metropolitan areas like San Francisco, Silicon Valley (San Jose), and Santa Cruz. This makes it an incredibly convenient local getaway, allowing campers to quickly transition from city life to the tranquility of the redwoods. Pescadero Creek Road is a picturesque route that winds through the forest, leading directly to the campground. The camp is strategically situated across the street from YMCA Camp Loma Mar, next door to the Mt. Ellen Nature Trail, and just half a mile east of San Mateo County's Memorial Park, and a mile or two from The Loma Mar Store & Kitchen. It is also a mere ten minutes from Pescadero Beach and the Pescadero Marsh Natural Preserve, offering easy access to coastal activities. The location is particularly inviting for bicyclists, with numerous hiking and biking trails in the area, and even offers the possibility to use the campground as a base for visiting Half Moon Bay for popular festivals or ocean excursions.

McCormick Creek Camp & Gardens LLC provides services that align with its sustainable and rustic ethos, offering essential comforts while promoting a connection with nature. It's important to note that the approach here is "off-the-grid" for electricity, which contributes to its unique character.

• Campsites: The camp offers designated areas for camping, likely including tent sites and potentially options suitable for various types of campers looking for a sustainable stay. Specific booking details were not readily available on Hipcamp at one point, suggesting direct inquiry might be best for current availability.

• Hot Outdoor Showers: A notable and often appreciated amenity for a rustic camp, providing a refreshing way to clean up while still being immersed in the outdoor environment.

• Off-the-Grid Electricity: The camp utilizes off-the-grid electricity, reflecting its commitment to sustainability. Campers should be prepared for a more minimalist power experience, though this contributes to the tranquil atmosphere.

• High-Speed Internet: Surprisingly, despite its rustic and off-grid power approach, the camp provides high-speed internet. This balances the desire for disconnection with the practical needs for communication or light work, especially for those who might need to check in with the outside world.

• Self-Milled Lumber: This highlights the camp's sustainable practices, using local resources and demonstrating a commitment to environmentally conscious operations.

• Temporary Structures: The mention of "a few temporary structures" suggests flexibility in their offerings and a light footprint on the land.

• Educational and Workshop Opportunities (Potential): The vision of an environmentally run camp integrated with small-scale farming, forestry, and public education, coupled with past permaculture workshops, suggests a potential for educational programs or skill-sharing events for guests.

• Group Bookings/Retreats: The website mentions the option to "email us about private group bookings," indicating that the camp can accommodate groups for campouts, retreats, educational events, or workshops.

McCormick Creek Camp & Gardens LLC's unique blend of natural beauty, sustainable practices, and a welcoming ethos creates several compelling highlights for campers:

• Sustainable and Permaculture Focus: This is a major distinguishing feature. The camp's integration with small-scale farming and forestry, inspired by permaculture principles (including a workshop led by Sepp Holzer), appeals to environmentally conscious campers and those interested in sustainable living.

• Redwood Forest Immersion: The camp is situated among towering redwoods, Douglas fir, bay laurel, and oaks, offering an immersive experience in California's iconic ancient forests. This provides a stunning backdrop for relaxation and exploration.

• Quaint and Welcoming Environment: Customer reviews frequently highlight the "quaint" nature and "welcoming environment." This suggests a friendly, intimate atmosphere distinct from larger, more commercial campgrounds, fostered by great staff and a community-oriented approach.

• Proximity to the Coast: Just about 15 minutes from the coast, campers have easy access to beautiful beaches like Pescadero Beach, providing opportunities for surfing, beachcombing, and enjoying the Pacific Ocean's beauty.

• Abundant Hiking and Biking Trails: The location offers direct access to numerous hiking and biking trails, including those in nearby Memorial Park, Sam McDonald Park (with its Heritage Grove Trail), and Pescadero Creek Park, catering to outdoor adventurers of all levels.

• Connection to Pescadero Creek: The camp is named after a perennial creek that feeds the larger Pescadero Creek, once home to Coho Salmon and still home to Steelhead Trout, highlighting its ecological significance.

• Seclusion with Connectivity: While offering an off-grid electricity experience and a sense of remoteness, the availability of high-speed internet provides a unique balance, allowing guests to stay connected if needed.

• Ideal for Open Minds and Unique Travelers: The camp explicitly welcomes "bicyclists, international travelers and open minds," suggesting an inclusive and diverse community of campers.

For inquiries and potential bookings at McCormick Creek Camp & Gardens LLC, use the following contact details:

Address: 9921 Pescadero Creek Rd, Loma Mar, CA 94021, USA

Phone: (It is advisable to check their official website for the most direct phone contact for booking. General phone numbers for Camp Loma Mar (YMCA) are in the vicinity, but for McCormick Creek Camp & Gardens LLC specifically, website contact forms or direct emails are often preferred. The YMCA Camp Loma Mar has a number: (650) 879-0223, but this is a separate entity across the street.)

For the most accurate and up-to-date booking information, it is highly recommended to visit their official website, www.mcreekcamp.com, and utilize their contact form or any provided email address for inquiries about availability, rates, and specific camping options. The website also contains valuable information about camp rules, activities, and the ethos of the place. Given the sustainable and potentially unique booking process (e.g., not currently on Hipcamp for direct bookings), direct communication is key to planning your visit.

For Californians, McCormick Creek Camp & Gardens LLC represents an ideal local escape for those seeking a tranquil, immersive, and sustainably-minded camping experience. Its prime location in the Santa Cruz Mountains, just an hour from major Bay Area cities and a mere 15 minutes from the coast, makes it incredibly accessible for a convenient weekend getaway or a longer, rejuvenating stay. This allows locals to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the redwoods without extensive travel.

The "quaint" and "paradise" reviews from past customers resonate with the camp's unique appeal: a welcoming environment fostered by dedicated staff, combined with a commitment to sustainable living through off-grid electricity and permaculture practices. It's a perfect fit for environmentally conscious Californians, outdoor enthusiasts who enjoy hiking and biking, and anyone looking for a peaceful retreat away from the crowds. McCormick Creek Camp & Gardens LLC offers a refreshing and authentic connection to California's natural heritage, providing a serene and enriching experience right in their own backyard.

McCormick Creek Camp & Gardens LLC

9921 Pescadero Creek Rd, Loma Mar, CA 94021, USA