Twin Redwoods Trail Camp

For California's dedicated hikers and outdoor enthusiasts, Twin Redwoods Trail Camp offers a truly immersive and peaceful backcountry experience. Located approximately two miles inland from the picturesque coast near Davenport, CA, this primitive campground is a favored stop along the iconic Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail. Unlike car camping sites, Twin Redwoods is accessible only by foot or bike, ensuring a quieter and more intimate connection with the majestic redwood forest it calls home. It's a place where the sounds of the creek replace traffic noise, and the towering trees inspire awe and tranquility.

Twin Redwoods Trail Camp is not just a waypoint; it's a destination in itself for those seeking a genuine wilderness feel without venturing too far off the beaten path for access. Many utilize it as a crucial overnight stop for multi-day treks, while others choose it for a rewarding out-and-back adventure, parking near the coast and hiking or biking in. The unique blend of accessibility for active adventurers and a secluded atmosphere makes it a prized gem within the Santa Cruz Mountains. This article will guide you through the essential details of Twin Redwoods Trail Camp, highlighting its distinctive location, the services and limitations campers should be aware of, and the unique features that make it a highly regarded choice for local Californians.

We understand that backcountry camping comes with its own set of considerations, and knowing what to expect is paramount for a successful trip. Twin Redwoods Trail Camp offers a rustic yet rewarding experience, emphasizing self-reliance and respect for the natural environment. While some amenities might be minimal, the pay-off is unparalleled privacy and an opportunity to truly disconnect and absorb the beauty of California's ancient forests. From the practicalities of reservations and parking to the serene ambiance of the campsite, we'll cover what makes Twin Redwoods Trail Camp a special place for your next outdoor escape.

Let's explore why Twin Redwoods Trail Camp is an ideal choice for adventurous locals looking to delve into the heart of the redwood wilderness.

Twin Redwoods Trail Camp is strategically located near Davenport, CA 95017, approximately two miles inland from the beautiful California coast. This placement makes it a vital part of the renowned Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail, a popular multi-day backpacking route that traverses the Santa Cruz Mountains from ridgeline to ocean. The camp's precise location is within the coastal region of Big Basin Redwoods State Park, specifically less than two miles inland from Waddell Beach.

Accessibility to Twin Redwoods Trail Camp is exclusively by hike or bike. This "hike-in" or "bike-in" nature is a defining characteristic, filtering out vehicle-dependent campers and contributing to its secluded and peaceful atmosphere. For those embarking on the full Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail, it serves as an en-route stop. Alternatively, campers can park in a designated lot near the coast (often at Rancho del Oso / Waddell Beach) and then hike or bike the two miles to the camp. This allows for both multi-day backpacking adventures and shorter overnight trips.

Obtaining a reservation is mandatory for camping at Twin Redwoods, and it's essential to understand the associated parking permits. Your camping permit should specify that it includes one parking permit. If you have additional vehicles, they will need to display a copy of your camping permit and pay an extra fee, typically $10. This structured approach to parking and permits ensures managed access and helps preserve the natural integrity of the area. The proximity to Highway 1 and established trailheads makes the initial access point convenient for Californians traveling from various parts of the state, before embarking on the final hike or bike ride into camp.

Twin Redwoods Trail Camp provides primitive backcountry camping services, emphasizing self-sufficiency and minimal impact on the environment. Its offerings are designed to support hikers and bikers traversing the extensive trail system.

• Backcountry Campsites: The camp offers individual, primitive campsites. Each site is designed to accommodate up to 6 people.
• Bear Boxes: Critically important for food storage in bear country, bear boxes are available at each campsite. It's noted that Site #1 has an angled-top bear box, which might be less convenient for staging cooking compared to the standard flat-top boxes at other sites.
• Vault Toilets: Basic vault toilets are available, typically seasonally from May 1st to October 31st. Outside this period, campers must "pack it in, pack it out" for all waste.
• Trash Cans: Similar to vault toilets, trash cans are available seasonally from May 1st to October 31st. During the off-season, all trash must be packed out.
• No Potable Water: There is no drinking water directly available at the campsite. Campers must either pack in all their water or be prepared to filter water from Waddell Creek, which runs along the campground. An alternative for emergencies or resupply is to hike an easy two miles to the parking lot where a spigot might be available.
• No Tables: Campers should be prepared for a rustic experience as individual campsites do not include picnic tables.
• No Fires Allowed: Ground fires of any kind are strictly prohibited at Twin Redwoods Trail Camp due to fire danger. Backpacking stoves are permitted for cooking.
• Permit Requirements: A reservation and permit are required for camping, which also includes a parking permit for one vehicle.

Twin Redwoods Trail Camp offers a unique set of features and highlights that distinguish it as a desirable backcountry camping destination, particularly for those who cherish solitude and an authentic wilderness experience.

• Secluded & Private Campsites: A standout feature, Twin Redwoods is renowned for its privacy. Reviewers note it's superior to nearby Alder Camp in terms of "privacy, campsite size and tree cover," often providing a sense of having the "whole camp to ourselves," especially on weekdays or during the shoulder seasons.
• Redwood Forest Immersion: The camp is deeply embedded within a "great campground surrounded by redwoods," offering stunning views of towering trees and a truly mesmerizing natural ambiance. Lying back and staring through the trees toward the sky is a highlight for many.
• Part of Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail: Its integration into the iconic Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail makes it a strategic and rewarding stop for multi-day backpackers, connecting them to a larger network of trails spanning the Santa Cruz Mountains.
• Creek-side Location: Waddell Creek runs along the campground, providing the soothing sounds of flowing water and a potential source for filtered water (though not potable directly from the spigot).
• Quiet Atmosphere: Due to its hike/bike-in access and location, the camp avoids the noise and crowds often associated with car campgrounds, providing a truly peaceful environment. The absence of mosquitos in early May has been a bonus for some visitors.
• Bear Boxes at Every Site: The provision of bear boxes at each site is a crucial safety and convenience feature, ensuring proper food storage in a wilderness setting.
• Year-Round Accessibility for Camping: While services are seasonal, the trail camp itself is generally open year-round for reservations, providing options for winter backpacking (with "pack it in, pack it out" waste management).
• Beautiful Seasonal Conditions: Experiences like "a nice breeze flowed through and it was mesmerizing to lie back and stare through the trees toward the sky" highlight the camp's natural beauty, especially when conditions are just right.

For reservations, information, or any questions regarding Twin Redwoods Trail Camp, contact is typically made through the California State Parks reservation system for the Santa Cruz Mountains backcountry trail camps.

Address: Davenport, CA 95017, USA (This is the general area for accessing the trail camp within Big Basin Redwoods State Park.)

Phone: (831) 338-8861

Mobile Phone: +1 831-338-8861

It is highly recommended to call this number for reservations, especially as spots are "first come first served" once a reservation window opens (often 60 days in advance). It's also advisable to confirm current conditions, fire restrictions, and service availability, particularly during the off-season. Online resources via the California State Parks website (specifically for Santa Cruz Mountains Backcountry Trail Camps or Big Basin Redwoods State Park) are also essential for planning your trip.

Twin Redwoods Trail Camp is an exceptionally suitable destination for locals in California, especially those in the Bay Area and Santa Cruz regions, due to its unique combination of accessibility for active adventurers and deep immersion in nature. For Californians seeking to truly disconnect and embrace a primitive camping experience, Twin Redwoods delivers. Its hike-in/bike-in access ensures a naturally quieter environment, free from vehicle noise and large crowds, which is a significant advantage for those desiring genuine solitude amidst the redwoods.

The camp’s integration into the renowned Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail makes it an ideal choice for backpackers looking to undertake a multi-day journey or even a challenging day hike with an overnight stay. The proximity to the coast, just two miles away, offers the unique opportunity to combine a redwood forest experience with coastal exploration. While amenities like potable water and picnic tables are not available on-site, this minimal development aligns with a true backcountry ethos, appealing to self-reliant campers who appreciate the raw beauty of the wilderness. The provision of bear boxes is a critical safety feature, demonstrating responsible park management in a wild environment.

Furthermore, the positive reviews highlighting its privacy and the "mesmerizing" experience of being surrounded by towering redwoods underscore why this camp resonates deeply with local users. It provides a sanctuary where one can truly unwind, breathe fresh air, and marvel at California's ancient giants. For those prepared for a primitive yet profoundly rewarding outdoor adventure, Twin Redwoods Trail Camp offers an unparalleled opportunity to experience the iconic beauty of the Santa Cruz Mountains in a secluded and memorable way.

Twin Redwoods Trail Camp

Davenport, CA 95017, USA