California State Parks announced that the seasonal campground at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park (SP), which had been scheduled to reopen Aug. 1 following renovations, has been delayed until the 2026 camping season. Significant supply chain disruptions pushed back the completion of essential infrastructure upgrades, including accessibility features.
“We will continue to work diligently with contractors to complete these essential upgrades and appreciate the patience and understanding of all our visitors as we improve the park’s facilities” said Santa Cruz District Superintendent II Scott Sipes. “We truly value the opportunity to provide quality camping opportunities for visitors to make memories and enjoy our beautiful parks and are disheartened to share these continued impacts to camping at Henry Cowell this season. We hope visitors will return next season and enjoy the upgraded, accessible facilities that will make this campground welcoming to all.”
The campground is seasonal, operating from April 1 through October 31 annually. Due to the current project timeline, the campground is now scheduled to reopen April 1, 2026, for the start of the camping season.
The project was initially scheduled during the non-operational period, with an anticipated completion date prior to the April 1, 2025, opening to minimize impacts to recreational opportunities.
State Parks previously canceled reservations from April 1-July 31 due to unforeseen delays caused in large part by supply chain challenges. This additional delay reflects continued issues with procuring critical supplies.
Due to the delay, camping reservations between Aug. 1 and Nov. 1 have been canceled. Affected guests will receive a full refund automatically and have been notified about the cancellation and refund process.
Visitors interested in camping at Henry Cowell Redwoods SP are encouraged to monitor updates on the park’s website at parks.ca.gov/HenryCowell. Should the campground reopen earlier than anticipated, guests will be notified by email with an opportunity to book new reservations.
For assistance with cancellations or refunds, visitors are encouraged to contact the ReserveCalifornia Customer Contact Center at 1-800-444-7275. Additionally, guests can explore alternative camping options and plan future trips at ReserveCalifornia.com.
Campsites Available at Rancho del Oso
Looking for a quiet coastal camping experience this summer? The walk-in campground at Rancho del Oso — the coastal side of Big Basin Redwoods State Park — offers a unique way to enjoy nature just north of Davenport on Highway 1.
This temporary campground, located at the rehabilitated Horse Camp, is open to non-equestrian campers while coastal equestrian trails remain closed. There are five reservable walk-in sites and one shared, non-reserved bike-in site available. To check availability and make a reservation, visit www.thatsmypark.org/parks-and-beaches/rancho-del-oso-unit.
Rancho del Oso is also home to the open Marsh Trail, where visitors can spot rabbits, dragonflies and songbirds among the creekside willows. Note, the nearby Skyline to Sea Trail remains closed due to CZU Fire damage. Across Highway 1, Waddell Beach is a top destination for windsurfing and kite surfing.
The campground will eventually return to equestrian use once trail restoration is complete, but in the meantime, it offers a rare opportunity to camp in this recovering part of Big Basin.
