Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is known for its rich history and lush, towering redwoods native to the land. Notable visitors such as President Theodore Roosevelt spent time amongst the old-growth redwoods and inspired preservation efforts to keep our nature pristine. Located in Felton, Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park’s wheelchair and stroller-accessible Redwood Grove Trail circles around the park’s oldest and largest trees. More trails crisscross the San Lorenzo River and its steep, redwood-covered canyons. The park also features a visitor center, a campground, Wi-Fi internet access, picnic areas, and interpretative programs. There are guided tours offered every Saturday at 11AM led by naturalists who can provide a wealth of knowledge about the Santa Cruz Mountains.

The trails of nearby Fall Creek State Park are far less traveled. The park’s stillness stands in sharp contrast to the sounds of the early industrial operations that once echoed through the canyons. Today, the trickling waters of Fall Creek welcome hikers and have remnants of old logging operations, quarries, and limekilns along the park’s trails.

A popular swimming hole known as the Garden of Eden can be found in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. This hidden treasure is a part of the San Lorenzo River, and can be accessed from two different entry points in the park.

This park has 107 sites for tent camping among shady pine and oak forest trees. This is separate from the day-use entrance of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park and can be accessed through Graham Hill Road in Scotts Valley. While it is closed in the winter season, visitors can reserve a space during the spring and summer months and enjoy everything the Santa Cruz Mountains have to offer. This campground is also near the Santa Cruz Sandhills habitat, an ancient marine deposit home to imperiled wildlife and vegetation.