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Wastahi Campground

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Discover a hideaway about 1.

5 miles from the Big Basin Redwoods State Park Visitor Center and a quick drive from nearby Santa Cruz. The Wastahi Campgrounds are quiet and beautifully forested to offer more of a backcountry camping feel.

With a limited 27 campsites available, you'll feel one with nature and enjoy the scenic history around you. There are even a few campsites (86 and 97) that are nicknamed the “Honeymoon Suites" for their privacy.

In addition to the smaller private walk-in sites, there are some large group sites. It's usually busy and one of the hiking trails (the Sequoia trail) runs right through the campground. Book your stay at Wastahi campground. You truly don’t want to miss out on this unique Big Basin Redwoods State Park camping experience.

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Available campgrounds nearby

Top-rated for location, privacy, and amenities near Big Basin Redwoods State Park

100%

(47)

More to explore nearby

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12 ratings · 3 reviews

A H.

July 9, 2019

Overall enjoyable experience, with clean/functional bathrooms and away from the busy atmosphere of the main big basin parking area. No reception, but free wifi at the visitor's center a five minute drive away. "Walk in", but only a few minutes' walk from the lot. Went in mid June, and regretted not having DEET spray; the natural citronella spray didn't do anything for all the mosquitos (and whatever else bit me) at the campgrounds. This campground is described as 'remote' and 'quiet', but you can definitely see (and hear) at least three or four other tents near yours. Maybe on a weeknight in the off season you'd get quiet, but otherwise prepare for the typical speakers blasting at night, kids screaming in the early morning experience.

Kristin C.

June 25, 2018

Big Basin is beautiful, historic, and extremely family friendly (too family friendly for my purposes). Wastahi Campground is exceptionally hilly--few sites are remotely level--and partly due to this it's pretty loud. There is a lot of echoing of sounds, and the weekend I spent there seemed to have attracted particularly inconsiderate campers. There seemed to be little oversight on the site--music blasting at midnight--and toilet paper ran out early. If you are energetically sensitive like me, be aware that you are not out of the City sphere here. I could still feel the mass of people, and there are several airplanes per day that fly overhead.

Serena W.

July 10, 2015

Campsite 85 is uphill but definitely secluded and had lots of space for our kids to run around. First night was super buggy, second night wasn't. No issues with animals at night. Beautiful space to camp. Ranger programs, great gift and camp shop and cafe.

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Your guide to camping in Wastahi Campground

Overview

Biking

Mountain bikes aren’t allowed on the single track lanes, however there are still some great rides. They are excellent for beginners because most of the riding is on fire roads, of which a large portion is paved. It’s not for dirt devils, but the remoteness of the area still makes it a special ride.

Hiking

So you want to hike through some of the oldest gigantic Redwoods in the state AND frolick around a waterfall? Well, that’s a little greedy, but why the heck not? This is Big Basin after-all and all your dreams can come true (if you dream about these things...I know that we do!). There’s over 18,000 acres to explore, so you can hike all that your heart desires. However, there is a lot, so make sure you check out some of the best hikes in Big Basin Redwoods.

Horseback riding

Horses are allowed in Rancho Del Oso and there is a horse camp! Make sure to check out the information for horse camping before going.

Wind sports

Waddell Beach, located across Highway 1 from the park entrance, is known worldwide as one of THE spots for windsurfing and kiteboarding. The steady, strong North-West winds and good surf provide ideal conditions for this demanding sport. With the strong winds and occasionally heavy surf, Waddell Beach is not recommended for novice windsurfers. Make sure you check wind conditions before you go and have an epic time. Just keep in mind that the beach is about a 50 minute drive away from the campgrounds, so plan accordningly.

Surfing

Waddell Creek is known as one of the great kiteboarding and windsurfing spots, but it also provides some excellent surf (on the right day). Make sure to see if the conditions are right before you head out. For a detailed “surf map,” check in with our friends at Surfline.

Wildlife watching

Big Basin is teeming with wildlife (this is a good thing). Sliding along a mossy piece of fallen tree you’ll find banana slugs, while foxes dart through the nooks and crannies of the lush forest. This forest is very much alive and you will see this in almost every step you take!