Camping at Sky Meadow Group One and Two Campground

Overview

Sky Meadow Group One and Two Campgrounds are found within Big Basin Redwoods State Park, California's oldest state park, located in the Santa Cruz Mountains. The park is known for its ancient coast redwoods and offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, bird watching, and camping. The Sky Meadow Group Campsites specifically cater to larger groups looking to camp together.

Campsite Details

Capacity:

• Sky Meadow Group One: Typically accommodates up to about 50 people.
• Sky Meadow Group Two: May accommodate a similar number of campers, but exact capacities can vary and should be confirmed with the park.

Amenities:

• Picnic tables
• Large BBQ pit or fire rings
• Food lockers for storing items away from wildlife
• Drinking water is usually provided in close proximity
• Restrooms are also provided, but showers may not always be available at the group sites

Accessibility:

• Check if the group sites are accessible for those with disabilities. Some sites might offer features like accessible toilets or paths.

Reservations and Fees

Booking:

• Reservations are typically required and can be booked through the California State Parks reservation system.

Cost:

• The fee for group sites will be higher than individual campsite fees due to the increased capacity.
• Prices may vary by season or on weekends/holidays, and there could be additional vehicle or day-use fees.

Rules and Regulations

• Maximum Stay: There are usually limits for the maximum consecutive nights you can stay (commonly 7 to 14 nights).
• Check-In/Check-Out: There will be specific times for check-in and check-out, which are important to adhere to.
• If the campground is in a protected area, there will be strict guidelines about where you can camp, light fires, and how to store food (to deter wildlife).
• Noise Restrictions: Noise levels must typically be kept to a minimum, especially after a certain time in the evening.
• Pets: Some California State Parks allow pets on leashes in campgrounds, but they may not be allowed on trails or in certain areas.

Activities and Attractions

• Hiking: The park is famous for its extensive trail system, including the popular Redwood Loop Trail.
• Nature and Wildlife Viewing: The park's diverse ecosystems provide habitats for numerous wildlife species.
• Picnicking: Besides camping, group picnic areas are available for day-use visitors.
• Historical Sites: Explore remnants of the park's history, such as old logging mills.

Important Considerations

Natural Hazards:

• The area is prone to natural hazards like wildfires and falling trees; pay attention to park advisories.

Weather Conditions:

• The weather can be variable; packing layers and preparing for rain is advisable, even in summer.

Post-Wildfire Restoration:

• Starting from 2020, Big Basin Redwoods State Park has been under restoration due to a major wildfire. As of the knowledge cutoff date, many areas of the park were closed for recovery efforts. It's critical to check with California State Parks for the latest information on which areas of Big Basin Redwoods State Park, including Sky Meadow Group Campsites, are open to the public.