Camping at Lower Blooms Creek Campground
Overview of Lower Blooms Creek Campground
Lower Blooms Creek Campground is one of several campgrounds located within Big Basin Redwoods State Park, California's oldest state park. Situated in the Santa Cruz Mountains, it provides a spectacular setting amongst ancient coast redwoods, which provide a serene and majestic backdrop for campers. This campground is ideal for those who enjoy hiking, nature study, and the serenity provided by towering old-growth forests.
Camping Facilities and Reservations
The facilities at Lower Blooms Creek Campground typically include campsites with a picnic table, fire ring, and food locker. The campground provides restrooms with flush toilets and drinking water, but there are no showers available. The campsites can accommodate tents, and some can also accommodate trailers or RVs, although hookups are not provided.
Reservations: Campsite reservations can be made in advance through the California State Parks reservation system, which is highly recommended, especially during the peak season when the campground can be fully booked.
Recreational Activities
Hiking: Big Basin Redwoods State Park boasts an extensive network of trails for all levels, from easy strolls to challenging hikes. Some popular trails near Lower Blooms Creek Campground include the Redwood Trail, the Berry Creek Falls hike, and the Skyline to the Sea Trail.
Wildlife Watching: The park is home to abundant wildlife, offering opportunities for visitors to see species such as black-tailed deer, raccoons, banana slugs, and a variety of bird species.
Ranger Programs: The park often provides ranger-led programs, including guided hikes, campfire programs, and educational talks about the natural and cultural history of the area.
Park Regulations and Safety
- Fires: Fire danger can vary with conditions. Check if there are any fire restrictions or bans during your visit. If fires are allowed, they must be confined to provided fire rings.
- Wildlife: Store food and scented items properly in food lockers to avoid attracting wildlife to your campsite.
- Noise: Quiet hours are typically enforced to ensure a peaceful environment for all visitors.
- Leave No Trace: Visitors are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles to protect the park's resources.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Lower Blooms Creek Campground is from late spring through early fall when the weather is typically dry and pleasant for camping and hiking. Summer can be cool and foggy, which is characteristic of the California coast, so it’s wise to bring layers. Winters can be cold and wet, and some park facilities may be reduced or closed during this season.
Access and Contact Information
Access: To access Lower Blooms Creek Campground, one must drive through winding mountain roads, which can be narrow and steep in places.
Contact: For the latest information on campground status, fees, and regulations, or to make reservations, contact the California State Parks reservation system or visit the Big Basin Redwoods State Park website. It's also advisable to check any park alerts or closures before your visit.
Emergency Services: Cell phone reception in the park can be limited or nonexistent, so plan for emergencies accordingly. Have a map, know where the nearest ranger station is, and be aware of your location at all times.
Please note that conditions and available services at Big Basin Redwoods State Park, including Lower Blooms Creek Campground, can change due to management decisions, environmental factors, and damage from wildfires or other natural disasters. Always check for the most current information before planning your trip.
