Camping at New Brighton State Beach

Overview of New Brighton State Beach

New Brighton State Beach is a popular state park located in Capitola, California, along the northern shores of Monterey Bay. This beach is known for its family-friendly camping facilities, beautiful ocean views, and recreational activities such as fishing, swimming, picnicking, and wildlife watching.

Camping Information

Reservations:

• Camping at New Brighton State Beach is very popular, especially during peak season (summer and holidays).
• Reservations are highly recommended and can be made up to 6 months in advance through the California State Parks reservation system or ReserveCalifornia website.

Campsites:

• The park has both tent and RV sites, though hookups are not available.
• Each campsite typically includes a fire ring, picnic table, and access to restrooms and coin-operated showers.
• There are over 100 campsites to choose from, including both standard and premium sites that offer better views or location.

Fees:

• Fees for camping vary depending on the type of campsite and the time of year. Check the official state parks website or the ReserveCalifornia website for the most current pricing.

Facilities and Amenities:

• The campground provides drinking water, flush toilets, showers, and a dump station for RVs.
• There is a camp store that offers basic supplies and firewood.

Rules and Regulations

Campfire and Cooking:

• Fires are allowed only in designated fire rings.
• Collection of firewood or any natural materials within the park is prohibited.
• Use of charcoal grills may be allowed, but check current fire regulations.

Pets:

• Pets are allowed in the campground but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet and supervised at all times.
• There are restrictions on pets on the beach areas, so ensure you check the latest guidelines.

Quiet Hours:

• Quiet hours are typically from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m., during which time campers are expected to keep noise to a minimum.

Vehicle Regulations:

• There is usually a limit to the number of vehicles and a fee for extra vehicles.
• Vehicles must remain on paved areas and comply with posted speed limits.

Safety and Wildlife

Wildlife:

• Do not feed the wildlife and keep food items secured to prevent unwanted encounters with animals such as raccoons or birds.

Water Safety:

• Always supervise children near the water.
• Be aware of changing tides and possible rip currents.

Trails and Beach Access:

• Stay on marked trails to protect the environment and yourself.
• Be cautious when walking on bluff trails, as eroding cliffs can be dangerous.

Activities and Points of Interest

Recreational Activities:

• Apart from camping, visitors can enjoy the beach, fishing, swimming, and hiking on the trails.
• There's also a visitor center with exhibits on the natural and cultural history of the area.

Nearby Attractions:

• Capitola Village is close and offers quaint shops, restaurants, and the Capitola Wharf.
• The famous Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk is a short drive away for those looking for amusement park fun.

Environmental Conservation

• As a protected area, visitors to New Brighton State Beach are expected to respect wildlife and habitats by staying on designated trails, not disturbing animals, and practicing Leave No Trace principles.

Contact Information

• For the most current information, it's best to contact the park directly or visit the California State Parks official website. Reservations and additional details can be found on the ReserveCalifornia website.