Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

If your dog is a four legged tree hugger, they’ll be in absolute paradise when they visit Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park. With groves of majestic old and second growth redwood trees, this park is a mystical slice of nature. Some of these giants are nearly 300 feet tall and up to 1,500 years old. That’s woofin’ amazing!

While the park is a hiking haven, there are some areas that are off limits to canine visitors. The bad news is that dogs are not allowed in the Fern Creek Unit or on the old-growth Redwood Grove Loop Trail. The good news is there are still plenty of trails your pup can explore. Dogs are welcome to trot along the Meadow Trail, Pipeline Road, Graham Hill Trail, and Powder Mill Fire Road. 

Redwoods aren’t the only trees that make the terrain gorgeous, keep your eyes open for sycamore, black cottonwood, white alder, and box-elder. And the riparian habitat by the San Lorenzo River will keep you pal’s ears and nose busy.

Since it’s not possible to conquer all the trails in one day, stay a night or two in the park’s campground so you’ll have more time for exploring. The camping area at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is within an evergreen forest near the Santa Cruz Sandhills habitat. There are 107 sites for RVs and tents. Each camp spot is equipped with drinking water, a picnic table, a fire pit, and a grill. It’s an incredibly pupular destination during the summer, so reservations are encouraged.  

The Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is one of the most puptacular and historic parks in California. Keep the park smelling fresh by carrying some clean up bags and stooping and scooping. And always carry water to share with your adevnture pup!

Reading about this place doesn’t do it justice, so check it out! Your doggo won’t be disappointed!