Roaring Camp Railroads: A Journey Through Time and Redwoods
Experience the romance of steam trains and the majesty of redwoods at Roaring Camp Railroads, a living history destination in the Santa Cruz Mountains since 1963.
Roaring Camp Railroads, nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains near Felton, California, offers a unique blend of history, nature, and adventure. Founded in 1963, it recreates an 1880s logging camp, complete with a general store, opera house, and covered bridge. The star attraction is a ride on authentic, narrow-gauge steam trains dating back to the 1890s, which wind through towering redwood groves to the summit of Bear Mountain. Visitors can also enjoy blacksmithing and candle-making demonstrations, explore hiking trails, and pan for gold, making it a memorable experience for all ages. Whether you're a train enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a fun family outing, Roaring Camp provides a captivating escape into California's rich past and stunning natural beauty. Don't miss the chance to step back in time and create lasting memories amidst the majestic redwoods.
A brief summary to Roaring Camp
- 5401 Graham Hill Rd, Felton, California, 95018, US
- +1831-335-4484
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-5 pm
- Thursday 9 am-5 pm
- Friday 9 am-5 pm
- Saturday 9 am-5 pm
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book train tickets in advance, especially during peak season or for special events, as they often sell out.
- Arrive early to allow ample time to explore the recreated 1880s logging camp and enjoy the various activities and demonstrations.
- Consider combining your visit with a trip to the adjacent Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park for a more immersive redwood experience.
- Check the schedule for themed train rides or special events, such as the Moonlight Dinner Train or Thomas the Tank Engine visits, for a unique experience.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the camp and exploring the hiking trails.
Getting There
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Driving
If driving, take Highway 17 to the Scotts Valley exit. Follow Mount Hermon Road towards Felton. Turn onto Graham Hill Road. Roaring Camp is located at 5401 Graham Hill Road. Parking is available on-site for $10 per vehicle. Alternatively, free parking is available at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park next door, with a short walk to Roaring Camp.
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Public Transport
From Santa Cruz, take Santa Cruz Metro Transit Route 35 to the Graham Hill Rd & Hwy 9 stop. From there, it's approximately a 14-minute walk to Roaring Camp. A single ride on the bus costs $2-$7. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also available from Santa Cruz, with fares ranging from $29-$40 for the approximately 6.7-mile trip.
Discover more about Roaring Camp
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Redwood Grove Loop Trail
0.2 km
Experience the majestic beauty of the Redwood Grove Loop Trail in Felton, CA, where towering redwoods and serene pathways await your exploration.
Visitor Center | Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
0.2 km
Discover the enchanting redwoods and rich natural history at the Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park Visitor Center in California.
Fall Creek Unit | Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
2.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Fall Creek Unit in Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, a must-visit hiking destination in California's majestic redwood forests.
SS Palo Alto
15.4 km
Explore the haunting history of SS Palo Alto, a submerged historical landmark offering a unique glimpse into the maritime past of California's coastline.
Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
15.9 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve, a must-visit nature haven in Los Gatos, California, rich with towering redwoods and scenic trails.
Big Basin Redwoods State Park
21.8 km
Explore the towering redwoods and tranquil beauty of Big Basin Redwoods State Park, an iconic Californian destination for nature lovers and adventurers.
Castro Adobe State Historic Park
24.5 km
Explore the authentic heritage of California at Castro Adobe State Historic Park, where history and stunning architecture await every visitor.
Jack Fischer Park
26.2 km
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Casa Grande
26.4 km
Step back in time at Casa Grande, home to the Almaden Quicksilver Mining Museum, and discover the captivating history of California's mercury mining era in the heart of the New Almaden Historic District.
Portola Redwoods State Park
27.3 km
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Historic house of Mr. Fremont Older
27.4 km
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Carlyle Hotel Campbell
27.6 km
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Extra Space Storage
27.6 km
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Forthright Oyster Bar & Kitchen
28.2 km
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Travieso Winery
28.3 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park
0.2 km
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Felton Covered Bridge County Park
1.4 km
Discover history and nature at Felton Covered Bridge County Park, home to the USA's tallest covered bridge and scenic San Lorenzo River access.
Garden of Eden - Henry Cowell Redwood State Park
1.8 km
Discover the Garden of Eden: A secret swimming hole nestled in the heart of Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park, offering a refreshing escape into nature.
The Mystery Spot
5.9 km
Explore The Mystery Spot in Santa Cruz, where gravity takes a backseat and optical illusions challenge your perception of reality.
San Lorenzo Park
8.1 km
A vibrant downtown Santa Cruz park offering recreation, events, and a scenic riverfront setting for locals and tourists alike.
Adventure Out
9.0 km
Discover the thrill of outdoor adventures in Santa Cruz with Adventure Out, offering surfing, hiking, and kayaking experiences amidst stunning coastal landscapes.
Santa Cruz Mountain Brewing
9.1 km
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Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center
9.2 km
Explore marine biodiversity at the Monterey Bay National Marine Sanctuary Exploration Center, a must-visit destination for ocean lovers and conservation enthusiasts.
Boardwalk Bowl
9.2 km
Experience the thrill of bowling and the joy of karaoke at Boardwalk Bowl, a top entertainment spot in Santa Cruz, California.
Rexford Winery
9.2 km
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Boardwalk's Cocoanut Grove
9.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and stunning views at Cocoanut Grove, a historic event venue nestled on the Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk.
Neptune's Kingdom
9.3 km
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Cowell Beach
9.4 km
Discover Cowell Beach in Santa Cruz, California - a scenic haven for sunbathing, surfing, and family fun on the stunning Pacific coast.
Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk
9.4 km
Experience thrilling rides, delicious snacks, and stunning views at Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk, a historic coastal amusement park in California.
Santa Cruz Wharf
9.5 km
Explore the Santa Cruz Wharf: A vibrant fishing pier with stunning views, delicious seafood, and endless activities for a perfect coastal getaway.
Essential places to dine
Nonno's Italian
14.7 km
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Effie's Restaurant & Bar
27.1 km
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Sorelle Italian Bistro
27.1 km
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Capers Eat & Drink
28.2 km
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LeQuy
28.4 km
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El Greco Grill
28.5 km
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Kirk's Steakburgers
28.8 km
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Locanda Sorrento
29.2 km
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Wild Rose Eatery and Bar
29.3 km
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One Fish Raw Bar
29.3 km
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A Bellagio Italian Restaurant
29.3 km
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Mo's Campbell
29.3 km
Experience unique breakfast dishes and gourmet burgers at Mo's Campbell in downtown California – where every meal is crafted with care.
Opa! Campbell
29.3 km
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Sushi Confidential - Campbell
29.3 km
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Trattoria 360
29.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Redwood Store
14.7 km
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Marvel Cake
28.2 km
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Kirkwood Plaza
28.2 km
Explore Kirkwood Plaza in Campbell, CA: A vibrant shopping destination with diverse stores, delightful dining, and a welcoming atmosphere.
420lifestyles
28.5 km
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Heroes
29.2 km
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Simply Smashing
29.3 km
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Nice Twice Doll Shop
29.3 km
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Redemption - California crafted goods curated with our community and planet in mind
29.3 km
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Geoffrey's Diamonds & Goldsmith
29.3 km
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Steepers
29.3 km
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Florra
29.3 km
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DOTTIES ROLLER SKATE SHOP
29.3 km
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Home Consignment Center - Campbell
29.3 km
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Celtic Shoppe
29.3 km
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Recycle Bookstore West
29.3 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Hook Sports Bar & Grill
28.4 km
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Coach's Sports Bar & Grill
28.7 km
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Court's Lounge
28.9 km
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Khartoum Lounge
29.2 km
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Cardiff & Cocktails
29.3 km
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Woodhams Sports Lounge
32.3 km
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Lobby Lounge
33.3 km
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The Sportsmen's Lounge
33.3 km
Experience the vibrant social scene at The Sportsmen's Lounge, a top bar in Santa Clara offering great drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
Koja Bar
33.5 km
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Aces Icehouse
33.5 km
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Rocco's Ballpark
34.5 km
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Normandy House
34.9 km
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The Halford
35.0 km
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Camino Karaoke
35.2 km
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EMA Karaoke & Bar
35.6 km
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