Castle Rock State Park: A Santa Cruz Mountain Gem
Explore sandstone formations, redwood forests, and panoramic vistas in the heart of the Santa Cruz Mountains. Hiking, climbing, and natural beauty await.
Castle Rock State Park, nestled in the Santa Cruz Mountains near Los Gatos, California, offers 5,242 acres of natural beauty. Established in 1968, the park features sandstone formations, redwood forests, and vistas, with over 34 miles of trails for hiking, backpacking, and climbing.
A brief summary to Castle Rock State Park
- 15451 CA-35, Los Gatos, California, 95033, US
- +1408-868-9540
- Visit website
Local tips
- Arrive early, especially on weekends, as the parking lot fills quickly.
- Bring cash for the $10 vehicle day-use fee.
- Be prepared for limited cell reception within the park.
- Wear sturdy shoes for hiking and climbing, as the terrain can be rugged.
- Carry water, as water availability in the park is limited.
Getting There
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Driving
From Los Gatos, take CA-9 N. Turn left onto CA-35 S/Skyline Blvd. Continue for approximately 3 miles. The Robert C. Kirkwood Entrance to Castle Rock State Park will be on your left. Parking is $10 per vehicle. Be aware that the parking lot can fill up quickly on weekends.
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Public Transport
From San Jose, take the line 23 bus to Stevens Creek & Stelling. From there, take a taxi to Castle Rock State Park. The taxi fare will likely cost between $55 and $75. Alternatively, from San Francisco, take Caltrain to Sunnyvale Transit Center. Transfer to the 55 bus to Stevens Creek & Stelling, then take a taxi to the park. This will take approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes and cost $65 - $90.
Discover more about Castle Rock State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Historic house of Mr. Fremont Older
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Bear Creek Redwoods Open Space Preserve
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Emmett's Point
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Forthright Oyster Bar & Kitchen
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Ohlone Indian Village Town of Los Altos Hills Historical Site No. 1
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Vista Hill
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Extra Space Storage
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Tortoise Ranch
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Larkspur Landing Campbell
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Campbell Plaza
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Boy Scout Troop 80 of Mountain View CA
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Campbell Skatepark
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Carlyle Hotel Campbell
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Casa Lupe
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Campbell Community Center
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Unmissable attractions to see
Sanborn County Park
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Portola Redwoods State Park
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Fremont Older Open Space Preserve
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Saratoga Memorial Arch
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Saratoga Historical Park
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Monte Bello Open Space Preserve
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Los Trancos Open Space Preserve
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San Lorenzo Valley Museum, Grace Episcopal Gallery
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Russian Ridge Open Space Preserve
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Big Basin Redwoods State Park
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Vasona Lake County Park
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Heritage Grove
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Jack Fischer Park
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San Tomas Park
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Sam McDonald Park
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Essential places to dine
Capers Eat & Drink
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Sorelle Italian Bistro
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Nonno's Italian
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LeQuy
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Effie's Restaurant & Bar
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Hash House
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Negeen Restaurant
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Sizzling Lunch
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Brew City Grill
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El Greco Grill
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La Casa Mia
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Locanda Sorrento
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One Fish Raw Bar
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BackAYard Caribbean Grill
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Marvel Cake
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Kirkwood Plaza
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Redwood Store
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Home Consignment Center - Campbell
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Soccerkraze
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Blossom Valley
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B K Collections
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Heroes
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Grant Park Plaza
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Nob Hill Foods
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Best Buy
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
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Aces Icehouse
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Rootstock Wine Bar
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Opal By Arena
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Molly Magees
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