FELTON — Those eager for a snooze beneath the majestic redwoods and shimmering stars at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park will have to wait a little while longer.
A previously planned reopening of the campground at Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park was pushed back to April 1, 2026, as supply chain disruptions have continued to hamper an ongoing renovation effort. (Shmuel Thaler – Santa Cruz Sentinel file)
State Parks announced this week that a previously planned Aug. 1 reopening of the seasonal campground at the park has been delayed until April 1, 2026, due to unforeseen obstacles encountered during an ongoing renovation effort.
According to a release from the agency, significant supply chain disruptions have continued to hamper efforts to complete essential infrastructure upgrades, including accessibility features.
“We will continue to work diligently with contractors to complete these essential upgrades and appreciate the patience and understanding of all our visitors as we improve the park’s facilities,” Santa Cruz District Superintendent Scott Sipes said in the release. “We truly value the opportunity to provide quality camping opportunities for visitors to make memories and enjoy our beautiful parks and are disheartened to share these continued impacts to camping at Henry Cowell this season. We hope visitors will return next season and enjoy the upgraded, accessible facilities that will make this campground welcoming to all.”
The campground typically operates each season from April 1 to Oct. 31, so the delay this year is long enough to force a pause until the window reopens in 2026. This marks the second time reopening of the campground has been rescheduled due to supply chain issues. The project, intentionally planned during the non-operational period, was previously set to wrap up for an opening April 1 of this year, but was pushed to August when planners recognized that crews wouldn’t have the materials needed to stay on schedule.
Reservations impact
Because of the delay, State Parks announced reservations from Aug. 1 to Nov. 1 have been canceled and affected guests have been notified and will receive a full refund.
Related Articles
All Yosemite campgrounds open this summer for the first time in 6 years
You can visit any national park for free on June 19
Wild pigs increase around the Bay Area, causing headaches for homeowners, parks and water agencies
Brentwood brings on new parks director
Gilroy budget sets up passion-filled flashpoint over fate of parks
Updates will be posted online . If the campground reopens earlier than expected, guests will be notified via email with an opportunity to book new reservations, according to the release.
Visitors seeking assistance with cancellations or refunds can contact the ReserveCalifornia Customer Contact Center at 1-800-444-7275. Alternative camping options are also available.
Campground upgrades
The upgrades that are underway are meant to enhance the campground’s accessibility and safety. They include significant upgrades that comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act and improve the visitor experience.
Restroom and shower buildings will be outfitted with ADA-compliant fixtures, spacing and door widths, safety grab bars and supports, height and clearance adjustments for sinks, insulated pipes, ADA-compliant toilets, updated signage, door handles, non-glare lighting and slip-resistant floors.
The campfire center will receive ADA-compliant pathways, accessible seating and an upgraded drinking fountain.