Dramatic coastline and shady redwood groves
South of San Francisco, halfway between Half Moon Bay and Santa Cruz, Butano State Park surprises almost every first-time visitor. From the windswept coastline along Highway 1, you enter a shady redwood glade. Find yourself awed by the mossy Douglas firs, bigleaf maples, sword ferns, false Solomon's seal, trillium and sorrel. The redwoods are mostly second growth, but careful explorers can find some ancient ones, too. In 1992, Save the Redwoods League helped add 1,100 acres to Butano, which now totals 3,500 acres.
ACTIVITIES: Hiking, picnicking, backpacking, plant studying and bird watching. At Ano Nuevo lookout, you can get a glimpse of an adjacent elephant seal reserve. Bicycling on paved roads and Butano and Olmo fire roads. Horseback riding on paved roads and fire roads.
ACCESSIBLE FEATURES: Parking lot, visitor center. Campground restroom may be usable, but assistance may be needed.
DOGS: Allowed in campground, day-use area, paved roads and fire roads on leash at all times. In tent or vehicle at night.
Directions
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Amenities & Fees
$10 for day-use vehicle entry; no charge to walk or bike into the park. Camping and Lodging: Reservations can be made online at ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling the toll free telephone number at 1-800-444-PARK. For more camping near the park, visit HipCamp.com.
What To Pack
- Safety: We want visitors to enjoy their experience safely. Simple actions can positively increase your outdoor experience. Such actions include taking water and snacks along with you, staying on designated trails, taking breaks, and letting people know where you are going and approximately what time you're coming back. For more outdoor safety tips, please visit www.parks.ca.gov/SafetyTips (external link).
- What To Bring: Layers of clothing. In the rainy season, pack warm hats, scarves, mittens and plenty of thick, fast-drying socks. And don't forget the raincoats and rain pants. Water, snacks a field guide, binoculars.
Additional Information
Visit Butano State Park (external link) or call the visitor center at (650) 879-2040. The Butano State Park Brochure contains valuable information for trip planning.
