Copyright: California State Parks Aerial view of Castle Rock State Park

Description - Steep canyons are sprinkled with unusual rock formations that are popular with rock climbers. The forest here is lush and mossy, crisscrossed by 32 miles of hiking and horseback riding trails. They are part of an even more extensive trail system that links the Santa Clara and San Lorenzo valleys with Castle Rock, Big Basin Redwoods State park, and the Pacific Coast.

Attractions - Along the crest of the Santa Cruz Mountains, Castle Rock State Park embraces 3,600 acres of coast redwood, Douglas-fir, and madrone forest, most of which has been left in its wild, natural state.

Recreation -

Primitive campsites for backpackers are the only overnight facilities. Equestrians are urged to call ahead for current trail information, and smokers are advised that, due to high fire hazard, smoking is prohibited on the trails within Castle Rock State Park. Dogs are not allowed on the Trails or in the campground. The park is located on Highway 35, just 21/2 miles southeast of the junction with Highway 9.

Climate - Climate in the San Francisco-Bay area varies greatly with elevation and the amount of coastal influence. Areas with more coastal influence experience moderate temperatures year round with fog likely from June through mid-August. Plan your coastal visit in the late summer or fall to ensure the best conditions for viewing the scenery. Also, occasional clear days between winter and spring storms are incomparable. Areas further inland experience greater temperature extremes, with relatively cooler winters and hot summers. Inland areas often receive frost on winter nights. As throughout most of California most of the precipitation comes in the winter months, with April through October normally very dry.

Location - The park entrance is on Highway 35, go two and a half miles southeast of the Highway 9 junction to reach the entrance.

LAT: 37.2316108
LONG: -122.1169073