The park was created specifically to prevent the logging of old-growth redwood stands that were targeted by timber companies at the turn of the 20th century.
Coast redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens) in this region are capable of resprouting from their stumps after fire damage, a unique adaptation for survival.
The park contains the largest continuous stand of ancient coast redwoods south of San Francisco.
The 2020 CZU Lightning Complex fire burned through approximately 97% of the park's total acreage.
Before the 2020 fire, the park headquarters was a National Historic District consisting of buildings constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s.
Big Basin Redwoods State Park is California’s oldest state park, established in 1902 to protect ancient old-growth coast redwoods. The park suffered extensive damage during the 2020 CZU Lightning Complex fire, resulting in the destruction of the historic park headquarters and significant infrastructure. As of 2026, the park is in a phased recovery process, with limited access to specific trails and areas. The landscape features redwood forests, waterfalls, and steep canyons within the Santa Cruz Mountains. Visitors encounter trees reaching heights of over 300 feet and ages exceeding 1,500 years. Current trail conditions are variable, and restoration efforts continue to focus on stabilizing the fire-scarred environment. The park spans over 18,000 acres, preserving diverse ecosystems from sea level to mountain ridges. Recent management efforts emphasize ecological health and wildfire recovery over full facility restoration.
The base of the massive old-growth redwoods that survived the fire, showcasing the contrast between charred bark and new green growth.
Check the official park website for current trail closures and permit requirements before heading to the entrance.
Pack all necessary food, water, and waste removal supplies, as limited infrastructure exists post-fire.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe hiking boots to navigate uneven terrain and charred debris on trails.
Attempting to enter closed or marked-off zones which may have unstable ground or falling hazard trees.
Park access is subject to frequent changes due to ongoing fire recovery and winter storm damage; visitors must verify current operational status via the official state parks website.
Stay strictly on marked trails to protect recovering vegetation, do not touch fire-damaged trees, and practice 'Leave No Trace' principles.
