Frog Flat

Open — Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. Campers must register at the Kirkwood Parking Lot on Highway 35 before hiking to camp. Fires are only permitted during the rainy season in designated fire rings. Day use hours are 6am to sunset; hikers must reach camp by sunset.

About

Frog Flat Camp comprises the first five campsites (sites 1-5) of Castle Rock Trail Camp, the largest trail camp in the Santa Cruz Mountains. Located at an elevation along one of the highest ridges in the range, this primitive backcountry camp is accessed via a 2.6-mile hike from the Robert C. Kirkwood Parking Lot on Highway 35. Unlike the reserved sites at Castle Rock Trail Camp, Frog Flat's five sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis year-round. The camp sits in a more exposed area with fewer trees than the main camp, making it particularly popular with stargazers and those seeking open views. Each site includes a picnic table and metal fire ring, though fires are only permitted during the rainy season when posted. The trail camp area features piped drinking water, vault toilets, trash receptacles, and bear-proof food lockers. Campers must register and pay fees at the Kirkwood Parking Lot before hiking to the camp. Castle Rock State Park's 34 miles of trails connect to an extensive network linking the Santa Clara and San Lorenzo valleys with Big Basin Redwoods State Park. The park features sculpted sandstone formations, lush forests, and sweeping vistas, with the Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail beginning nearby at Saratoga Gap. No firewood gathering is permitted; firewood is sold at the trail camp for $15 per bundle when fires are allowed.

Directions

From Highway 9 and Highway 35 junction, drive southeast on Highway 35 for 2.5 miles to the Robert C. Kirkwood Parking Lot on the right. Register at the parking lot, then hike 2.5 miles via the Saratoga Gap Trail to reach Frog Flat Camp.

Nearby Campgrounds