Join Felton’s Roaring Camp Cook-Off for a day of top BBQ tasting, live music, and craft brews in a beautiful outdoor setting. Vote for your favorite Pit-Master and enjoy an unforgettable culinary party!
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–5 hours
Fitness Level
No special fitness level required; suitable for most ages and abilities
Wildlife
History
Roaring Camp Railroads dates back to the 1880s and offers a glimpse into California’s railroad and logging past.
Conservation
The event supports local sustainability efforts by minimizing waste and promoting recycling throughout the venue.
Roaring Camp Railroads
Join Felton’s Roaring Camp Cook-Off for a day of top BBQ tasting, live music, and craft brews in a beautiful outdoor setting. Vote for your favorite Pit-Master and enjoy an unforgettable culinary party!
Roaring Camp Railroads, located in Felton, California, operates scenic train excursions and a year-round calendar of themed events set in the towering Santa Cruz redwood forest. The operation offers a variety of experiences for families, school groups, and adult visitors, combining vintage train travel with live entertainment, food, and hands-on programming.
Key offerings include heritage steam train rides, family-focused events like Day Out With Thomas featuring Thomas the Tank Engine™, seasonal festivals such as the Brewgrass Festival, and specialty evenings like the Moonlight Evening Dinner Train that include dinner, live music, and stopovers at Bear Mountain. Roaring Camp also hosts community-oriented events at the historic Bret Harte Opera Hall, including the Spring Barn Line Dance and Winter Warmer Fest.
Educational programs are available for school groups aged 7–11 through the Living History experience, designed to bring the mountain man era and westward expansion to life. Seasonal attractions include Drive-In Movie Nights among the redwoods, a Chanukah Train with community menorah lighting and kosher refreshments, and competitive culinary events such as the Cook-Off with tastings and craft beer.
Visitors traveling from Santa Cruz can join specialty trains like the Father’s Day Brew Train and VIP tasting trains for Brewgrass. The combination of scenic rail routes, themed programming, and family-friendly activities makes Roaring Camp Railroads a notable destination for both residents and tourists seeking historic rail experiences and community events in Felton, CA.
Location
Felton, CA
Situated in the Santa Cruz redwood forest
Tours Offered
10 Experiences
Heritage rides and themed events
Family Events
Multiple
Includes Day Out With Thomas
Signature Rides
Vintage Steam
Moonlight Dinner Train to Bear Mountain
Reserve tickets for scenic steam train rides, family festivals, or themed dinner trains and secure a memorable day in Felton’s redwood forest.
Arrive Early for Best Seating
To secure comfortable seating close to the action and food booths, plan to arrive early before the event starts.
Bring Cash for Food and Drinks
Although some vendors may accept cards, having cash on hand makes purchases quicker and easier during the event.
Dress for Outdoor Weather
Felton’s weather can be cool under the redwoods, so bring layers for comfort throughout the day.
Designate a Driver
With craft brews available, arrange a designated driver or plan alternate transportation to stay safe.
Layered Clothing
Allows you to stay comfortable as temperatures vary throughout the day.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated while enjoying food and drinks outdoors.
Portable Seating or Blanket
Brings extra comfort if seating runs low or if you want to relax on the grass.
Sun Protection (Hat & Sunscreen)
Protect your skin during sunny periods under open sky areas.
spring|summer|fall