Step back into 1800s America with the Living History experience in Felton, California. Designed for kids aged 7-11, this immersive adventure explores the mountain man era and pioneering days through hands-on learning and outdoor fun.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for young children with light physical activity and short walking segments.
Wildlife
History
Felton was an important hub during California’s logging and railroad eras, and Roaring Camp Railroads preserves this legacy through immersive educational programs.
Conservation
The area supports sustainable tourism efforts focused on preserving redwood forests and minimizing impact on native wildlife.
Roaring Camp Railroads
Step back into 1800s America with the Living History experience in Felton, California. Designed for kids aged 7-11, this immersive adventure explores the mountain man era and pioneering days through hands-on learning and outdoor fun.
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.
Wear Comfortable Shoes
Expect light walking on uneven terrain; sturdy shoes help kids stay comfortable throughout the program.
Bring a Water Bottle
Hydration is key during active outdoor learning, so bring a refillable water bottle.
Apply Sun Protection
Even in shaded redwood areas, sunblock and hats protect against UV rays during outdoor segments.
Pack a Light Jacket
Mornings and evenings can be cool, so a light jacket is useful for fluctuating temperatures.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Provides support and comfort during gentle walks on uneven surfaces.
Refillable Water Bottle
Keeps children hydrated throughout the experience.
Sun Hat
Protects from sun exposure during outdoor activities.
summer
Light Waterproof Jacket
Useful for unexpected rain showers and cooler temperatures.
fall