Discover perfect outdoor picnic sites in Felton, CA, with Roaring Camp Railroads. Ideal for large groups, enjoy BBQ pits, expansive forested grounds, and a day filled with relaxation and fun.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
Half-day to full-day
Fitness Level
Minimal physical fitness required as the area is mostly flat and accessible.
Wildlife
History
Roaring Camp Railroads dates back to the 19th century, connecting visitors with California’s logging and railroad history through scenic train rides adjacent to the picnic grounds.
Conservation
The area practices sustainable land use with strict rules about waste management and fire safety to protect the redwood ecosystem and wildlife.
Roaring Camp Railroads
Discover perfect outdoor picnic sites in Felton, CA, with Roaring Camp Railroads. Ideal for large groups, enjoy BBQ pits, expansive forested grounds, and a day filled with relaxation and 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.
Reserve Early for Large Groups
Spaces for gatherings over 100 people can book up quickly, so secure your spot well in advance.
Bring Insect Repellent
Forest areas attract mosquitoes and other bugs, especially near water—carry repellent to stay comfortable.
Use Designated BBQ Pits
To reduce fire risks, only use the provided BBQ pits for grilling and follow all safety instructions.
Pack Trash Out
Help keep the grounds pristine by taking all your trash with you or placing it in designated bins.
Picnic Blanket
Provides comfortable seating on forested grounds during your picnic.
Portable Cooler
Keeps your drinks and perishable foods chilled during warm summer days.
summer
Insect Repellent
Prevents bites from mosquitoes and forest insects common in picnic areas.
spring
Rain Jacket
Lightweight rain protection for unexpected showers, especially useful in spring and fall.
fall