Roaring Camp Railroads invites guests to experience the magic of the Santa Cruz Mountains aboard beautifully preserved historic trains. Known for its Redwood Forest Steam Train and Santa Cruz Beach Train, Roaring Camp blends sceni...
This historic steam train operation draws visitors mainly for its scenic ride through towering redwood forests. Most guests praise the educational and fun experience, with conductors sharing fascinating details about the trees, local history, and the mountain terrain. The train climbs some impressive hills and ventures deep into the forest, offering views that genuinely wow riders. Beyond the train ride, there's a charming general store, entertainment like a blacksmith demonstration, and various family activities that add to the old-fashioned camp atmosphere. The main concern worth noting involves crowding and overselling on certain days, particularly during special events like Thomas the Tank Engine weekends. Some visitors found themselves uncomfortably packed into train cars with confusing boarding procedures and unhelpful staff guidance. A few guests also mentioned that the actual redwood viewing from the train can be limited compared to simply walking the nearby trails. The quality of special events seems to vary by year, with some regulars noticing fewer activities and more wear than previous visits. Despite these hiccups, the majority find it a worthwhile family outing that combines natural beauty with educational entertainment.
It was our first time visiting Roaring Camp, and we had an absolute blast! Sitting in the train and taking in all the beautiful scenery was such a cool experience. What made it even better was the history they shared during the ride—it was so interesting to learn about the train and the area while enjoying the view. It’s a perfect mix of fun and education. We highly recommend it for a great day out!
Tanya Pena
July 6, 2026
It was our first time visiting Roaring Camp, and we had an absolute blast! Sitting in the train and taking in all the beautiful scenery was such a cool experience. What made it even better was the history they shared during the ride—it was so interesting to learn about the train and the area while enjoying the view. It’s a perfect mix of fun and education. We highly recommend it for a great day out!
Tanya Pena
July 6, 2026