Family Road Trip from Cottage Grove to Santa Cruz with Scenic Camping Stop

Day 1: Arrival & Camping

Redding, California, USA on June 26, 2025

2:00pm

Depart Cottage Grove

Leave in the afternoon to begin your road trip heading south on I-5 towards Redding, CA. The drive will take about 5 hours, so plan for stops.
Free, 5h0m

7:00pm

Set up Camp at Shasta Lake RV Park

Enjoy a relaxing evening at Shasta Lake RV Park where you can hook up your camper, enjoy lake views, and unwind after the day's drive. The site has full amenities and good family-friendly facilities.
USD40, Overnight

8:00pm

Dinner at Camp

Prepare a campsite dinner or pick up takeout from a local spot like Vista Grill in Redding, known for hearty American food, perfect for a casual family meal.
USD15-25/person, 1h0m
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Day 2: Drive & Beach Arrival

Santa Cruz, California, USA on June 27, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Mel's Diner, Redding

Start the day at this classic American diner offering hearty breakfasts like pancakes and omelets, open from 6:00 AM for early risers.
USD10-15/person, 1h0m

8:30am

Drive to Santa Cruz

Continue south on I-5 then CA-152 W and CA-1 S towards Santa Cruz. Expect about a 3.5 to 4-hour scenic drive through California's Central Valley and coastal foothills.
Free, 4h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at The Picnic Basket, Santa Cruz

Enjoy fresh, local, and organic sandwiches and salads just steps from the beach, perfect for a light, refreshing lunch.
USD12-20/person, 1h0m

1:30pm

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk

Spend the afternoon at this iconic beach amusement park with rides, games, and the sandy beach. Open daily from 11:00 AM, it’s great for family fun and ocean views.
USD0 entrance; rides vary, 3h0m

5:00pm

Check-in at Santa Cruz / RV Park or Campground

Settle in at a family-friendly RV park such as Santa Cruz / Monterey Bay KOA, offering full hookups and amenities close to local attractions.
USD50-70/night, Overnight

6:30pm

Dinner at Laili Restaurant

Experience Mediterranean and Afghan cuisine in a family-friendly environment, located near downtown Santa Cruz. Open until 9:00 PM on Thursdays.
USD20-30/person, 1h0m
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Day 3: Explore Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, California, USA on June 28, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at The Bagelry

Start your day with freshly baked bagels and coffee at this local favorite, open from 7:30 AM.
USD8-12/person, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Natural Bridges State Beach

Explore tide pools, the natural rock bridge formation, and scenic coastal trails. Open dawn to dusk, this park offers education and stunning ocean views.
USD10 parking fee, 2h0m

12:00pm

Lunch at Cafe Cruz

Enjoy casual Californian cuisine with fresh, local ingredients. The café is known for its relaxed vibe and variety of lunch options.
USD15-20/person, 1h0m

1:30pm

Explore Downtown Santa Cruz

Walk through Pacific Avenue's shops, galleries, and family-friendly attractions with plenty of chances to grab a snack or souvenir.
Free to browse, 2h0m

4:00pm

Visit Seymour Marine Discovery Center

Learn about marine science with interactive exhibits, beach access, and marine animal viewing. Open daily until 5:00 PM.
USD12/adult, USD8/child, 1h30m

6:00pm

Dinner at The Crow's Nest

Dine with a view of the harbor offering seafood and American classics. A great spot to relax after a full day exploring Santa Cruz.
USD20-35/person, 1h30m
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Day 4: More Local Adventures

Santa Cruz, California, USA on June 29, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Zachary’s Restaurant

Known for their pancakes and hearty breakfasts, Zachary’s opens at 7:00 AM and is perfect for families.
USD10-15/person, 1h0m

9:30am

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Take an easy hike among towering coastal redwoods. The park is open from 8:00 AM to sunset and offers a refreshing nature escape just a short drive from the city.
USD10 parking fee, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Burger Restaurant

Stop at a popular local burger joint like Burger to It for a casual, delicious meal.
USD12-18/person, 1h0m

2:00pm

Free time / Beach afternoon

Relax at Main Beach or try surfing lessons with local surf shops, great for families and beginners.
Lesson USD50/person, beach free, 3h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Shadowbrook Restaurant

End your day with an upscale dining experience in a unique garden setting, with a cable car ride down to the restaurant entrance. Open for dinner from 5:00 PM.
USD35-50/person, 1h30m
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Day 5: Return Home

Santa Cruz to Cottage Grove, Oregon, USA on June 30, 2025

7:00am

Early Breakfast and Pack Up

Have breakfast at your campground or a quick local café like Verve Coffee Roasters before heading home.
USD8-12/person, 1h0m

8:00am

Drive Back to Cottage Grove

Begin the drive back north on CA-1 N, then I-5 N through California into Oregon. Plan for rest stops and lunch along the way. Approximate drive time is 10 hours.
Free, 10h0m

6:00pm

Arrive Home

Arrive at your home in Cottage Grove by the evening, concluding your wonderful family road trip with lasting memories.
Free, 0h0m
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