Embarking on a Journey Among the Giants
We have been wanting to try redwood forest camping for years. My family and I finally got to do so last month, and those mighty redwoods were everything I had anticipated. There is really no way to capture in words or photos the majesty of these trees. Instead, you’re just going to have to see them for yourself.
That’s where this article comes into play. Below, I’ve included everything I learned about redwood forest camping during my research and experience. Use this info to plan your trip, and it’ll almost certainly be one to remember.
The Funny Thing About the Redwood Forest
Before we go any further, there is something I need to clear up: the redwood forest is quite large, and while some of it is managed by the National Park Service, there are also several California State Parks throughout the forest. The result of this mashup of state and national parks is a bit weird. For instance, I found that there are no NPS-run campgrounds available. Instead, they are all private campgrounds or campgrounds run by the state park system.
This was all pretty confusing to me at the very beginning of my research, so I just wanted to clarify.
When To Go Redwood Forest Camping
The first thing to decide when planning your redwood forest camping trip is when you will visit. Honestly, I’m not sure there is a bad time to be in the redwoods. If there is, it would be during August and September when wildfires tend to burn in very close proximity to the park. That said, we were there in August and didn’t have problems, with the exception of one smoky day.
Springtime is probably the best time to experience redwood forest camping, as crowds are low and everything is lush. Early summer is also nice, as is fall. In winter, rain is more frequent, but it tends to be a light rain that gives the forest a magical quality. It should be noted that winter is actually quite mild in this area. High temperatures tend to be in the 50s (°F), and lows tend to stay above freezing.
I will say that we experienced quite a bit of fog in the forest during our visit in August. This wasn’t a bad thing per se, and I can’t say if it’s the norm, but it is something to be aware of.
Things To Know About Redwood Forest Camping
There are some things you should know before you head to Redwood Forest National and State Parks. Here are a few things we learned along the way.
Park Entrance is Free
Unlike many national and state parks, these parks do not charge an entrance fee. This is awesome for those on a budget!
Cell Service is Okay
Surprisingly, we were able to get a cell signal in many places in the forest, and the signal in the cities scattered throughout the forest was perfect.
Food is Available
Because there are a few cities located between the state parks, getting to restaurants and grocery stores is no problem at all.
Mosquitos are Everywhere
During the summer, you will find mosquitos throughout the park. Be sure to pack bug spray, or you can count on being eaten alive like my daughter and I were.
Places To Stay When Camping in the Redwood Forest
As mentioned above, there are no NPS campgrounds. However, there are a number of other options, including state park campgrounds, private campgrounds, city and county parks, and parking lot camping. I couldn’t find any decent dispersed camping in the immediate area.
Some of the best redwood forest camping options are listed below.
Gold Bluffs Beach Campground
Gold Bluffs Beach Campground is run by and located in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park and is right on a beautiful beach. It’s the perfect place to stay if you want to fall asleep to the sound of waves. Just make sure you make your reservation early!
Mystic Forest Campground
A private campground option, Mystic Forest Campground has full hookups, level sites, restrooms, and laundry facilities. It’s simple but lovely and is in the perfect location.
Big Lagoon County Park
Big Lagoon County Park is a nice, affordable option and is first-come, first-served, making it a good pick for those who like to fly by the seat of their pants. Most sites have no hookups, but there are a couple of sites with hookups for an additional fee.
The Heights Casino
If you don’t mind sleeping in a parking lot for a couple of nights, The Heights Casino could be a good pick. The cost to stay is just $20 for three nights, and water is available, as is a good view of the water.
Redwood Forest Camping: What To See and Do
Not sure what to do once you arrive for your redwood forest camping trip? We have a few suggestions!
Start at a Visitor Center
The redwood forest is so big that it can feel a bit overwhelming. For this reason, it’s best to start at a visitor center. There are several:
- Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center
- Prairie Creek Visitor Center
- Hiouchi Visitor Center
- Crescent City Information Center
- Jedediah Smith Visitor Center
Just choose the most convenient one for you.
See Stout Grove
If you’ve seen photos of the redwoods, you’ve likely seen a photo of Stout Grove. This is the most famous and most photographed of all the redwood groves and is a must-visit. It is located in the Jedediah Smith Redwoods Park.
Watch for Banana Slugs
We love banana slugs! We first saw these little critters in Olympic National Park but found plenty more in the redwoods.
Walk the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail
This hike is up a pretty intense hill, so go in prepared for a steep drive (no trailers or RVs allowed, but a van should be okay). The hike itself takes you across a cool bridge and through some seriously astounding redwood trees, many with fun nooks for the kids to hide in.
Check Out Fern Canyon
Made famous by its appearance in Jurassic Park, Fern Canyon is another must-see. Located in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, this is an 80-foot-deep canyon that features an abundance of lush ferns growing from its walls, creating a green wonderland.
Keep an Eye Out for Elk
Elk are found throughout the Redwood Forest National and State Parks. Keep your eyes peeled for them! We saw one grazing in a yard in the middle of town, but Elk Prairie is a better place to spot them.
Embracing the Majesty of the Redwoods
In conclusion, redwood forest camping offers a unique experience, bringing visitors closer to nature’s ageless wonders. The quiet whispers of the ancient trees, the humbling size of the redwoods, and the varied wildlife make every trip memorable. Armed with the insights and recommendations from this guide, you’re set for a journey that not only captures the essence of van life but also the very heart of nature’s grandeur.
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