Where to Camp When Visiting Redwood National Park: Your Guide to Sleeping Amongst Giants
Visiting Redwood National and State Parks is an unforgettable experience. The sheer majesty of the ancient coast redwoods is something that truly needs to be seen and felt to be believed. And what better way to immerse yourself in this awe-inspiring environment than by camping amongst these towering giants? However, with several distinct camping areas spread across the vast park complex, deciding where to pitch your tent or park your RV can be a bit overwhelming. This guide will break down your options, offering detailed insights to help you choose the perfect spot for your Redwood adventure.
Understanding the Park Landscape
First, it's important to know that Redwood National and State Parks is a collection of federally and state-managed lands. This means you'll find campgrounds managed by the National Park Service (NPS) and the California Department of Parks and Recreation (CDPR). While all offer access to the redwoods, their locations and amenities can differ. The park is divided into several distinct regions, each with its own unique charm and camping opportunities.
National Park Service Campgrounds
The NPS manages two main campgrounds within the core of Redwood National Park:
1. Jedediah Smith Campground
Located in the northernmost section of the park, near the Smith River and the town of Crescent City, Jedediah Smith Campground is a true gem. This campground is nestled within old-growth redwoods, offering a truly immersive experience. You'll be surrounded by towering trees, with the sounds of the nearby river as your soundtrack.
- Location: Approximately 5 miles east of Crescent City, off Howland Hill Road.
- Atmosphere: Secluded and serene, with a strong sense of being deep within the forest.
- Amenities:
- RV and tent sites.
- Flush toilets and hot showers (though availability can vary, so check ahead).
- Picnic tables and fire rings at each site.
- Campground host.
- Group campsites are also available.
- Nearby Attractions: Stout Grove (a must-see for its cathedral-like grove), Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park trails, and access to the Smith River for swimming and fishing.
- Reservations: Highly recommended, especially during peak season (summer and holidays). Reservations are typically made through Recreation.gov.
2. Elk Prairie Campground
Situated in the heart of Redwood National Park, Elk Prairie Campground offers a unique opportunity to see Roosevelt elk in their natural habitat. The campground is a mix of redwood forest and open meadows, providing both shade and sun. Elk are frequently spotted grazing in and around the campground, particularly in the early morning and late evening.
- Location: Along Newton B. Drury Parkway, about 7 miles south of Klamath.
- Atmosphere: A blend of forest and open meadow, with abundant wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Amenities:
- RV and tent sites.
- Flush toilets and cold showers.
- Picnic tables and fire rings.
- Campground host.
- Interpretive programs are often offered during the summer.
- Nearby Attractions: Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, the scenic Newton B. Drury Parkway, Fern Canyon (requires a permit and is a popular day-use destination), and tide pools at low tide.
- Reservations: Strongly advised. Reservations are made through Recreation.gov.
California State Park Campgrounds
The California Department of Parks and Recreation manages several campgrounds within the state park units that make up a significant portion of Redwood National and State Parks. These often offer a slightly different experience and may have different reservation systems.
1. Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park Campgrounds
Within Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, you'll find two excellent camping options:
a) Gold Bluffs Beach Campground
For those who love the ocean alongside their redwoods, Gold Bluffs Beach Campground is an exceptional choice. This campground is literally situated on the bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, with a backdrop of lush redwood forest. It's a rugged and beautiful location.
- Location: Accessible via the unpaved, often rough, Davison Road, which is also the access road to Fern Canyon.
- Atmosphere: Coastal and wild, with the sound of crashing waves and the smell of salt in the air. Offers incredible stargazing.
- Amenities:
- Tent and RV sites (no hookups).
- Vault toilets.
- Picnic tables and fire rings.
- Nearby Attractions: Fern Canyon, Gold Bluffs Beach for exploring and wildlife viewing (elk are common here too), and scenic drives through Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park.
- Important Note: Davison Road can be challenging for RVs and low-clearance vehicles, especially after rain. Check road conditions before arriving.
- Reservations: Highly recommended and usually made through ReserveCalifornia.com.
b) Elk Prairie Campground (State Park Section)
Note that there's also an "Elk Prairie Campground" managed by the state within Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. This campground is distinct from the NPS campground of the same name, though they are geographically close. This state-run campground is also known for elk sightings and is nestled within the redwoods.
- Location: Adjacent to the NPS Elk Prairie Campground, along Newton B. Drury Parkway.
- Atmosphere: Similar to the NPS Elk Prairie, focusing on redwood immersion and wildlife.
- Amenities:
- Tent and RV sites.
- Flush toilets and showers.
- Picnic tables and fire rings.
- Nearby Attractions: Same as NPS Elk Prairie, including access to hiking trails and the scenic parkway.
- Reservations: Typically made through ReserveCalifornia.com.
2. Headwaters Campground (at Grassy Flats)
This campground is located within the most remote and protected old-growth redwood forest of the park, managed by the state. It's a more primitive experience, designed for those seeking deep immersion in the ancient redwood ecosystem.
- Location: Off the scenic Mattole Road, deep within the Headwaters Forest Reserve.
- Atmosphere: Extremely secluded, quiet, and serene, with a profound sense of ancient nature.
- Amenities:
- Tent sites only.
- Vault toilets.
- No showers or hookups.
- Picnic tables and fire rings.
- Nearby Attractions: The primary draw is the unparalleled access to the Headwaters Forest Reserve and its pristine old-growth groves.
- Reservations: Required and can be competitive due to limited sites. Book through ReserveCalifornia.com.
Important Considerations for Camping in Redwood National and State Parks
No matter which campground you choose, keep these important points in mind:
- Reservations: For almost all campgrounds, especially during the peak season (Memorial Day through Labor Day), reservations are absolutely essential. Book well in advance, sometimes six months or more.
- Weather: Coastal weather is notoriously variable. Be prepared for cool temperatures, fog (especially in the mornings and evenings), and rain, even in the summer. Layers are key.
- Wildlife: You are in bear country and elk country. Properly store all food and scented items in bear-proof lockers or your vehicle. Never feed the wildlife.
- Campfires: Fire restrictions can be in place due to dry conditions. Always check current fire regulations before lighting a campfire.
- Cell Service: Cell service is often spotty or nonexistent within the park. Download maps and important information before you arrive.
- Doggos: Dogs are generally allowed in campgrounds and on paved park roads but are typically NOT allowed on hiking trails or in the redwood groves themselves to protect the fragile ecosystem. Check specific park regulations for details.
- Generators: Generator use is usually restricted to specific hours and sometimes not allowed at all to maintain the quiet atmosphere.
Tips for Choosing Your Campsite:
When making your reservation, try to:
- Consider proximity to trails: If hiking is your main focus, look for campgrounds near trailheads.
- Think about your vehicle: If you have a large RV, ensure the campground and your specific site can accommodate it. Some of the more primitive or coastal campgrounds may have road limitations.
- Embrace the redwoods: For the ultimate redwood experience, prioritize campgrounds directly within the old-growth forest.
- Wildlife viewing: If seeing elk is a priority, Elk Prairie and Gold Bluffs Beach are excellent choices.
Camping amongst the redwoods is a truly magical experience that offers a deep connection with nature. By planning ahead and understanding your options, you can ensure your stay in Redwood National and State Parks is one you'll cherish forever.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I make campground reservations?
Most National Park Service campgrounds in Redwood National Park are reserved through Recreation.gov. California State Park campgrounds are typically booked via ReserveCalifornia.com. It's best to visit these websites directly and book as far in advance as possible, especially for popular times.
Why are reservations so important in Redwood National Park?
Redwood National and State Parks are incredibly popular destinations. Demand for camping, particularly during the summer months and on holidays, far exceeds the available campsites. Booking in advance guarantees you a spot and saves you the disappointment of arriving to find campgrounds full.
What are the best campgrounds for RVs?
Jedediah Smith Campground and Elk Prairie Campground (both NPS and State Park sections) generally offer sites that can accommodate RVs, with varying levels of hookup availability. Gold Bluffs Beach Campground has sites for RVs but no hookups and can be challenging for larger rigs due to road conditions.
How primitive are the campgrounds?
The level of primitiveness varies. Campgrounds like Jedediah Smith and Elk Prairie offer amenities like flush toilets and showers. Headwaters Campground is more primitive with only vault toilets and no showers. Gold Bluffs Beach has vault toilets but no showers. Always check the specific amenities listed for each campground on the reservation website.
When is the best time to camp in Redwood National Park?
While camping is possible year-round, the most popular time is from late spring through early fall (May to October) when the weather is generally milder and drier. However, summer can be foggy, especially near the coast. Fall offers beautiful colors and fewer crowds. Winter can be wet but offers a peaceful, introspective experience.
