Redwood National and State Parks Travel Guide

Nestled along California’s northern coast, the Redwood National and State Parks are a sanctuary of towering ancient trees, rugged coastline, and diverse wildlife. Spanning over 139,000 acres, these parks are a must-visit for anyone seeking tranquility and natural grandeur. This guide offers everything you need to plan an unforgettable trip to this iconic destination.

Essential Information

  • Location: Northern California, near the towns of Crescent City and Arcata.
  • Established: The national park was created in 1968, with partnerships formed with state parks in 1994.
  • Famous For: Home to the tallest trees on Earth, the coast redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens).
  • Entry Fee: No fee for the national park areas; state park sites charge $8–$10 per vehicle.
  • Best Time to Visit:
    • Summer (June–September): Warm weather and accessible trails.
    • Fall (October–November): Stunning foliage and fewer crowds.
    • Winter (December–February): Quiet with misty landscapes.
    • Spring (March–May): Wildflowers in bloom and mild temperatures.

Interesting Facts

  1. Tallest Tree: Hyperion, the tallest tree in the world at 379.7 feet, resides here (exact location kept secret).
  2. World Heritage Site: The parks are both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve.
  3. Rich Biodiversity: Includes Roosevelt elk, banana slugs, and migrating gray whales along the coast.
  4. Film Location: Scenes from Star Wars: Return of the Jedi and Jurassic Park were filmed here.

How to Get There

  • By Air:
    • Closest airports: Del Norte County Airport (CEC) (Crescent City) or Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV).
  • By Car:
    • U.S. Highway 101 runs through the parks, connecting Crescent City and Eureka.
  • By Public Transport:
    • Limited public transport; driving is the most convenient option.

Best Things to Do

  1. Hike Among the Giants:
    • Stroll through iconic trails like Lady Bird Johnson Grove and Tall Trees Grove.
  2. Drive the Scenic Newton B. Drury Parkway:
    • A 10-mile route surrounded by towering redwoods.
  3. Visit Fern Canyon:
    • A lush, moss-covered canyon featured in Jurassic Park.
  4. Explore Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park:
    • Ideal for spotting Roosevelt elk and hiking.
  5. Experience the Coastline:
    • Walk along Gold Bluffs Beach or enjoy tidepooling at Enderts Beach.
  6. Kayak the Smith River:
    • Crystal-clear waters offer a serene paddling experience.

Best Accommodation

  1. Redwood National and State Parks Campgrounds:
    • Popular sites include Elk Prairie and Gold Bluffs Beach.
  2. Requa Inn:
    • A charming riverside inn near Crescent City.
  3. Crescent Beach Motel:
    • Affordable beachfront lodging.
  4. Holiday Inn Express:
    • Convenient option in nearby Klamath.
  5. Cabins in Jedediah Smith State Park:
    • Rustic accommodations nestled in the forest.

Good Attractions

  • Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park: Known for its pristine old-growth redwoods.
  • Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park: Offers breathtaking coastal views.
  • Trees of Mystery: A tourist-friendly park with sculptures, gondola rides, and fun trails.
  • Battery Point Lighthouse: Historic lighthouse accessible during low tide.
  • Klamath River Overlook: Perfect spot for whale watching.

Getting Around

  • Car: The easiest way to navigate the parks and nearby towns.
  • Biking: Allowed on some trails, like the Coastal Trail.
  • Walking: Many attractions are accessible via short trails.

Day Trips

  1. Humboldt Redwoods State Park:
    • Drive through the Avenue of the Giants, about 2 hours south.
  2. Oregon Caves National Monument:
    • About 2 hours north, explore marble caves and trails.
  3. Patrick’s Point State Park:
    • Stunning coastal views and cultural history of the Yurok Tribe.
  4. Trinidad:
    • A quaint coastal town with beautiful beaches and seafood.

Practical Tips

  1. Dress in Layers: The coastal climate can change rapidly.
  2. Bring Waterproof Gear: Fog and drizzle are common, even in summer.
  3. Plan for Limited Cell Service: Download maps and guides ahead of time.
  4. Respect Wildlife: Keep a safe distance from elk and other animals.
  5. Book Early: Campgrounds and popular lodges fill up quickly.
  6. Stay on Trails: Protect the delicate ecosystem and avoid poison oak.

Conclusion

Redwood National and State Parks are a magical destination where ancient trees meet the rugged coastline. Whether you’re hiking, exploring tide pools, or simply soaking in the tranquility, these parks offer a rejuvenating escape into nature. Embrace the grandeur of the redwoods and start planning your adventure today!

Redwood National and State Parks, California
Redwood National and State Parks, California
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