Redwood National and State Parks Itinerary & Best Campsites
REDWOOD NATIONAL PARK & STATE PARKS 4-DAY ITINERARY
Get ready for an unforgettable adventure! Here’s an exhilarating 4-day itinerary to explore the breathtaking Redwood National and State Parks, where you’ll be surrounded by towering trees, stunning scenery, and vibrant ecosystems at every turn!
Day 1: Arrival in Crescent City
Arrive in Crescent City and check into your accommodation or campsite. Start your day at a local café, like Good Harvest Café. Visit the Battery Point Lighthouse and enjoy views of the coast. Check the tide schedule if you want to explore the tidal pools. Check out Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park and hike the Stout Grove Trail (0.5 miles) to see magnificent old-growth redwoods. Have dinner in Crescent City and try a seafood restaurant, such as Chart Room Restaurant. Take a sunset walk at Pebble Beach.
Day 2: Redwood Creek Trail
Hike the infamous Redwood Creek Trail. Head to the trailhead located in the Humboldt Redwoods State Park area. This is a moderately strenuous hike of about 10 miles round trip. The trail offers stunning views of the redwoods and runs along Redwood Creek, with opportunities to see wildlife. Pack a picnic to enjoy along the trail. Find a scenic spot by the creek. Explore further along the Redwood Creek Trail, keeping an eye out for diverse plant life and possibly spotting elk. Head back to your accommodation. Enjoy dinner in Crescent City or Orick.
Day 3: Avenue of the Giants and Prairie Creek
Drive to Avenue of the Giants and take the scenic route through Humboldt Redwoods State Park. Stop at the visitor center to gather information. Have a picnic in the park or stop at a local diner along the Avenue. Explore Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park and hike the Fern Canyon Trail (1 mile), famous for its lush ferns and towering walls. If time allows, explore the Elk Meadow. Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant or return to Crescent City for dinner.
Day 4: More Redwoods and Departure
Drive to the Tall Trees Grove Trailhead. This hike is about 4 miles round trip and requires a free permit, available at the visitor center. Enjoy the serenity and the towering trees. Pack a lunch for the hike or enjoy a meal back in Crescent City. Visit the Klamath River Overlook for stunning views of the river and ocean. Check out Gold Bluffs Beach and maybe do a short walk along the beach. Have your last dinner in Crescent City or nearby. If you have time, take a final sunset walk on the beach or through the redwoods to savor the beauty one last time.
Tips:
Make sure to obtain any necessary permits for the Tall Trees Grove hike ahead of time. Be on the lookout for elk, especially in Prairie Creek. Dress in layers and be prepared for changing weather conditions. Always check trail conditions and be aware of your surroundings while hiking. Enjoy your adventure among the majestic redwoods!
Before your trip, make sure to grab your
Redwood NP Map Neck Gaiter
BEST CAMPSITES
Here are some of the best campsites in and around Redwood National and State Parks:
Jedediah Smith Campground
Nestled among towering redwoods, this campground offers a beautiful setting with picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms. It has a mix of tent and RV sites. Close to hiking trails like the Stout Grove and the Hiouchi Trail.
Elk Prairie Campground
This spacious campground has a mix of sites surrounded by lush greenery. It offers picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms. It’s known for wildlife viewing, especially elk. Close to trails like the Fern Canyon and Elk Prairie Trail.
Gold Bluffs Beach Campground
Located right on the beach, this campground offers a unique experience with ocean views and the sound of waves. Sites are primitive but provide fire rings and picnic tables. Near the Fern Canyon Trail and Gold Bluffs Beach.
Alder Campground
A quieter, more secluded option with basic amenities. Great for tent camping and provides a peaceful atmosphere. Close to several hiking trails and scenic drives.
Humboldt Redwoods State Park Campgrounds
Several campgrounds (like Burlington Campground) along the Avenue of the Giants offer beautiful settings among the redwoods, with picnic tables and fire rings. Ideal for exploring the Avenue of the Giants and nearby trails.
Tips for Camping:
During peak season, it’s a good idea to make reservations in advance, as campgrounds can fill up quickly. Be bear-aware and properly store food and trash. Pack layers, as coastal weather can change rapidly.
No matter where you choose to camp, you’ll be surrounded by the breathtaking beauty of the redwoods! Enjoy your adventure!