Visitors rank Redwood among the elite of California’s national parks, and it’s easy to see why. This park’s signature attraction is its towering coast redwoods. These are among the tallest and oldest living things on our planet, hence their name, Sequoia sempervirens, Latin for everlasting.
The Redwoods also boasts 34 miles of unspoiled coastline, five named mountains, and 200+ miles of park system trails. You’ll also find vast prairies, rolling dunes, rivers, creek valleys, wetlands, lagoons, and more.
Regarding the best things to do in Redwood National Park, this northern corner of California has it all. Camping, hiking, whale watching, fishing, and wildlife spotting are among other Redwood attractions to look forward to.
There’s only one caveat: The Redwoods are a system of one national park and three California state parks, so you need to know where to look. We hope this guide of what to do in Redwood National Park points you in the right direction.
Key Takeaways
- The Redwoods are a complex of three state parks and one national park.
- Humboldt-County Airport (a.k.a Arcata-Eureka) is the closest airport to Redwood National Park (30 minutes).
- The closest major airports to the Redwoods are San Francisco, Sacramento, and Portland International Airports (5-6 hours away).
- Four developed campgrounds and eight rustic cabins provide accommodations inside Redwood National and State Parks; there are no hotels or lodges.
Things to Consider Before Visiting Redwood National Park
The Redwoods are a system of three state parks and a national park collectively known as Redwood National and State Parks. They protect half of the world’s redwoods across nearly 40,000 acres of ancient forest.
From the northernmost to the southern park, here’s how the four parks are organized together with their year of establishment:
- Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park (1929)
- Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park (1927)
- Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park (1923)
- Redwood National Park (1968)
Redwood National Park and the partnered state parks were created to preserve the remaining old-growth forest of redwoods and its animals, streams, and shoreline.
Entrance Fee to the Redwood Empire
The NPS-managed Redwood National Park does not charge an entrance fee. However, the three state parks charge a small fee in a handful of areas, including Fern Canyon and Gold Bluffs Beach in Prairie Creek.
Location and How to Get There
Redwood National and State Parks are located in northwest California along the Pacific Ocean just below the Oregon border. The park is about 5.5 hours away from San Francisco, CA, and Portland, OR, and six hours from Sacramento. This makes it a great weekend coast getaway from either city.
Humboldt County Airport, also known as Arcata-Eureka, is the closest airport to Redwood National and State Parks. Flying to this regional airport puts you a mere 30-minute drive to the park. But it will also be pricey.
Alternatively, you can fly into a major airport like San Francisco International Airport (SFA), Sacramento International Airport (SMF), or Portland International Airport (PDX), rent a car and drive to the Redwoods.
Whichever airport you fly into, you’ll probably want to rent a car since Redwoods has no public transportation.
How Many Days Do You Need to Spend in Redwood National Park?
A minimum of three full days is the recommended time in Redwood National and State Parks.
An important consideration when planning what to do when visiting the Redwoods is the distance between the attractions. Driving from one to the next can significantly increase your drive time because the fun places are scattered around the four parks,
Ideally, you should map out all the top things to do in Redwood parks and use them to create an itinerary. Another option is to plan to spend at least one day in each park.
Best Time to Visit Redwood National and State Parks
Spring, particularly from April through June, is the best time to visit the Redwoods and Northern California in general. All trails are usually open by mid-March, and the mild weather means comfortable conditions for hiking and viewing viewpoints. Plus, the trails and meadows are adorned with blooming wildflowers, and the crowds are thin.
June, July, and August are high-season in Redwood National and State Parks. Summers are usually not too hot in the Redwoods, thanks to their proximity to the coast and the shade from the giant trees. A bonus to visiting Redwood National Park in summer is the extra daylight, which allows for full-day hikes and California backpacking trips.
Note that summer mornings in the Redwoods tend to be foggy but are typically followed by clear, bright blue skies. The fog season, which usually starts in June, is critical for the survival of the redwood trees during the dry season, but it’s less likely to make you enjoy the park any less.
Where to Stay in Redwood National Park
Cabins Among Giant Trees
There are no hotels or lodges inside Redwood National and State Parks. Besides camping, the other option for staying within the parks’ borders is eight ADA-accessible cabins.
Four cabins are in the Elk Prairie Campground, while the others are in the Jedediah Smith Campground.
Please note that these are basic cabins with electricity (lights and heater) but no kitchen or bathroom. Each cabin can accommodate up to six people, but there’s space outside for a two-person tent. Guests must bring their mattress pads and tents.
Redwood National Park cabin rate is $100 per night and includes entry for one vehicle. Additional vehicles are charged $8 per night. Reservations are highly recommended.
Camping in Redwood National and State Parks
There are four developed campgrounds in Redwood National Park:
- Jedediah Smith Campground
- Mill Creek Campground
- Gold Bluffs Beach Campground
- Elk Prairie Campground
Redwood National Park campgrounds are operated by the California State Parks. They are open year-round, except for Mill Creek Campground, which opens seasonally from mid-May through early October.
All campgrounds have potable water, food storage lockers, firewood for sale, flush toilets, and hot showers.
The standard camping fee in the Redwoods is $35 per night for tent and RV sites. Holders of Disabled Discount Pass and Federal “America the Beautiful” Senior or Access Pass pay $17.50.
Redwood National and State Parks are typically reserved up to six months in advance. Visit Reserve California to secure your spot.
Dispersed Camping in the Redwoods
Backcountry camping is allowed in seven designated areas in Redwood National and State Parks. Two of these camps are north of the Klamath River, while the other five are south of it.
Sites north of the Klamath River
- Little Bald Hills Camp (5 sites)
- DeMartin Camp (10 sites)
Sites south of the Klamath River
- Flint Ridge (8 sites)
- Gold Bluffs Beach (1 site accommodating two groups of up to eight campers)
- Elam Camp (3 sites)
- 44 Camp (4 sites)
- Redwood Creek Gravel Bar Camp (1 site allowing up to 50 campers)
You need a free backcountry camping permit for dispersed camping in the Redwoods. Permits are issued only online at the National Park Service website. They are typically limited and are issued on a first-come, first-served basis, so act fast.
Remember, this is wild camping. Plan adequately to ensure you have everything you need in your backpacking checklist (and your trusty first aid checklist, of course).
Where to Stay Near the Redwoods
The coastal cities, towns, and villages along Highway 101 offer various accommodation options near Redwood National and State Parks.
Trinidad, California, is the perfect place to stay near Redwood if you’re coming from the Bay Area. You’ll be 20 minutes from the heart of the park and about 30 minutes from Eureka and Arcata’s attractions. Plus, Trinidad is a mere 10-minute drive south of Patrick’s Point State Park, which boasts an endless list of things to do near Redwood National Park.
Crescent City, California, is the biggest city near the Redwoods. It’s California’s most northern city before entering Oregon and boasts the best budget hotels near Redwood National and State Parks. We’d recommend staying at Crescent City, particularly if you want to be close enough to Jedediah Smith and Del Norte Coast state parks.
What to Wear When Visiting Redwood National Park
Due to oceanic influences, the weather in the Redwoods is always cool, even during summer. Early mornings near the beach tend to be particularly cooler due to fog and wind. That said, layers are always good for keeping warm when it’s cooler and accommodating different types of weather.
A fleece jacket, pullover, or hoodie like the ones in our women’s hiking clothing category is great when it’s windy and cold. Also, consider adding an insulated jacket, a warm hat, and a wool/silk scarf to combat wet weather.
For bottoms, you’ll need something that’s not only comfortable but also quick-drying and water-resistant. Explore our men’s outdoor wear for hiking shorts and pants that balance comfort and function on the trail.
What to Do and See in Redwood National Park
Hike the Tall Trees Grove Trail
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
If you’re looking for the pinnacle of Redwood National Park things to do, we bet you will love Tall Tree Grove. This area of the Redwoods has many massive trees and tall ferns that create unforgettable sceneries.
The Tall Trees Grove Trail is a 4.5-mile, moderately challenging route that takes roughly 1.5 hours to complete. However, you should plan to spend at least half a day here to experience its unparalleled tranquility. Highlights of this trail include the Libbey Tree, which was once the tallest known tree, a walkthrough redwood, and taking a dip in boulder-laden swim holes.
The best time to hike the Tall Trees Grove Trail is in the afternoon when the fog has disappeared and the grove has a brighter vibe.
Please note that a free permit is required for the Tall Trees Grove Trail. The permit includes a unique code that you use to unlock the gate that leads to the grove. Only 50 permits are issued per day. They are issued only online and tend to run out weeks or months in advance.
Explore the Fern Canyon Trail
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Fern Canyon is a stunningly beautiful mini-gorge with steep vertical walls covered in lush ferns and mosses. Steven Spielberg shot several scenes for Jurassic Park 2: The Lost World at this location, so it's no wonder it's one of the most popular places to visit in Redwood National Park.
The trail is relatively short, at about 1.1 miles, and has minimal elevation gain, meaning it's suitable for hikers of all ages and experience levels. Nevertheless, the views around each bend are otherworldly and likely to stick with you for years. Be prepared to get your feet wet, as some sections of the trail are right in the stream.
Fern Canyon is accessed via Davison Road, which branches off Highway 101. It's an eight-mile scenic drive from the junction to the Fern Canyon Trailhead junction at Gold Bluff Beach. Davison Road is semi-maintained and often offers opportunities to spot Roosevelt Elk. Driving on Davison Road requires a $12/vehicle entrance fee.
Explore Gold Bluffs Beach
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Walking among giant redwood trees certainly tops the list of things to do in and around Redwood National Park. But there are other beautiful spots when you need a change of scenery.
Gold Bluffs Beach is a remote beach nestled in the remote coastal wilderness of the Redwoods. Sandwiched between the Pacific Ocean and the redwood forest, there will always be something exciting to do while camping here.
Visitors spend their time savoring the spectacular ocean views, combing the beach for unique seashells, and birdwatching. Surfing is another pastime activity at Gold Bluffs Beach, typically during winter when there are consistent clean swells.
Hikers will also want to tick off the California Coastal Trail, which stretches the entire length of Gold Bluff Beach and beyond. Due to its swift and cold currents, swimming is not recommended at Gold Bluffs Beach.
Relax and Hike at Lady Bird Johnson Grove
Redwood National Park
Lady Bird Johnson is perfect for families and nature enthusiasts exploring the Redwoods.
This is one of Redwood National Park's attractions because of its unusual location high in the mountains, at nearly 1300 feet above sea level. The upward environment of this lush oasis, coupled with the gentle rustling of leaves and occasional wildlife sightings, creates a serene vibe for a quiet, peaceful walk.
The Lady Bird Johnson Nature Trail is a 1.5-mile loop hike that winds through an old-growth forest of redwoods, tanoak, and Douglas fir. Although this loop is short and easy, we recommend spending several hours here to appreciate the ethereal beauty of this grove and read the interpretive signs.
Drive or Ride the Bald Hills Road
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
The Bald Hills Road is a wondrously scenic drive that branches off Redwood Highway 101 less than two miles north of Orick. We bet you'll love this coastal drive, especially if you're looking for fun things to do in Redwood National Park at a leisurely pace.
The 31.7-mile road winds up the Redwoods' highest elevations, passing the Lady Bird Johnson Grove, the Redwood Creek Overlook, and the Bald Hills, from which it gets its name.
Up on, you get to Lyon Ranch, a former sheep ranch from the 19th and 20th centuries. If you feel like stretching your legs, the 4.5-mile Lyons Ranch Loop Trail is an excellent way to explore this ranch's dramatic views, historic structures, and open prairies.
The Bald Hills Road is mostly unpaved but well-maintained. Due to its very windy and narrow sections, RVs, trailers, and motorhomes are not recommended.
Experience the Newton B Drury Scenic Parkway
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
The Newton B Drury is another excellent alternative to the Bald Hills Road. While both are must-do Redwood tourist attractions, the Newton B Drury wins if you want to drive through an actual old-growth forest with giant redwood trees. Plus, this scenic drive accommodates vehicles of all sizes.
The pull-out for Newton B Drury Scenic Parkway is about 10 minutes north of Orick on Highway 101. This 10-mile scenic drive takes about 20 minutes to complete without stops. We suggest planning for at least a half-day excursion to tick off the many pull-outs that line this roadway, including Big Tree Wayside (a 1500+ years old redwood) and Corkscrew Tree. Also, consider hitting the trails that branch off this scenic drive, like Ossagon and Ah-Pah.
Hike the Grove of Titans Trail
Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park
The Grove of Titans is a walkway of wonder that should be on every list of the best places to see in Redwood National Park. This scenic grove harbors a group of ancient coastal redwoods, some of which are the world's tallest trees by volume.
The Grove of Titans Trail is a relatively easy 1.7-mile out-and-back hike that is actually part of the longer Mill Creek Trail. Although not ADA-accessible, this wide dirt trail is well-maintained and features some elevated walkways to help improve access while still protecting the ancient flora from damage.
During the hike, try to identify the 12 named titans that reside in this grove. A few that shouldn’t be missed include Sacagawea, Chesty Puller, Lost Monarch, Screaming Titans, and Del Norte Titan.
The Grove of Titans is one of the best hiking trails in Redwood, so it gets pretty crowded by mid-morning. We suggest arriving for this hike early in the morning to secure a spot in the small parking area and have the titans to yourself before other hikers arrive.
Drive Avenue of the Giants
Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Avenue of the Giants is a 31-mile scenic drive parallel to the modern Highway 101 through Humboldt Redwoods State Park. Driving this avenue is a humbling experience as it’s hugged on both sides by Earth’s mighty giants.
Definitely take your time to check out the groves that appear almost every half-mile. Driving northbound, Bolling Grove is the first grove you’ll encounter. This was the first grove in Humboldt State Park and is home to half a dozen mammoth redwoods.
Five minutes further north is Shrine Drive Thru Tree. This is one of the best things to see in Redwood National Park, thanks to its fire-carved tunnel, which small cars can drive through for great family photos. Other famous landmarks along Avenue of the Giants include Williams Grove, Dyerville Giant, Founders Tree, and Chandler Grove.
The Avenue passes through several sleepy towns like Phillipsville, Miranda, and Weott. These are great spots to stop for food, browse the gift shops for souvenirs, and grab picnic supplies.
Hike the Damnation Creek Trail
Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park
If you’re looking for challenging hikes in Redwood National and State Parks, add this one to the list. The aptly named Damnation Creek Trail starts off Highway 101, about 15 minutes from both Klamath and Crescent City, and drops 1100 feet to the beautiful California coast.
The 3.8-mile out-and-back trail starts easy, and you’re treated to magical views of redwoods of all sizes and textures right from the start. However, the easy part doesn’t last long as the trail soon takes a dramatic drop that persists all the way to the beach. You will cross a bridge followed by another one that leads to a small grassy bluff overlooking the ocean.
You can enjoy the views from the blufftop or descend to the beach via a “stairway” carved into the rock. After exploring the coast, snapping the imposing craggy bluffs, and taking in the breeze, retrace your footing to hike back to the parking lot.
Final Thoughts
Redwood National and State Parks is a remarkable place and a must-visit when exploring Northern California. This hidden gem is a sanctuary for families, hikers, campers, and outdoor lovers who seek solitude and serenity in the natural beauty of old-growth coastal forests.
Amidst its towering giants, meadows, beaches, and mystical landscapes lies plenty of activities to keep you engaged to the last minute of your California vacation. So, get your camping checklist in order, as your list of things to do at Redwood National Park just got longer!
Featured image by: svetlana57.
