Redwood National and State Parks
Redwood National and State Parks is a remarkable natural wonder located on the northern coast of California, United States. This vast expanse of lush forests, rugged coastlines, and diverse wildlife has captured the hearts and imaginations of visitors from around the world. Spanning over 133,000 acres, these parks are home to the world’s tallest trees, the majestic Redwood trees, which can reach heights of up to 380 feet and live for thousands of years. Exploring the Redwood National and State Parks is an awe-inspiring experience, offering visitors a glimpse into this unique natural environment’s timeless beauty and ecological significance.
Redwood National and State Parks Overview
Redwood National Park and State Parks, managed by the National Park Service and California State Parks, are home to some of the tallest and oldest trees on Earth. Established in 1968, this park is located in northernmost coastal California and features old-growth coastal redwoods that can live up to 2,000 years and reach heights of over 300 feet.
The park also includes a diverse ecosystem with spruce, hemlock, Douglas fir, berry bushes, and sword ferns creating a multi-canopied understory. In addition to the majestic redwoods, the park offers a variety of habitats such as prairies, oak woodlands, mighty rivers and streams, and 37 miles of pristine Pacific coastline.
Things to do in Redwood National and State Parks
Redwood National and State Parks offer a wide range of activities and experiences for visitors to enjoy. From scenic drives and hiking trails to camping and bicycling, there is something for everyone in these remarkable parks.
Scenic Drives
One of the best ways to experience the beauty of the Redwood National and State Parks is through a scenic drive. Here are some of the top scenic drives in the parks:
The Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway is a 10-mile stretch of winding road that takes visitors through the heart of Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. Along the way, visitors can enjoy views of towering Redwoods, lush fern-filled forests, and the sparkling waters of Prairie Creek.
The Bald Hills Road is a 20-mile scenic drive that takes visitors through the Bald Hills region of Redwood National Park.
The Howland Hill Road is a 10-mile gravel road that winds through the heart of Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. This scenic drive offers visitors the chance to see some of the tallest and oldest Redwood trees in the world, as well as scenic views of the Smith River.
Camping Options
To spend the night in the parks, visitors can either book a spot at a developed campground (reservations are advised) or trek to a backcountry campsite (a free permit is necessary). With proper preparation, camping in Redwood National and State Parks can be a delightful and fulfilling experience for people of various ages, backgrounds, and camping expertise.
Walks and Hikes
There are walking and hiking options available in the redwoods for people of all comfort levels and experience. To help you navigate, we divide the parks into northern and southern areas with the Klamath River as the boundary. Crescent City and Hiouchi are in the north, Klamath is in the middle, and Orick is in the south.
Bicycling In The Redwoods
Exploring Redwood National and State Parks on a bicycle can be both challenging and breathtaking. The main area for biking in the parks is located in the southern part. You can ride through ancient redwood groves, pedal under second-growth forests, or cycle along coastal cliffs with stunning ocean views.
While many national and state parks do not allow biking on backcountry hiking trails, Redwood National and State Parks have several bike trails available, mostly on restored logging roads. These roads are durable enough to minimize erosion caused by bike tires and are wide enough to safely accommodate various users. It’s important to respect the areas where biking is not allowed to help preserve the natural environment and limit damage to other trails.
Places to stay in Redwood National and State Parks
Redwood National and State Parks offer a variety of accommodation options for visitors, from camping to more luxurious hotel and resort stays.
Camping
Camping is a popular way to experience the parks, with several developed campgrounds and backcountry campsites available.
Some of the most popular campgrounds include Jedediah Smith Campground, Mill Creek Campground, and Prairie Creek Campground.
For those seeking a more remote and adventurous camping experience, Redwood National and State Parks offer several backcountry campsites. These sites are accessible only by hiking and offer a true wilderness experience.
Hotel and Resort
For visitors who prefer a more comfortable and luxurious stay, there are several hotel and resort options in the Redwood National and State Parks area.
Lost Whale Inn
The Lost Whale Inn is located on a cliff above Abalone Cove and offers five rooms, two suites, and delicious breakfasts. It has been recognized as one of the most romantic inns in America by Sunset Magazine and listed as a top weekend destination by The Los Angeles Times.
- Address: 3452 Patricks Point Dr, Trinidad, CA 95570-9782
- Price Range: From $250
Elk Meadow Cabins
Elk Meadow Cabins is set in Orick. Both free WiFi and parking on-site are available at the holiday home free of charge. The holiday home has an outdoor fireplace and a hot tub. The holiday home features 1 bedroom, a living room with a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen, and 1 bathroom with a shower.
You can play table tennis at Elk Meadow Cabins 7 and the area is popular for cycling and fishing. Outdoor play equipment is also available at the accommodation, while guests can also relax in the garden.
- Address: 7 Valley Green Camp Rd, Orick, CA 95555
- Price Range: $335 – $593
Palm Cafe & Motel
Palm Cafe & Motel is just a couple of miles from the Pacific Ocean, where there are several local beaches to walk up and down. The motel has several wood carving booths and a score of gift and specialty item stores to find the perfect memento of your visit!
- Address: 21130 Hwy 101, Orick, CA
- Price Range: From $90
Dining
Redwood National and State Parks offer a variety of dining options, from casual cafes and snack bars to more upscale restaurants.
Fisherman’s Restaurant
Fishermans Restaurant, a popular local spot, has been delighting customers in Crescent City and surrounding areas since 1997. Their goal is to offer excellent customer service, a pleasant atmosphere, and generous portions at affordable prices.
- Address: 700 Highway 101 South, Crescent City, CA 95531
- Open time: 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Prices range: $10 – $20
Chart Room Restaurant
Chart Room is a popular seafood restaurant in Crescent City known for its casual waterfront dining. They recently added an outdoor dining area with 15 picnic tables. The restaurant has won awards such as Best Seafood and Best Clam Chowder in the Readers Choice Award.
- Address: 130 Anchor Way, Crescent City, CA 95531-4442
- Open time: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
- Prices range: $8 – $35
Good Harvest Cafe
Good Harvest Cafe is a family-owned restaurant that provides a wide range of fresh meal choices. They are open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner every day of the week. Additionally, they offer a complete bar service and have an upstairs lounge with a view of the harbor that opens in the evening from 4 pm onwards.
- Address: 575 South Highway 101, Crescent City, CA 95531
- Open time: 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Prices range: $8 – $30
Planning Your Trip to Redwood National and State Parks
Planning a visit to the Redwood National and State Parks requires careful consideration of various factors, from the optimal time to visit to the best modes of transportation. By taking the time to thoroughly research and prepare, visitors can ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience in this natural wonder.
Visiting Time
The Redwood National and State Parks are open year-round, but the best time to visit can vary depending on your interests. Summer (June-August) is warm, dry weather, with the potential for crowds and higher prices.
In the fall (September-November), mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and stunning autumn foliage. Winter (December-February) is the rainy season, so fewer visitors and the opportunity to witness the parks’ stormy, dramatic beauty.
Finally, in the spring (March-May), mild weather, blooming wildflowers, and the chance to see migrating whales along the coast.
Redwoods National and State Parks in Spring
Redwoods National and State Parks in Summer
Redwoods National and State Parks in Autumn
Redwoods National and State Parks in Winter
Transportation
The parks are located along the Redwood Highway (US-101), making it easy to reach by car. The nearest major airports are in Crescent City, CA (CEC) and Arcata/Eureka, CA (ACV), with smaller regional airports also available. Shuttle services and regional buses connect the parks to nearby towns and transportation hubs.
Once inside the parks, visitors can explore the various scenic drives, hiking trails, and bicycle routes to fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.
Redwood National and State Parks Map
Conclusion
The Redwood National and State Parks are a true natural wonder, offering visitors a chance to experience the grandeur and serenity of one of the world’s most ancient and impressive ecosystems. From towering redwood groves to rugged coastal landscapes, these parks provide a wealth of activities and experiences that cater to outdoor enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking to connect with the timeless beauty of the natural world. So pack your bags, lace up your hiking boots, and get ready to immerse yourself in the majesty of this truly remarkable destination.
FAQs of Redwood National and State Parks
The best time to visit the Redwood National and State Parks can vary depending on your interests and preferences. Summer (June-August) offers warm, dry weather, but can also be more crowded and expensive. Fall (September-November) and spring (March-May) are excellent choices, with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and the opportunity to witness the parks’ seasonal changes. Winter (December-February) can be rainy, but also provides a chance to experience the dramatic, stormy beauty of the parks.
The amount of time you should plan to spend in the Redwood National and State Parks can vary depending on your interests and the depth of exploration you wish to undertake. Many visitors plan for a minimum of 2-3 days to see the major highlights, such as the tallest trees, scenic drives, and popular hiking trails. However, those seeking a more immersive experience may want to allocate 5-7 days or more to fully explore the parks’ diverse landscapes and ecosystems.
Some of the most popular and scenic hiking trails in the Redwood National and State Parks include:
Tall Trees Grove Trail: A moderate hike that leads to a grove of the park’s tallest trees.
Fern Canyon Trail: A unique and picturesque hike through a lush, fern-lined canyon.
Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail: An easy, accessible trail that showcases the grandeur of the old-growth redwood forests.
Redwood Creek Trail: A longer, more challenging hike that follows the Redwood Creek watershed.
Yes, camping is a popular way to experience the Redwood National and State Parks. The parks offer a variety of campgrounds, ranging from primitive, remote sites to more developed facilities with amenities like showers and electrical hookups. Some of the most well-known campgrounds include Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park Campground, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park Campground, Elk Prairie Campground, and Fern Canyon Campground.
The Redwood National and State Parks are located in northern California, along the Redwood Highway (US-101). Visitors can access the parks by driving, flying into the nearest major airports (Crescent City, CA or Arcata/Eureka, CA), or using public transportation options like shuttles and regional buses. Once inside the parks, visitors can explore the various scenic drives, hiking trails, and bicycle routes to fully immerse themselves in the natural surroundings.