Best campground in the Redwoods, hands down.
If you’re looking to immerse yourself in the Redwoods, this is the campground for you. I’ve been camping here for more than half my life and I just can’t get enough! Here’s why...
Set down in a little Redwood valley just south of Crescent City, CA to the east of Hwy 101 is what I describe as heaven on earth. As you turn off the highway, you head down the mountain on a paved road for about a mile and a half. You’ll take a short stop at the Ranger Station to check in and get the latest updates on weather, Ranger Talks, tide schedules and anything else you need to know for your stay. Head down another mile and you’ll enter the campground.
At the stop sign, you can either go left or right. The spots to the right will hug you next to the mountain and along the creek that runs through the campground. The small and cozy amphitheater also sits among these spots for the ranger talks and activities for the kiddos. These spots are a bit more open and let you interact with your fellow campers. There a few loops to choose from so you’re sure to get the perfect one for you.
Turn left at the stop sign and you’ll find my favorite loop. These spots vary widely from more open spots to more secluded ones. Some are by the creek, some are back in little nooks of the mountain and some have a short hike to get to. I’ve stayed in all kinds and have never been disappointed. They feel a bit more secluded, though it could just be me romanticizing my favorite place on earth.
Whatever loop you choose to stay in, rest assured you’ll be in the heart of the Redwoods. Lush ferns, new and old growth trees and beautiful flora surround every site. You can join the Ranger Talks, take a hike on one of the trails around the campground or just sit and relax, taking it all in.
Bonus points always go to this campground for coin operated showers (perfect after a long day of adventuring) amazingly friendly and knowledgeable camp hosts and a stellar location to venture out from on your daily adventures.
Thiugh my favorite time to visit has always been August (to escape the heat of the valley), any time of year is a good time to go.
Book your stay through Reserve America, and don’t forget to start mapping out your adventures!