Camping options near Bridgeville, California center around the Eel River watershed at elevations ranging from 400-1,500 feet. The region's climate varies dramatically between seasons, with summer temperatures reaching 90°F while winter nights often drop below freezing. The camping season typically runs May through October for many campgrounds, though several remain open year-round with reduced services during winter months.
What to do
River swimming: At Van Duzen County Park, locally known as Swimmers Delight, visitors find ideal swimming conditions during summer. "We checked out these grounds on our way to the Burlington campground as this site is just east off the same exit. While it might be an excellent place if you're not too picky about sloping sites, we were very pleased to be staying at Burlington which ended up being nice and flat," notes one visitor.
Redwood hiking trails: Albee Creek Campground offers direct access to multiple hiking paths. "We have camped the Humboldt Redwoods several times and it took us 3 years to find this spot. We have a 25ft trailer we tow. This campground can only accommodate smaller trailers in only a few spots... Fresh water, quarter showers, flushing toilets, off the main road, big sites, lots of wildlife, walking paths to one of the most beautiful redwood groves in the park, creek for the kids," writes Laura F.
Wildlife viewing: Visit Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination for animal spotting opportunities. "What a wonderful RV park. Quiet except for the very occasional road noise during the day, extremely quiet at night, very well kept up, friendly hosts, and very nice sites... They also have a dump station, bathrooms/laundry (currently closed due to the pandemic), volleyball, horseshoes, river access and more," explains David M.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Burlington Campground offers privacy within the redwoods. "Our first time camping among redwoods. The sites are generally well-spaced. We arrived in early March, mid-afternoon, and still had a few choices on a first-come, first-served basis. Very friendly gate attendant. And then, of course, there is hiking in the redwoods!" reports Patrick M.
Hot showers: Many campgrounds provide coin-operated shower facilities. "Burlington Campground is a wonderful place if you're looking for a relaxing, comfortable forest retreat. Although I don't have any, I think this would be a great place to bring kids who you're hoping to inspire an outdoors lifestyle. Lots of nice, easy trails around and amenities are kept clean and well stocked," shares Celine D.
Clean facilities: Hidden Springs Campground maintains well-kept bathrooms. "Hidden Springs makes you feel like you're alone in the Redwoods in almost every camp spot. Our spot felt secluded, but was only about 30 yards from one of the bathrooms. My wife told me to say that the bathrooms were very clean, something that doesn't matter to me. There were flush toilets, showers and sinks," notes Jeff B.
What you should know
Weather fluctuations: Expect significant temperature swings between day and night in the redwood region. "I've been camping up and down highway 101 for about two weeks now, and this was by far our favorite place! We practically had the place to ourselves! The trees are absolutely massive and gorgeous. The river is clean, and relaxing. Swimming here is so fun! Cold, but refreshing!" shares Andi M.
Traffic noise: Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park Campground campsites experience road noise. "The site is lovely and taken care of well. There are bathrooms, showers (coins required), and a laundry basin. The sites are small and pretty close to each other. The main issue is the noise. It's unbelievable loud as the camp site is right next to the road that appears to be supporting a logging operation," warns Anthony C.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly between campgrounds. "Park was mostly empty and very quiet. Plenty of full and partial RV hookups (generators are not allowed) and tent spots. Very clean facilities and well maintained. Friendly staff. Walking distance to the river and has a small enclosed dog run. Excellent WiFi. Weak Verizon and no AT&T service," reports Ady O.
Tips for camping with families
Tree exploration: Find campgrounds with old-growth stumps for children to investigate. "Like most of the reviews, the campsites are roomy but little privacy. The bathrooms are clean and showers are nice for people who aren't big into camping. There are lots of old redwood stumps to explore and climb on for kids," explains Steve A.
Educational opportunities: Consider camping near visitor centers with ranger programs. "It's one of the nicest campgrounds we've been to, and we love camping, so there's many to compare to. I actually locked my keys in my car and the ranger drove me from the trail head back to the campground to get in touch with AAA and took my husband and my daughter to get her hiking badge while I waited to someone to help get my keys out," shares Lyly D.
Safe swimming spots: Look for river access with gentle entry points for younger children. "I stayed here in late July for three nights with my 6 year old daughter and our 3 friends. This was a very family friendly campground. My daughter and her friend loved playing among the trees and stumps, and riding her scooter around the loop," explains Erin S.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Consider your RV length when selecting campgrounds. "Not suited for most RVs and travel trailers, you need to be very small and fully self contained. Our 19' A-Line barely fit into our spot. The sites are close together, short, with roots coming up in the road and parking areas, and sharp angled turns to get into your spot," cautions Stephanie.
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have mineral-heavy water. "We stayed here for half price with the Passport America discount - we paid $25 for a pull through E/W site (normally $50)... Also, the water jug we had filled with their water was full of rusty red residue at the bottom, ick. And that's what we used to fill our onboard RV tank (and that's with using a filter)," warns Laura M.
Limited hookup options: Research services before arrival. "We loved staying in the Redwoods! Such a peaceful and amazing place to dwell. There are no hookups, so come prepared! We liked our little cozy spot. The actual sites are nice and spacious, but the area you have to park your rig are TINY, so it can definitely be difficult the bigger your rig is," advises Brodie D.
