Humboldt Redwoods State Park surrounds Weott, California, situated along the Eel River at an elevation of 250 feet. Winter temperatures in this redwood region average 45°F, while summer daytime highs rarely exceed 85°F. The dense tree canopy creates microclimates within camping spots near Weott, California, resulting in cooler temperatures than surrounding areas even during the peak summer season.
What to do
River activities at Eel River: The South Fork Eel River provides swimming and fishing opportunities just across from campgrounds. "I enjoyed being nestled inside the redwoods...Nice hiking trails to explore the Redwoods within walking distance of campground," notes a visitor to Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park.
Hiking through old-growth groves: Multiple trails connect directly from campgrounds into ancient forests. "There are lots of old redwood stumps to explore and climb on for kids. The Gould nature hike is easy and informative with lots of interesting sites," explains a camper at Hidden Springs Campground.
Educational programs at visitor center: "Rangers set up on the outside over the weekend...The rangers are very knowledgeable, which is great if you're looking for things to do/places to see on your trip," a camper mentions about activities at Burlington Campground.
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Many sites accommodate multiple tents or provide room for activities. "Site 13 was easily large enough for four tent set-ups in separate areas of the site, though none of them were completely level. Each sites has a metal fire barrel (with half grate), a picnic table, and enough room to park two vehicles," reports a visitor to Burlington Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower buildings receive positive feedback. At Albee Creek Campground, a camper noted, "Awesome small campground. Great clean facilities. Coin operated showers. Clean. Quiet because its small. Close to great hiking and creek exploring."
Wildlife viewing: "This campground has an old apple orchard that bears frequently forage. We saw wild turkeys, a baby fox, deer, and our neighbors saw bears!" says a reviewer about Albee Creek Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Several campgrounds close during winter months. "This campsite is just off of Ave of the giants. The park is about 15 miles from the coast but still is heavily influenced by coastal weather. The fog can stay in the river valley and keep the campground cold even in the summer," explains a visitor to Van Duzen County Park.
Shower costs: Most campground showers are coin-operated. "Cost was .25¢ per minute—I didn't notice a change machine near the bathrooms but the front office girl said they could make change, they closed at 9 when we were there," reports a Hidden Springs camper.
Road noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic sounds from nearby highways. "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. Logging and construction vehicles pass within 10-20 feet of the roadside campsites," notes a Grizzly Creek camper.
Tips for camping with families
Climbing opportunities: Kids enjoy exploring unique redwood features. "Each site also has redwoods growing in them and often large stumps (many with steps cuts into them for climbing). This was a very family friendly campground. My daughter and her friend loved playing among the trees and stumps," mentions a Burlington camper.
Playground access: Some nearby campgrounds offer additional amenities for children. "The playground was a huge hit with our toddler too, as well as river access," explains a visitor to Giant Redwoods RV.
Ranger activities: Educational programs provide family entertainment. "Daily planned activities, so many great hiking trails, and the best part is: COFFEE at the visitor center! You don't have to brew your own!" shares an enthusiastic camper at Burlington Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Many campgrounds cannot accommodate larger vehicles. "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," cautions a visitor to Grizzly Creek.
Water quality concerns: Iron content may affect equipment. At Stafford RV Park, a camper noted, "The water jug we had filled with their water was full of rusty red residue at the bottom. And that water is what we used to fill our onboard RV tank (and that's with using a filter)."
Limited hookup availability: Many redwood camping spots near Weott offer minimal services. "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," reports a camper at Burlington Campground.
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