Camping near Crescent City, California provides access to a unique climate zone where coastal fog frequently meets inland valleys. Summer daytime temperatures typically range from 60-70°F while winter months can drop to the 40s with significant rainfall averaging 70 inches annually. This northern California region contains some of the world's tallest trees with camping options spread across both national forest and coastal state park lands.
What to Do
Horseback riding excursions: Near Redwood Meadows RV Resort, visitors can experience guided trail rides. "We drove Howland hill road and did short hikes and did a horseback ride up into the redwoods with Crescent Trail rides," notes Ken C.
Smith River access: The Smith River offers excellent swimming spots during summer months at Panther Flat Campground. "Smith River is amazing and CLEAN. Please respect it and keep it that way. Sunscreens contaminate the rivers," advises Lorena S., who recommends using protective clothing instead of chemicals when enjoying the river.
Tide pool exploration: Low tide reveals marine ecosystems worth exploring. A camper at Harris Beach State Park shared, "During low tide, you can explore the tide pools. We saw hundreds of hermit crabs, anemone, starfish, sculpin, and more. Sunsets are also phenomenal."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Watch for wildlife throughout the region's diverse ecosystems. At Kamp Klamath, the location offers easy "walking distance to the mouth of the Klamath River" where seals can often be spotted feeding, according to Pat J.
What Campers Like
Private sites among vegetation: Many campgrounds offer natural separation between sites. At Mill Creek Campground, "the sites are fairly close together, but the nature of the vegetation made for 'walls' around the spots, which offered some privacy," explains Jason G.
Quality shower facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept shower facilities. At Harris Beach State Park, a camper noted "The restroom and shower facilities are probably the best I've ever seen. Super new, well maintained, clean, and spacious."
Ranger-led activities: Family programs run at select campgrounds. "The Rangers hold Junior Ranger activities twice a day," mentions a Harris Beach camper, making it especially engaging for children.
Variety of camping surfaces: Some sites feature unique camping platforms. At Redwood Meadows RV Resort, one visitor explained, "We tent camped on a platform for two days... The platform is huge."
What You Should Know
Highway noise considerations: Several campgrounds sit close to major roads. At Lighthouse Cove RV Park, "The site is also near a lighthouse jetty that produces a tone every 7 seconds or so, non-stop," reports Ibeya A.
Seasonal booking requirements: Summer brings crowds to the area. According to a Harris Beach camper, "This is a awesome State Park. The campgrounds are crowded but there is so much foliage that you still feel very secluded in your camp spot."
Cell service limitations: Many forested areas have limited connectivity. A camper at Panther Flat noted "In the woods, only extended cell service which doesn't work well."
Weather variations: The area experiences significant climate differences between coast and inland areas. At Redwood Meadows, a camper observed, "The campground is far enough inland way from the coast that the marine layer burned off much quicker so we had beautiful sunny days with a nice cool breeze."
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated play areas. At Florence Keller Regional Park, "There is a day use area with horseshoe pits, including horseshoes, and volleyball or badminton grass court with no net and a playground," describes Laura M.
Educational opportunities: The region offers natural learning experiences. "This campground is absolutely breathtaking. If you're looking to stay in the Redwoods, this is the place to be... there's a magical rainforest vibe if you venture into the forests!" shares Bri L. about Florence Keller.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer water access. At Panther Flat, "Trees everywhere and Smith river access is minutes away," notes Johnny G., adding "Bring blankets, it gets pretty cool overnight especially since trees keep area shaded and the river is so close."
Wildlife viewing for kids: Animal sightings are common around several campgrounds. At Kamp Klamath, they even have "hot showers and chickens!" according to Abby M.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Not all sites accommodate larger rigs. At Crescent City/Redwoods KOA, "This was one of the best campsites we have had at a KOA. We were in a grove of redwoods and it was beautiful (forget Starlink at our site)," notes James W.
Power considerations: Solar-reliant RVers should choose locations carefully. At Florence Keller Regional Park, "You are surrounded by redwoods with very little sunshine so if you rely on solar this will be a problem," warns Laura M.
Campsite accessibility: Some campgrounds have narrow access roads. At Jedediah Smith Campground, a reviewer mentioned "The sites are decently sized, accommodating two to three tents, but the roads would be tough to navigate in a large RV or with a long trailer."
Full hookup availability: Several campgrounds offer comprehensive RV services. A visitor to Mill Creek Campground mentioned "wonderful sites, clean bathrooms with dump station," making it suitable for RV campers requiring these amenities.
