Phillipsville camping opportunities center on the South Fork Eel River valley, positioned at 450 feet elevation along the Redwood Highway corridor. The area experiences mild summer temperatures averaging 75°F and rainy winters with 60-80 inches of annual precipitation. Most campgrounds remain open May through September, with limited winter availability primarily at private facilities.
What to do
River swimming access points: Just minutes from Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination, visitors enjoy Eel River swimming during summer months. "The site is in a stunning and tranquil location on the river with nicely spaced sites. The playground was a huge hit with our toddler too, as well as river access," notes camper Georgina E.
Old-growth redwood hiking trails: Several loop trails connect directly from Burlington Campground, providing immediate access to ancient forest experiences. "The campground is well maintained and has flush toilets and coin op showers. No hookups here but the dry camp is well worth your time. Tons of shade so don't expect your solar panels to keep your battery charged," explains camper Troy L.
Wildlife observation opportunities: Early morning and evening hours at Albee Creek Campground provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities in the meadow area. "The large meadow in front of the camp sites has tall grass that helps hide the deer and bears that like to come out and eat from the fruit trees that produce during the summer time. It's not uncommon to stroll the meadow early morning or in the evening and see the Black Bears up the fruit trees munching away," reports camper Tony G.
What campers like
Private wooded campsites: Many campers appreciate the spacing and forest setting at Hidden Springs Campground, particularly during weekdays. "This campsite is nestled away in Humboldt Redwoods state park. The camp sites are set up to make you really feel as though you're alone with the trees. The campsites nearby yours will not be of any disturbance to your getaway as each has its own part of the woods," notes camper Kirstin J.
Clean, well-maintained facilities: State park campgrounds in the area receive consistent praise for facility upkeep. "Bathrooms were adequate, floors were often wet, but most had soap and lights, which you don't always get. Showers coin-operated, hot and good pressure. Really nice dish station with two big utility tubs and hot and cold water in our area of the campground," reports Stephanie O. about Hidden Springs.
Convenient location for redwood exploration: Campers value the centralized position for exploring multiple groves. "The campground is right next to the Visitor Center so you have easy access to the wifi, free coffee in the morning, and lots of educational opportunities. In fact, I even had wifi access at my campsite," explains Kelsey M. about Burlington Campground.
What you should know
Shower token systems: Most state park campgrounds in the area use pay showers. At Richardson Grove State Park campers note: "Clean bathrooms. Beautiful redwoods. No dogs allowed on the walking trails. $35 for a tent site is a lot but I'm coming to realize that's pretty much what it costs in California. Firewood is $10."
Campsite selection tips: The best campsites often fill early. "Sites were reasonably private and tucked amongst towering redwoods. Right off Avenue of the Giants, this campground is a great location to explore some spectacular old growth redwoods and the Eel river nearby," explains Amber D. about Burlington Campground.
Bear safety requirements: Food storage is strictly regulated throughout the area. "Campsites have bear lockers," notes Jennifer M. about MacKerricher State Park, while other campgrounds have similar requirements for proper food storage during overnight stays.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly exploration areas: Albee Creek Campground offers gentle creek exploration opportunities perfect for children. "Bull Creek that runs along Albee is wonderful for a shady hike in the cool water while looking for frogs, turtles, snakes and salamanders. My boys love doing this and hanging out here most of the time," explains camper Tony G.
Playground facilities: Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination maintains a playground that receives positive reviews from families. "The playground was a huge hit with our toddler too, as well as river access," mentions Georgina E.
Educational opportunities: Visitor centers adjacent to campgrounds provide junior ranger programs during summer. "Ask the rangers for good local hikes and take lots of stops along the turnouts. I definitely do not regret taking the Avenue of the Giants rather than the faster 101," suggests Kelsey M. about the Burlington Campground area.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many RV sites in the area require leveling equipment. "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 Rachel A.
Hookup placement considerations: At Benbow KOA, RVers face specific site layout challenges. "All hookups are at the very back of your site so the power posts are slightly in the way when pulling in. Driving in the grass is unavoidable. Parking at your site for bigger rigs is difficult," advises April Y.
Road access limitations: RV drivers should carefully research road conditions for some campgrounds. "The campground and most of the campsites are pretty close to the main Avenue of the Giants road so if you're a light sleeper this may be an issue. The campsites are large and spacious but there isn't much privacy between them as the undergrowth is largely absent," explains Kelsey M. about Burlington Campground.
