Nestled among ancient redwood forests 23 miles north of Crescent City, Fort Dick, California offers a distinctive camping experience at elevations between 30-80 feet above sea level. The area's mild coastal climate averages 50-65°F year-round with summer temperatures rarely exceeding 75°F. Heavy rainfall (75-85 inches annually) creates lush understory vegetation beneath towering redwoods, where tent sites and yurts provide contrasting shelter options.
What to do
River access at Smith River: Just minutes from Jedediah Smith Campground, the Smith River offers swimming, kayaking, and fishing opportunities. "The campground is right in the middle of the trees and backs up to the river. Spots are spacious," notes Stefanie W., adding that visitors should expect "1x Verizon and no big RVs."
Explore tidal ecosystems: Harris Beach offers exceptional tidepooling during low tides, located 30 minutes north of Fort Dick. According to Chanel C., "We saw hundreds of hermit crabs, anemone, starfish, sculpin, and more," during her visit to Harris Beach State Park Campground. The park also features "a couple great trails to the beach" for exploration.
Salmon fishing: The Klamath River mouth, accessible from Kamp Klamath RV Park and Campground, offers prime salmon runs in late summer. "We go over for the Salmon run in August/September... The ocean is about 1 mile away right at the mouth of the Klamath river with an awesome beach. Good fishing, beach combing, kite flying etc," explains Tammy H.
Historical lighthouse tours: Visit Battery Point Lighthouse near Crescent City, accessible only during low tide. While staying at Lighthouse Cove RV Park, Leonard H. noted, "Easy walk to adjacent large city park with city pool, sea mammal rescue center, light-house, etc." Plan your lighthouse visit around tide schedules posted daily.
What campers like
Secluded sites among redwoods: Florence Keller Regional Park offers camping directly beneath towering trees. "The sites are nestled under beautiful redwood trees and there are great hiking trails throughout the grounds," explains Moni R. This county park maintains lower visitation rates than state parks, allowing for more solitude.
Yurt camping Fort Dick, California options: Several campgrounds near Fort Dick offer yurt accommodations as alternatives to tent camping. "The glamping sites combine rustic charm with luxurious touches, including climate control for year-round comfort regardless of coastal weather patterns," states Em M. from Harris Beach State Park, where "yurts available, & playground for kids" provides family-friendly stays.
Hot showers and clean facilities: Alfred A. Loeb State Park maintains exceptionally clean bathrooms and free hot showers. According to Laura M., Alfred A. Loeb State Park Campground offers "showers are nice and hot and free, and bathrooms are clean." She adds, "The cabins all face the river and are really nice and cozy."
River-adjacent camp locations: Proximity to water features heavily in positive reviews. "What an amazing place to stay! It's our favorite place so far. Stunning trails, trees older than the pyramids, friendly people and grand views!" writes Jason L. about Jedediah Smith Campground, where the Smith River offers swimming just steps from campsites.
What you should know
Campground selection timing: Jedediah Smith Campground fills months ahead during summer. "This is one of the only campgrounds located within old-growth Redwood trees, making it especially pretty and interesting to visit," explains Courtney D. Reservations open six months in advance through California State Parks' reservation system.
Weather considerations: The region receives significant rainfall (75+ inches annually), primarily November through April. David & Sue C. note that at AtRivers Edge RV Resort, "A great site right on the Southern Bank of the Chetco River. There are a few trails around the campground, and a wonderful walk along the river."
Limited cell service: Cell coverage varies dramatically between campgrounds. Kaelin P. at Florence Keller reports, "I had strong cell service through Verizon," while in Jedidiah Smith, you'll find "1x Verizon and no big RVs" according to Stefanie W., indicating minimal connectivity in the deeper forest areas.
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby highways. At Lighthouse Cove RV Park, Ibeya A. warns about "the site is also near a lighthouse jetty that produces a tone every 7 seconds or so, non-stop. At times we were able to ignore it, but it was certainly harder to ignore at other times."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Redwood Meadows RV Resort offers family amenities beyond basic camping. Gregory M. describes the experience: "This campground is surrounded by old growth redwoods. Bathrooms and showers are super clean and taken care of daily." The resort includes a recreation area with activities for children.
Junior Ranger programs: Jedediah Smith and other state parks offer Junior Ranger activities twice daily during summer months. Chanel C. notes, "Great campsite for kids and family. There is a fantastic playground and the Rangers hold Junior Ranger activities twice a day."
Secure food storage: Raccoons and other wildlife actively search for food at campgrounds throughout the redwood region. Laura M. recommends at Alfred A. Loeb State Park: "Good enough service, not bad for ATT and Verizon," allowing families to stay connected while enjoying nature.
Fort Dick yurt rental options: For families seeking comfort without hauling camping gear, yurt accommodations near Fort Dick provide beds and electricity. Sites including Harris Beach State Park offer these structures year-round. Em M. simply states, "Yurts available!" making these an excellent option for families with small children.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Many redwood area campgrounds have uneven sites requiring leveling blocks. "We were able to find a spot we fit in with our 26ft RV. I suggest driving around first before picking a spot as some are better than others," advises Laura M. about Florence Keller Regional Park.
Access road limitations: Roads to campgrounds often have tight turns and low clearance. Regarding Ramblin' Redwoods Campground, Gregory M. explains, "This campground is surrounded by old growth redwoods. Bathrooms and showers are super clean and taken care of daily." However, large RVs may struggle with access.
Limited hookups availability: Many redwood campgrounds offer partial hookups only. Michael A. from Kamp Klamath notes, "New fifth wheel with a sliding hitch was giving me issues with a back in site. The staff escorted the took the time to work with me to get the rig parked perfectly in the spot."
Solar power limitations: Dense tree cover impacts solar panel efficiency. At Florence Keller Park, Laura M. cautions: "You are surrounded by redwoods with very little sunshine so if you rely on solar this will be a problem."
