Yurt camping in Hiouchi, California offers a convenient gateway to explore six state and national parks within a 30-mile radius. Located at 154 feet above sea level, Hiouchi's temperate climate creates favorable camping conditions nearly year-round. The Smith River, which flows adjacent to several campgrounds, maintains a chilly 55-62°F water temperature even during summer months when visitors flock to its clear swimming holes.
What to Do
River swimming access points: Alfred A. Loeb State Park offers exceptional access to the Chetco River. One camper noted, "Chetco is the most gorgeous river I have ever been lucky enough to swim in. I swam for hours, walked into camp for a hot shower & dinner, stared up at the stars before bed."
Tide pool exploration: Harris Beach State Park provides excellent tide pools during low tide. According to a visitor, "There are a couple great trails to the beach and during low tide, you can explore the tide pools. We saw hundreds of hermit crabs, anemone, starfish, sculpin, and more."
Historic attractions: Just a short drive from Redwood Meadows RV Resort, visitors can explore the lighthouse in Crescent City. A recent guest mentioned, "The location of this park is absolutely perfect. The redwoods are right down the road. Crescent City is super close for beach adventures. A short drive up the road for a river day."
What Campers Like
Night sky visibility: The area offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. At Alfred A. Loeb State Park, one camper shared, "I stared up at the stars before bed. I heard barred owls at night. So hard to leave this special place."
Yurt comfort: Yurt camping near Hiouchi provides more protection from coastal elements. A visitor at Harris Beach State Park noted, "Quick access to gorgeous coastal views and beach walks, yurts available, & playground for kids."
Wildlife spotting: Florence Keller Regional Park offers secluded sites perfect for wildlife observation. A camper described, "This campground is absolutely breathtaking. If you're looking to stay in the Redwoods, this is the place to be. You'll be surrounded by redwoods and there's a magical rainforest vibe if you venture into the forests!"
What You Should Know
Weather preparedness: Rain is common in this temperate rainforest region. A visitor at Kamp Klamath RV Park and Campground warned, "Beware this is considered a rain forest so your rig will really get a water test at the right times of the year."
Campground noise levels: Some parks offer more seclusion than others. One camper at Kamp Klamath noted, "Given the fact that this site is so family friendly, noise is less of a concern for those who camp here. If you aren't worried about noise, this is a great spot but if you prefer being remote when camping, I would look somewhere else first."
Reservation timing: Competition for sites is fierce during summer months. A visitor to Jedidiah Smith Campground explained, "This is one of the only campgrounds located within old-growth Redwood trees, making it especially pretty and interesting to visit."
Tips for Camping with Families
Easy trails with kids: Jedidiah Smith Redwoods State Park offers excellent family-friendly hiking. A visitor shared, "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!"
Junior Ranger programs: Several parks offer educational programs for children. At Harris Beach, a camper noted, "Great campsite for kids and family. There is a fantastic playground and the Rangers hold Junior Ranger activities twice a day."
Protected swimming areas: Look for calmer sections of rivers. A visitor at Alfred A. Loeb State Park mentioned, "The fresh water river leading to the ocean is awesome and kids can swim across with no problem. Another huge bonus is you are minutes away from the beach."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Choose carefully at Ramblin' Redwoods Campground & RV Park. A visitor advised, "Many of the sites are very shady and spacious. A few are smaller, like mine, but we enjoyed our stay. Conveniently located near everything you could want including a Walmart, the beach, and redwood forest."
Navigating narrow roads: Larger rigs should call ahead. At Jedidiah Smith, a camper cautioned, "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."
Hookup availability: Full hookups aren't available at all parks. A visitor at Florence Keller Regional Park noted, "There is one full hook up site for $30/night otherwise $20/night. Self pay, no reservations."
