Redcrest, California sits within the redwood forests at approximately 260 feet elevation, surrounded by the South Fork Eel River watershed. The area receives about 50 inches of annual rainfall, creating a temperate environment that sustains ancient redwoods. Camping options range from established campgrounds with modern amenities to basic sites along creeks and rivers, with most facilities operational year-round despite winter rainfall that can create muddy conditions.
What to do
Swimming holes access: At Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park Campground, visitors can enjoy the water. "Nice swimming hole, the water was warm in mid June. This seems to be the primary attraction for this area. Most of the families were gathered along the shore and playing in the water," shares one camper.
Fishing opportunities: Bailey Canyon Campground offers lakeside fishing access. "Caught bass and catfish. Watched Osprey diving for fish in the early morn right from my campsite. Bald eagles, Herons and Hawks were also a joy to watch," reports a visitor who stayed for 4 days.
Redwood hiking: Trails through old-growth forests start directly from many campgrounds. At Grizzly Creek, "Hiking straight out of the camp ground. But, it is a very steep trail, so make sure you bring a walking stick(s) and wear proper gear. This is also a heavy bear area, so pack your bear spray," advises a camper.
What campers like
Proximity to Avenue of the Giants: Stafford RV Park provides easy access to scenic redwood drives. "We stayed here for half price with the Passport America discount - we paid $25 for a pull through E/W site (normally $50)... The park is nicely situated among the trees with an easy access from the highway, right near the entrance to the Avenue of the Giants," notes a recent visitor.
Quiet river settings: The peaceful environment at Dean Creek Resort attracts campers. "Pretty nice site by small river," mentions one reviewer who appreciated the water access and shaded spots.
Family-friendly facilities: Many campgrounds cater to families with children. "The tent sites are in a redwood setting. Very rustic & nice. Also spacious," mentions a camper at Emerald Forest Cabins & RV, highlighting the natural setting that works well for tent camping.
What you should know
Road noise concerns: Many glamping sites in Redcrest, California are close to roads. At Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park Campground, "Close to the road, we heard vehicles all night. We were in a hard sided camper two rows away from the road and could hear them inside. It's got to be really loud for people closer and in tents."
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds have water quality challenges. At Stafford RV Park, "the water jug we had filled with their water was full of rusty red residue at the bottom, ick. And that water is what we used to fill our onboard RV tank (and that's with using a filter)."
Limited cell service: Connectivity can be spotty in the redwood region. "No cell service" is listed as a "Pro" by one camper at Grizzly Creek Redwoods, showing how disconnecting can be seen as a benefit while glamping in the redwoods.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water play: Bailey Canyon Campground offers water activities children enjoy. "Kids enjoyed swimming catching frogs, turtles and baby catfish with their hands. Poison oak is cleared from around the campsite but need to use care off trail," shares a visitor who brought children.
Spacious tent areas: Look for campgrounds with room for kids to play. "Huge campsite with view of the lake, room for a few tents and a hammock," notes a Bailey Canyon camper, describing the space available for family setups.
Entertainment options: Some glamping locations near Redcrest offer recreation beyond nature. At Emerald Forest Cabins & RV, "Showers, laundry, little store, and arcade for kids," mentions a visitor, highlighting amenities that can keep children occupied.
Tips from RVers
Site size challenges: Many older campgrounds have limited space for larger vehicles. At Grizzly Creek Redwoods, "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 to get into your spot."
Access road considerations: Roads leading to some glamping locations can be challenging. "Hwy 36 from the 101 is very curvy with lots of narrow areas and very few turn offs," warns a visitor to Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park.
Hookup availability: When glamping near Redcrest with an RV, check what's available. At Redcrest Resort, "Sites are tight and not level side to side. But clean and adequate with FHU. Also showers if needed," notes an RVer describing the full hookup amenities despite space limitations.
