Camping in Redcrest's redwood forests offers experiences at elevations ranging from 200-400 feet above sea level. The South Fork Eel River runs through this area of Humboldt County, creating swimming opportunities during summer months when water temperatures reach comfortable levels. Many campgrounds remain cool even during hot summer days due to the dense redwood canopy overhead.
What to do
River swimming access: The Eel River provides swimming opportunities near Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination, which features "river access right next to it" according to Tim G., who notes that "when it got late it was quiet, except for the mourning doves and the sounds of the redwoods in the wind."
Hiking redwood groves: Several trails lead directly from campgrounds into old-growth forests. At Burlington Campground, Taryn S. reports "beautiful campground set right among the Redwoods" with "plenty of room for another vehicle or a couple of other tents" and proximity to "the park visitor center adjacent to the campground."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area around Albee Creek Campground offers exceptional wildlife watching. Katherine D. shares, "We saw wild turkeys, a baby fox, deer, and our neighbors saw bears! A really cool spot to camp!" The campground's meadow areas attract diverse wildlife, especially in early morning or evening hours.
What campers like
Natural quiet during weekdays: Most campgrounds experience significantly less crowding midweek. David M. found Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination to be "Quiet except for the very occasional road noise during the day, extremely quiet at night" and noted it's "very well kept up, friendly hosts, and very nice sites."
Spacious sites under canopy: The redwood canopy provides natural separation between many sites. Patrick M. noted at Burlington Campground: "Our first time camping among redwoods. The sites are generally well-spaced. We arrived in early March, mid-afternoon, and still had a few choices on a first-come, first-served basis."
Ranger programs and visitor center: Educational opportunities enhance camping experiences. April H. appreciates that Humboldt Redwoods State Park rangers are "very knowledgeable, which is great if you're looking for things to do/places to see on you're trip" and mentions "free coffee and tea at the visitor center that we took advantage of in the morning."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Laura F. advises about Albee Creek Campground: "We will be back (again and again). Make sure you visit small costal towns of Ferndale and/or Trinidad."
Water quality issues: Some campgrounds have mineral-heavy water. At Stafford RV Park, Laura M. observed "the water jug we had filled with their water was full of rusty red residue at the bottom" and noted signs warning "your clothes may stain due to the iron in the water."
Road noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some sites. Anthony C. found Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park "beautiful and taken care of well" but cautioned it's "unbelievable loud as the camp site is right next to the road" with "logging and construction vehicles pass within 10-20 feet of the roadside campsites at all hours."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly exploration areas: Redwood stumps and features engage children. Erin S. observed at Hidden Springs that "my daughter and her friend loved playing among the trees and stumps, and riding her scooter around the loop" and "each site also has redwoods growing in them and often large stumps (many with steps cuts into them for climbing)."
Swimming hole access: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Redcrest offer water access ideal for families. Andi M. found Van Duzen County Park has a "river is clean, and relaxing. Swimming here is so fun! Cold, but refreshing!" with "plenty of space for our two tents."
Visitor center activities: Scheduled programs can entertain children. Lyly D. appreciates that Humboldt Redwoods has "daily planned activities" and was particularly impressed that when she had car trouble "the ranger drove me from the trail head back to the campground to get in touch with AAA and took my husband and my daughter to get her hiking badge."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations for RVs: Many redwood campgrounds have tight access roads. Stephanie cautions about Grizzly Creek: "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" because "the sites are close together, short, with roots coming up in the road."
Pull-through availability: Some RV-friendly sites accommodate larger rigs. At Ancient Redwoods RV Park, Laura M. notes they paid "$25 for a pull through E/W site" with "hookups and amenities were good and clean" and appreciated that "laundry is $2 to wash, $1 to dry."
Shade considerations for solar power: Redwood canopy blocks solar panels. L&L observed at Grizzly Creek: "Redwoods…awesome, but solar panels can't charge" and noted it stays "nice and cool/cold at night even in August" and "cool in the shade all day."
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