Camping near Redway, California ranges from developed RV sites with hookups to tent-only sites beneath old-growth redwoods, with options roughly 10 miles north or south along the Highway 101 corridor. The area features several notable campgrounds including Burlington Campground and Hidden Springs Campground within Humboldt Redwoods State Park, just a short drive north along the Avenue of the Giants. Dean Creek Resort in Redway itself offers a mix of tent sites, RV spots with hookups, and cabin accommodations. Richardson Grove State Park, located about 10 miles south of Redway, provides year-round camping beneath towering redwoods. These campgrounds primarily accommodate both tent and RV camping, with varying levels of amenities from basic sites with pit toilets to more developed facilities with showers and electrical hookups.
Many campgrounds in the redwood region require advance reservations, particularly during summer months when sites fill quickly. According to Kerry V., who camped at Burlington Campground: "The shade from the redwoods makes this a cool haven from the hot California summers. Campsites are large with good fire pits and picnic tables." Road access varies significantly, with some remote areas requiring high-clearance vehicles on narrow, winding roads. Cell service is limited or nonexistent in many locations, especially within the dense redwood groves. Most state park campgrounds offer coin-operated showers and potable water, but visitors should arrive prepared with quarters. Bear activity is common throughout the region, making proper food storage essential at all campgrounds.
The proximity to ancient redwoods defines the atmosphere at these campgrounds, with many visitors noting the unique microclimate created by the massive trees. "Every site is nestled among a grove of old growth California Redwoods," reports Matt M. about Burlington Campground. The South Fork Eel River runs through the region, providing swimming holes that become popular gathering spots during summer months. Road noise can be an issue at some campgrounds situated near Highway 101 or the Avenue of the Giants, as noted by several reviewers. Family-friendly amenities are common, with many campers mentioning redwood stumps that serve as natural playgrounds for children. Winter camping is available at select locations, though facilities may be limited and visitors should check seasonal closures before planning trips between November and April.
$35 / night
"There is a redwood grove hiking trail behind the campsites that takes you from one end of the campground to the other."
"There is a paved space to park above the campsite, and a narrow little path leading down into the site - maybe 10-15 yards, it’s not far at all."
"Camp site 12 backs up to a fence (houses or cabins occupied behind the fence) and had decent space from other sites. Large picnic table, bear locker and tall fire pit on site."
"Every site is nestled among a grove of old growth California Redwoods - books up a long time in advance / I was lucky to get a walk up site. Great amenities and right on Avenue of the Giants"
$35 - $200 / night
"The most beautiful spot to brake down in Northern California."
"The little river close by helped keep us cool. Not to far from town. And lots of big foot shops around."
$65 - $85 / night
"We were driving south away from rain did not have any park camp booked and I just looked it up next to redwoods park and we popped in and they had a spot on Saturday."
"This campground had an accessible river right next to it. Great big redwoods surrounded you on every side. The staff was helpful whether you met them in the store or on the grounds. "
"They smiled, said "hello," and were all genuinely positive. There's a golf course nearby if that is of interest, and a stream for fishing within walking distance. "
"This was the first stop on a drive from San Francisco to Seattle. The river access is pretty sweet!!"
$35 / night
"The shade from the redwoods makes this a cool haven from the hot California summers. Campsites are mostly shaded. Campsites are large with good fire pits and picnic tables."
"It's right next to the ranger station/visitor center and just a few minutes away from Miranda, where you can pick up some last minute supplies."
$35 / night
"Albee Creek is a decent little campground set in a beautiful area of Northern California. The campground itself is relatively small with not a ton of cover between sites."
"There are three kinds of sites in the campground - those backed against the woods or the fence separating the campground from the ranger houses, those in the middle, and those next to the Ave of the Giants"
$15 / night
"A bumpy four mile dirt road takes you the entrance to this campsite which keeps the general population out, which seems nice, but then again only the hearty make it here and it with it comes people who"
"Drove down to Shelter Cove for lunch Saturday and walked on the black and beach. Afterward, night two of hanging out with my new friends. Great spot for mountain biking too apparently."
"But that is to be expected in the Humbolt Redwoods area of Northern California."
$25 - $65 / night
"It is a great way to escape the warm summers because it is a lot colder than inland due to the closeness to the sea. It is also nearby the famous Black Sands Beach."
"It’s pretty much right on the ocean and next to a golf course. Has a store/deli with restrooms and an outdoor eating area with a music stage. Would stay here again anytime."
LegendWow. The redwoods are magical and this park is surrounded by the magic!
It's dark and damp and quiet. The sites are tucked in among the trees. Dry camping--good for tents, small RVs and vans. Didn't see any big RV here. Not sure they would fit.
A drive through the avenue of the Giants brings you to this place with hiking trails through the magnificent trees. I loved it!
TravelerMy family goes to needle rock just about every year! All of my photos are from April of 2022 because I didn't have this app till now. It's a beautiful location and a really nice escape from "the grid". Definitely pack light enough to carry your stuff in because the best spots are away from the parking lot.
GuideI’ve done a lot of camping over the years, and this place is the best yet! Gorgeous campground in the redwoods right along the river, perfect for swimming or fly fishing. Many of the campsites are extremely spacious and offer more privacy than you’d expect. Great amenities and friendly staff. Open year round, first come first serve. Though Memorial through Labor Day can pose some challenges for finding an available site. During the off season there’s far less traffic and lots of great sites available. I plan to return many times in the months and years ahead!
TravelerNice campground- well maintained and has vault toilets and picnic tables- perfect for winter and early spring for a midweek stay - obviously it gets busy on weekends and I’m sure the summer time is very busy - no thanks! 😊- good trail heads abound the area -
TravelerKings Peak road a little funky out here and the entrance down to HC too - nothing here but a few old fire rings and some clear spots to camp - make sure to pack out any trash - quiet, empty and clean of the usual human garbage-
TravelerI was here 2/12/26 both Nadelos and Wailaki campgrounds are closed until 3/15/26 as the signs say - hiking trails are still open - very low lying campsites next to rivers and plenty more rain coming - probably flood issues / just a heads up -
TravelerDispersed camping off of FS M1 - just be careful as there are many burn scars and some falling trees - have a winch or a chainsaw just in case, in funky weather, I’d be careful- few odd spots on FS M1 coming in from Mendocino Pass Road - otherwise no problem - campsite itself is just
LegendGreat campground when out exploring the Lost Coast. Easy beach access. Road in was a bit rough but worth the drive. Toilets were quite smelly so come self contained but it is primitive camping.
LegendWe drove the hard road from Honeydew to get to this beautiful site. Well maintained and only one other camper in the area. Well enjoyed a peaceful evening with a warm fire and lots of stars. One of my favorites, worth the drive for us. I would only recommend taking that road if you have a high-clearance vehicle and it hasn’t been storming. You can also get there from Garberville. If you mountain bike, it is a great place as there are tons of what appeared to be well managed trails.
Camping opportunities near Redway, California extend beyond established state park campgrounds, with options along the South Fork Eel River offering water access for summer recreation. Located at approximately 535 feet elevation in southern Humboldt County, Redway's climate ranges from foggy, mild winters to warm, dry summers with temperatures reaching 90°F in July and August. The camping season typically runs from late spring through early fall, with most dispersed sites lacking amenities found at developed campgrounds.
Swimming holes access: 2-minute walk at Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination: Enjoy direct river access from camp. "Our site backed up to the Eel river with Giants redwoods everywhere. The grounds were super clean and quiet. Just hung out at the beach the whole time," notes Randy J.
Mountain biking: 4 miles to trailhead from Tolkan Campground with access to Paradise Royale bike trail. "Love this spot! Huge sites, clean pit toilets, and backs right up to the Paradise Royale bike trail and terrain park," writes Nicki A. The site features a mountain biking terrain park with moderate trails.
Historic buildings: 5-minute drive from Benbow KOA to Benbow Historic Inn. "It's right next to the Benbow Inn, an historic old hotel with a nice bar and restaurant. The food and service there were quite nice and definitely unexpected," shares James W. The area offers a mix of outdoor recreation and historic sites.
Riverside locations: short walks to water at multiple campgrounds. "Excellent place for families that ride bicycles as marked trails start by campsite number 1," reports Rick N. about Tolkan Campground. The campsites provide direct access to recreation without driving.
Privacy between sites: varied by loop at Hidden Springs Campground. "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," explains Kirstin J. Sites backed against woodlands offer more seclusion than central or roadside spots.
Microclimate benefits: temperature regulation under redwood canopy. "You will hear traffic from the Highway 101 in the evening and morning, but it quiets down enough at night you won't even think about it," notes Craig M. The tree cover creates constant shade that moderates summer heat but requires warmer clothing in mornings and evenings.
Water quality issues: bring your own supply to some locations. "The water is brown in your camp spot and at the motel," warns Mark T. about Dean Creek Resort. Several campgrounds have limited or questionable water sources.
Cell service: varies widely by carrier throughout the region. "Excellent WiFi. Weak Verizon and no AT&T service," reports Ady O. about Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination. Plan accordingly for limited connectivity, especially at more remote sites.
Road access constraints: RV size limitations on narrow routes. "Not meant for big rigs and the 5 mile road back is very narrow and windy but the drive is beautiful," states Tanya B. about Albee Creek Campground. Many campgrounds have tight access roads that challenge larger vehicles.
Natural play structures: redwood stumps throughout campgrounds. "Each site also has redwoods growing in them and often large stumps (many with steps cuts into them for climbing). My daughter and her friend loved playing among the trees and stumps," shares Erin S. about Burlington Campground.
Educational opportunities: ranger programs at visitor centers. "Rangers frequently walked/drove around the campground and a camp host went around every morning to check sites and car tags," notes Erin S. Many campgrounds offer junior ranger activities during summer months.
Swimming safety: rocky river bottoms require preparation. "The river is very rocky! Bring your water shoes," advises Jessica D. Children need proper footwear for comfort and safety in the South Fork Eel River's rocky sections.
Hookup availability: limited full-service sites throughout the region. "Parking at your site for bigger rigs is difficult," warns April Y. about Benbow KOA. Many sites have electric and water but lack sewer connections.
Site positioning: end spots recommended for easier access. "I suggest a premium patio site since they are on the ends of the rows along the exit of the 1 way street. They are the easiest to pull into from your row," advises April Y. Corner sites provide more maneuvering room.
Power management: prepare for shade impact on solar systems. "Tons of shade so don't expect your solar panels to keep your battery charged," warns Troy L. about Burlington Campground. The dense redwood canopy limits solar charging capabilities for RVs relying on this power source.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Redway Beach good for camping?
Redway Beach itself isn't typically used for camping. For coastal camping experiences near Redway, consider Mattole Campground, which offers a remote beach camping experience. It's important to note that this campground has no water available on site, so you'll need to bring your own or collect some in Honeydew or Petrolia on your way. For a beach-adjacent option with more amenities, Benbow KOA & Golf Course offers full hook-ups, pool access, and a store while still being a convenient drive to coastal areas.
What are the camping regulations in Redway, California?
Camping regulations around Redway vary by location. At Hidden Springs Campground — Humboldt Redwoods State Park, standard state park regulations apply, including quiet hours, proper food storage due to wildlife, and campfire restrictions during fire season. For those seeking RV accommodations, Humboldt County Fairgrounds offers spacious sites with weekly bathroom code changes for security. Most campgrounds in the area require advance reservations during peak seasons (summer months), and stays are typically limited to 14 consecutive days. Always check specific campground websites for current fire restrictions and pet policies.
Where are the best camping spots in Redway, California?
The Redway area offers several exceptional camping options in the heart of redwood country. Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park Campground provides a stunning setting among ancient redwoods with basic amenities including showers and nearby hiking trails. Another popular choice is Burlington Campground — Humboldt Redwoods State Park, known for its large, shaded sites with good fire pits and picnic tables. The dense redwood canopy makes it particularly comfortable during hot summer months.
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