Redway sits at 538 feet above sea level in California's southern Humboldt County, where coastal fog mixes with warmer inland temperatures. The surrounding area transitions between dense redwood forests and mountain terrain, with camping options situated near the 101 corridor. Rainfall averages 67 inches annually, creating lush understory vegetation throughout most glamping sites near Redway.
What to do
**Swimming spots: Eel River offers access near Richardson Grove RV and Campground, where summer temperatures reach the high 70s. "During the July hot days we like to cross HWY 101 and go take a dip in the eel river," notes one camper who visits annually.
**Redwood hiking: Short trails through old-growth forests connect directly to several campgrounds. At Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park Campground, "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."
**Coastal exploration: The King Range Conservation Area provides access to secluded beaches. "Black sand beaches, cliffside camping, pristine wilderness and you have it all to yourself! Gorgeous hike, a little rough due to sand and rocks but we'll worth the effort. Very few people, even in summer!"
What campers like
**Privacy levels: Sites vary significantly between open RV parks and secluded glamping tents. At Redwoods River Resort & Campground, "We had a great nights stay here. The Pub is fantastic! Great staff, store, heated pool. There is a moderate trail down to the river."
**Unique accommodations: Several properties offer platform tents and cabins. Redcrest Resort features "cute little bungalows and a grassy area for tent campers too. Folks at check in were very nice and were able to get our last minute booking upgraded to a spot that fit our truck too when we checked in."
**Off-grid experience: Most glamping sites in Redway have limited cell service. At Bailey Canyon Campground, guests appreciate the disconnection: "Huge campsite with view of the lake, room for a few tents and a hammock. Can collect dead wood for the fire. Swimming, fishing and boating. Caught bass and catfish."
What you should know
**Seasonal considerations: Winter brings heavy rain while summer sees increased tourist traffic. A visitor to Westport Beach RV Park and Campground reported: "Quiet in the off season. Fires on the beach are great. Rediscovered this place in February and have reservations for November."
**Water quality issues: Several campgrounds mention water discoloration. At Stafford RV Park, one camper noted "the water jug we had filled with their water was full of rusty red residue at the bottom, ick. And that's with using a filter."
**Road access challenges: Many glamping sites connect via narrow, winding roads. "Hwy 36 from the 101 is very curvy with lots of narrow areas and very few turn offs," reports a visitor to Grizzly Creek, a consideration when towing trailers to glamping sites.
**Highway noise: Sites along main roads experience traffic sounds. "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."
Tips for camping with families
**Wildlife viewing opportunities: Schedule morning hours for optimal wildlife spotting. At Bailey Canyon, one visitor shared: "Watched Osprey diving for fish in the early morn right from my campsite. Bald eagles, Herons and Hawks were also a joy to watch. Kids enjoyed swimming catching frogs, turtles and baby catfish with their hands."
**Kid-friendly amenities: Several glamping sites near Redway include recreational facilities. "We really enjoyed the play ground and all the outdoor games," notes a visitor to Redwoods River Resort, though they caution "the campground needs some updating/TLC."
**Safety considerations: Many sites have poison oak present in surrounding areas. "My only precaution is the campground has LOTS of poison oak," warns a Bailey Canyon visitor, while another adds that "poison oak is cleared from around the campsite but need to use care off trail."
Tips from RVers
**Site limitations: Many glamping options have restrictions on RV size. At Humboldt County Fairgrounds, "Plenty of room for all RV's large to small. 30 & 50 amp power and water. Clean restrooms, heated and free."
**Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven terrain at several sites. "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," notes a camper about Grizzly Creek.
**Dump station access: Not all sites with hookups have sewer connections. Regarding Humboldt County Fairgrounds, one RVer warned: "The largest downside to this place is the RV dump station inside the fairgrounds. It's the worst one that I've ever used."
