Dispersed camping near Redwood National Park offers multiple options away from crowded campgrounds. Forest Service and BLM lands surrounding the park provide primitive sites with varying levels of accessibility. Most spots require high-clearance vehicles, and many campers report poor cell service throughout the area. Water sources are limited, so carrying adequate supplies is essential.
What to do
Creek exploration: At Redwood Creek Dispersed Camp, campers can wade through crystal-clear waters. "The hike is beautiful, downhill for the trek to the campsite (which means uphill back to your car) but it is SO worth it. Very private, very pretty. We saw a bald eagle!" writes Leah H.
Swimming spots: The Smith River at Sand Camp offers excellent swimming opportunities during summer months. "You have to hike about 100 yards to get from the parking lot to the campsites. Super spacious. The river is super clear and beautiful," reports Garrett.
Hiking trails: Several trails connect dispersed sites with park features. "Dispersed camping along the river banks after walking through the Tall Trees hike. Easy overnighter," notes Sam S. from Redwood Creek Dispersed Camp.
Stargazing: The remote locations offer exceptional night viewing. "The sky was dark and clear, perfect for stargazing. The few other people camping there were quiet and friendly," shares Kelly-Shane F. about Sand Camp.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Lacks Creek BLM offers well-spaced camping areas. "Wildly peaceful. Read the description in the bio, follow the directions, and you'll find yourself able to choose from a handful of campsites," explains Leah H.
River access: Many campers appreciate direct water access. "This campsite is amazing. 10/10. Nothing fancy like bathrooms, but a beautiful rocky terrain!" Noah Y. says about Redwood Bar Dispersed Camping.
Natural settings: The primitive sites put campers directly in nature. "This is a very remote camp, peaceful and quiet. I imagine it is much less so during summer months when the bridges across Redwood Creek are open," Sharon B. notes about 44 Backcountry Camp.
Picnic facilities: Some sites have basic amenities. "This campsite has picnic tables and bear lockers. It is located up the hill from the sign announcing it along the trail, look carefully if like me you've night hiked to get here," adds Sharon B.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Some sites require advance planning. "If you want to camp here, you MUST get a free permit on the website listed on here. If you do not, you will find yourself at a locked gate you cannot enter," warns Leah H. about Redwood Creek.
Road conditions: Access varies significantly between sites. "The road wasn't as bad as I thought it would be, it took me about forty minutes to find the camp grounds from the bottom of the hill to the top. There were narrow moments in the road but plenty of larger two lane spaces," explains Alexis S. about Middle Fork Smith River.
Seasonal changes: Summer brings different conditions. "As the summer progresses, the water level drops, the temperature rises and the algae grows. As such, we prefer June camping," advises CRJohnson about Redwood Bar.
Weekend crowds: Popular sites fill quickly. "Might have to settle for something less than ideal. And, the porta potties might get full," notes CRJohnson about weekend camping at Redwood Bar.
Tips for camping with families
Water safety: Rivers require extra precautions. "River was fast moving so if you have kids, make sure to bring lifejackets," advises Ellis P. about Redwood Bar Dispersed Camping.
Campsite selection: Some areas work better for children. "Plenty of space between the other campers. There is an overlook to the river at the dead end of the road and you can hear people enjoying that view but nothing that would really disturb you," notes Sarah S.
Padding needs: Rock surfaces require preparation. "You will be camping next to a creek on top of rocks. If you have a sleeping pad, this is no problem. If not, be aware," warns Leah H. about Redwood Creek.
Bathroom facilities: Most sites lack facilities. "The toilet was a basic pit toilet, but it was fairly clean as far as those go," mentions Kelly-Shane F. about Sand Camp.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most dispersed sites limit large vehicles. "Tried to camp here with a 20ft travel trailer and I turned around before I even made it to the gravel road. Road is narrow and steep with low hanging trees," warns Jules S. about Patrick Creek Dispersed Campsite.
Access issues: Many roads present challenges. "Chunks of the gravel road were under construction; some blind, narrow turns, but nothing too intense; and dips, washouts, and big exposed rocks, so drive with care," cautions Marasha L. about Lacks Creek.
Parking limitations: Some sites require leaving vehicles. "The sites are walk to (very short), and there are signs saying no camping in the parking lot, violators will be fined," explains Hannah about Sand Camp.
Overnight options: Some pull-offs work for quick stays. "Sand Camp had no parking lot camp, and it was getting late so we stayed in a pull out on the highway. There are a few to pick from, but make sure you're not on one with a sharp turn," suggests Hannah.
