Redwood National Park camping areas range from sea level to 3,000 feet elevation, providing varied ecosystems from coastal prairies to ancient forests. The region receives 60-80 inches of rainfall annually, creating a lush environment where campsites often remain damp even during summer months. Camping options include established campgrounds with amenities and more primitive backcountry sites throughout the park system.
What to Do
Beach exploration: Access secluded coastline at Gold Bluffs Beach Campground where the ocean is just steps away. "Right on the Pacific. Lots of wildlife, especially elk. Restrooms are very clean and hot water showers are available. In January, the sun doesn't reach the campground until 10:30am," notes a visitor at Gold Bluffs Beach Campground.
Fishing opportunities: Cast a line directly into the Klamath River from riverside camping areas. "We stayed at Klamath River RV to explore the redwoods. It's a great location and close to parks/trails. Full hookup, riverfront sites available, clean bathrooms/showers, camp store, camp cafe open on weekends for breakfast," reports one camper.
Wildlife viewing: Look for Roosevelt elk herds that frequently move through camping areas. "Rosevelt Elk roam through the campground. They were obviously used to people. We stayed on the 'meadow' side where the elk roam through your campsite," explains a visitor to Elk Country RV Resort & Campground.
What Campers Like
Natural immersion: Camping beneath towering redwoods provides a unique forest experience. "The sites were large and it was somewhat private due the the sites being spread out. There isn't much as far as facilities go- just a restroom with running water. The drive here is a bit tricky, but well worth the location," shares one visitor to Gold Bluffs Beach.
River access: Many campgrounds offer direct access to the Klamath River. "Quiet little privately owned campground. It's peaceful along the river. They have Adirondack chairs set up to enjoy the views," notes a camper at Klamath River RV Park.
Central location: Most campgrounds provide convenient access to major park attractions. "This campground is very convenient to Redwoods National Park. They have laundry and bath house facilities," states a visitor to Klamath River RV Park.
What You Should Know
Access limitations: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. "First come first serve. Hellish road to get there but worth the trip. Close to Fern Canyon. Basic Campground. No trees. Sites close to each other," explains a Gold Bluffs Beach camper.
Weather preparation: The coastal climate brings frequent fog and moisture. "Beware this is considered a rain forest so your rig will really get a water test at the right times of the year," cautions a visitor to Kamp Klamath RV Park and Campground.
Site variations: Campground terrains range from open meadows to dense forests. "We stayed in the Meadow campground which is all open and no shade but we loved it. We pretty much had the park to ourselves so lots of room. It's a 2 min drive (or mile walk) to a beautiful and secluded beach," explains a visitor to Elk Country RV Resort.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. "The campground was clean and had a lot to explore. We enjoyed seeing elk as we pulled in. We went on some nice walks around the pond and watched the otter swim in the water," shares a camper at Elk Country RV Resort.
Educational opportunities: Look for junior ranger programs at visitor centers. "The park is easily accessible from Highway 101 and in the center of all the good stuff offered in Redwoods National Park. 20 minutes or so to everything you might want to see and do," notes a visitor to Klamath River RV Park.
Dog-friendly trails: Most campgrounds outside national park boundaries welcome pets. "My best friend and I are traveling cross country from Chicago, we're two young females and we pulled up at around 7:30/8 pm and the owner Gary came right up to us and helped us out, invited us to the camps community bbq and was so hospitable," reports a camper at Kamp Klamath, one of the dog friendly campgrounds near Redwood National Park.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Request riverfront sites when available for best views. "We paid $28.50 (incl tax) with Passport America for full hookups, so expect to pay double that without the discount. They also offer Good Sam, AAA, and veteran discounts," advises an RVer at Chinook RV Resort.
Hookup orientation: Check utilities placement before selecting sites. "Paved spots are tight. Level spots with full hookups. All the hookups are designed for you to pull in straight. So you will be running your hoses under your rig likely," explains a visitor to Klamath River RV Park.
Size limitations: Verify length restrictions before booking. "We were able to find a spot we fit in with our 26ft RV. I suggest driving around first before picking a spot as some are better than others. Each site has a picnic table and a fire pit and there were water spigots throughout the park," notes a camper at Florence Keller Regional Park.
