Cabin rentals near Six Rivers National Forest provide access to over 957,000 acres of forest stretching 140 miles through northern California. Located in a region that receives 50-80 inches of annual rainfall, these accommodations range from basic cabins to fully-furnished cottages adjacent to redwood stands. Winter temperatures typically fall to 35-45°F while summer daytime temperatures reach 60-85°F in most parts of the forest.
What to do
Hiking through redwoods: Trails lead directly from Elk Prairie Campground — Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park into spectacular old-growth forests. "We were able to hike a bunch on the campground (very accessible), drive to Fern Canyon, and visit Jedediah Smith all in 3 days," notes one camper who encountered numerous wildlife including elk and bears during their stay.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening are prime times to spot Roosevelt elk near cabin areas. A visitor at Elk Prairie Campground mentioned: "The sites on that loop are set up in a way that everyone has a private tree cubby so it didn't feel like you were camping by a bunch of people." Ranger talks are available nightly during peak season.
Beach exploration: Trinidad offers coastal access within minutes of forest cabins. A visitor to Sylvan Harbor RV Park & Cabins described it as an "Uber tiny community on the cliffs of the redwoods dropping right down to the sand and water. Unreal location great for families."
What campers like
Private settings: Cabins tucked among redwood groves offer seclusion despite proximity to neighbors. At Mystic Forest RV Park, one guest appreciated that "The site was large, quiet/secluded, and near the access to the .5 mile hike path within the park."
Knowledgeable hosts: Local cabin operators provide valuable regional insights. According to a Mystic Forest visitor: "The best thing about this park is the owners. They were uber friendly and was very kind to provide a (hand drawn but very accurate) map. They took the time to speak re the different areas we should explore specifically for our kids."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities matter to cabin guests without private facilities. A visitor at Elk Prairie noted: "Bathrooms were close; quarter showers; hiking trail beginning super close to the site."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Summer bookings for Six Rivers cabins should be made 3-6 months in advance. At Elk Prairie, one camper observed: "A lot of sites were supposedly reserved but no one present for days. Host are able to forfeit their reservations if they don't show up by the second day."
Road noise: Highway 101 proximity affects some properties. A guest at Heart of the Redwoods Cottages & RV noted: "Right next to Hwy 101 so you'll hear traffic all night if you're a light sleeper."
Supply limitations: Cabin guests should bring essential items from larger towns. A camper at Redwood Coast Cabins & RV Resort shared: "Well let's see where do I start? The coast 'ocean' is about 500 yards away. There is absolutely nothing to do here. It's being remodeled/renovated because it's a new owner."
Tips for camping with families
Bring entertainment: Some cabin areas have limited activities for children. At Mystic Forest RV Park, families can enjoy "hiking trails, horseshoes and an adorable little 18 hole mini golf course to boot! Just a mile down the road is Trees of Mystery."
Consider shower options: Facilities vary widely between properties. At Elk Prairie Campground, a visitor mentioned: "There are showers, but they were out of service at the time I was there." Another noted: "The bathrooms were clean and had flushable toilets."
Pack for changing weather: Coastal fog and forest shade create variable conditions. "We had our tent in the trees with a 100 yard walk out to Patrick's point and the Pacific Ocean," said an Agate Campground visitor, adding that tree cover provides significant shade.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: Choose cabin locations carefully based on your needs. At Del Loma RV Park and Campground, a visitor advised: "If you are tent camping or in a smaller RV, their are some better sites that are further away from the permanent old Travel Trailers closet to the entrance."
Cell coverage limitations: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. A Del Loma camper reported: "They technically do have a free Wi Fi, however it is very weak, almost nonexistent. Verizon had no cell coverage."
Year-round availability: Some cabins near Six Rivers National Forest remain open through winter months. Sylvan Harbor RV Park & Cabins maintains year-round operations, with a guest noting it was "Very Nice and quiet between some big trees. WiFi is better at the front of the campsite."
