Redwood Creek Dispersed Camp

Within Redwood National Park, Redwood Creek Dispersed Camp operates as a free backcountry camping area managed by the National Park Service. Campers must obtain a permit online before arrival, which provides the gate code needed to access the area beyond the locked entrance. The camping spots sit directly along Redwood Creek's rocky banks, requiring hikers to cross the water to reach some sites.

Access involves a downhill hike from the parking area, with the return trip climbing back uphill to vehicles. The rocky creek crossing can be challenging on bare feet, making sandals or water shoes essential gear. Leah H. notes that "you WILL cross a creek! the rocks are PAINFUL!" Sleeping pads help with comfort since campers set up directly on rocky ground rather than soft earth.

The area connects to the Tall Trees hiking trail system and allows equestrian use on designated routes. Swimming opportunities exist in Redwood Creek, though water levels vary seasonally. Wildlife sightings include bald eagles, and the dispersed nature keeps camping groups separated along the creek corridor.

This walk-in camping requires carrying all gear from the vehicle, making it unsuitable for RV users. Campers seeking drive-up options can explore campgrounds around Redwood National Park for developed sites with vehicle access.

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Map & DirectionsRedwood Creek Dispersed Camp is located in California near Orick

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

41.259716666739095 N
124.01127989038854 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

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    No Coverage
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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Dispersed
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.

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General Info

Drive Time


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Reviews4 Camper Reviews - Redwood Creek Dispersed Camp

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4 Reviews

Many visitors highlighted the beautiful creek-side setting, though access requires permits and hiking with gear. Several guests observed rocky terrain that needs proper sleeping pads, and road gate restrictions caught some unprepared.

Reviewed May. 28, 2025

Decent Hike, Beautiful Sights

GO TO THE WEBSITE!! 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. if you get your permit, you will be sent a gate code.

now that that’s covered, this campsite is beautiful!! but be prepared, 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. Next, you WILL cross a creek! the rocks are PAINFUL! bring your sandals! we did not and that part sucked, but that’s on us. 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!

Month of VisitMay
  • the creek you will walk through
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  • Review photo of Redwood Creek Dispersed Camp by Leah H., May 28, 2025
  • Review photo of Redwood Creek Dispersed Camp by Leah H., May 28, 2025
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Reviewed May. 26, 2025

Unable to access

Access road is gated after a couple of miles, so unable to even get close.

Month of VisitMay
Reviewed Aug. 26, 2024

Walk among the Tall Trees

Dispersed camping along the river banks after walking through the Tall Trees hike. Easy overnighter.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Redwood Creek Dispersed Camp by Sam S., August 26, 2024
  • Review photo of Redwood Creek Dispersed Camp by Sam S., August 26, 2024
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Frequently Asked Questions

What are the reviews like for Redwood Creek dispersed camping?

Redwood Creek Dispersed Camp receives generally positive feedback. Many visitors appreciate the beautiful natural setting along the river banks and its accessibility for overnight trips after completing the Tall Trees hike. However, it's important to note this is a hike-in tent camping area only, not suitable for RVs or vehicle camping. Some visitors have experienced access issues when not obtaining the required free permit beforehand, which includes the gate code needed to enter. The camping experience itself is highly rated by those properly prepared for backcountry camping.

Where exactly is Redwood Creek dispersed camping located within Redwood National Park?

Redwood Creek dispersed camping is located along the banks of Redwood Creek, accessible via the Tall Trees Trail in Redwood National Park. To reach the camping area, hikers must complete the Tall Trees hike and then continue to the creek banks where camping is permitted. Access requires obtaining a free permit from the National Park Service, which includes a gate code for entry. The initial access road is gated after a couple of miles, and visitors must hike in with their camping equipment from there. This backcountry camping area is situated in a remote section of the park, offering a genuine wilderness experience.

Are there photos available of Redwood Creek dispersed camping sites?

Photos of Redwood Creek dispersed camping sites may be available on the official National Park Service website. The NPS maintains information about this camping area at nps.gov/places/redwoodcreekdispersedcamping.htm, which might include images. Since this is a more remote backcountry camping area within Redwood National Park, comprehensive photo galleries aren't as common as with developed campgrounds. For the most current visual information, check the official NPS site or contact the park visitor center directly.