Redwood National Park Camping Guide
Nestled along California's far north coast, Redwood National and State Parks protect some of the tallest trees on Earth, a network of old-growth forests, rugged beaches, and salmon-filled rivers. Co-managed by the National Park Service and California State Parks, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a patchwork of four park units - Jedediah Smith Redwoods, Del Norte Coast Redwoods, Prairie Creek Redwoods, and Redwood National Park proper. Campers here sleep beneath 300-foot giants, fall asleep to the roar of the Pacific, and wake to Roosevelt elk grazing in misty meadows.
Plan ahead and pack for damp weather: even in summer, coastal fog keeps temperatures cool and humidity high. No campground inside the park offers hookups, so RVers often split time between in-park sites and private campgrounds with full services. This guide covers everything you need to know about planning, booking, and enjoying a Redwood camping trip, with practical advice from campers who've been there.
Redwood National Park Camping at a Glance
All Redwood National Park campgrounds use the ReserveCalifornia system, with reservations opening six months in advance at 8:00 AM Pacific. Peak summer weekends sell out immediately. The climate is famously mild; high temperatures rarely exceed 70°F and lows rarely drop below freezing. Fog, rain, and wind are common, so waterproof gear is essential. Nearby private campgrounds provide hookups, Wi-Fi, and other amenities that in-park sites lack.
Redwood National Park Campground Quick Facts
Quick Facts | Details |
---|---|
Number of Campgrounds | 4 developed campgrounds in park (Jedediah Smith, Mill Creek, Elk Prairie, Gold Bluffs Beach) plus dispersed camping along Redwood Creek |
Total Sites | Roughly 330 developed sites Backcountry camping permitted on Redwood Creek gravel bars with permit |
Campsite Costs | $35 per night for standard sites Rustic cabins $80-$100 at Elk Prairie |
Reservations | ReserveCalifornia (6-month rolling window; releases at 8:00 AM PT daily) |
Camping Seasons | Jedediah Smith & Elk Prairie: year-round Mill Creek: mid-May through early October Gold Bluffs Beach: year-round (access road may close briefly after storms) |
Temperature Ranges | Summer: 55-70°F days, 40-50°F nights Winter: 45-55°F days, 35-45°F nights |
2025 Notes | Fern Canyon/Gold Bluffs day-use reservations required May 15-Sept 15 for non-campers. Tall Trees Trailhead permits required year-round. Trailers prohibited at Gold Bluffs Beach. |
Redwood Campgrounds: Complete Guide
Northern Redwood Campgrounds

Jedidiah Smith Campground — Redwood National Park
Jedediah Smith Campground sits beside the clear waters of the Smith River near the town of Hiouchi. Its 86 sites and four heated cabins nestle into a cathedral of old-growth redwoods; some pads hug trunks wider than your picnic table. Amenities include flush toilets, treated water, and coin showers, but there are no hookups. Sites accommodate tents and small RVs up to about 25 ft, and a few back up to the river for swimming and fishing. Open year-round, this campground serves as a launch pad for Stout Grove and the scenic Howland Hill Road.

Mill Creek Campground — Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park
Mill Creek Campground sprawls through a steep canyon in Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park. With 145 sites set among alder, maple, and second-growth redwoods, it is the largest campground in the park system. Looped drives create semi-private clearings for tents and small RVs; lengths vary but most pads fit rigs under 28 ft. Flush toilets, potable water, coin showers, and a summer campfire center round out the facilities. Mill Creek operates mid-May through early October and is quieter than river or beach campgrounds, making it a good choice for families seeking shade and space.
Central Redwood Campgrounds

Elk Prairie Campground — Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Elk Prairie Campground lies along a broad meadow in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, where Roosevelt elk wander through at dawn and dusk. Seventy-five standard sites and a handful of rustic cabins (with heat and electricity but no bathrooms) flank the meadow and extend into adjacent forest. Flush toilets, potable water, and coin showers are available; no hookups exist. Open year-round, Elk Prairie provides direct access to trails like the Cathedral Trees Loop, Trillium Falls, and Prairie Creek Loop, and its location on the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway makes it ideal for hikers and wildlife watchers.
Coastal Redwood Campgrounds

Gold Bluffs Beach Campground — Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Gold Bluffs Beach Campground offers 26 sandy sites on a remote stretch of coastline backed by low bluffs. Accessed via narrow Davison Road, this primitive campground has vault toilets and potable water but no showers or hookups. Trailers are prohibited and RVs are limited to roughly 24 ft due to tight road conditions. Expect wind, fog, and salty spray; bring sand stakes, tarps, and warm layers. Rewards include beach sunsets, starry skies, and walking access to Fern Canyon. Reservations are competitive year-round and often booked the morning they open.
Nearby Campgrounds (Top Picks on The Dyrt)

Crescent City/Redwoods KOA
Crescent City/Redwoods KOA, minutes from Jedediah Smith Redwoods, offers a mix of tent pads, full-hookup RV sites, and camping cabins shaded by tall trees. Amenities include restrooms, showers, laundry, a playground, dog park, and Wi-Fi. Families appreciate the balance of nature and convenience, while RVers use it to recharge between nights in the park.

Ramblin' Redwoods Campground & RV Park
Ramblin' Redwoods Campground & RV Park sits just south of Crescent City and features spacious sites among second-growth redwoods. Full hookups, pull-through pads, cabins, showers, laundry, and good cell reception make it popular with both families and RV travelers. Its location on Highway 101 and proximity to the northern groves provide easy access when in-park campgrounds are full.

Redwood Meadows RV Resort
Redwood Meadows RV Resort in Hiouchi is less than a mile from Jedediah Smith Redwoods. Level, full-hookup sites (many pull-through), clean restrooms, showers, laundry, and on-site management provide comfort and convenience. The Smith River flows nearby for swimming and fishing, making it a good backup when Jed Smith fills.

Elk Country RV Resort & Campground
Elk Country RV Resort near Orick offers open meadow sites where Roosevelt elk often graze. Water and electric hookups, cabins, a small store, showers, and a fishing pond bridge the gap between rustic camping and comfort. Located near Prairie Creek Redwoods and Gold Bluffs Beach, it is a popular option for travelers exploring the central park region.

Panther Flat Campground
Panther Flat Campground, operated by the US Forest Service on the Smith River east of Crescent City, provides paved pads shaded by Douglas-fir and tanoak. There are no hookups, but flush toilets and potable water are available. Direct river access offers swimming and fishing in emerald pools, and the inland location reduces coastal fog. A great stop for those seeking quiet away from the crowds.
Campground Comparison Table
Campground | Location & Sites | Cost & Reservations |
---|---|---|
Jedediah Smith | Hiouchi / Smith River 86 sites + 4 heated cabins | $35 site; cabins $80-100 ReserveCalifornia |
Mill Creek | Del Norte Coast canyon 145 sites (seasonal) | $35 site ReserveCalifornia |
Elk Prairie | Prairie Creek meadow & forest 75 sites + rustic cabins | $35 site; cabins $80-100 ReserveCalifornia |
Gold Bluffs Beach | Pacific coast dunes 26 sites | $35 site ReserveCalifornia |
Redwood Creek Gravel Bars | Upstream of McArthur Creek Dispersed sites (permit required) | Free permit NPS backcountry permit page |
Redwood NP Campground Amenities and Best Uses
Each developed campground in Redwood offers a distinct experience. Jedediah Smith is the top choice for immersing yourself in primeval redwoods and enjoying clear river swimming holes. Sites near the water provide soothing soundscapes but fill first. Mill Creek appeals to families and those seeking privacy; its forested loops stay cooler and quieter than coastal sites. Elk Prairie is unbeatable for wildlife watching - wake up to Roosevelt elk grazing in the meadow and hike straight into some of the park's best groves. Gold Bluffs Beach delivers a rugged beachfront atmosphere perfect for watching sunsets and exploring Fern Canyon, but be ready for wind, sand, and minimal facilities. Redwood Creek is for backcountry enthusiasts comfortable with dispersed camping near Redwood National Park; you must hike in and camp on gravel bars upstream of McArthur Creek, secure a free permit, and hang or canister your food. For those seeking additional primitive camping options, Six Rivers National Forest dispersed camping offers nearby alternatives just outside the park boundaries.
Photo by Crystal C
Planning Your Redwood Camping Trip 
When to Visit Redwood NP
Season | Temperatures | Camping Conditions |
---|---|---|
Spring (March-May) | 55-65°F days, 40-45°F nights | Frequent rain, lush greenery, rushing creeks, and blooming rhododendrons; fewer crowds until Memorial Day |
Summer (June-August) | 55-70°F days, 45-50°F nights | Morning fog burning off by afternoon, high demand for campsites, best access to Fern Canyon and long hikes |
Fall (September-October) | 55-65°F days, 40-50°F nights | Dryer spells, elk rutting season, thinner crowds, Mill Creek closes early October |
Winter (November-February) | 45-55°F days, 35-45°F nights | Heavy rains, dramatic surf, solitude in campgrounds; only Jedediah Smith and Elk Prairie remain open |
Spring (March-May) brings cool temperatures, rain showers, and vibrant greenery. Waterfalls run strong, rhododendrons bloom, and trails can be muddy. Crowds remain sparse until late May. Pack waterproof boots, gaiters, and tarps to keep gear dry.
Summer (June-August) is high season. Reservations open exactly six months ahead and sell out within minutes. Morning fog drapes the coast but typically lifts by afternoon, making this the best time for Fern Canyon, beach sunsets, and full-day hikes like the James Irvine-Boy Scout Tree loop. Temperatures rarely exceed 70°F.
Fall (September-October) offers a shoulder season sweet spot. Visitor numbers drop after Labor Day, the elk rut peaks in September, and days are often dry and crisp. Nights cool quickly, and rain increases by late October. Mill Creek closes for the season in early October, but other campgrounds remain open.
Winter (November-February) is the quietest time to visit. Expect steady rains and occasional storms, but also empty campgrounds and dramatic ocean views. Jedediah Smith and Elk Prairie operate year-round and often switch to first-come, first-served sites. Bring extra tarps, a warm sleeping bag, and be prepared for road closures on Davison or Bald Hills Road.
Redwood Reservation Systems Explained
Developed campgrounds in Redwood use ReserveCalifornia's 6-month rolling window. Reservations are released daily at 8:00 AM Pacific; have your dates ready and log in early, especially for weekends between June and August. Jedediah Smith and Elk Prairie operate year-round, while Mill Creek is open mid-May through early October and Gold Bluffs Beach is open year-round but may close temporarily after storms.
While first-come sites are extremely limited in peak season, walk-in opportunities exist in winter. Jedediah Smith and Elk Prairie often have open sites on weekdays from November through April. Mill Creek closes completely in winter, and Gold Bluffs Beach stays on the reservation system year-round due to its limited capacity.
Day-use reservations are needed for Fern Canyon/Gold Bluffs Beach between May 15 and September 15 if you are not staying overnight there. These free permits control parking capacity; campers with site reservations are exempt. The Tall Trees Trailhead requires a free timed-entry permit year-round; permits open 180 days in advance with additional slots released the day before your hike. Backcountry camping (such as along Redwood Creek) requires a free permit. Food must be stored in bear lockers, hung from trees, or kept in a bear-resistant canister - both hanging and canister options meet requirements in most areas.
Campground Costs and Budgeting
Type | Cost | Notes |
---|---|---|
Standard In-Park Sites | $35/night | Includes picnic table, fire ring, and bear locker; no hookups |
Rustic Cabins (Elk Prairie) | $80-$100/night | Electricity and heat, bring bedding; bathrooms are shared in the campground |
Nearby Private Campgrounds | $20-$65+/night | Often include hookups, Wi-Fi, showers, laundry, and expanded availability |
Backcountry Permits | Free | Required for Redwood Creek gravel bars and other designated zones; must carry permit and adhere to food storage rules |
Day-Use Permits | Free | Needed for Fern Canyon/Gold Bluffs day use (May-Sept) and Tall Trees Trailhead year-round |
Additional Redwood NP Fees and Budget Tips
- There is no entrance fee for Redwood National and State Parks.
- Firewood costs $8-$10 per bundle at camp host booths or local stores; gathering wood is prohibited.
- Showers at Jedediah Smith, Mill Creek, and Elk Prairie require coins or tokens - bring quarters.
- Fuel and groceries are cheapest in Crescent City, Klamath, and McKinleyville. Stock up before heading into remote areas like Orick or along Bald Hills Road.
- Consider splitting your trip: spend a few nights in-park, then a night at a private Redwood National Park RV campground to empty tanks and recharge batteries.
Essential Gear for Redwood Camping
Shelter & Sleeping
- Tent with full-coverage rainfly, groundsheet, and extra guylines for wind
- 20-30°F sleeping bag and insulated sleeping pad; pack an extra blanket for damp nights
- Pop-up canopy or large tarp to cover your picnic area during rain and fog
Cooking & Food Storage
- Bear-proof storage bins or dry boxes sized to fit the provided lockers
- Reliable camp stove with extra fuel and waterproof matches or lighter
- Large water jug for camp use; potable water is available at developed campgrounds
- Biodegradable soap, collapsible basin, sponge, and microfiber towel
Clothing & Footwear
- Layered clothing system: moisture-wicking base layer, warm mid-layer, waterproof shell
- Waterproof hiking boots plus camp shoes or sandals for creek crossings
- Warm hat, gloves, and quick-dry socks - even summer mornings can be chilly
Safety & Navigation
- Headlamp with spare batteries or a power bank
- Printed tide tables and paper maps; download offline maps before arrival (cell service is unreliable)
- First-aid kit and basic repair kit (duct tape, zip ties, multi-tool)
- Water filter or purification tablets if backcountry camping along Redwood Creek
Photo by Patricia O
Wildlife Safety and Park Regulations 
Bear and Elk Safety
Food storage: All food, coolers, toiletries, and scented items must be stored in the metal bear lockers provided at each developed campsite. Do not leave food in tents or vehicles. In backcountry areas like Redwood Creek, hang your food at least 10 ft high and 4 ft from tree trunks or use a bear-resistant canister.
Cooking and eating: Prepare meals at your campsite's picnic table only. Clean grills, tables, and cookware immediately after use. Dispose of grey water in designated sinks or scatter strained water at least 200 ft from water sources when in the backcountry. Never burn food scraps or grease in fire rings.
Bear encounters: Black bears usually avoid humans, but they will investigate unattended food. Make noise while hiking to avoid startling wildlife. If a bear approaches, stand tall, raise your arms, speak firmly, and back away slowly. Do not run. Report aggressive behavior to rangers.
Elk encounters: Roosevelt elk frequent Elk Prairie and open meadows along the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway. Maintain at least 25 yards from elk at all times, and give bulls extra space during the September-October rut. Never approach calves, and avoid blocking roads or trails to take photos.
Park Regulations and Etiquette
Regulation Category | Specific Rules | Penalties |
---|---|---|
Campfires | Allowed only in provided fire rings or grills. Do not gather wood; purchase locally sourced bundles. Fully extinguish fires by drowning and stirring until cold. | Warnings, fines, eviction, or liability for fire damage |
Quiet Hours | 10:00 PM - 6:00 AM. Generator use may be limited to posted hours. | Citations or removal from campground |
Food & Trash | Store all food and scented items in bear lockers; pack out or dispose of trash properly. Never leave coolers unattended. | Immediate citation or campsite revocation |
Pets | Pets are allowed only in campgrounds, paved roads, and developed areas. Leashes are required at all times; pets are prohibited on most trails. | Citations or removal of pet from park |
Wildlife Protection | Do not feed wildlife. Maintain safe distances from elk, bears, and other animals. | Fines and removal from park |
Additional Park Regulations
- Camping limits: State parks enforce seasonal stay limits - generally 30 nights per park per calendar year.
- Vehicles: Davison Road to Gold Bluffs Beach is narrow with creek crossings; trailers are prohibited and RVs must be under 24 ft. Always obey posted length limits throughout the park.
- Firearms and fireworks: Neither is allowed anywhere in Redwood National and State Parks.
- Drones: Unmanned aircraft are banned throughout the park units.
- Trail closures: Heavy rains can wash out trails like Damnation Creek or cause landslides on Coastal Drive. Check the park's current conditions page before hiking.
Beyond the Campground: Activities and Exploration 
Day Trips from Redwood Campgrounds
- Stout Grove (Jedediah Smith/Mill Creek): Wander among some of the finest old-growth redwoods in the park on this flat half-mile loop. Visit early morning or late afternoon for sunbeams slicing through the canopy.
- Boy Scout Tree Trail (Jedediah Smith/Mill Creek): A 5.2-mile round trip through hushed forest leading to the massive double-trunk Boy Scout Tree and Fern Falls - plan for half a day.
- Howland Hill Road (Jedediah Smith/Mill Creek): Slow scenic drive through cathedral-like redwoods. Suitable for cars, but not recommended for RVs or trailers.
- Fern Canyon (Elk Prairie/Gold Bluffs Beach): Famous 50-ft walls draped in ferns. Access from Gold Bluffs Beach or via the James Irvine Trail; check for seasonal footbridges and day-use permit requirements.
- Prairie Creek & Cathedral Trees Trails (Elk Prairie): Walk directly from camp through towering redwoods and elk meadows on a network of loops ranging from 2 to 6 miles.
- Lady Bird Johnson Grove (Central Park): A 1.5-mile loop at higher elevation often shrouded in fog, with interpretive signs about conservation history.
- Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway (Elk Prairie): Scenic alternative to Highway 101 lined with old-growth. The park occasionally closes the road to vehicles on select mornings for bicycle and foot traffic only.
Top Hiking Trails Near Redwood Campgrounds
Trail Name | Distance & Difficulty | Highlights |
---|---|---|
Stout Grove Loop | 0.5 miles, easy | Majestic old-growth redwoods along the Smith River floodplain |
Boy Scout Tree Trail | 5.2 miles round-trip, moderate | Secluded forest culminating at the Boy Scout Tree and Fern Falls |
James Irvine-Fern Canyon-Miner's Ridge Loop | 10-12 miles, moderate | All-day journey from redwoods to the ocean and back through Fern Canyon |
Trillium Falls Loop | 2.5 miles, easy to moderate | Waterfall hike through old-growth forest and elk meadows |
Lady Bird Johnson Grove | 1.5 miles, easy | Elevated grove with rhododendron blooms and frequent fog |
Damnation Creek Trail | 4 miles round-trip, strenuous | Steep descent through redwoods to a rugged cove; beach access depends on tides |
Water Activities in Redwood
Smith River: The emerald-green Smith River - the state's last major undammed river - is popular for summer swimming, fishing, and paddling. Access points are available at Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park and at Forest Service campgrounds like Panther Flat. Fishing for salmon and steelhead peaks in fall and winter; you'll need a valid California fishing license.
Klamath River: South of Prairie Creek, the Klamath River estuary provides opportunities for salmon fishing, birdwatching, and scenic paddling. Private RV parks such as Kamp Klamath and Klamath River RV Park offer easy access to boat launches. Coastal fog often lifts inland along this corridor.
Coastal Beaches: Gold Bluffs Beach, Enderts Beach, and False Klamath Cove offer tide-pooling, agate hunting, and dramatic surf. Always check tide charts and watch for sneaker waves - never turn your back on the ocean. Drift logs can be unstable; avoid climbing on them.
Boating & Safety: There are no motorized boat rentals within the park, but outfitters in Crescent City and Klamath offer guided rafting and kayak tours. Rivers and the ocean remain cold year-round; wear a wetsuit or dry suit when paddling, and always wear a personal flotation device.
Photo by George B
The Dyrt Community Insights 
Ranger and Community Tips
- Choose riverside sites at Jedediah Smith for soothing sounds and quick access to Stout Grove. Reserve early; these spots fill fastest.
- Pick meadow-edge spots at Elk Prairie to maximize elk sightings at dawn and dusk, and keep binoculars handy.
- Bring windbreaks and sand stakes for Gold Bluffs Beach, where coastal gusts and drifting sand are constant companions.
- Camp deeper loops at Mill Creek for more privacy and reduced road noise; inner loops also stay warmer on foggy days.
- Arrive in daylight for Davison Road, the rough access route to Gold Bluffs and Fern Canyon; low clearance vehicles may have trouble after heavy rain.
- Pack extra tarps and guylines, even in summer. Fog and drizzle soak tents, and tree drip can last for hours after rain stops.
- Use nearby private parks for hookups, showers, and laundry. Many campers alternate nights between in-park sites and places like Ramblin' Redwoods or Elk Country RV Resort.
- Download offline maps before entering the park; cell reception is spotty to nonexistent in most groves and along coastal roads.
Top-Rated Sites from The Dyrt Community
Category | Top Pick & Rating | Highlights |
---|---|---|
Best Beachfront | Gold Bluffs Beach 4.7/5 stars | Oceanfront sites, Fern Canyon access, elk sightings |
Best Forest Base | Jedediah Smith 4.6/5 stars | Immersive old-growth, Smith River swimming holes |
Best Wildlife Viewing | Elk Prairie 4.5/5 stars | Roosevelt elk, walk-to trails, rustic cabins |
Best Private Alternative | Ramblin' Redwoods 4.4/5 stars | Spacious wooded sites, full hookups, family-friendly amenities |
Best River Access | Panther Flat (USFS) 4.5/5 stars | Emerald pools, shady forest, less coastal fog |
Responsible Camping Practices 
Redwood's ecosystems are fragile: ancient redwoods rely on shallow root systems, ferns cling to canyon walls, and river gravel bars provide critical salmon habitat. Practicing Leave No Trace and following park rules helps preserve these environments for future generations.
Leave No Trace: Pack out everything you pack in, including food scraps and micro-trash. Stick to established tent pads and durable surfaces to avoid trampling tree roots and undergrowth. Never create new fire rings or trails.
Fire Safety: Use only provided fire rings or grills. Keep fires small and never leave them unattended. Drown, stir, and feel for heat until completely cold before going to bed or breaking camp. Observe seasonal fire restrictions.
Wildlife Respect: Use bear lockers or proper hang systems for all food and scented items, and never feed animals. Observe wildlife from a distance; elk and bears can become dangerous when habituated to humans.
Ocean Awareness: Sneaker waves and shifting tides along the Pacific coast are unpredictable. Stay well away from the water's edge, watch children closely, and avoid climbing on drift logs. Check tide tables before beach hikes.
Minimize Noise & Light: Observe quiet hours (10:00 PM-6:00 AM) and keep artificial light to a minimum. Use red-light headlamps to preserve night vision and reduce disruption to wildlife and fellow campers.
Photo by Kalli W
Frequently Asked Questions 
When do Redwood campgrounds open and close?
Jedediah Smith and Elk Prairie campgrounds operate year-round, though they may switch to first-come, first-served during winter months. Mill Creek Campground typically opens mid-May and closes in early October. Gold Bluffs Beach operates year-round but the access road (Davison Road) may close temporarily after heavy storms. Always check current conditions before arrival, as opening and closing dates can shift based on weather and road conditions.
How do I reserve a campsite in Redwood, and when should I book?
All developed campgrounds use ReserveCalifornia for reservations. The system operates on a 6-month rolling window, with new dates released daily at 8:00 AM Pacific Time. For peak summer weekends (June-August), book exactly when the reservation window opens - popular campgrounds like Jedediah Smith and Gold Bluffs Beach fill within minutes. Spring and fall weekdays may remain available longer. Winter sites at Jedediah Smith and Elk Prairie often become first-come, first-served.
Are there any first-come, first-served campgrounds in Redwood?
During peak season (May-September), nearly all sites require reservations, with only a handful of walk-in spots at Gold Bluffs Beach available first-come, first-served. In the off-season (October-April), Jedediah Smith and Elk Prairie typically switch to first-come, first-served for their open loops. Arrive early in the day for the best chance of securing a site, especially on weekends.
What size RV can fit in Redwood campgrounds?
RV size limits vary by campground. Jedediah Smith and Elk Prairie accommodate RVs up to 25-27 feet, while Mill Creek has some sites that fit rigs up to 28 feet. Gold Bluffs Beach is limited to RVs under 24 feet, and trailers are prohibited entirely due to the narrow, rough Davison Road access. No campground in the park offers hookups. For full hookups and larger RV accommodation, consider nearby private parks like Crescent City/Redwoods KOA, Ramblin' Redwoods, or Elk Country RV Resort.
What should I know about camping with bears in Redwood?
Black bears are present throughout Redwood's campgrounds. All food, coolers, toiletries, and scented items must be stored in the bear-proof lockers provided at each site - this is mandatory, not optional. Never leave food in your tent or vehicle. In backcountry areas like Redwood Creek, hang food at least 10 feet high and 4 feet from tree trunks, or use a bear-resistant canister. Keep a clean camp, dispose of trash properly, and report any aggressive bear behavior to rangers immediately.
Do I need permits for camping or hiking in Redwood?
Developed campgrounds require only your ReserveCalifornia reservation - there is no park entrance fee. However, additional free permits are needed for: Fern Canyon/Gold Bluffs Beach day-use (May 15-Sept 15 for non-campers), Tall Trees Trailhead access (year-round, timed-entry), and backcountry camping along Redwood Creek or other designated dispersed sites. All permits are free but must be obtained in advance through the park's permit system.
What are the shower and bathroom facilities like?
Jedediah Smith, Mill Creek, and Elk Prairie have modern restrooms with flush toilets and coin-operated hot showers - bring plenty of quarters. Gold Bluffs Beach is more primitive, offering only vault toilets and potable water with no shower facilities. All developed sites include picnic tables, fire rings, and bear-proof food lockers. For campers wanting shower access from Gold Bluffs Beach, the nearest facilities are at Elk Prairie Campground or in nearby towns.
Can I have a campfire in Redwood?
Campfires are allowed only in provided fire rings or grills at developed campgrounds when conditions permit. Gathering firewood is prohibited - purchase bundles from camp hosts or local stores. Always check for fire restrictions, which are common during dry periods. Keep fires small, never leave them unattended, and fully extinguish by drowning, stirring, and checking for heat before leaving or sleeping. Bring a water bucket specifically for fire management.
How do I deal with Redwood's fog and damp weather?
Expect cool, damp conditions even in summer. Use a tent with a full-coverage rainfly and sturdy stakes, and pitch under trees when possible to minimize condensation from fog drip. Place a footprint or extra tarp under your tent to combat ground moisture. Bring layers including a waterproof shell, pack extra socks, and consider a pop-up canopy over your picnic table for cooking comfort. Quick-dry clothing and microfiber towels help manage persistent dampness.
Are dogs allowed on trails in Redwood?
Dogs are permitted on leash in campgrounds, on paved roads, and in developed areas, but are prohibited on nearly all trails within Redwood National and State Parks. Service animals are excepted. Some nearby county beaches and National Forest areas may allow dogs - always check posted regulations. Pack waste bags and dispose of pet waste in bear-resistant trash receptacles.
What's the best time to visit Redwood to avoid crowds?
September offers the sweet spot for fewer crowds and decent weather - visitor numbers drop after Labor Day while conditions remain relatively dry and the elk rut peaks. Early June and late October can also be pleasant if you're prepared for rain. Winter (November-February) provides maximum solitude but expect steady rain and limited campground access. Avoid summer weekends and holidays when campgrounds operate at capacity and day-use areas require timed-entry permits.
Where can I camp if Redwood's campgrounds are full?
When in-park sites are booked, consider these nearby alternatives: Crescent City/Redwoods KOA, Ramblin' Redwoods Campground & RV Park, Redwood Meadows RV Resort, Elk Country RV Resort, Panther Flat (USFS), Kamp Klamath, or Klamath River RV Park. These locations offer various amenities including hookups, showers, and WiFi while keeping you within a short drive of redwood groves and beaches. For unique stays, explore Redwood National Park cabin rentals or glamping options near Redwood National Park.
Planning Resources
Essential Redwood Links
- The Dyrt's Redwood National Park Campground Finder - Reviews, photos, and availability for all in-park and nearby Redwood NP campgrounds
- Redwood National and State Parks - Official site for current conditions, closures, and trail updates
- ReserveCalifornia - Reservations for all four developed in-park campgrounds
- Fern Canyon/Gold Bluffs Day-Use Permits - Free timed-entry reservations (May-Sept)
- Tall Trees Trailhead Permits - Required for year-round access to Tall Trees Grove
- California State Parks - Camping policies, regulations, and seasonal stay limits
- CalTrans Road Conditions - Live updates for Highway 101, Bald Hills Road, and other routes
Reservation Timeline for Redwood NP
Time Period | Reservation Task | Platform/Details |
---|---|---|
6 Months Before Trip | Book campsites at Jedediah Smith, Mill Creek, Elk Prairie, or Gold Bluffs Beach | ReserveCalifornia (opens 8:00 AM PT daily) Set calendar reminder for exact opening date |
180 Days Before | Reserve Tall Trees Trailhead permits and backcountry camping permits | NPS/Redwood Parks Conservancy permit system |
1-2 Weeks Before | Check for campsite cancellations and confirm day-use permits | ReserveCalifornia and NPS websites Monitor weather forecasts |
48 Hours Before | Verify trail closures, tide tables, and road conditions | NPS Current Conditions page and CalTrans Download offline maps |
Redwood Camping Checklist
Reservations & Permits
- ReserveCalifornia campsite confirmation (printed and digital)
- Fern Canyon/Gold Bluffs day-use permit (if not camping there)
- Tall Trees Trailhead timed-entry permit
- Backcountry camping permit for Redwood Creek (if applicable)
- Photo ID matching reservation
Camping Gear
- Tent with waterproof rainfly and sturdy stakes
- Extra guylines and sand stakes for wind
- 20-30°F sleeping bag and insulated pad
- Extra blanket for damp nights
- Pop-up canopy or large tarp for cooking shelter
- Headlamp with spare batteries
- Lantern and camp chairs
Kitchen Items
- Camp stove and extra fuel
- Waterproof matches or lighter
- Cooler and bear-proof storage bins
- Cooking kit and utensils
- Biodegradable soap and dish basin
- Water containers and reusable bottles
- Food storage bags and trash liners
Clothing
- Waterproof shell jacket and pants
- Insulating mid-layers (fleece or down)
- Moisture-wicking base layers
- Waterproof hiking boots
- Camp sandals for creek crossings
- Warm hat and gloves
- Extra socks (quick-dry recommended)
Safety & Navigation
- Paper maps and printed tide tables
- Downloaded offline maps on devices
- First-aid kit with blister treatment
- Basic repair kit (duct tape, zip ties, multi-tool)
- Water filter or purification tablets (for backcountry)
- Bear spray (optional but recommended for trails)
- Whistle for emergencies
Additional Items
- Quarters for coin-operated showers
- Microfiber towels for dampness
- Binoculars for wildlife viewing
- Camera and portable charger
- Firewood purchase money (gathering prohibited)
By planning thoroughly and following park guidelines, your Redwood camping experience can be both enjoyable and responsible. The park's varied campgrounds offer experiences ranging from the cathedral-like groves of Jedediah Smith to the windswept shores of Gold Bluffs Beach. Whether you're exploring fern-lined canyons, watching Roosevelt elk at dawn, or swimming in emerald river pools, camping near Redwood National Park connects you to some of the most magnificent forests on Earth. For those traveling in motorhomes or trailers, explore the full range of Redwood National Park RV camping options to find the perfect base camp for your ancient forest adventure.