Best Place to Camp in Redwood National Park
Camping in Redwood National Park is a bucket-list experience for nature lovers, offering the chance to sleep beneath some of the tallest trees on Earth. With towering ancient redwoods, misty fern canyons, and Pacific coastline vistas, choosing the best place to camp in Redwood National Park can be overwhelming given the variety of campgrounds spread across the combined federal and state park lands. Whether you’re seeking a developed site with amenities, a remote hike-in spot, or a family-friendly basecamp for hiking and wildlife viewing, this guide breaks down the top contenders—and reveals the single campground that consistently wins the hearts of seasoned campers Worth knowing..
Why Camping in Redwood National Park Is Unique
Redwood National and State Parks (RNSP) encompass four separate units: Redwood National Park, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. Here's the thing — each offers distinct ecosystems—from old-growth redwood groves to coastal bluffs and riverbanks. Camping here isn’t just about pitching a tent; it’s about immersing yourself in a landscape that has remained largely unchanged for thousands of years. The best place to camp in Redwood National Park will depend on whether you prioritize solitude, accessibility, scenic beauty, or proximity to specific trails like the Tall Trees Grove or Fern Canyon.
The Top Contenders: Best Campgrounds in the Park
After analyzing campground features, camper reviews, and expert recommendations, the overall best place to camp in Redwood National Park is Elk Prairie Campground in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. On the flip side, several other campgrounds deserve recognition for specific preferences. Here’s a detailed look at the top options No workaround needed..
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1. Elk Prairie Campground (Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park) – Editor’s Pick
Why it wins: Elk Prairie combines the magic of old-growth redwoods with open meadows where Roosevelt elk often graze. It’s centrally located, offers a mix of tent and RV sites, and has excellent facilities Easy to understand, harder to ignore..
- Location: Nestled inside Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, just off Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway.
- Sites: 75 sites (tent/RV up to 27 feet), plus two hiker/biker sites.
- Amenities: Flush toilets, hot showers, drinking water, dump station, fire rings, picnic tables, and a camp store nearby.
- Best for: Families, first-time campers, and those who want a balance of comfort and wilderness.
The campground is surrounded by giant redwoods, and many sites are shaded by massive trees. Here's the thing — elk sightings are almost guaranteed in the meadows at dawn and dusk. Even so, the Revelation Trail, a short loop, starts right from the campground. Consider this: you can also hike to Fern Canyon (a 1-hour drive or a longer hike) or the James Irvine Trail. Reservations are essential from May through September via ReserveCalifornia But it adds up..
2. Jedediah Smith Campground (Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park) – Best for Old-Growth Immersion
Why it’s special: This campground feels like you’re sleeping inside a forest cathedral. The Smith River, California’s longest free-flowing river, runs nearby, offering swimming and fishing. The Stout Grove, one of the most photogenic redwood groves, is a short walk away That's the whole idea..
- Location: Along the Smith River, near Hiouchi, California.
- Sites: 86 sites (tent/RV up to 30 feet), plus hike/bike sites.
- Amenities: Flush toilets, coin showers, drinking water, fire rings, picnic tables.
- Best for: Photographers, hikers, and those seeking the most classic “redwood camping” experience.
Sites are nestled among giant redwoods, with some offering river views. The Simpson-Reed Grove and Boy Scout Tree Trail are within walking distance. Even so, the campground can be damp and dark—perfect for a mystical vibe. Reserve in advance; it fills quickly.
3. Gold Bluffs Beach Campground (Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park) – Best for Coastal Camping
Why it’s unique: For campers who want ocean views mixed with redwoods, Gold Bluffs Beach is unbeatable. It’s a walk-in campground situated on a remote beach, accessed via a narrow, unpaved road (Davison Road). Fern Canyon is just a short hike away Simple, but easy to overlook..
- Location: 3 miles off Highway 101 on Davison Road (low-clearance vehicles okay, but no trailers).
- Sites: 25 walk-in tent sites (no RVs). You park in a lot and carry gear 50–200 feet to your site.
- Amenities: Pit toilets, no showers, no drinking water (bring all water). Fire rings provided.
- Best for: Adventurers, surf fishermen, beachcombers, and those wanting solitude.
The sound of the Pacific Ocean lulls you to sleep. Roosevelt elk often roam the beach. Still, this is a no-reservation campground on a first-come, first-served basis—arrive early in the morning (before 10 AM) during peak season. It’s the most rustic option but the most rewarding for a true coastal wilderness experience.
4. Mill Creek Campground (Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park) – Best for Seclusion
Why choose it: This is the largest campground in the park system, yet it often feels uncrowded. It sits in a mature second-growth redwood forest with big trees and offers both tent and RV sites.
- Location: 1 mile off Highway 101 near the park’s southern entrance.
- Sites: 145 sites (tent/RV up to 35 feet), plus group sites.
- Amenities: Flush toilets, coin showers, drinking water, dump station, fire rings.
- Best for: Larger groups, those who want a quieter setting, and RV campers.
Mill Creek has a more open canopy than Jedediah, allowing more sunlight. It’s close to Enderts Beach and the Coastal Trail. Because of that, it’s less famous than Elk Prairie or Jedediah, which often means easier availability. Reserve through ReserveCalifornia Turns out it matters..
How to Choose the Best Place to Camp in Redwood National Park
Your ideal campground depends on your camping style and priorities. Use this quick guide:
- For the ultimate redwood immersion: Jedediah Smith Campground
- For a family-friendly basecamp with amenities: Elk Prairie Campground
- For ocean views and adventure: Gold Bluffs Beach Campground
- For peace and quiet: Mill Creek Campground
- For backpacking and hike-in sites: Consider the 4-mile Hike-in/Bike-in Campground at Prairie Creek (remote, primitive, no vehicle access)
Pro Tips for Camping in Redwood National Park
- Reservations are mandatory for most developed campgrounds from May to September. Book at least 2–3 months ahead.
- Bring layers and rain gear. The coastal fog and rain can roll in at any time, even in summer. Temperatures are mild (40–70°F year-round).
- Store food properly. Bears and raccoons are common; use bear-proof lockers (provided at most sites) or your car trunk.
- No cell service. Most areas have little to no reception; download maps offline.
- Leave no trace. This is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a national park. Pack out all trash.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I camp in the backcountry of Redwood National Park? Yes, but only in designated sites. Backcountry camping requires a free permit from the park’s visitor center. Popular trails include the Coastal Trail and Redwood Creek Trail. No fires are allowed in the backcountry.
What is the best time of year to camp here? Late summer (August–September) offers the most favorable weather—warm days, cool nights, and less rain. That said, campgrounds are full. Spring and fall have fewer crowds but more rain; winter is very wet and some campgrounds close The details matter here. Nothing fancy..
Do I need a special vehicle? No, except for Gold Bluffs Beach (low clearance okay, but no RVs/trailers). Most RV sites can accommodate vehicles up to 27–35 feet, but check specific campground restrictions.
Are there campgrounds with full RV hookups? No. Within the park, only basic hookups (water/electric) are not available. Private campgrounds outside the park (e.g., in Crescent City or Klamath) offer full hookups Worth keeping that in mind. No workaround needed..
Conclusion
The best place to camp in Redwood National Park is undoubtedly Elk Prairie Campground, thanks to its unbeatable combination of wildlife viewing, hiking access, and comfortable amenities. Yet, no single campground fits every traveler. This leads to if your dream is to wake up surrounded by the tallest trees on earth, choose Jedediah Smith Campground. If you crave the sound of crashing waves and a rugged coast, head to Gold Bluffs Beach. Whatever you decide, camping among the redwoods is a transformative experience—one that will leave you humbled by nature’s grandeur and eager to return.
Plan ahead, pack your sense of wonder, and get ready to sleep under the silent guardians of the Pacific coast. The redwoods are waiting Most people skip this — try not to..
