Camping in the redwooods. Sounds like something off a bucket list right?
Well, it turns out if you want to spend some time on California‘s Redwood Coast, camping is a pretty good option. It’s an inexpensive way to spend a few nights in the area. And, you get to be up close and personal with some of nature’s greatest wonders.
It doesn’t get any better than that.
In this post, we’re going to tell you what you need to know about camping in Redwood National and State Parks.
Get your pack ready, and let’s get to it.
Spending some time on the California Redwood Coast
California redwoods are some of the most incredible natural sites to see not only in the United States but around the world. These trees reach hundreds of feet tall and are thousands of years old. Because of their protected status and delicate ecosystem, the National Park Service is very dedicated to ensuring the safety and security of these giant trees.
But, that doesn’t mean you can’t get up close and personal with them and even spend some time sleeping under a canopy of redwoods on a beautiful summer night. This part of the California coast offers visitors the option to visit several parks that are right along the Pacific Ocean.
Campgrounds
There are just over a dozen developed public campgrounds in the Redwood National and State Parks and three primitive backcountry sites. As you’re booking your site, pay attention to the amenities that are offered because they do vary, even among the developed sites.
The Florence Keller site, which is nestled in a second growth redwood forest, only has restrooms, for example. While the Jedediah Smith campground in one of the old growth settings, has firepits, a visitor’s center, handicap accessible restrooms, and showers.
If you prefer to really ‘rough it’ you can camp in one of the few primitive sites in Redwood National and State Parks. But, remember these will have almost no amenities, and you might need to secure a permit beforehand.
Planning ahead
The most important thing to know is that if you plan on camping in Redwood National and State Parks in the summer, you will need to secure a reservation beforehand. It shouldn’t come as a big surprise that these parks are in pretty high demand, so spaces go quickly.
If you hope that you can show up and grab a prime spot, you are likely to be out of luck with no place to stay. Your best bet is to check the calendar at Reserve California at least 48 hours ahead. And for those prime summer months, it’s a good idea to reserve three to six months before your trip.
Getting there
To visit the Redwood National and State Parks head to California Highway 101 and head either North or South, depending on where you live. The park is not far from the Oregon border. So, most California residents will be treated to a beautiful coastal drive along the way.
It doesn’t get much better than that!
