Imagine waking up to a gentle sunlight that casts itself through lush ancient forests and warms your face. You hear the sounds of a small bird singing her song and of ancient giants gently creaking and stretching in the morning sunlight. You open your eyes and look out your tent to find that you’re surrounded by an ancient old growth forest that seems to glow neon green and smells of all things natural and wild.
This place does exist, and it’s called Redwood National Park. And, it’s home to the tallest trees on earth, great hiking, diverse wildlife, coastline, prairies, rivers and beautiful campgrounds nestled amongst these giant trees.
Camping in Redwood National Park will give you a first-hand connection with the wild beauty of these forests. Located in Northern California and established in 1968, Redwood National Park offers four developed campgrounds that will get you in touch with your natural side.
So, grab your tent, camera and hiking boots because we’re about to check out campgrounds in the Redwood National Park.
Jedediah Smith Campground is surrounded by old growth Redwood trees and runs alongside the wild and scenic Smith River. You’ll find miles of hiking trails that take you deep into the woods, and lots of swimming and fishing options on the Smith River.
There are 86 camp sites (no hook-ups for RV’s) and even a few cabins if you’re feeling a little more upscale. All campsites will have a picnic table, fire pit and food storage container because in the Redwoods you need to be bear aware. There are also hot showers, well equipped restrooms, a visitor center and campfire programs so you can learn about the park’s history and future. This campground is open year round and sites are reservable through ReserveCalifornia.
Mill Creek Campground is also in the front and center of towering forests. You’ll find tons of maples, alders and coastal redwoods. From camp there’s access to hiking trails so you can really discover the forests firsthand and if you want a cool dip during the summer, then take a short walk to Mill Creek.
There are 145 sites (no hook-ups for RV’s), hot showers, restrooms and every campsite will have a picnic table, firepit and food locker. Mill Creek is seasonal and open May 18th through September 30th. You can make reservations through ReserveCalifornia.
Elk Prairie Campground is nestled amongst ancient coastal redwoods and if you’re lucky you might even spot Roosevelt elk and black-tailed deer grazing through its forests and prairies. From camp there are 70 miles of hiking and biking trails to explore and during summer months stop by for a ranger-led program so you can become an expert on the area.
There are 75 sites (no hook-ups for RV’s), hot showers, restrooms and a few cabins to choose from if you want an easy night in a comfortable cabin. Every campsite will have a picnic table, firepit and food locker.
Gold Bluffs Beach Campground mixes it up and is located along the Pacific coast. From here you’ll have access to miles of secluded beaches for hiking and exploring. Fern Canyon is a not to be missed hike. Just 1 mile from camp, Fern Canyon is a short hike that leads you through a glowing neon fern covered canyon. Be prepared to get your feet wet as you hike through a small stream at times, but it’s totally worth it for this otherworldly hike.
There are 26 sites (no hook-ups for RV’s), solar showers, restrooms and even wind shelters. Each site will have a picnic table, firepit and food locker. Gold Bluffs Beach CG is usually open year-round, but check first and you can of course make a reservation with ReserveCalifornia.
Traveling to Redwood National Park is a must for any nature lover and camping is one of the best ways to get a first-hand and intimate outdoor experience. So, plan ahead and make reservations for and unforgettable camping experience among the giants this summer.