Best guide to visiting Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park was one of the most beautiful USA National Parks we visited during our epic 3-month road trip across the country.

Beforehand, I hadn’t realized beforehand quite how far it was away from major cities.

This didn’t matter for us since we were road-tripping and heading north up the California coast anyway, but if you’re planning on visiting Redwood National Park and State Parks then it requires a little bit more planning.

Yes, you can see redwoods throughout the state of California, but a visit to Redwood National Park is something special and it’s definitely the best place to see redwoods in California.

So, read this guide to Redwood National Park, California for everything you need to know if you’re planning on visiting Redwoods National Park. I’ve got information on the best things to do in Redwoods National Park California such as the Redwood Creek Overlook, where to stay, what to do nearby, and all the information you need on permits and passes.

There’s also a section at the end of the post about where to find other redwood forests of California if you’re staying in San Francisco.

About the Redwood Forests

Redwood National Park is renowned for being home to some of the tallest trees in the world. But the park isn’t just about trees, there are also prairies, oak woodlands, rivers, and around 40 miles of coastline.

You can’t fail to be impressed by the size of the redwoods in both height and number but what’s more surprising (and saddening) is that it’s said only about 5% of the redwood forest in California remains.

On a more positive note, the Redwood World Heritage Site leads the world in restoration efforts helping to keep the largest redwood trees growing and thriving!

About redwood trees

Redwood trees are amazing. They’re believed to have been on earth for 240 million years and can grow to 300 ft (91m) or more! It’s easy to see why they’re often referred to as ‘giant redwoods’ in California.

But it’s not only their height that is impressive, it’s also their age.

Along the coast, you may see redwoods that have been living for over 2000 years! 

Wondering “What is redwood?” It’s a subfamily of coniferous trees that grow commonly on the coast which is while you’ll find them along the northern California coast from Big Sur and there is also some redwood forest in Oregon.

The coastal California redwoods only grow in the Pacific North West so you’ll have to visit this part of the world if you’re looking to see some!

Redwood National Park tree facts

The oldest tree in Redwood National Park is believed to be somewhere between 1,900 – 2,200 years old! It’s named the Grizzly Giant and can be found in Mariposa Grove which is an old growth redwood forest.

The tallest tree in the Redwood National Park is Hyperion. It’s a coast redwood and is  379.1 ft (115.55 m) tall! It was only recently discovered (2006) as it’s in a more remote part of the Redwood National Park, California.

So while you might not find this one, you’ll still be amazed by the size of the other trees in the park!

Redwood National Park map

Below are a couple of maps of the redwood forest national park in California. You can use this to get your bearings and see just how spread out the National Park is.

I’ve also included my Google Maps map of the Redwood National Park which includes the best hikes and best things to do in this impressive National Park.

You can see a complete Redwood Park map here from the National Parks Service.

If you’re going hiking to find even more giant redwood trees you’ll need a Redwoods trail map as there’s limited signal within the park and the trails can be confusing. I recommend this one.

How to get to Redwood National Park in Ca

When it comes to how to get to Redwood National Park that can vary hugely depending on where you’re coming from.

As Redwood National Forest is quite far away from any major city, getting to Redwood National Park isn’t exactly the easiest undertaking. But, don’t let that put you off, especially if you’re planning a California or West Coast road trip!

Where is Redwood National Park located?

If you’re wondering, like I was when we were driving through this part of the US, “Where is the Redwood forest?” then there are multiple answers.

There are some redwood forests near San Francisco, but the Redwood National Park area is in northern California along the coastline.

It’s about a 1.5-hour drive from the Oregon-California border. Roughly 6 hours from Redwood National Park to San Francisco and almost 7 hours from Portland in Oregon.

Visiting Redwood National Park – How to get there

Getting to the California Redwoods by car is the easiest, and usually the cheapest.

The other benefit of taking the car is that whichever direction you come from, you’re treated to amazing views along the coast and plenty of redwood roadside attractions too.

I use comparison sites like DiscoverCars and RentalCars to book my car rentals as it’s easy to check prices and compare the best deals!

Closest airports to Redwood National Park

The two main international airports near Redwood National Park that you’re most likely to arrive at are Portland International and San Francisco International Airports.

The closest domestic airports to Redwood National Park are Crescent City Airport which is served by United Express Airlines and Eureka-Arcata Airport served by Horizon Air.

Skyscanner is what I use to find cheap flights.

Driving directions from Portland to Redwood National Park

The journey from Portland, Oregon to Redwood National Park is around 370 miles along the I-5.

However, if you’ve got some time I strongly recommend driving along the Oregon Coast.

It’s one part of our three-month American road trip that my husband and I talk about all the time. It was such a surprise and it’s incredibly beautiful!

San Francisco to Redwood National Park

If you’re wondering how far is Redwood Forest from San Francisco (assuming you’re talking about the national park), it’s about a 300-mile drive on Highway 101.

It’s slightly longer if you take the slower, but more picturesque Highway 1 which goes directly along the coast.

Permits, passes, and entrance fees for Redwood Forest National Park

Planning for a Redwoods National Park trip means you’ll have to think about the following fees, permits, and passes.

Entrance fees for Redwood National Park

Redwood National and Redwood State Park are fee-free with the exception of day-use areas within the Prairie Creek Redwoods, Del Norte Coast Redwoods, and Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Parks.

Fern Canyon is within a day-use area and requires paying a day-use fee of $8 per car or showing a federal pass such as the America is Beautiful Parks Pass.

While Redwood National and State Parks do not charge an entrance fee, many other national parks do. If you plan to visit multiple national parks within a year, you might consider purchasing the America the Beautiful Pass. This pass costs $80 annually and provides entrance to all national parks and federal recreational lands in the United States for one year from the month of purchase.

Get a USA National Parks Pass for just $80 and save a tonne of money if you’re planning on visiting multiple National Parks in a year, or visiting the same one more than once!

California State Park Passes

Since Redwood National and State Parks are managed jointly by the National Park Service and California State Parks, you might consider looking into a California State Park Pass if you plan to visit other state parks in California.

These areas you’ll need this pass (or your American Parks Pass) include:

• Developed campgrounds (like Jedediah Smith, Mill Creek, Elk Prairie, and Gold Bluffs Beach)
• Driving to Gold Bluffs Beach or Fern Canyon in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

Redwoods National Park Permits

Redwood National and State Parks require hikers to get a permit in advance for Gold Bluffs Beach and Fern Canyon, as well as Tall Trees Grove.

Tall Trees Trailhead permits are required year-round and can be made up to 24 hours in advance. Gold Bluffs Beach Day-use permits are required from May 15th to September 15th and can be made up to 24 hours in advance

Redwood National Park camping fees

If you want to stay in Redwood National Park then it’ll have to be in one of the Redwood National Park campgrounds. There aren’t any hotels or lodges inside the park.

What you do have a choice of is whether to stay in a developed campground in Redwoods, CA, or in a backcountry campsite. Camping within the park is one of the best ways to enjoy these beautiful northern California redwoods!

There are four campgrounds in Redwood National Park: Jedediah Smith Campground, Mill Creek, Elk Prairie, and Gold Bluffs Beach.

Camping at a campsite costs $35 per night. There are also some Redwood National Park cabins at the Jedediah Smith and Elk Prairie campgrounds.

You must reserve in advance (at least 3 months), especially in the summer as redwood forest camping is very popular! Reservations for campgrounds that are part of the California State Parks system can be made through ReserveCalifornia, the state’s campground reservation system. For backcountry camping, specific reservations are generally not required, but you do need to obtain the free backcountry permit as mentioned above.

Backcountry permits for Redwood National Park

There are more than 322 km of backcountry trails and seven designated backcountry campsites and spending a night in the backcountry can be great fun if you’re well-prepared! Backcountry exploration can lead to some of the best camping in Redwood National Park!

For visitors to Redwoods National Park looking to stay overnight in the backcountry, you’ll need to get a backcountry permit. These are free and are issued in person up to 24 hours in advance of your trip.

Take a look at the backcountry trip planner to decide what would work best for you and then head to the Hiouchi or Kuchel Red Wood National Park Visitor Centres to get your permit.

Permits are limited and are issued on a first-come, first-served basis.

5 Best things to do in Redwood National Park Besides Hiking

Add these top things to do in Redwood National Park to your Redwood travel itinerary!

• Drive Through a Redwood Tree: Experience the awe-inspiring scale of these giants by driving through a tunnel cut into a massive redwood, such as the Tour-Thru Tree in Klamath.
• Visit the Kuchel Visitor Center: Learn about the park’s history, wildlife, and ecosystem through exhibits and films, and speak to rangers for personalized advice on exploring the park.
• Scenic Drives: Take the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway or Howland Hill Road for breathtaking views of towering redwoods without leaving your car.
• Wildlife Viewing: Keep an eye out for Roosevelt elk, black bears, sea lions, and a variety of bird species throughout the park.
• Explore Tide Pools at Enderts Beach: A visit at low tide reveals a fascinating world of marine life, including starfish, anemones, and crabs.

Where’s the drive-through tree in Redwood National Park?

There isn’t a redwood drive-in tree within the Redwood National Park boundaries.

However, if you’re driving the California coastal road you’ll find plenty of strange roadside attractions like this In Klamath, less than an hour north of Redwood National Park, you’ll find the Klamath tour-thru tree and there’s also the Chandelier drive-through tree south of the parks.

5 Best Redwood Hikes

If you love hiking then be sure to check out these best hikes in Redwood National Park.

• Tall Trees Grove Trail: A moderately challenging trail that takes you to one of the most iconic groves of towering redwoods in the park. (Approx. 4 miles round-trip)
• James Irvine Trail to Fern Canyon: A diverse trail with ancient redwoods that leads to a canyon with walls covered in ferns. (Approx. 10 miles round-trip)
• Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail: A relatively easy and popular trail that winds through a beautiful old-growth redwood grove. (Approx. 1.5 miles round-trip)
• Coastal Trail – Last Chance Section: A trail that offers both redwoods and ocean views, giving a sense of the park’s diverse environments. (Approx. 12 miles round-trip, can be done as shorter hikes)
• Trillium Falls Trail: A family-friendly hike that features a lovely waterfall, old-growth redwoods, and opportunities for elk viewing. (Approx. 2.5 miles round-trip)

AllTrails is my go-to hiking app for finding, planning, and navigating while I’m out on the trails. With offline maps on AllTrails+ you can be confident you’re still on the right track, even without mobile signal.

5 Best things to do near Redwood National Park

Expand your stay in the area and check out these things to do nearby.

• Visit Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge: Explore this diverse habitat that is crucial for migratory birds, located to the south of the park near Eureka.
• Explore the Victorian Village of Ferndale: Step back in time in this charming town known for its well-preserved Victorian architecture.
• Drive the Avenue of the Giants: A scenic highway that is home to some of the world’s tallest and most massive trees, located in Humboldt Redwoods State Park.
• Visit the Battery Point Lighthouse in Crescent City: This active lighthouse is also a museum, offering a glimpse into maritime history.
• Explore the Del Norte Coast: Just north of the park, this rugged coastline offers more beautiful trails, beaches, and scenic views.

Where to stay for Redwood National Park California

With no Redwood National Park hotels inside the park itself, you’ll have to be prepared to stay a little outside in one of the cities near Redwood National Park. But don’t worry there are some great hotels near Redwood National Park.

Hotels near Redwood National Park

Whilst you won’t find a list of where to stay in Redwood National Park, these hotels and inns near Redwood National Park make great options.

This list of the best hotels near Redwood National Park includes some near the town of Eureka which is less than 1 hour’s drive south of Redwood National Park, as well as some in Klamath and Crescent City.

Here’s a selection of some of the best places to stay near Redwood National Park.

• Hiouchi Motel: Located in Crescent City, this motel offers free WiFi, private parking, and convenient on-site dining with its American cuisine restaurant. The rooms boast mountain views and modern amenities.
• Emerald Forest Cabins: Set in Trinidad, these cabins come with their own kitchen facilities and are in close proximity to two beaches. Guests have access to a garden, a terrace, and a children’s playground.
• Rock Rose Cottage: Offering garden views and located near Luffenholtz Beach, this air-conditioned holiday home in Trinidad provides a full kitchen, free WiFi, and private parking, making it an ideal comfortable base for exploring.
• Stone Lagoon Cabin: Located in Orick, this holiday home provides a serene mountain view setting with a full kitchen, and free WiFi, and is a comfortable place to stay near Humboldt State University.
• Glamping Tent on the River: Set in Klamath, this glamping experience offers unique and luxurious accommodation with free private parking and various outdoor activities, including fishing and hiking, right at your doorstep.
• Elk Meadow Cabins 11B Roosevelt Elk: Situated in Orick, right within Redwoods National Park, this cabin not only offers free WiFi and proximity to scenic drives and trails but also gives guests the unique experience of viewing elk grazing in the adjacent meadow.

Redwood National Park Camping

Camping in Redwood National and State Parks offers an immersive way to connect with the awe-inspiring natural environment. Here’s everything you need to know:

Campsites in Redwood National and State Parks:

• Jedediah Smith Campground: This campground costs about $35 per night for a standard site and has flush toilets, showers, a picnic table, fire pits, and a dump station.
• Mill Creek Campground: Around $35 per night for a standard site with flush toilets, showers, picnic tables, fire pits, and a dump station.
• Elk Prairie Campground: Around $35 per night for a standard site. This campsite has flush toilets, showers, picnic tables, fire pits, and a dump station.
• Gold Bluffs Beach Campground: Also around $35 per night for a standard site. Has solar showers, toilets, picnic tables, fire pits, and no dump station available.

General Information:

• Reservations: It’s highly recommended to reserve your campsite in advance, especially during peak season (summer). Reservations can typically be made through Reserve California.
• Season: Campgrounds are generally open year-round, but some may close in winter due to weather.
• RVs and Trailers: Some campgrounds can accommodate RVs and trailers, but size restrictions apply and vary by campground.

Rules and Regulations:

• Check-in/Check-out: Check-in and check-out times vary but are typically around 2 PM and 12 PM, respectively.
• Quiet Hours: Usually from 10 PM to 6 AM.
• Pets: Pets are allowed in campgrounds but must be kept on a leash. They are not allowed on trails or beaches.
• Campfires: Allowed only in designated fire rings. Check for seasonal fire restrictions. Fires are usually not allowed in summer due to the wildfire risk.
• Food Storage: Proper food storage is mandatory to avoid attracting wildlife, especially raccoons and bears. Always leave your campsite clean when unattended.

Additional Tips:

• Pack Out Trash: Not all campgrounds offer trash facilities, so be prepared to pack out what you pack in.
• Bring Essentials: Make sure to bring essentials like water, food, a first aid kit, and warm clothing, as weather can change rapidly.
• Cell Service: This can be spotty or non-existent, depending on the location of the campsite.

Please note that these details—including prices—can change, so it’s wise to check with the park’s official website or contact the park directly for the most up-to-date information before you make your plans.

Camping near Redwood National Park

There’s a lot more choice when it comes to campgrounds near Redwood National Park.

We camped in our van in the small town of Klamath just north of Redwood National Park. The town is full of RV parks including Klamath River RV Park, Golden Bear RV Park, Blackberry RV Park, and Redwood RV Park.

When you visit Redwoods you can also stay south of Redwood National Park at Emerald Forest Cabins & RV Park, Azalea Glen Rv Park Campground, and Sylvan Harbor RV Park & Cabins.

There are also plenty of places to camp for free in the area. Learn more about how to find free camping in the US.

Important things to know about visiting Redwood National Park

Here’s a list of what you should know before visiting Redwood National and State Parks:

• Redwood National Park Opening Hours: Redwood National and State Parks are open year-round, 24 hours a day. However, visitor centers have varying hours and some may be seasonally closed.
• Redwoods Entrance Fees: There are no entrance fees for Redwood National and State Parks. Some state park areas may charge a day-use fee for parking.
• Redwood National Park Weather: The climate is generally mild, with coastal temperatures ranging from 40-60°F (4-16°C) year-round. Inland areas can reach up to 85°F (29°C) in summer and drop to 32°F (0°C) in winter. Be prepared for rain, particularly from October through April.
• Crowds: Summer (June to September) is the busiest season. To avoid crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall).
• Different Areas of the Park:
  • Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park: Known for old-growth forests and the Smith River.
  • Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park: Home to stunning coastline and Mill Creek Campground.
  • Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park: Famous for its elk herds and Fern Canyon.
  • Orick Area and Redwood National Park Proper: Includes Lady Bird Johnson Grove and Tall Trees Grove.
• Camping Reservations: Highly recommended, especially from May through September. Reservations can be made through Reserve California.
• Driving in the Park: The park stretches along the coast for about 40 miles, so plan for travel time between different areas of the park. Some roads, like the road to Gold Bluffs Beach, are unpaved and can be rough.
• Pets: Pets are allowed in campgrounds and on leashes in developed areas, but not on most park trails.
• Cell Service: It can be spotty or non-existent in various parts of the park.
• Safety: Be cautious near rivers and the ocean, as currents can be strong. Also, always store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife.
• Facilities: Visitor centers, such as the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center and Jedediah Smith Visitor Center, have exhibits, restrooms, and staff to answer questions. Some centers close in winter.
• Hiking and Activities: The park is home to over 200 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to strenuous. There are also ranger-led programs, particularly in summer.
• Please check the official park website or contact the park directly for the most up-to-date and detailed information before you make your plans.

Best time to visit the California Redwood Forest

Depending on what you plan on doing during your visit to the Redwoods forest some seasons might be better than others.

Overall, the best time to visit Redwood National Park if you want mild weather and fewer crowds is spring and fall. For the best chance of dry weather and to experience the park at its liveliest (but also its busiest), aim for summer. If you don’t mind the rain and prefer solitude, winter might be your season.

Always be prepared for variable weather, as coastal climates can change rapidly, and pack layers to accommodate for temperature changes throughout the day.

Below is an overview of what to expect.

Spring (March – May): Highs range from 55 to 62°F (13 to 17°C) and lows from 41 to 44°F (5 to 7°C) and generally spring is a lovely time to visit, with wildflowers starting to bloom and the park coming to life after winter. Rainfall decreases as you move from March to May, and crowds are still relatively low.

Summer (June – August): Highs range from 62 to 64°F (17 to 18°C) and lows from 47 to 49°F (8 to 9°C). This is the most popular time to visit. Days are mild and nights are cool, with occasional fog. This is the driest season, making it great for camping and outdoor activities. Due to the popularity, be prepared for more visitors during these months.

Fall (September – November): Highs range from 60 to 64°F (16 to 18°C) and lows from 44 to 48°F (7 to 9°C). Fall is a fantastic time to visit, with fewer crowds than summer and generally mild, pleasant weather. The park starts to get more rainfall as November approaches, but September and October are often sunny and dry.

Winter (December – February): Highs range from 53 to 55°F (12 to 13°C) and lows from 40 to 41°F (4 to 5°C). Winter is the quietest time in the park, with fewer visitors. It is the wettest season, with regular and sometimes heavy rain, which can limit certain outdoor activities but brings a lush, vibrant look to the forest. Some facilities and roads may be closed or have reduced hours.

What to pack for visiting the Redwoods California

Below is an example packing list for what to pack for your Redwoods trip. You may need to add or leave certain items depending on what you plan to do and the time of year you’re planning to visit.

Clothing:

• Waterproof and Windproof Jacket: The weather can be unpredictable, and it often rains, especially in winter.
• Layered Clothing: Lightweight shirts, sweaters, or fleece for layering, as temperatures can vary throughout the day.
• Long Pants and Shorts: Prepare for varying weather and protection against ticks and poison oak.
• Comfortable Hiking Boots or Shoes: Choose waterproof if possible.
• Hat and Gloves: Even in summer, mornings and evenings can be cool.
• Extra Socks and Underwear: Especially if you plan to do a lot of hiking.

Camping Gear (if camping):

• Tent with Rainfly and Stakes: Ensure it’s rated for the season you are visiting.
• Sleeping Bag and Pad: Again, ensure it’s rated for the season.
• Camp Stove and Fuel: Some campgrounds do not have firewood available.
• Cooking Utensils and Food Supplies: Including pots, pans, plates, utensils, and biodegradable soap.

Personal Items:

• Personal Identification and Permits: ID, reservation confirmations, and necessary permits.
• Health and Hygiene Products: Including prescription medications, first aid kit, toothbrush, toothpaste, and sanitary products.
• Insect Repellent: Especially during the warmer months.
• Sunscreen and Lip Balm with SPF: Despite the shade, you’ll still be exposed to the sun.

Miscellaneous:

• Reusable Water Bottle or Hydration System: It’s important to stay hydrated while hiking.
• High-Energy Snacks: Such as nuts, energy bars, and dried fruit for hikes.
• Backpack or Daypack: For carrying essentials during day hikes.
• Camera or Binoculars: For capturing the beautiful scenery and wildlife.
• Headlamp or Flashlight with Extra Batteries: Essential for campers and useful for hikers.
• Pocket Knife or Multi-tool: Useful in various situations.

Special Considerations for Winter:

• Insulated, Waterproof Boots: To keep your feet warm and dry.
• Thermal Layers: Including thermal socks, undergarments, and insulating layers for extreme cold.
• Snow and Ice Gear: If you plan to venture into snowy areas, consider packing snowshoes, crampons, or gaiters.

Remember that the weather in Redwood National and State Parks can be quite variable, so it’s essential to check the forecast and pack accordingly. Also, practicing Leave No Trace principles, please pack out all trash and waste.

Where to see Redwood Forest near San Francisco

If you’re looking for options for where to see redwoods in California that are closer to San Francisco, here are a few places.

If you’re staying in San Franciso, check out this guided tour to the Redwoods with transport. You’ll be taken across the Golden Gate Bridge to the Redwood forests stopping for lunch and wine tasting in Sonoma!

Muir Woods National Monument

If you’re looking for where to see redwoods near San Francisco then one of the most popular places is the Muir Woods National Monument.

This is the best place to see redwoods near San Francisco if you’re short on time and don’t want to make a long drive.

This park full of redwood trees near San Francisco gets very busy so go early in the morning. Parking can be an issue. If you branch off from the main trail then things get a little quieter so I recommend doing that!

We had a great time wandering this Redwood Forest in California!

Big Basin Redwoods State Park

Big Basin Redwoods State Park is just 65 miles (105km) south of San Francisco. It’s the oldest state park in California and has around 80 miles (128km) of trails that go through a coastal redwood forest.

It also has a unique feature in that there are a number of waterfalls that can be found there.

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park

Henry Cowell Redwoods State Park is just southeast of Big Basin and is a great option for a Redwoods vacation from San Francisco.

You can see some truly great redwoods here on the Redwood Grove trail which weaves through old-growth redwoods. There’s also the option to take a guided walk most weekends too.

Hendy Woods State Park

In the middle of the wine country in Mendocino County is Hendy Woods State Park. Being a bit further from the coast, you’ll likely notice that this park is a lot warmer and less foggy than the other California redwood parks.

If wine tasting is part of your California itinerary then stopping here is very worthwhile.

Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park

One of the best places to see giant redwoods outside of the California Redwoods National Park is Julia Pfeiffer Burns State Park. This popular stop along the Big Sur scenic drive is known for the coastal views but there are also trails that stroll through redwood groves in a redwood California forest.

One of the best hikes to see redwoods is along the Ewoldsen Trail, which offers views of redwood groves and the Pacific Ocean.

FAQs about the Redwood Forest California

Final thoughts on the Red Wood Forest National Park

Redwood National Park is a true natural wonder that beckons visitors with its towering trees, dramatic coastline, and tranquil forests. With beautiful mist-filled mornings and sunny afternoons, a visit to Red Wood Forest California offers a unique and deeply rewarding experience.

If you’re planning a longer USA road trip, be sure to head up along the Oregon Coast which is absolutely stunning – oh, and check out these cool Oregon treehouses to rent! Maybe stop by in Portland Oregon, or look at this West Coast USA road trip itinerary for more ideas.

Last Updated on August 16, 2023 by Hannah