Camping in Redwood National Park? This guide covers everything you need to know before you pitch up – the best campsites and top tips to make your trip a breeze.
To say that camping is undoubtedly one of the best things to do in Redwood National Park might just be an understatement. After all, nothing quite beats getting unabashedly immersed into nature with towering Redwood trees surrounding you.
But deciding where to pitch up can be a struggle – do you opt for a completely rugged experience like at Little Bald Hills Camp? Or, do you park up somewhere like Mill Creek Campground and enjoy the luxury of a hot shower?
Have no fear, I’m here to answer all your camping questions. Let’s dive into the best places to camp in Redwood National Park.
Best Spots for Camping in Redwood National Park and State Parks
Little Bald Hills Camp
Redwood National Park
- Open dates: Year-round
- Number of sites: 5
- Types of camping available: Tents only
- Amenities: Firepits, bear-proof lockers, picnic tables, and horse troughs.
Small but sweet, this first Redwood camping site is tucked away and offers a backcountry experience.
Just north of the Klamath River sits the Little Bald Hills Camp. And I’ll warn you: making your way to the site itself is pretty strenuous, so fitness lovers will have a blast. I mean it: this unassuming camp is excellent for bike and horse riding trails, so saddle up and enjoy.
It is also great for larger groups, with site two allowing up to 20 people. Sure, there aren’t as many amenities as the developed sites, but that’s a small price to pay.
And the best part? This camp is totally free.
DeMartin Camp
Redwood National Park
- Open dates: Year-round
- Number of sites: 10
- Types of camping available: Tents only
- Amenities: Picnic tables, firepits, bear-proof food lockers, and toilets.
DeMartin Camp is another hidden gem amongst a sea of Redwood National Park campgrounds. Immerse yourself in the surrounding environment, enveloped by stunning alder trees and blackberry bushes.
Tighten your bag straps for the Coastal Trail hike, perfect for marvelling at the incredible scenery. As a bonus, you’re close to the sea (although you can’t actually see it from the site), so you can definitely hear the distant crashing of waves.
If the sounds of nature or the beauty surrounding you aren’t enough – though I’m sure it is – this backcountry site is also completely free.
Top Tip: DeMartin and Little Bald Hills are backcountry sites, so you will need to have backcountry camping permits to access them.
Jedediah Smith Campground
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
- Open dates: Year-round
- Number of sites: 86
- Types of camping available: Tent and campervan/RV
- Amenities: Firepits, hot showers, ADA-accessible restrooms, cabins, picnic tables, and food lockers.
Not sure you’re up to a totally rugged experience? Not to worry – Jedediah Smith Campground is one of the front-runners when it comes to camping near Redwood National Park.
This campsite lets you immerse yourself in the gorgeous overgrowth of the massive trees and the blue waters of the Smith River, all whilst still enjoying a few more luxuries (mainly hot showers and cosy cabins).
This site boasts plenty of hiking and bicycle trails, excellent camping spots alongside the river, and picnic tables perfect for having a quick bite. All you need to decide is whether you want to camp in a classic tent, RV or one of the available cabins.
The developed campground is ideal for larger families and groups. Standard camping fees are around $35 per night for regular sites and between $80 (winter) and $100 (summer) for cabins.
Mill Creek Campground
Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park
- Open dates: 18 May to 30 September
- Number of sites: 145
- Types of camping available: Tent and campervan/RV
- Amenities: ADA-accessible restrooms, hot showers, firepits, barbeques, and picnic tables.
When it comes to Redwood State Park camping, there are plenty of fantastic options in Del Norte Coast State Park, and Mill Creek Campground is no exception. In fact, this is one of the most popular campsites in the entire region.
There are tons of sites for you to make the most of, each surrounded by scenic forests. Don’t forget to take full advantage of some of the most rewarding hikes you can find on the grounds.
While this campsite isn’t open all year round, you still have loads of time to enjoy it. Plus, there are seasonal ranger-led programs too. It’s perfect for larger groups and families and costs around $35 per night.
Elk Prairie Campground
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
- Open dates: Year-round
- Number of sites: 75
- Types of camping available: Tent and campervan/RV
- Amenities: Firepits, barbeques, hot showers, ADA-accessible restrooms, cabins, picnic tables, and food lockers.
Undoubtedly a campsite fit for animal lovers, Elk Prairie Campground in Prairie Creek is open all year, so you can get an unbelievable camping experience no matter when you visit.
When in this lush Redwood forest, camping is an absolute joy – especially when black-tailed deer and local elk are grazing happily around you.
Tie your laces and pick up the Elk Prairie Trail, an easy loop trail, perfect for beginners. You can’t have your doggo with you, but birdwatching and elk viewing is well worth it.
Like its sister campground in Jedediah Smith, prices are $35 per night for standard campgrounds and $80 (winter) to $100 (summer) for cabins.
Gold Bluffs Beach Campground
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
- Open dates: Year-round (subject to funding)
- Number of sites: 26
- Types of camping available: Tent and campervan/RV
- Amenities: Firepits, barbeques, picnic tables, solar showers, restrooms and wind shelters.
Campsites amongst the Redwoods are plenty, but how about a more open-air experience? Well, that’s exactly what Gold Bluffs Beach Campground gives you. This beachy locale is more suited for youngsters and partygoers, but don’t let that put you off.
What’s better than camping with the views and tranquil sounds of the nearby ocean? Truly nothing, if you ask me. Plus, the roaming elk still make their way near the site, so you will have that to enjoy, too.
Like the other sites in and around Redwood National Park, RV camping is available with the same great amenities at your disposal. Standard pricing is around $35 per night.
Practical Tips for Booking Campsites in Redwood National Park
- Campsites in the national and State parks are usually pretty packed, so booking in advance is best (six months at least). You’ll also need backcountry permits for backcountry sites, so keep that in mind.
- There will be a lot of walking and hiking, so ensure you have good-quality hiking shoes (I don’t go anywhere without my Geysers!)and a full water bottle. And don’t forget some snacks.
- You can never be too careful out in the forces of nature, so to be safe, pack a good first aid kit and some bug repellent. You wouldn’t want those pesky mosquitoes to ruin the fun.
Camping In & Near Redwood National Park: Map
Redwood Camping Guide: Read More Cali Guides
Love This? Save and Share on Pinterest
