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Redwoods National and State Parks wilderness guide
National and State Parks · CA

Redwoods National and State Parks

Redwoods National and State Parks offer one of the most awe-inspiring old-growth coastal redwood forests in the world, providing visitors with towering trees and scenic coastlines.

National and State Parks139,0004+ Trails

Designation

National and State Parks

Total Wilderness Area

139,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Redwoods National and State Parks

Redwoods National and State Parks offer one of the most awe-inspiring old-growth coastal redwood forests in the world, providing visitors with towering trees and scenic coastlines.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Redwoods National and State Parks are located on the northern coast of California, encompassing over 139,000 acres of redwood forest, and feature some of the tallest trees on Earth. These parks were created as a result of cooperative management among the National Park Service and California State Parks and include four parks: Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, and Redwoods National Park. The area is renowned for its dense woodlands, lush ferns, and dynamic coastal environment. The parks protect a rich biodiversity, hosting numerous species such as Roosevelt elk, black bears, and the endangered marbled murrelet. Beyond the forests, scenic drives, hiking, and beachfront opportunities await visiting adventurers. These areas also hold historical significance, with numerous Native American tribes having lived in the region for thousands of years.

Field Guide · National and State Parks
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Redwoods National and State Parks

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 30 miles.

Majestic Redwoods of Tall Trees Grove★ 9.4⌖ 1 miHiking
Tall Trees Grove Trailhead

Majestic Redwoods of Tall Trees Grove

Explore Tall Trees Grove in Humboldt County, a serene forest with soaring redwoods. Ideal for hiking, wildlife watching, and photography. Best visited in spring or fall to enjoy peaceful beauty and diverse wildlife.

Tall Trees and Tranquility: Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail★ 8.5⌖ 6 miHiking
Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail

Tall Trees and Tranquility: Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail

Explore the 1.5-mile Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail in Redwood National and State Parks near Orick, CA. This easy loop offers peaceful walks among ancient towering redwoods, ideal for families and photographers. Enjoy solitude year-round among majestic trees and vibrant undergrowth.

Trillium Falls Trail: A Forest Wonderland★ 8.2⌖ 8 miHiking
Trillium Falls Trail

Trillium Falls Trail: A Forest Wonderland

Explore the 2.6-mile Trillium Falls Trail near Orick, CA. This moderate loop features stunning views of a waterfall and towering redwoods, ideal for hikers and photographers. Enjoy a peaceful hike with wildlife sightings in Redwood National and State Parks.

Coastal Beauty at Sue-meg State Park★ 8.5⌖ 9 miHiking
Sue-meg State Park

Coastal Beauty at Sue-meg State Park

Explore Sue-meg State Park in Trinidad, CA. With moderate trails, scenic vistas, and cultural exploration opportunities, this coastal park is great for families. Visit in fall for fewer crowds and don't miss the views from Wedding Rock.

Giants of the Redwood Coast: Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park★ 9.2⌖ 13 miHiking
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

Giants of the Redwood Coast: Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

Explore Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park in Orick, CA. Wander through towering redwoods offering hiking, wildlife viewing, and camping. Perfect for families during spring and summer. Drive-in access, not handicapped accessible, consistent tranquility welcomes visitors year-round.

Redwood National and State Parks★ 9.3⌖ 13 miHiking
Redwood National and State Parks

Redwood National and State Parks

Explore the stunning beauty of Redwood National and State Parks. Located near Crescent City, California, this iconic destination offers hiking among ancient redwoods and vibrant ecosystems. Enjoy year-round access to lush forests and wildlife viewing in a family-friendly environment.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Tall Trees Grove, featuring some of the tallest redwoods in the world.✦ Fern Canyon, known for its lush, moss-covered walls and streams.✦ The high dunes and coastal views from the Lyons Ranch Trail.✦ Prairie Creek Scenic Drive, providing a memorable journey through the forest.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Redwoods National and State Parks

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Redwoods National and State Parks
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Redwoods National and State Parks
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Redwoods National and State Parks
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Redwoods National and State Parks
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Redwoods National and State Parks
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Redwoods National and State Parks.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fees, but some areas require permits.

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Redwoods National and State Parks

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Jedediah Smith Campground

Located within the forest with access to hiking trails and the Smith River.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Redwoods National and State Parks

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Orick
⌖ 5.94 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Orick, California

A serene coastal town offering unparalleled access to breathtaking redwood forests, rugged beaches, and diverse ecosystems perfect for exploration.

Summer and FallExplore Town
McKinleyville
⌖ 19.37 miles
Gateway Basecamp

McKinleyville, California

A peaceful coastal town offering diverse outdoor activities amidst the stunning landscapes of Northern California.

Klamath
⌖ 22.02 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Klamath, California

A rugged coastal gateway offering wild river canyons, old-growth forests, and Pacific Ocean access for year-round outdoor adventures.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Blue Lake
⌖ 22.85 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Blue Lake, California

A small, scenic town offering forested river landscapes and outdoor activities centered around the Mad River and surrounding nature areas.

Late Spring through Early FallExplore Town
Korbel
⌖ 23.80 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Korbel, California

A quiet, forested community surrounded by dense redwoods offering peaceful outdoor adventures along the Eel River corridor.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Arcata
⌖ 24.25 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Arcata, California

A vibrant town on California's rugged North Coast where the redwoods meet the ocean; perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and eco-conscious travelers.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Redwoods National and State Parks

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

12 bookable experiences

Availability, pricing, meeting details, and fulfillment are provided by the applicable operator or booking partner.