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State Park · CA

Richardson Grove State Park

Richardson Grove State Park is a peaceful forested coastal park in Northern California known for its towering old-growth redwoods and scenic roadside access near the Eel River.

State Park2,0004+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

2,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Richardson Grove State Park

Richardson Grove State Park is a peaceful forested coastal park in Northern California known for its towering old-growth redwoods and scenic roadside access near the Eel River.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Located in Humboldt County, California, Richardson Grove State Park encompasses a lush stretch along Highway 101 where visitors can experience some of the tallest and oldest coast redwoods in the region. The park covers terrain along the Eel River, offering a combination of river access, shaded forest groves, and picnic areas. It was established in 1922 to protect the remarkable redwoods and provide public recreational opportunities. The park is a popular stop for travelers heading along the scenic Highway 101 corridor, offering trail hiking, camping, and opportunities to observe native wildlife including deer, various bird species, and salmon in the river. The forest is dominated by ancient coast redwoods that can reach heights exceeding 300 feet, along with Douglas fir, tanoak, and madrone trees. Richardson Grove’s trails range from easy river strolls to moderate hikes through the redwood canopy, with interpretive displays highlighting the natural and cultural history of the area. The grove also represents traditional lands of the Wiyot people, adding cultural significance to the natural setting. Visitors frequently enjoy fishing, picnicking, and photography around the river and forest edges. The park’s proximity to Humboldt Redwoods State Park makes it a convenient starting point for exploring California’s iconic redwood ecosystem. Overall, Richardson Grove State Park offers accessible outdoor experiences with spectacular old-growth trees and river landscapes that attract nature lovers and road trippers alike.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Richardson Grove State Park

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

Hiking the Lost Coast Trail★ 8.5⌖ 9 miHiking
Lost Coast Trail

Hiking the Lost Coast Trail

Explore California's Lost Coast Trail, a remote 25-mile trek from Mattole Beach to Shelter Cove. With rugged beauty and solitude, this hike offers wildlife watching and beach camping. Best visited in spring or fall.

Discover King Range National Conservation Area★ 8.8⌖ 10 miHiking
King Range National Conservation Area

Discover King Range National Conservation Area

Explore King Range, featuring rugged coastlines and dense forests. This remote area offers hiking and beachcombing. Best visited in spring and fall, it's a quiet spot for adventure seekers. Don't miss wildlife along the Lost Coast Trail.

Shady Dell / Enchanted Forest of Candelabra Redwoods★ 8.8⌖ 18 miHiking
Shady Dell / Enchanted Forest of Candelabra Redwoods

Shady Dell / Enchanted Forest of Candelabra Redwoods

Explore the Shady Dell / Enchanted Forest of Candelabra Redwoods, located off Usal Road in Whitethorn, California. Known for its easy trails and unique redwood formations, it's ideal for hiking and photography. Experience peace and quiet year-round. Not wheelchair accessible.

Towering Giants of the Drury-Chaney Trail★ 8.7⌖ 26 miHiking
Drury-Chaney Trail

Towering Giants of the Drury-Chaney Trail

Explore the Drury-Chaney Trail in Avenue of the Giants. This easy hike winds through towering redwoods offering serene scenery and is perfect for families and photography buffs. Visit during late spring through fall for the best experience.

Scenic Strolls on the Coastal Trail★ 8.5⌖ 43 miHiking
Coastal Trail

Scenic Strolls on the Coastal Trail

Explore the Coastal Trail in Fort Bragg, California, for scenic hikes with stunning ocean views and unique geological formations. Ideal for birdwatching and tide pool exploration, it's a peaceful escape with moderate use, especially popular in spring and fall.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Ancient coast redwoods towering over 300 feet tall✦ Scenic Eel River running through the park offering fishing and wildlife viewing✦ Historic highway 101 passing directly through the grove providing roadside access✦ Quiet picnic areas shaded by old-growth forest canopy
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Richardson Grove State Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Richardson Grove State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Richardson Grove State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Richardson Grove State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Richardson Grove State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Richardson Grove State Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Richardson Grove State Park
Park Recreation

Bird Watching

Available in Richardson Grove State Park
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Richardson Grove State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Richardson Grove State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Day use fees apply seasonally; camping requires reservation. No entrance permit required for day visits.

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 Richardson Grove State Park

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

Richardson Grove Campground

Located within the park among the old-growth forest, offering shaded campsites with access to restrooms and picnic tables.

Group Campground

Designed for larger groups, this site is near the river and provides a rustic setting for gatherings and events.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Richardson Grove State Park

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

Whitethorn
⌖ 3.50 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Whitethorn, California

A quiet local hub perfect for nature enthusiasts with direct access to some of the most rugged and stunning sections of California's Lost Coast.

Spring and FallExplore Town
Shelter Cove
⌖ 5.60 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Shelter Cove, California

A remote coastal hamlet offering rugged natural beauty, peaceful wilderness, and a gateway to diverse outdoor adventures along California's Lost Coast.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Redway
⌖ 9.05 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Redway, California

A small gateway community offering quiet access to Northern California’s redwood forests, rivers, and wildlife, ideal for nature lovers seeking offbeat outdoor adventures.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Garberville
⌖ 10.03 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Garberville, California

A rustic gateway to Northern California's redwood forests, offering peaceful trails, river activities, and a relaxed small-town atmosphere for nature enthusiasts.

Late spring through early fallExplore Town
Piercy
⌖ 12.01 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Piercy, California

A quiet gateway to Northern California’s rugged redwood forests and river corridors, offering a peaceful outdoor retreat with deep wilderness access.

Spring through FallExplore Town
Phillipsville
⌖ 14.15 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Phillipsville, California

A quiet gateway to Northern California's rugged redwood coast, ideal for paddlers, hikers, and those seeking peaceful forest adventures.

Spring through early FallExplore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Richardson Grove State Park

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.