Redwood National Park - Full Datasheet for Van Travelers

Redwood National Park, together with the state parks that comprise the Redwood National and State Parks system, is a sanctuary for the tallest trees on Earth—coastal redwoods that soar over 300 feet into the sky. The park, located in northern California, preserves these ancient giants, some of which are over 2,000 years old, along with diverse ecosystems ranging from lush fern-covered canyons to windswept coastal bluffs. Visitors to Redwood National Park can experience the awe-inspiring grandeur of these trees by walking among them on trails like the James Irvine Trail and the Tall Trees Grove, where the sheer scale of the forest creates a cathedral-like atmosphere.

For camper van travelers, Redwood National Park offers a unique blend of forested beauty and coastal serenity. The park’s scenic drives, such as the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway and Howland Hill Road, provide easy access to some of the most iconic redwood groves, as well as breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Hiking is a must-do activity, with trails that range from easy walks through ancient groves to more challenging hikes that lead to hidden waterfalls and panoramic vistas. In addition to exploring the redwoods, visitors can enjoy tide pooling along the park’s rugged coastline, watching for wildlife like Roosevelt elk and sea lions, and stargazing in one of the darkest skies in California.

Camping in Redwood National Park allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the tranquility of the redwood forests. The park offers several campgrounds, including Jedediah Smith Campground and Elk Prairie Campground, which are nestled among the towering trees and provide a peaceful retreat with modern amenities. For those seeking a more rustic experience, backcountry camping is available with a permit, offering solitude in the park’s more remote areas. Whether you’re walking among the ancient giants, exploring the coastal trails, or simply relaxing at your campsite, Redwood National Park offers a unique and unforgettable experience in one of the most magical landscapes in the world.

Park's Official Name: Redwood National and State Parks

Location:
State: California
Nearest Major City: Eureka, California
GPS Coordinates: 41.2132° N, 124.0046° W
Park Size, in Acres: 138,999  
Annual Visitors: 500,000 (approx.)
Website:  https://www.nps.gov/redw
Phone Number: (707) 464-6101

Social Media Accounts:
Instagram: @RedwoodNPS
Facebook: Redwood National and State Parks
X: @RedwoodNPS

Entrance Fees:
Vehicle Fee: No entrance fee for Redwood National Park
Motorcycle Fee: No entrance fee for Redwood National Park
Pedestrian/Bicyclist Fee: No entrance fee for Redwood National Park
Annual Pass: $55 for California State Parks pass (covers fees for state parks within the system)
Fee-Free Days: Select fee-free days, such as National Park Week and Veterans Day

Operating Hours and Seasons:
Open: Year-round, 24/7
Visitor Center Hours: Typically 9 AM to 5 PM, with shorter hours in winter
Best Times to Visit: Spring and fall (milder temperatures, fewer crowds)

Camping & Overnight Stays:
Campgrounds:
Jedediah Smith Campground: Located along the Smith River, open year-round, reservations recommended
Elk Prairie Campground: Located in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, open year-round, reservations recommended
Mill Creek Campground: Located in Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, open seasonally, reservations recommended
Gold Bluffs Beach Campground: Located near the coast, open seasonally, first-come, first-served

Fees: $35-$45 per night for standard campsites.
Amenities: Restrooms, picnic tables, fire rings, drinking water, and dump stations.
RV Size Limits: Maximum RV length: 36 feet depending on the campground.
Backcountry Camping: Permits required for backcountry camping; available online or at visitor centers.

Overnight Parking:
Overnight Parking: Allowed only in designated areas and campgrounds.
Stealth Camping: Not permitted within park boundaries.

Hiking & Trails:
Popular Trails:
James Irvine Trail: Moderate, 10.5 miles round trip, leading through old-growth redwood forest to Fern Canyon
Tall Trees Grove Trail: Moderate, 4 miles round trip, leading to one of the most secluded and awe-inspiring groves in the park
Boy Scout Tree Trail: Moderate, 5.6 miles round trip, offering a peaceful walk through ancient redwoods to a hidden waterfall
Fern Canyon Trail: Easy, 1 mile loop, offering a walk through a lush canyon with walls covered in ferns
Coastal Trail: Varies in difficulty, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and access to the park’s rugged coastline

ADA-Accessible Trails:
Portions of the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail and some visitor centers.

Points of Interest:
Tall Trees Grove: A remote and serene grove of some of the tallest trees in the world, accessible via a permit-only trail
Fern Canyon: A lush, narrow canyon with walls covered in ferns, featured in the film Jurassic Park 2
Lady Bird Johnson Grove: A popular trail through an old-growth redwood forest, dedicated to the former First Lady
Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway: A scenic drive through Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, offering stunning views of the redwoods
Gold Bluffs Beach: A secluded beach offering dramatic coastal scenery and a chance to spot Roosevelt elk

Permits and Regulations:
Permits: Required for backcountry camping, Tall Trees Grove, and commercial filming.
Fire Regulations: Fires allowed only in designated fire rings at campgrounds.
Leave No Trace: Strictly enforced to protect the park’s fragile ecosystems.

Wildlife & Safety Information:
Common Wildlife: Roosevelt elk, black bears, mountain lions, and a variety of bird species, including marbled murrelets and spotted owls.
Safety Tips: Stay on designated trails, carry bear spray in remote areas, and be cautious of slippery trails, especially in wet weather.
Poisonous Plants/Insects: Watch out for poison oak and be cautious of ticks in grassy areas.

Weather & Climate:
Summer: Cool and foggy, with highs of 50-70°F; fog is common along the coast.
Fall: 50-60°F, with cooler mornings and evenings; ideal for hiking and exploring the redwoods.
Winter: 40-55°F, with frequent rain; some trails may be muddy or closed due to conditions.
Spring: 50-65°F, with blooming wildflowers and moderate temperatures; fog is common along the coast.

Weather Preparedness: Bring layers for varying temperatures, especially near the coast, and be prepared for sudden weather changes.

Activities & Attractions:
Hiking: Numerous trails offering access to ancient redwood groves, coastal views, and lush canyons.
Scenic Drives: The Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway and Howland Hill Road offer stunning views of the redwoods.
Wildlife Watching: Opportunities to see Roosevelt elk, black bears, and other wildlife in their natural habitats.
Camping: The park offers a variety of campgrounds for both frontcountry and backcountry camping.
Tide Pooling: Explore the park’s rugged coastline and discover a variety of marine life in the tide pools.

Accessibility:
ADA-Accessible Areas: Visitor centers, portions of the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail, and some picnic areas.
Accessible Restrooms: Available at visitor centers and campgrounds.

Facilities & Services:
Visitor Centers: Hiouchi Visitor Center, Kuchel Visitor Center, Prairie Creek Visitor Center.
Restrooms: Available at visitor centers, major trailheads, and campgrounds.
Dump Stations: Located at Jedediah Smith and Elk Prairie Campgrounds.
Picnic Areas: Available near visitor centers, along scenic drives, and at trailheads.
Medical Services: Nearest hospital in Crescent City, CA.

Leave No Trace Guidelines:
Visitors are required to pack out all trash, follow trail regulations, and avoid disturbing wildlife or vegetation.

Cell Service & Connectivity:
Cell Service: Limited, especially in remote areas of the park.
Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is available at some visitor centers.
Off-Grid Preparedness: Download maps and bring GPS.

Nearest Towns and Supplies:
Crescent City, CA: The nearest town with grocery stores, restaurants, and services
Eureka, CA: A larger town located about 70 miles from the park, offering more amenities

Closest National Park to This Park:
Crater Lake National Park, approximately 150 miles away

Photography Tips:
Best Times: Early morning and late evening for the best lighting on the redwoods and coastal views.
Top Locations: Tall Trees Grove, Fern Canyon, Lady Bird Johnson Grove, and Gold Bluffs Beach.

Park-Specific Rules and Regulations:
Drones: Prohibited within the park.
Pets: Allowed in developed areas and campgrounds, but not on trails or in the backcountry.
Quiet Hours: 10 PM to 6 AM in campgrounds.

Emergency Contacts:
Park Rangers: (707) 464-6101
Nearest Hospital: Sutter Coast Hospital, Crescent City, CA
Emergency: Call 911

Special Events:
Ranger-Led Programs: Seasonal talks, guided hikes, and evening programs focusing on the park’s natural and cultural history.

Sustainability Initiatives:
Zero Waste Initiatives: Recycling bins available at visitor centers and campgrounds.
Electric Vehicle Charging Stations: Located at Kuchel Visitor Center.

*Please note that all information provided, including park details, fees, and regulations, is subject to change without notice and may vary depending on park management policies, seasonal conditions, or unforeseen circumstances.