Hotels Near Redwood National Park: 4 Coastal Stays for Your Giant Adventure

The air feels different here. Step out of the car and the first thing that hits is the cool, damp scent of coastal fog mixing with earth and living wood. Sunlight filters down in soft beams through the canopy, catching on ferns and moss and turning the forest floor into something that looks almost otherworldly. 🌲

Look up, and the scale of the redwoods quickly becomes hard to process. Many of these trees were already standing when empires were rising and falling half a world away. Redwood National and State Parks protect nearly half of the remaining old-growth coast redwood forest on the planet, which makes every walk among these giants feel like entering a living cathedral.

It’s a place that quiets the noise of daily life. Instead of traffic or notifications, the soundtrack becomes the distant rush of the Pacific, the soft wingbeats of a raven overhead, and the rustle of wind through branches hundreds of feet above the trail. Visitors come here for awe, for solitude, and for a reminder that some things are still wild, patient, and enduring.

Spending a single day in the park is memorable; waking up here adds another layer. Whether the morning begins with fog drifting through the trees, elk grazing in a meadow, or waves rolling in just beyond your balcony, where you stay shapes the entire experience. This guide walks through how to camp inside the park system and highlights four excellent hotels near Redwood National Park that make perfect basecamps for a giant-filled adventure. 😌

How to Stay Inside Redwood National and State Parks

For anyone who wants to fall asleep under the canopy and wake up to the quiet hush of a redwood forest, staying inside the park system is hard to beat. Redwood National and State Parks is a partnership between one national park and three California state parks, and together they offer four developed campgrounds plus a handful of backcountry options.🏕️

These campgrounds are popular for good reason: short drives to classic hikes, easy access to scenic drives, and the chance to stargaze far from city lights. The trade-off is demand. Sites are limited, summer fills quickly, and reservations reward travelers who plan ahead.

Most campsites can be reserved up to six months in advance and are released on a rolling daily window. For peak summer dates, it helps to log in right when new dates open and have backup options in mind. Shoulder seasons—late spring and early fall—often bring fewer crowds, moody fog, and quieter camp loops.

Official Park Campgrounds

Here are the four developed campgrounds within the Redwood National and State Parks system, listed from north to south:

• Jedediah Smith Campground
  Nestled along the jade-colored Smith River, this campground sits in the middle of one of the park’s most impressive old-growth groves. Towering redwoods rise directly from the campsites, and evening light filters through the branches in soft, golden bands. Sites accommodate tents and RVs (with size limits), and the campground includes restrooms with showers and food lockers. Stout Grove, Howland Hill Road, and classic river access are just minutes away, making this a strong choice for exploring the northern portion of the park.
• Mill Creek Campground
  Located in Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, Mill Creek sits in a second-growth forest that is steadily maturing, with lush understory and birdsong echoing through the trees. From here, it’s easy to reach dramatic coastal overlooks and hikes that lead to old-growth stands. Sites serve both tents and RVs (again with length limits), and campers will find restrooms, showers, and seasonal ranger programs that help bring the surrounding ecosystem to life.
• Elk Prairie Campground
  As the name hints, this is prime Roosevelt elk country. The campground borders a wide meadow in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, where elk frequently graze at dawn and dusk. Sites are set among trees just upslope from the meadow, and trailheads leading into dense redwood stands and fern-filled gullies begin right from the area. Popular hikes like those near Fern Canyon are a short drive away. Facilities include showers, restrooms, and standard food storage options.
• Gold Bluffs Beach Campground
  For travelers who dream of combining redwoods with rugged coastline, this small campground delivers. Set right on a broad, windswept beach, it offers the sound of waves, salty air, and big-sky sunsets. Reaching it requires driving down unpaved Davison Road, which can be narrow and rough in spots, especially after storms. Sites support tents and small RVs only, and amenities are rustic—think basic restrooms and solar showers—but the setting feels wild in the best way. Fern Canyon is a short drive or hike away, making this campground a great base for that bucket-list day.

Reservations and Planning:

Online reservations are the norm, and having an account set up before the booking window opens saves valuable time.

• Check availability and reserve campsites on Recreation.gov.
• For the latest alerts, conditions, and campground details, visit the official NPS page for RNSP Campgrounds.

For visitors seeking more solitude, designated backcountry camps offer a deeper immersion. A free but mandatory permit system helps protect fragile ecosystems and ensures that sites remain sustainable. Backcountry permits can be requested online via the park’s information pages; always review current rules, fire restrictions, and seasonal closures before heading out.

Backcountry trips in this region can include creekside gravel bars, quiet forest benches, and routes that feel far removed from roads. They also require careful attention to tides, weather, and Leave No Trace practices, especially in coastal or river environments. 🌧️

Peaceful Stays Near Redwood National Park

Not every night has to be spent in a tent. After hours of wandering through foggy groves or along breezy bluffs, there is real comfort in peeling off wet layers, taking a hot shower, and sinking into a clean bed. That reset can make the next day’s hiking feel even better.

Outside the park boundaries, small coastal towns and river communities offer a mix of inns, motels, and hotels that pair well with a redwoods itinerary. These stays provide easy access to trailheads, scenic drives, and local restaurants while giving travelers a warm, dry retreat when the marine layer rolls in.

The four properties below sit within a reasonable drive of core Redwood National and State Parks trailheads. Each has a slightly different personality: oceanfront views, modern resort comforts, classic road-trip charm, or a familiar family-friendly brand. Together, they create a menu of options for different travel styles and budgets. 🌊

Traveler Tip Box: Planning Your Redwood Trip

• Best Season to Visit:
  Late spring (May–June) and early fall (September–October) often strike the best balance of smaller crowds and pleasant conditions. Summer brings long days and reliably accessible roads but also heavier visitation and busier campgrounds. Winter is the rainy season, but it can also be incredibly lush, with moss and ferns at their brightest and streams running strong.
• Weather:
  Layering is essential. Conditions can shift quickly from misty and cool under the canopy to sunny and warm in inland pockets. It’s common to see a 10–20°F difference between the coast and areas a short drive inland. Light rain is always a possibility, even in fair-weather months, so pack a waterproof shell and be ready for mud on the trail.
• Park Fees:
  There is no entrance fee for Redwood National Park itself. However, the California state park units within the system—Jedediah Smith, Del Norte Coast, and Prairie Creek Redwoods—charge day-use fees at some developed access points. Many visitors use an America the Beautiful pass or a California State Parks pass to help cover these costs. Check the official NPS Fees & Passes page for the latest information before traveling.

1. Beachfront Inn: For the Ocean Dreamer

For travelers who want to blend redwood hikes with Oregon’s rugged south coast, the Beachfront Inn in Brookings hits a sweet spot. The property sits right on the shoreline at the Port of Brookings Harbor, with many rooms opening directly toward the Pacific. Guests can listen to waves at night, watch storms roll in, or catch sunsets from their balcony.

• The Vibe:
  Relaxed and coastal. The atmosphere feels geared toward travelers who appreciate simple comforts paired with big views: think oceanfront balconies, the sound of surf, and a slower pace at the end of a travel day. It’s a nice match for couples or solo travelers who want a restorative base after time among the redwoods. 🌅
• Location & Proximity:
  The Beachfront Inn sits in Brookings, Oregon, along the harbor at 16008 Boat Basin Road. From here, it’s roughly a 30–40 minute drive to Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park via U.S. 101 and California 197, and about an hour and a half to core Redwood National and State Parks trailheads further south. This makes it a good option for road-trippers who want to pair Oregon’s coastal viewpoints with time in the California redwoods.
• Key Amenities:
  Highlights include an outdoor heated pool with a sun terrace and hot tub, ocean-facing terraces in many rooms, and free parking right at the property. Rooms typically feature flat-screen TVs, Wi-Fi, and in-room basics like a microwave, mini-fridge, and coffee setup. Several recent reviews note the strong location rating and comfortable beds.
• Best For:
  Sunset chasers, couples, and travelers who want to wake up by the water and then spend the day under the trees. It’s also a handy stop for those driving the Pacific coast between Oregon and northern California.

See photos, review recent ratings, and reserve an ocean-view room on the Beachfront Inn’s Booking.com page. Booking through Booking.com keeps all the details—room type, cancellation policy, and pricing—in one place.

2. Lucky 7 Casino and Hotel – Howonquet Lodge: For Modern Comforts

For travelers who like a little nightlife mixed into their nature trips, the Lucky 7 Casino and Hotel – Howonquet Lodge in Smith River offers easy access to the redwoods plus a full slate of on-site amenities. The property sits just south of the Oregon border, near the mouth of the Smith River, and combines hotel-style comfort with dining, gaming, and a pool.

• The Vibe:
  Modern and lively. Guests can spend the day exploring quiet trails, then return to a space with restaurants, a casino floor, and comfortable rooms. It’s more of a compact resort experience than a sleepy roadside stop, which appeals to families or groups with mixed interests. 🎰
• Location & Proximity:
  The lodge is just a short drive from Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park and roughly 15–20 minutes from key northern groves. That location makes it convenient for travelers arriving from Oregon or continuing south on Highway 101. Staying here places guests close to the river, coastal viewpoints, and park trailheads without losing the convenience of nearby services.
• Key Amenities:
  Expect an indoor pool, spa-style hot tub, and a variety of on-site dining options—from more formal dinners to casual meals. A fitness center, Wi-Fi, and free parking round out the essentials. The casino offers entertainment for adults after the day’s hiking is done, while non-gamers can simply enjoy the room comforts and pool.
• Best For:
  Families who appreciate pools and on-site dining, road-trippers looking for a home base with plenty to do after dark, and travelers who want an easy transition from trail to creature comforts.

Check current rates, room configurations, and guest reviews for Howonquet Lodge on Booking.com.

3. Crescent Beach Motel: For the Classic Road Tripper

The Crescent Beach Motel taps into the spirit of classic Highway 101 road trips—simple, welcoming, and close to the sand. Travelers pull in, park just outside the room, and fall asleep to the sound of the ocean. For many visitors, that straightforward combination is exactly what makes a place memorable. 🚗

• The Vibe:
  Cozy and unfussy, with an emphasis on cleanliness and ocean access rather than luxury. It feels like the sort of spot where guests rinse off sand, hang up wet jackets, and then walk out to the beach for sunset. Staff are typically known for warm, friendly service.
• Location & Proximity:
  The motel sits in Crescent City, within easy reach of Crescent Beach and only a short drive from northern redwood trailheads. Many travelers use it as a jumping-off point for Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, and stops along Highway 101. The central position works especially well for itineraries that include both coastal and forested hikes in a single day.
• Key Amenities:
  Rooms focus on the basics: a comfortable bed, a hot shower, and a place to recharge devices before the next day’s adventure. Ocean-facing rooms allow guests to watch waves and changing weather from inside, and some room options may accommodate pets (always confirm current pet policies when booking). Parking is typically right near the door, simplifying early starts.
• Best For:
  Budget-conscious travelers, classic road trippers, and anyone who wants an easy, ocean-adjacent base that keeps the focus on the surrounding landscape rather than on-site frills.

Browse room options, read recent guest impressions, and book directly through Booking.com.

4. Holiday Inn Express Redwood National Park: For a Reliable Family Basecamp

The Holiday Inn Express Redwood National Park in Klamath offers a familiar, family-friendly setup in a prime location. For many visitors, this style of stay takes the guesswork out of lodging so energy can go toward planning hikes, scenic drives, and tidepool stops instead.

• The Vibe:
  Dependable and efficient. Rooms are designed with functionality in mind—comfortable beds, modern bathrooms, and space to spread out gear. The overall feel is straightforward and welcoming, ideal for families or travelers who want a consistent experience at the end of a long driving day.
• Location & Proximity:
  Klamath sits roughly midway along the Redwood National and State Parks corridor, placing this Holiday Inn Express close to both northern and southern trailheads. From here, it’s a short drive to viewpoints like Klamath River Overlook, popular attractions like Trees of Mystery, and day hikes in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, including routes that connect toward Fern Canyon. 📍
• Key Amenities:
  A complimentary hot breakfast makes it easy to fuel up early and hit the trail without searching for coffee and food in the dark. An indoor pool and hot tub offer welcome recovery for legs and shoulders after hours of hiking. Wi-Fi, free parking, and in-room basics ensure that logistics stay smooth, even for larger groups.
• Best For:
  Families, small groups, and travelers who value predictable comfort, central access to multiple park units, and easy morning departures.

Explore photos, room details, and availability on Booking.com.

Comparison Table: 4 Unique Stays Near Redwood National Park

(Times are approximate and can vary with traffic, weather, and specific trailhead destinations.)

Adventure Beyond Your Hotel Room

Lodging sets the tone, but the real highlight of any redwoods trip lies beyond the parking lot. Redwood National and State Parks blend river corridors, ancient groves, and a wave-battered coast into a surprisingly compact landscape. Whether visiting for a weekend or a full week, it’s easy to fill each day with memorable experiences. 🗺️

• Hike the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail
  This 1.5-mile loop offers an accessible introduction to old-growth redwoods near the southern end of the park. The trail climbs gently through a mix of tall conifers and broad, mossy trunks, often wrapped in fog during the cooler hours of the day. It’s a great first or last walk of a trip, especially for families and newer hikers. Trail details are available on the official NPS page.
• Drive the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway
  This ten-mile parkway, which parallels Highway 101 through Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, feels like a rolling tour of some of the park’s most impressive trees. Pullouts along the way lead to short strolls and longer hikes into the forest. With windows down and frequent stops, this drive turns into a full-day experience rather than just a commute.
• Explore Fern Canyon
  Fern Canyon’s steep, vine-draped walls and shallow creek bed create a setting that feels almost prehistoric. The 1-mile loop is short on paper but big on texture, with water crossings, wet footpaths, and layers of greenery overhead. Before visiting, check the NPS page for Fern Canyon for current conditions, seasonal reservations, and road access updates. In summer, a day-use reservation may be required for the access road, and seasonal footbridges may or may not be in place.

Navigation tools make exploring this network of roads and trails much less stressful. Cell reception is patchy in many parts of the park, so downloading offline maps ahead of time is a smart move. Mapping apps designed for hikers and backcountry travelers help keep track of trail junctions, elevation changes, and route options even when signals drop.

For road-trippers stretching the journey beyond a single national park, renting an RV or campervan can turn the entire Redwood Coast into a rolling basecamp. Platforms like RVshare connect travelers with a wide range of rigs—from compact vans that fit easily into smaller campgrounds to full-size RVs better suited for longer trips—making it easier to link Redwood with other Northern California or Oregon destinations.

Did You Know?

Redwood National and State Parks protect about 45% of the remaining old-growth coast redwood forest in California, even though roughly 96% of the original redwood range has been logged. Standing at the base of one of these trees means standing in one of the few places on Earth where this ancient forest still exists in its original form.

Essential Gear for a Redwood Adventure

The redwoods live in a temperate rainforest, which means moisture is part of the experience—fog, mist, drizzle, and occasionally steady rain. With the right gear, that weather feels atmospheric rather than uncomfortable. A few well-chosen pieces go a long way toward keeping hikes warm, dry, and enjoyable. 🌧️

• A Reliable Rain Jacket
  The coastal climate around the redwoods is defined by humidity and fog. Even when the forecast looks clear, low clouds can drift in and bring a damp chill. A truly waterproof, breathable shell helps block that moisture while letting excess heat escape on climbs. The REI Co-op Rainier Rain Jacket is a popular choice because it packs down small, offers full storm-worthy protection, and includes pit zips for ventilation. Look for features like an adjustable hood, sealed seams, and hand pockets that sit high enough to access while wearing a hipbelt. A solid shell also doubles as a windbreaker for blustery coastal overlooks.

• Waterproof Hiking Boots with Good Grip
  Trails in Redwood National and State Parks can be muddy, slick, and root-strewn. Creek crossings, wet ferns brushing against ankles, and slippery wooden bridges are common. Waterproof hiking boots with solid traction make a huge difference in comfort and confidence. The Merrell Moab 3 Mid Waterproof Hiking Boots are a classic choice because they balance support, cushioning, and durability. A mid-height boot helps protect ankles on uneven terrain, while aggressive outsoles grip well on damp soil and packed forest duff. Combine them with wool or synthetic hiking socks to keep feet warm even when conditions are cool. 🥾

Checklist: What to Pack for Redwood National Park

• Layered clothing (moisture-wicking base layers, warm mid-layer, and a breathable fleece or light puffy)
• Waterproof rain jacket and, for shoulder seasons, waterproof pants
• Waterproof hiking boots or trail shoes with good traction
• Daypack with the 10 Essentials (navigation, sun protection, extra clothing, headlamp, first aid, fire, repair kit, food, water, emergency shelter)
• Reusable water bottle or hydration system, plus high-energy snacks
• Binoculars for spotting elk, birds, and distant sea stacks
• Headlamp or flashlight for early starts or late finishes
• Offline maps or a GPS navigation app (such as Gaia GPS-style tools) with routes downloaded in advance
• Camera or smartphone with plenty of storage—redwoods beg for both wide-angle and detail shots
• A sense of curiosity and patience; this is a landscape best experienced slowly ✨

Stay Wilder, Travel Lighter

There is a quiet moment many visitors experience at some point during a redwoods trip: standing at the base of a massive trunk, craning the neck to follow its rise into the canopy, and realizing that this single tree may have lived through centuries of storms, fires, and human history. The forest feels old in a way that is hard to describe, and that perspective tends to linger long after the trip is over.

Choosing the right place to stay—whether that’s a tent beneath the branches, a motel steps from the beach, or a hotel with a hot breakfast and a pool—helps shape how each day begins and ends. Campgrounds bring night sounds and starry skies. Beachfront balconies bring the rhythm of waves. Family-friendly hotels make early morning departures smoother when kids are in tow.

The next sunrise over the Redwood Coast is already on its way. With a campsite reserved or a room booked at one of these coastal stays, the rest is simple: pack layers, plan a few hikes, and leave space in the itinerary for unhurried walks beneath the tallest trees on Earth.

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only. Always check official park regulations, permits, road closures, and weather conditions before camping, hiking, or booking any stay.

Affiliate Disclosure: ChaseTheBigDream.com participates in affiliate programs (including Booking.com, REI, Gaia GPS-style navigation tools, RVshare, Amazon, and other trusted partners). When you book or purchase through the links on this page, a small commission may be earned at no extra cost to you. These partnerships help keep National Park guides and planning resources free for readers.

© 2025 ChaseTheBigDream.com | All rights reserved.