Step into a world where ancient giants tower above, their canopies nearly brushing the sky. Redwood National and State Parks, located in Northern California, offer one of the most humbling and awe-inspiring landscapes on Earth. Home to the tallest trees in the world, these parks are a sanctuary of primeval forests, misty fern-filled canyons, and rugged coastline.
Whether you’re seeking the serenity of walking beneath thousand-year-old redwoods, photographing wildlife in their natural habitat, or exploring family-friendly trails like the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail, this guide covers everything you need to plan an unforgettable adventure.
Why Visit Redwood National and State Parks?
- 🌲 See the Tallest Trees on Earth: Some redwoods reach over 370 feet tall!
- 🌿 Explore Unique Ecosystems: From ancient forests to coastal prairies and rivers.
- 🏕️ Family-Friendly Adventure: Hike, camp, and explore a variety of accessible activities.
- 📸 Iconic Photography Locations: Capture the ethereal beauty of Fern Canyon and fog-laden groves.
- 🚐 Perfect for Road Trips and Campervans: Drive through Scenic Byways and camp under ancient giants.
Quick Highlights at Redwood National and State Parks
| Activity | Highlights | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Tall Tree Grove & Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail | Walk among the world’s tallest trees and visit historic landmarks | Hikers, families, photographers |
| Fern Canyon Hike | A canyon with 50-foot walls covered in lush ferns, featured in Jurassic Park 2 | Families, nature enthusiasts, photographers |
| Jedediah Smith Redwoods | Remote, ancient groves with massive redwoods and emerald rivers | Solitude seekers, paddlers, adventurers |
| Scenic Drives (Newton B. Drury Parkway, Howland Hill Road) | Wind through old-growth forests for an immersive experience | Road trippers, cyclists, RV travelers |
| Camping in Redwood Parks | Sleep under towering trees in well-maintained campgrounds | Campers, vanlifers, families |
Exploring the Redwood Parks: In-Depth Adventures
Tall Tree Grove & Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail
These iconic trails give you a front-row seat to the majesty of the redwoods.
Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail
- Distance: 1.4-mile loop
- Difficulty: Easy
- Highlights: Historical dedication site by Lady Bird Johnson, interpretive signs, and sweeping views of fog-draped forests.
- Best Time: Early morning for peaceful solitude and to catch the light beams streaming through the trees.
- Tips: Start at the parking area along Bald Hills Road; the elevation here often creates an ethereal, foggy experience.
Tall Trees Grove
- Permit Required: Free but limited daily permits. Apply in advance online.
- Distance: 4-mile round trip
- Difficulty: Moderate (steep descent and climb back out)
- Highlights: Some of the tallest redwoods in the park, including trees over 350 feet tall!
- Pro Tip: Bring trekking poles for the climb out and plan for at least 2–3 hours.
Fern Canyon Hike
Why It’s Special
Fern Canyon is a lush, magical gorge with vertical walls blanketed by five species of ferns, some of which date back to prehistoric times. It’s no wonder it was featured in Jurassic Park 2: The Lost World.
Trail Details
- Distance: 1-mile loop
- Difficulty: Easy (can be muddy and wet)
- Getting There: Access via Gold Bluffs Beach in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park (seasonal vehicle permit required).
- Best Time to Visit: Late spring through early fall for lower water levels, but prepare to wade through shallow streams regardless.
- Pro Tip: Bring water shoes or sandals, and plan to get wet! Watch for Roosevelt elk grazing nearby.
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
The most remote and wild section of the park system, Jedediah Smith Redwoods is home to some of the most massive trees and pristine forests.
Activities
- Howland Hill Road: A 10-mile dirt road drive through dense redwood forests. Narrow, winding, and suitable for cars and small campervans.
- Boy Scout Tree Trail: A 5.5-mile out-and-back trail leading to one of the largest trees in the area—the Boy Scout Tree.
- Smith River: Emerald-green waters ideal for kayaking and fishing.
Pro Tips
- Early morning visits offer the best chance for solitude.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching, especially for marbled murrelets and owls.
Scenic Drives in Redwood National and State Parks
| Drive Name | Distance | Features |
|---|---|---|
| Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway | 10 miles | Paved road through old-growth redwoods, elk sightings common |
| Howland Hill Road | 10 miles | Unpaved road, winds through Jedediah Smith’s largest trees |
| Bald Hills Road | Varies | Climb above the redwoods for prairie views and oak woodlands |
Pro Tip: Drive slowly to fully immerse yourself in the forest atmosphere and watch for wildlife crossing the road.
Camping in Redwood National and State Parks
Best Campgrounds
| Campground | Features | Who It’s For |
|---|---|---|
| Jedediah Smith Campground | Nestled in old-growth redwoods, close to Smith River | Families, anglers, paddlers |
| Elk Prairie Campground | Prairie Creek, frequent elk sightings, near Fern Canyon | Wildlife watchers, hikers |
| Gold Bluffs Beach Campground | Oceanside camping with quick access to Fern Canyon | Beach lovers, nature photographers |
Van Life & RV Tips
- Smaller rigs under 24 ft fare better on narrow roads like Howland Hill.
- Outdoorsy is your go-to for renting a campervan—whether departing from San Francisco or Portland.
- Reservations strongly recommended during summer months.
- Watch for foggy mornings—adds to the atmosphere but be prepared for damp conditions.
Best Time to Visit Redwood National and State Parks
| Season | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| Spring | Lush greenery, fewer crowds, ideal for photography |
| Summer | Warm days, foggy mornings, best for family trips and camping |
| Fall | Dry, mild weather; best for hiking without the crowds |
| Winter | Quiet, moody atmosphere; ideal for solitude seekers and photographers |
Recommended Gear for Your Redwood Adventure
| Category | Recommended Items |
|---|---|
| Hiking | Waterproof hiking boots, trekking poles for steep trails |
| Clothing | Layered clothing, rain jacket (expect fog and drizzle) |
| Camping | Bear canisters, lightweight tent, moisture-resistant gear |
| Photography | Wide-angle lens for capturing massive trees, tripod for low-light conditions |
| Navigation | Park maps, offline GPS apps (limited cell service) |
Campervan Road Trip Itinerary
3-Day Redwood Adventure from San Francisco (Outdoorsy Rental)
- Day 1: Depart from San Francisco. Drive north on Hwy 101. Stop in Mendocino for lunch. Camp at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park.
- Day 2: Hike Fern Canyon in the morning. Afternoon drive through Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway. Camp at Jedediah Smith.
- Day 3: Morning hike on the Boy Scout Tree Trail. Explore Smith River via kayak. Return to San Francisco or continue north to Crater Lake.
Pro Tip: Book your Outdoorsy campervan early during peak season!
Conclusion
Redwood National and State Parks offer a timeless wilderness experience where every visitor can stand in awe of the tallest trees on Earth. Whether you’re hiking through misty groves, exploring ancient canyons, or camping under a starlit canopy, this adventure will stay with you for a lifetime.
🌲 Start your Redwood adventure now!
Rent your Outdoorsy campervan, pack your gear, and discover the magic of Northern California’s ancient giants.
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