Redwood National Park Camping: Experience Nature Among Towering Giants

The redwoods of Northern California are some of the most modest and awe-inspiring ecosystems on Earth. Their ancient roots have stood for over 1,000 years and once spanned much of the western United States. Now, they are protected in Redwood National and State Parks, where their trunks reach up to 370 feet. It’s no wonder campers and nature enthusiasts flock to campgrounds among the giants. 

Whether you prefer camping under the redwood canopy, in backcountry sites, or next to the ocean, you have a campground. Here’s everything you need to know about camping in this stunning wonderland. 

Can I Camp Anywhere in Redwood National Park?

You need to camp in designated areas for camping to preserve the park’s natural beauty and protect wildlife.  There are plenty of beautiful campgrounds throughout the national forest to choose from. You’ll have no problem finding the perfect site to set up the tent and head into the towering redwoods. 

Which Campground Is Best in Redwood?

Jedediah Smith Campground

This campground is found within Jedediah Smith State Park, between Highway 199 and Smith River. Stay at small campsites ideal for tents and smaller RVs, with some sites right next to the river’s clear waters. There are no hookups– you’ll need a generator like the EcoFlow RIVER 3 Solar Generator (PV45W) for reliable electricity. 

It quickly converts sunlight into usable electricity, with a storage capacity of 245Wh and an AC output of 300W. Across the highway is the Hiouchi Visitor Center, offering ranger programs and trail information. South of the campsite, see old-growth redwoods, with trees up to 1,200 years old. 

The campsite is also near Crescent City, which is convenient for picking up supplies, groceries, and other camping essentials.

• Amenities: Each site has a table, cupboard, fire ring, and nearby restrooms. 
• Camping: 89 sites total; some sites are large enough for motorhomes, and cabin rentals are also available
• To do: A mixture of easy, medium, and hard hiking trails totaling 20 miles. Go boating, horseback riding, or biking as well. 

Gold Bluffs Beach Campground

For a one-of-a-kind coastal camping experience, Gold Bluffs Beach Campground offers unparalleled oceanfront views within Redwood National and State Parks. While towering redwoods don’t grow here, the wide-open beach setting and crashing Pacific waves create a unique backdrop, especially if camping in the spring. 

This campground is located along a remote stretch of Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park and offers direct beach access. Exploring other parts of the park is not easy from this location, and getting there requires driving down a bumpy dirt road. Still, plenty of hiking trails are nearby, such as the Fern Canyon Trail and the Coastal Trail. 

• Amenities: There are no hookups, flush toilets, coin-operated showers, food storage lockers (required), and fire pits. 
• Camping: 26 exposed sites best for tents and small RVs, no large rigs. There’s low privacy with no tree cover.  
• To do: Sunbathe and swim at the beach, hike at Fern Canyon Trail, and stargaze with unobstructed views. 

Mill Creek Campground

Find this secluded campground in Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, covered with towering redwoods, ancient stumps, and giant pines. Campsites are spread far apart for privacy with walk-in access from your vehicle. Some sites are tent-only, while others can accommodate RVs and small trailers. 

While this campground is in the park’s northern part, it remains conveniently located for exploring other areas of Redwood National Park. Take the Damnation Creek trail to the coastline, and stay on the lookout for grey whales and harbor seals. Make reservations, as this campground fills up quickly in the summer. 

• Amenities: No hookups–bring an EcoFlow RIVER 3 Plus for charging devices and cameras, flush toilets, showers, picnic table, cupboards, fire ring, and potable water stations
• Camping: Approximately 145 campsites (mix of tent-only and small RV), highly spread out, privately tucked into tree lines with walk-in access
• To do: Hiking, beach walk at False Klamath Cove, kayaking in Smith River, guided tours through old-growth forests.

Elk Prairie Campground

Prairie Creek Campground sits in the heart of Elk Prairie State Park. Campsites are nestled beneath towing redwoods for a shady, immersive experience. While staying here, watch for Roosevelt elk, which frequently graze in the open prairies near the campground. 

A short walk leads to the Prairie Creek Visitor Center, where you’ll find the perfect picnic spots with tables and restrooms, then head out on a hike. Multiple nature trials are winding through Prairie Creek, with incredible views of the towering redwoods. Check out Big Tree Wayside to see a giant woods legend that is 1,500 years old. 

• Amenities: Year-round flush toilets, food storage lockers, picnic tables, fire pits, staff on site, potable water, and firewood for purchase
• Camping: Small sites are best for tents but can fit small RVs. They are also perfectly sized and spaced for solo campers. 
• To do: Join seasonal ranger-led programs and access 70 miles of biking and hiking trails.

Flint Ridge Backcountry Camp

Suppose you’re looking for a secluded, hike-in camping experience. In that case, Flint Ridge is one of the best primitive campgrounds in Redwood National Park. It’s nestled deep in the coastal redwood forest, offering a peaceful off-grid experience near the ocean. You’ll need to obtain a free but required permit. It’s hike-in only, and no vehicles are allowed. 

Plenty of hiking trails are nearby, but Hidden Beach Trail is a must. This trail leads to a secluded cove with tide pools and driftwood. Pack light with an EcoFlow RAPID Power Bank. This magnetic power bank connects to the back of your phone or AirPods for an all-day charge. 

• Amenities: Pit toilets, bear-proof food storage lockers, no potable water, no fires allowed– use a camping stove to cook
• Camping: 6 walk-in campsites for groups of no more than 8
• To do: Hike nearby trails, stargaze without light pollution, look for elk, deer, and banana slugs

What Should I Pack for a Redwood National Park Camping Trip?

• Tent
• Sleeping bag & pad
• Layered clothing for winter camping
• Cooking gear
• EcoFlow WAVE 2 Portable Air Conditioner: for cooling off during the day and warming up when the temperature drops at night
• Sunscreen 
• Camera

6 Redwood National Park Camping Tips

1. The weather can be unpredictable, so prepare for fog or camping in the rain. Bring waterproof gear and layers.
2. Be prepared for limited cell service. Bring physical maps and trailhead maps, or download offline maps. 
3. Keep a safe distance from Roosevelt elk, bears, and other wildfire. Use bear-proof lockers. 
4. Arrive early for popular spots, especially in peak season. Make reservations in advance when possible, especially during popular seasons like May to August. 
5. Stay on trails. Redwood National Park is known for its beautiful ecosystems. To avoid damaging them, stick to designated trails. 
6. Plan for limited amenities in backcountry areas like Flint Ridge. There is no water or showers, so bring a water filtration system and a portable stove. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Final Thoughts

Stay in Redwood National Park and immerse yourself in the grandeur of nature. You’ll get to experience a connection with nature and history like no other place. Choose from staying in campgrounds with lush canopies like Jedediah Smith Campground or Mill Creek Campground. Other campgrounds like Gold Bluffs Beach Campground are right on the beach, with views of the sea. 

Elk Prairie Campground provides an opportunity to see elk grazing nearby. Or, go backcountry camping at Flint Ridge. No matter what you prefer, reliable electricity is essential without any hookups available. Pack an EcoFlow RIVER 3 Series for efficient, robust power for any electronic you bring.