Ranger-led Programs

 

Guided Experiences for Visitors

Join a national and state park tradition! Park rangers and guides offer free, engaging, and educational seasonal programs throughout Redwood National and State Parks. These experiences are designed to inspire visitors of all ages and backgrounds.

General Program Information

• Seasonal Availability: Most programs run from mid-May to mid-September.
• Event details and dates are posted at:
  • Redwood event calendar
  • Our visitor centers
  • Campground bulletin boards

Ranger-Led Program Schedules and Locations

The programs listed below may be available during your visit from mid-May through late September. However, availability varies, and not all programs are offered daily.

Check our ranger-led program calendar to see what’s happening during your visit.

 

Programs & Activities

• Forest Walks (45 minutes to 1 hour)

Experience the beauty of the forest, shoreline, or prairielands with a park ranger. These walks provide a closer look at the diverse natural communities that make up one of the world’s most complex ecosystems.

What to Bring:

• Dress for the weather.
• Bring drinking water and a snack.
• Wear sturdy hiking shoes or boots.

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• Campfire Programs (1 hour)

As summer evening falls, gather around for an informative and inspiring program at Jedediah Smith, Mill Creek, and Elk Prairie Campgrounds. Programs may include narrated slide shows, storytelling, and interactive activities. Campfire circles and outdoor amphitheaters are wheelchair accessible.

What to Expect:

• Cool summer evenings—dress warmly.

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• Guided Kayak Tours

(Only offered for a limited time in summer season due to river conditions.)

Learn About Kayak Tours: closed for summer 2025.

During the summer, park rangers lead kayak tours along the Smith River, the largest free-flowing river system in California and a designated National Wild & Scenic River. Paddle through pristine waters while learning about the unique geology of the Smith River watershed and its role in supporting the world's tallest trees.

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• Snorkeling (2.5-3 hours)

(Only offered for a limited time in summer season due to river conditions.)

A unique aquatic adventure designed to connect you with the incredible biodiversity thriving beneath the surface of Northern California's wild and scenic Smith River. This free, ranger-guided program offers a rare opportunity to experience the river from a new perspective.

Registration opens 10 days before event. Registration is currently open for summer 2025.

• Activity Level: Moderate (includes hiking, paddling, and swimming)
• Duration: Approximately 2.5 - 3 hours (including hike, paddle, and snorkel time).

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• Tidepool Walks (1–2 hours, as tides permit)

Explore the fascinating world beneath the waves. A park ranger will guide you through tidepools, where you can observe delicate marine creatures up close.

What to Bring:

• Dress for the weather.
• Bring drinking water and a snack.
• Wear sturdy, non-slip hiking shoes or boots (no sandals)—they will get wet.

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• Junior Ranger Programs (1 hour)

Children ages 7–12 can take part in fun, hands-on activities that explore the people, plants, animals, and ecosystems of the redwood region. Programs are offered at:

• Jedediah Smith Campground
• Mill Creek Campground
• Prairie Creek Visitor Center

Self-paced Junior Ranger activities are also available at all visitor centers.