Things To Do

 

 

More Than Just Redwood Forests

Redwood National and State Parks offer a variety of experiences beyond the iconic redwood trees. Stop by one of our five visitor centers to learn more, or join a free ranger-led program. You can also visit park stores operated by the Redwood Parks Conservancy for redwood-related gifts and books, or shop from the comfort of home.

 

Prairie Creek Visitor Center, located in the southern end of the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway - in the heart of Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. 6.5 miles north of Orick.

NPS photo.

Visitor Centers at Redwood National and State Parks

Stop by one of the five visitor centers for trip-planning advice, park information, exhibits, and park store sales. Each location offers unique features to help enhance your visit. Ranger-Guided Tours and Programs may be available during the season.

What About Locations and Hours?

There are five park visitor centers which have different locations, hours and seasons.
Follow this link to: Learn more about each visitor center

• Hiouchi Visitor Center
• Jedediah Smith Visitor Center
• Crescent City Information Center
• Prairie Creek Visitor Center
• Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center

Ranger Tips: What to Know Before You Go

• Check Conditions: Before your visit, review current conditions—trails, facilities, or roads may be temporarily closed.
• Short on Time? Explore our Trip Ideas for quick recommendations.
• Maps & Orientation: For navigation, use this website or pick up an official park map. Below are must-see locations, listed from Crescent City in the north to Orick in the south.

Lodging & Camping

Redwood National and State Parks offer some designated campgrounds within the parks, but all hotels and other lodging options are located outside park boundaries. Whether you're looking for a cozy campsite beneath towering redwoods or a comfortable stay in a nearby town, there are plenty of options but be sure to plan ahead, as accommodations can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.

Park Stores

Redwood Parks Conservancy operates the park stores, offering mementos, books, maps, and gifts. Proceeds support parks and public lands along California’s northern coast.

 

Explore Redwood by Road, Trail, and Bike

Whether you prefer a scenic drive through towering redwoods, a hike along misty coastal trails, or a bike ride through ancient forests, Redwood National and State Parks offer countless ways to experience the beauty of this diverse landscape.

Cruise along winding parkways and backcountry roads for breathtaking views, trek beneath the world’s tallest trees, or pedal through lush meadows and rugged terrain. No matter your pace, there’s a route for every adventurer.

 

 

Trip Ideas – Ranger Tips for an Unforgettable Visit

With so much to explore in Redwood National and State Parks, planning your visit can feel overwhelming. To help you make the most of your time, our knowledgeable visitor center staff have put together these recommendations based on how long you have:

You have less than an hour.
You have a full day and are driving the length of the parks.
You can spend a full day in the southern half of the parks.
You can spend a full day in the northern half of the parks.
You can spend many days in the parks.

 

At A Glance: Scenic Drives and Hikes

• Howland Hill Road: A 10-mile scenic drive through old-growth redwoods, following Mill Creek. Walk the ½-mile trail through the towering trees of Stout Grove.
  Important - Please note, this road is too narrow for RVs, motorhomes, and trailers.

• Enderts Beach and Crescent Beach Overlook: Enjoy stunning Pacific Ocean views from Crescent Beach Overlook. Take a 1-mile walk to Enderts Beach, where you can explore colorful tidepools. Be sure to check tide times in advance.
  Important - Trailers not advised.

• Klamath River Overlook: A prime location for viewing the gray whale migration and seabirds. A steep ¼-mile trail leads to even more breathtaking views.
  Important - Motorhomes, recreational vehicles, and trailers not advised due to narrow road conditions and a very small parking lot.

• Coastal Drive: This 8-mile road offers spectacular ocean views, a World War II radar station, and the Highbluff Overlook. Look for seabirds on the offshore rocks. Trailers and motorhomes are prohibited on the gravel section of the road.
  Important - Motorhomes and trailers are prohibited on gravel section.

• Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway: This 10-mile scenic drive through ancient redwoods rivals even the Avenue of the Giants. Stop at the Big Tree wayside and take the 1/8-mile walk to see massive redwoods up close. This is the best scenic drive for motorhomes, RVs, or trailers. If you’re traveling with a pet, visit nearby Cal Barrel Road for a beautiful walk among the redwoods.

• Gold Bluffs Beach and Fern Canyon: Drive along Davison Road (no trailers, and a 24-foot length limit) to reach Gold Bluffs Beach. Fern Canyon is famous for its 30-foot fern-covered walls, but be prepared for wet feet and summer crowds.
  Reservations are required for Fern Canyon and Gold Bluffs Beach Day-Use Area from May 15th to September 15th. Reservations can only be made online.

Wildlife and Trails

• Elk Meadow Day Use Area: A perfect spot for a picnic, watching Roosevelt elk, or starting a hike or bike ride. Many trails connect from this location, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

• Trillium Falls Trail: A ranger favorite, this 2½-mile loop takes you through old-growth redwoods and past a small waterfall. The trail starts at Elk Meadow Day Use Area, which also offers plenty of parking.

Enjoy your adventure in the redwoods!