Wildlife Viewing

 
Gray whale calf swimming.
Gray whale calf. Follow the gray whale's annual migration of more than 10,000 miles from Alaska to Baja, CA and back.

Mike Rivers/Oregon State Parks

From Elk to Whales: Wildlife of the Parks

Whale Watching

Peak migration months for gray whales are November through December and March through April. However, a resident population can be seen year-round at the Klamath River Overlook. For the best experience, choose a clear, calm day, bring binoculars, and watch for their spouts along the horizon.

Top whale-watching locations:

  • Klamath River Overlook (best year-round viewing)
  • Crescent Beach Overlook
  • Wilson Creek
  • High Bluff Overlook
  • Gold Bluffs Beach
  • Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center

Roosevelt Elk

Roosevelt elk, one of the largest members of the deer family, are the most commonly observed wildlife in the parks. They are found throughout Redwood National and State Parks, but sightings are most frequent south of the Klamath River in these areas:

  • Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
  • Gold Bluffs Beach
  • Bald Hills Road
  • Orick area

Males grow large antlers from late summer through winter, while females are smaller and do not have antlers. The rut, or mating season, occurs in fall, and calves are born in open grassy areas in May and June.

Elk are wild and unpredictable. They are especially dangerous during calving season in spring and the rut in fall. Always observe from a safe distance.

Tidepool Marine Life and Seabird Viewing

Explore the parks' tidepools and observe seabirds in their coastal habitat.

Best tidepool and seabird viewing spots:

  • Enderts Beach, a half-mile (one kilometer) walk down the Coastal Trail from Crescent Beach Overlook
  • Lagoon Creek/Yurok Loop, a one-mile (one and a half kilometer) hike to Hidden Beach
  • Wilson Creek along Highway 101

Pick up a tide schedule at a visitor center for the best times to visit.

 
 

Last updated: January 24, 2025

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1111 Second Street
Crescent City, CA 95531

Phone:

707 464-6101

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