This post is about 5 must see places in Redwood National Park.
California State Parks are some of the most incredible landscapes in the country. From the old growth forest of Northern California, to the miles of rugged coastline of the California coast, each acre in the state has unforgettable beauty.
Redwoods National Park has the world’s tallest trees and miles of trails offering the best views of these giant redwoods.
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Know Before You Go
Before visiting Redwood National and State Parks, it’s essential to plan ahead to ensure a safe, enjoyable, and memorable trip. Here are key things to know before you go:
1. Plan for Multiple Park Units
The park is a combination of Redwood National Park and three California state parks: Jedediah Smith, Del Norte Coast, and Prairie Creek Redwoods.
Each unit offers unique attractions, so research ahead to prioritize what you’d like to see; this post highlights our top five must see spots for your first visit.
2. Visitor Centers Are Your Best Friend
Stop at one of the visitor centers (like the Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center) for maps, updates on weather or trail conditions, and tips from rangers.
Hours may vary seasonally, so check ahead of time.
3. Prepare for Unpredictable Weather
The park has a temperate rainforest climate, meaning it can be cool and wet, even in summer.
Bring layers and a waterproof jacket. Mornings often start foggy, which can lift by afternoon.
4. Entry Is Free for the National Park
Redwood National Park itself does not charge an entrance fee, but the state parks (like Jedediah Smith or Prairie Creek) may have day-use fees.
Check fee policies for parking or camping.
5. Limited Cell Service
Cell phone reception is spotty or non-existent in most areas of the park.
Download maps and trail guides ahead of time, and carry a paper map as a backup.
6. Permits May Be Required for Certain Areas
Popular spots like Tall Trees Grove and Backcountry Camping require permits.
These are free but must be reserved in advance.
7. Stay Wildlife-Aware
Wildlife such as Roosevelt elk and black bears are common in the park.
Keep a safe distance, and never feed or approach animals.
Carry bear spray if hiking in remote areas, and store food securely.
8. Know the Road Conditions
Some roads, like Howland Hill Road and Davison Road, are narrow and unpaved but lead to iconic spots like Fern Canyon.
Check conditions ahead, as some roads may be impassable in wet weather or closed seasonally.
9. Pack the Essentials
Waterproof footwear: Many trails have stream crossings or muddy patches.
Snacks and water: Services are limited within the park.
Binoculars and a camera: For spotting wildlife and capturing the beauty of the redwoods and coastline.
10. Protect the Environment
Follow Leave No Trace principles to keep the park pristine.
Stick to marked trails to avoid damaging delicate ecosystems.
11. Make Accommodation Plans Early
Lodging near the park (in places like Crescent City or Trinidad) and campsites fill up quickly, especially in summer.
Book ahead if you’re planning an overnight stay.
12. Expect a Slower Pace
The park’s remote beauty means some areas are best accessed via scenic drives and short hikes.
Give yourself plenty of time to explore without rushing.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Redwood National Park depends on your preferences for weather, crowd levels, and activities. Below is a breakdown of each season, highlighting the pros and cons of visiting during that time:
Spring (March to May)
Pros:
– Wildflowers bloom, adding vibrant colors to the lush green landscape.
– Moderate temperatures make it ideal for hiking and exploring the park.
– Waterfalls are often at their peak flow due to seasonal rains.
– Fewer crowds compared to summer.
Cons:
– Rainfall is still common, especially in March and April, so trails might be muddy.
– Some facilities or roads may still be closed from winter.
Summer (June to August)
Pros:
– The driest and warmest weather, with temperatures typically ranging from 50°F to 70°F.
– Most park facilities and trails are open and easily accessible.
– Perfect conditions for camping, hiking, and enjoying scenic drives.
– Longer daylight hours allow for extended exploration.
Cons:
– Peak tourist season means more crowds, especially in July and August.
– Campsites and accommodations near the park may be fully booked unless reserved in advance.
“Nature does not hurry, yet everything is accomplished.” – Lao Tzu
Fall (September to November)
Pros:
– Cooler temperatures and the start of the rainy season create a serene, misty atmosphere.
– Crowds thin out after Labor Day, offering a more peaceful experience.
– Ferns and foliage often take on golden hues, enhancing the beauty of the forest.
Cons:
– Increased likelihood of rain as the season progresses.
– Some services and facilities may begin to close in late fall.
Winter (December to February)
Pros:
– The park is tranquil, with very few visitors—perfect for solitude.
– The redwoods look particularly majestic in the mist and rain.
– Rivers and streams are full, and the forest feels lush and vibrant.
– Ideal for photography, as the rain enhances the vivid greens and atmospheric lighting.
Cons:
– Frequent rainfall and cooler temperatures (around 40°F to 50°F).
– Some trails may be muddy or flooded.
– Limited daylight hours restrict exploration.
Overall Recommendation
Best Time to Visit: Late spring (May) or early fall (September) —these months offer a balance of good weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant natural beauty.
– If you don’t mind some rain and want solitude, winter is an underrated choice.
– Summer is ideal if you want guaranteed dry weather and full park access but don’t mind crowds.
Lodging Recommendations
Camping
If you want to stay inside the park, camping is your only option. There are not hotels or lodges inside the park.
The campsites available in Redwoods are absolutely stunning! Sleeping underneath the massive trees is an unforgettable experience.
Please note no hammocks are allowed in the park to prevent damage to trees.
There are both backcountry options and developed campgrounds available. Go to the park website here for more information or to reserve a campsite (highly recommended for busy seasons).
Hotels
Here are the hotels outside of the park that we recommend if camping isn’t your style.
Miranda Gardens Resort
Miranda Gardens has stylish rustic cabins with options sleeping up to 7 people. Along with free wifi, ample space, a pool, kitchenette in some units, fireplace, courtyard, and beautiful views, you really can’t beat this place.
Must-See Locations in Redwood National Park
For first-time visitors, Redwood National and State Parks offer a variety of awe-inspiring locations that showcase the beauty and grandeur of the park’s ancient redwoods, lush landscapes, and coastal scenery. Here are five must-see spots:
1. Tall Trees Grove
This secluded section of Redwood National Park is home to some of the tallest trees in the world, including the iconic coastal redwoods (Sequoia sempervirens). These towering giants are among the oldest trees and contribute to the park’s status as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve.
What to do
The Tall Trees Trail is a 4-mile round-trip hike with easy access by permit only, which helps maintain the pristine condition of the old-growth forest.
Stroll through the majestic redwoods and pause on the forest floor to marvel at their immense size.
Visit in early summer for pleasant weather and vibrant greenery.
Pro Tip
Pick up your free permit at the Redwood National Park Visitor Center.
2. Fern Canyon (Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park)
This enchanting canyon, located in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, features 50-foot walls covered in lush ferns and moss, creating a unique experience akin to stepping into a prehistoric world. It’s a filming location for Jurassic Park 2: The Lost World and is part of the park’s natural wonders.
What to do
Take the mile trail loop for an easy walk through the canyon. Waterproof boots are recommended as you’ll cross streams along the forest floor.
Combine this visit with a stop at Gold Bluffs Beach, where you might spot Roosevelt elk grazing nearby.
Pro Tip
Check the National Park Service mobile app for road conditions before visiting, as the route may be muddy in certain seasons.
3. Lady Bird Johnson Grove
This old-growth redwood forest, named after former First Lady Lady Bird Johnson, offers an easy access trail perfect for families and beginners. Located off Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, this 1.5-mile loop immerses you in towering coastal redwoods, ferns, and other flora unique to the region.
What to do
Visit early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting as sunlight filters through the majestic redwoods.
Learn about the park’s history and Native American heritage from interpretive signs along the trail.
Pro Tip
This is one of the best places for photography in the park. Pair it with a scenic drive on the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway for breathtaking views.
4. Gold Bluffs Beach
This Pacific Coast gem combines ocean views with towering bluffs, offering a contrast to the dense redwood forests. This area was used as a radar station during World War II and now serves as a tranquil spot to connect with nature.
What to do
Stroll along the beach to admire the sea lions and tide pools at low tide.
Keep an eye out for black bears and other wildlife in the nearby dunes and bluffs.
Picnic at one of the designated areas to enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Pro Tip
Camp at the nearby Elk Prairie Campground for an overnight experience in the heart of Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park.
5. Trillium Falls Trail
This 2.5-mile loop trail winds through an old-growth redwood forest, featuring a picturesque waterfall surrounded by ferns and moss. It’s one of the best ways to experience the park’s lush ecosystems and towering trees.
What to do
Hike at a leisurely pace and enjoy the serene sound of water cascading at Trillium Falls.
Keep an eye out for bald eagles and other bird species.
Visit in early summer when the falls are flowing strongly, and the forest is vibrant with new growth.
Pro Tip
This trail is near Redwood Creek, making it a great spot for additional exploration and picnic areas.
Conclusion
These five locations showcase the incredible diversity of Redwood National and State Parks, from giant sequoias and coastal redwoods to waterfalls, beaches, and unique geological features. Whether you’re coming from San Francisco or near the Oregon border, these spots promise unforgettable experiences.
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