Imagine standing among ancient giants, with trees towering over 300 feet tall — this is what awaits you at Redwoods State Park in California. This once-in-a-lifetime experience offers visitors the chance to connect with nature in a truly awe-inspiring setting. Open year-round and free of charge, Redwoods State Park is an essential stop for anyone exploring the West Coast. Whether you dedicate an entire day to your visit or make a brief stop, you’re guaranteed to leave impressed by the park’s natural beauty. Here’s how I spent my perfect day at Redwoods State Park:
- First Stop: BIG TREE
- Hike of Your Choice
- Camp at One of the Many Spots
- Practical Information for Your Trip
1
First Stop: BIG TREE
Located in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, Big Tree is easily accessible from the parking lot just off the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway. Simply enter “Big Tree Wayside” in Google Maps, and you’ll find it without any trouble. The short 10-minute walk takes you to the famous Big Tree, a stunning specimen that provides a great introduction to the park’s ancient wonders.
However, if you’re planning a longer hike, the Big Tree is a nice stop but not essential. There are even bigger trees deeper in the forest, but this one offers easy access for those with limited time or mobility.
2
Hike of Your Choice
Once you’ve admired Big Tree, it’s time to head to the Prairie Creek Visitor Center to start your hiking adventure.
Parking: You can easily find parking along the street next to the visitor center, where parking is free and accessible.
Visitor Center: The visitor center provides free maps, and there’s also a small gift shop for souvenirs. You’ll find a large poster displaying various hiking trails, detailing each trail’s length, estimated time, and difficulty level.
Choosing Your Hike
Whether you choose a one-hour stroll or a three-hour trek, you’ll be surrounded by towering redwoods and serene landscapes. Pick a trail that suits your energy level and motivation for the day.
- For a shorter, easy hike, consider the Prairie Creek Loop, which offers scenic views and plenty of photo opportunities.
- If you’re up for a challenge, the James Irvine Trail leads you through dense forest to Fern Canyon, a lush, fern-covered ravine that feels like a scene from Jurassic Park.
What We Did: We opted for a 3.5-hour hike, and it was one of the highlights of our trip. We came prepared with plenty of water, sturdy shoes, and a packed lunch. Halfway through, we stopped to eat, relax, and take in the tranquility of the forest. The hike was amazing, and I’d gladly do it again!
Stay connected! Follow us on social media for exclusive content & updates on our travels.
On our website, you’ll find all the essential information and tips, while on our social media, you’ll get even more – including personal experiences, funny moments, stunning videos, and much more!
3
Camp at One of the Many Spots
Camping at Redwoods State Park was easily the best decision we made during our trip to California. After a full day of hiking, spending the night surrounded by ancient redwoods was the perfect way to end the day.
Reservation Process
The park offers numerous camping spots, many of which are free, but all require a permit. You can apply for a permit online at Redwoods Backcountry Permits. Once approved, you’ll receive a confirmation email. Then, 24 hours before your reservation, you’ll get another email with the access code for the campground gate.
Our Spot: We chose Redwood Creek Dispersed Camping and parked at the Tall Trees Trailhead at the Redwood Backcountry Camps. After a long day of hiking, the 1.83-mile walk from the parking lot to our campsite seemed daunting. Fortunately, the trail was mostly downhill, making it easier than expected. Keep in mind, the hike back up the next morning will be uphill — so plan accordingly!
Review of the Campsite
The campsite was incredibly peaceful and beautiful. I honestly wish we could have stayed longer than one night. The surroundings felt almost surreal, like stepping into another world. We joked that it looked like a set from The Hunger Games. If you’re looking for a serene, almost otherworldly experience, I recommend this spot a thousand percent!
4
Practical Information for Your Trip
Best Time to Visit
The park is accessible year-round, but the best time to visit is from late spring to early fall when the weather is mild, and the trails are clear. Winters can bring rain, which makes some trails muddy, but the park’s beauty remains undiminished.
What to Pack
- Layers of clothing: Even in summer, the shade from the towering trees can make it cool in the forest. Bring a light jacket just in case.
- Comfortable hiking shoes: Many trails are unpaved, so sturdy shoes are essential.
- Water and snacks: If you plan on hiking, be sure to stay hydrated and pack some snacks for energy.
- Sunscreen and insect repellent: Even in the shaded forest, these are good to have, especially on longer hikes.
Safety Tip
Stick to the designated trails to avoid getting lost. Cell service can be spotty in certain areas, so download maps or grab one from the visitor center before you set out.
What’s Next?
Now that you know everything about Redwoods State Park, it’s time to plan your trip! Here are some articles that could be helpful :
Don’t want to miss out on our latest articles? Be sure to subscribe to our website, and you’ll receive a notification every time we publish something new!