California redwoods
California's North Coast is home to the majestic Redwood National Forest, a protected area with an incredibly diverse ecosystem. While the stars of the show are undoubtedly the groves of towering redwoods, this area also features many other species of flora and fauna. With mild temperatures and miles of natural beauty, this park is a popular destination for travelers. RV enthusiasts in particular may enjoy making a pit stop at this park during their travels.
General Park Information
The Redwood National Park is jointly managed by both the California Department of Parks and Recreation and the National Park Service. In addition to the park's famous old-growth redwood groves, the park also features rivers, open prairies and 37 miles of California coastline. The park is home to a wide variety of animal species, all of which are protected and are not to be fed. Animals in the park include bears, mountain lions, elk, raccoons, rabbits, bobcats, birds and aquatic animals. Redwood National Park is open year-round.
Camping at the Park
There are four campgrounds located within Redwood National Park, which are operated by the California Department of Parks and Recreation. While all four campgrounds include RV sites, utility hookups are not available. Reservations made at least 48 hours in advance are recommended for the park's Jedediah Smith, Mill Creek, and Elk Prairie campgrounds, especially during the peak months of May through September. These campgrounds each include restrooms, hot showers, a dump station, bear-proof food lockers, a campfire center, fire pits and barbecues. The Gold Bluffs Beach Campground does not accept reservations, and all available sites are on a first-come, first-served basis. This site features restrooms, solar showers, wind shelters, fire pits and barbecues. Day use and overnight fees apply.
Other Campsites
There are a number of RV campgrounds nestled among the trees near the boundaries of Redwood National Park, such as the Redwoods RV Resort and the Redwoods River Resort & Campground. These campgrounds are not affiliated with the National Park Service or the California Department of Parks and Recreation. Many of these campgrounds offer full RV hookups, as well as other amenities including Wi-Fi Internet access, hot showers and on-site laundry and propane.
Activities
From mid-June to Labor Day, ranger-led programs are offered within Redwood National Park. These programs are held at the Jedediah Smith, Mill Creek and Elk Prairie campgrounds. Ranger-led nature walks are also offered. Other activities within the park include hiking, kayaking, horseback riding, biking and scenic drives.
Weather
Temperatures in the Redwood National Park generally range from 40 to 60 degrees Fahrenheit. Summers feature warmer temperatures, while the winter months are colder and more rainy. Bringing rain gear is recommended.
Tags: National Park, Redwood National, Redwood National Park, California Department, California Department Parks, Department Parks, Department Parks Recreation
