Walk Among Giants at California's Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Humboldt Redwoods State Park is located in the lower half of Humboldt County, west of Highway 101 along the South Fork of the Eel River. Known for the sort of giant old-growth redwoods that cover California's northern coasts, it is a top destination for those who want to see the beautiful behemoths in a more remote setting. Since it is open year-round and contains thousands of acres of day-use area, it makes a great destination for everything from extended backpacking trips, to simple picnicking.

Whether you're driving down from Oregon to see how California's North Coast handles big trees, or biking all your way from San Francisco to show your support for the Save the Redwoods League, we hope the following information gets you where you want to be twice as fast!

Maps for Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Several maps of Humboldt Redwoods SP are available at the California state parks website at parks.ca.gov. However, unlike Redwood National Park and other popular outdoor destinations, HRSP doesn't have its own page and specialized map on services like National Geographic's Trails Illustrated. Here are some direct links to the the few maps that are actually out there:

Go Hiking!

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Visitors can look forward to exploring the miles of trails meandering through the park's old-growth redwood groves. Whether you're hiking, biking, or horseback riding, consider tackling some of these popular choices:

  • Founders Grove Nature Trail | A light-duty, shaded walk that takes visitors past the Founder's Tree.
  • Rockefeller Loop Trail | Explore the Rockefeller Forest at 10,000 feet on this easy loop.
  • Bull Creek Westside Loop | At a little over 2 miles, this waterside walk is refreshing for hikers of all stripes.

Other Things to Do at Humboldt Redwoods State Park

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In addition to trails, the park has a lot of other fun activities to offer. Beyond obvious aquatic options like fishing, swimming, and boating, check out these activities and attractions:

Scenic Drive: Why walk when you can drive? The 32-mile Avenue of the Giants auto tour takes visitors down an enchanting roadway that includes 8 scenic stops.

Humboldt Redwoods State Park Visitor Center: If you want to get the full scoop on the park, don't miss this welcoming facility hosted by the Humboldt Redwoods Interpretive Association.

Campfire Programs: The park proudly presents "educational and entertaining" interpretive events at its 3 primary campgrounds during the summer months.

Camping & Accomodations

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Campers will be happy to know there are quite a few campgrounds scattered among this redwood forest area, meaning visitors get to spend the night in the shelter of some of the tallest trees on Earth. In addition to the all the usual bells and whistles you would expect from family campsites like picnic tables and hookups, each site has its own distinct character and draw. Below we have listed some of the most popular and accessible options. For more information and/or to make reservations, be sure to visit reservecalifornia.com.

Albee Creek Campground: A peaceful site situated well within the park near some of its most frequented trailheads.

Hidden Springs Campground: Hidden Springs is the first state campground you'll come across if you're driving up from the south. It isn't far from the Shrine Drive Thru Tree.

Burlington Campground: This family campground is located near the HRSP visitors center.

Grasshopper Peak Trail Camp: Feel like walking in for the night? Enjoy evenings in true isolation among majestic redwood trees at this hike-in campsite.

Hotels & Cabins

HRSP isn't too far from some of the larger Northern California settlements like Eureka and Arcata. But if these towns and the coast redwoods seem too far off or urbanized for your taste, there are some nearer options. Here are some town by town choices:

Myers Flat | Myers Inn, Giant Redwoods RV and Cabin Destination

Miranda | Miranda Gardens Resort

Phillipsville | Madrona Motor Court Cottages

Redcrest | Redcrest Resort

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READ MORE: Redwood National and State Parks Guard California's Coastline