At Redwood National and State Parks, the Thomas H. Kuchel and Prairie Creek Visitor Centers are open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM from March 9 to November 1, and from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM during the rest of the year. The Prairie Creek Visitor Center is closed on Wednesdays during winter hours.
Redwood National Park is free to visit, but some day-use areas like Fern Canyon require an $8 per vehicle day-use fee or a federal or state pass.
By air: Fly into San Francisco (SFO) or Oakland (OAK) then 5–6 hr drive, or Portland (PDX) then 6–7 hr drive. By car: U.S. 101 or CA-199 along the coast. By bus/train: No direct service—take to Crescent City or Eureka, then shuttle or rental car. By RV: RV-friendly campgrounds available.
Parking is free, except at day-use areas like Fern Canyon, which requires a $8 fee or pass. No overnight parking. Gold Bluffs Beach requires reservations May 15-September 15. Limited parking for cars and small RVs; no large RVs or motorhomes. Motorcycles permitted in designated areas.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:None
Step into a world of towering giants at Redwood National Park in Northern California, home to some of the tallest trees on Earth. Families will love exploring the iconic Fern Canyon, a lush gorge featured in Jurassic Park, or hiking the Tall Trees Grove Trail, which leads to majestic old-growth redwoods. Don’t miss the Redwood Creek Overlook for breathtaking sunset views or the famous drive-through redwood tree at nearby Klamath. Located near Crescent City, this park also offers coastal beauty with serene beaches and abundant wildlife, including Roosevelt elk. Stay in charming redwood cabins or nearby hotels to complete your adventure. Whether you’re driving from San Francisco or embarking on a Pacific Northwest road trip, Redwood National Park is the perfect destination for unforgettable family memories. Book your trip today on Lake.com!
- Area (mi²)
- 217
- Annual visitors
- 409 000
- Established year
- 1968
Top 3 Facts about Redwood National Park
The tallest living tree, Hyperion, stands at 380 feet (120 meters) and was discovered in 2006 in a previously unpublished location. It is one of several giant coast redwoods in the area, with some trees living up to 2,000 years.
Some trees are over 2,000 years old, making them among Earth’s oldest living organisms.
Home to Roosevelt elk, black bears, mountain lions, and a lush understory of ferns and wildflowers.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Redwood EdVentures
- Scavenger Hunts
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Research trails, facilities, and seasonal closures; obtain backcountry camping and special-area permits in advance.
Pack Appropriately
Dress in layers, bring rain gear, and wear sturdy hiking shoes to handle changing conditions.
Respect Wildlife
Keep a safe distance, never feed wildlife, and be extra cautious around elk during rutting season.
Stay Informed
Obtain any necessary permits for Tall Trees Grove and backcountry campsites; check NPS alerts and trail conditions before visiting.
Seasons
Spring brings mild weather, blooming wildflowers, and fewer crowds—ideal for hiking and wildlife viewing.
Summer is warm with long daylight—perfect for camping, beachcombing, kayaking, and scenic drives (June–August).
Fall offers crisp air, autumn colors, and elk rutting season—great for photography and wildlife watching (September–November).
Winter is quiet and lush, with dramatic coastal storms and vibrant greenery—best for solitude and photography (December–February).
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Redwood National Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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To visit the area, you can stay in Crescent City, which is about a half hour from Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park and offers various amenities like restaurants and beach access. Alternatively, you can stay in Klamath if you prefer to be south of Del Norte Redwoods State Park. Other options include Hiouchi for a closer but more rustic stay, or towns like Orick and Trinidad for different types of accommodations.
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The Stout Grove hike is highly family-friendly, being a short and easy trail that features the largest tree in the Redwoods, the Stout tree, and is accessible via the scenic Howland Hill Road. This hike is particularly suitable for families due to its short distance and ease of navigation.
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You can bring your dog, but it must be on a leash at all times and is only allowed in developed campgrounds, beaches, roads, and picnic areas. Dogs are not permitted in the wilderness or buildings.
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Parking is generally free, but from May 15th to September 15th, a free reservation is required to park at Gold Bluffs Beach and Fern Canyon. There are no fees for parking in other areas of the park.
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Start your day by exploring the Fern Canyon Loop, a 1-mile easy trail near Gold Bluffs Beach, which was a filming location for the original Jurassic Park. In the afternoon, hike the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail to walk among towering redwoods, some of which are 600-2,200 years old. If time allows, drive the scenic Howland Hill Road, a 10-mile dirt road lined with close redwoods.