Plan Your Visit to Redwood National and State Parks
Before your visit, be sure to check current conditions as trails, facilities, or roads may be temporarily closed. Short on time? Check out our Trip Ideas section.
More Than Just Redwood Forests
Redwood National and State Parks offer a variety of experiences beyond the iconic redwood trees. Stop by one of our five visitor centers to learn more, or join a free ranger-led program. You can also visit park stores operated by the Redwood Parks Conservancy for redwood-related gifts and books, or shop from the comfort of home.
Visitor Centers at Redwood National and State Parks
Explore the five visitor centers across Redwood National and State Parks for orientation, information, sales, and trip-planning advice. Each center offers unique exhibits and features to enhance your visit:
- Hiouchi Visitor Center
- Jedediah Smith Visitor Center
- Crescent City Information Center
- Prairie Creek Visitor Center
- Thomas H. Kuchel Visitor Center
Bookstore
Redwood Parks Conservancy operates the park stores, offering mementos, books, maps, and gifts. Proceeds support parks and public lands along California’s northern coast.
Good to Know
Map Orientation: For your visit, we recommend using this website or picking up an official map. Below are some must-see places, starting from Crescent City in the north to Orick in the south:
Scenic Drives and Hikes
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Howland Hill Road: A 10-mile scenic drive through old-growth redwoods, following Mill Creek. Walk the ½-mile trail through the towering trees of Stout Grove.
Important - Please note, this road is too narrow for RVs, motorhomes, and trailers.
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Enderts Beach and Crescent Beach Overlook: Enjoy stunning Pacific Ocean views from Crescent Beach Overlook. Take a 1-mile walk to Enderts Beach, where you can explore colorful tidepools. Be sure to check tide times in advance.
Important - Trailers not advised.
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Klamath River Overlook: A prime location for viewing the gray whale migration and seabirds. A steep ¼-mile trail leads to even more breathtaking views.
Important - Motorhomes, recreational vehicles, and trailers not advised due to narrow road conditions and a very small parking lot.
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Coastal Drive: This 8-mile road offers spectacular ocean views, a World War II radar station, and the Highbluff Overlook. Look for seabirds on the offshore rocks. Trailers and motorhomes are prohibited on the gravel section of the road.
Important - Motorhomes and trailers are prohibited on gravel section.
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Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway: This 10-mile scenic drive through ancient redwoods rivals even the Avenue of the Giants. Stop at the Big Tree wayside and take the 1/8-mile walk to see massive redwoods up close. This is the best scenic drive for motorhomes, RVs, or trailers. If you’re traveling with a pet, visit nearby Cal Barrel Road for a beautiful walk among the redwoods.
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Gold Bluffs Beach and Fern Canyon: Drive along Davison Road (no trailers, and a 24-foot length limit) to reach Gold Bluffs Beach. Fern Canyon is famous for its 30-foot fern-covered walls, but be prepared for wet feet and summer crowds.
Reservations are required for Fern Canyon and Gold Bluffs Beach Day-Use Area from May 15th to September 15th. Reservations can only be made online.
Wildlife and Trails
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Elk Meadow Day Use Area: A perfect spot for a picnic, watching Roosevelt elk, or starting a hike or bike ride. Many trails connect from this location, making it ideal for outdoor activities.
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Trillium Falls Trail: A ranger favorite, this 2½-mile loop takes you through old-growth redwoods and past a small waterfall. The trail starts at Elk Meadow Day Use Area, which also offers plenty of parking.
Enjoy your adventure in the redwoods!
