Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park wilderness guide
State Park · CA

Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park

Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park protects a remarkable stand of old-growth redwood forest along the Eel River, offering visitors peaceful hiking and picnic areas within Northern California’s coastal wilderness.

State Park2444+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

244

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park

Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park protects a remarkable stand of old-growth redwood forest along the Eel River, offering visitors peaceful hiking and picnic areas within Northern California’s coastal wilderness.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park is located in Humboldt County, California, along the scenic Eel River corridor. Covering a modest but vital area of old-growth coast redwoods, the park preserves some of the tallest and oldest trees on the West Coast, providing a lush, cool environment favored by diverse flora and fauna. The terrain ranges from riverbanks to steep forested hillsides with gentle trails winding beneath towering redwood canopies. The park was established to safeguard these ancient trees from logging and ensure a natural habitat for local wildlife, including black-tailed deer, bald eagles, and an array of songbirds. Visitors enjoy family-friendly hikes, river views, and picnicking in the serene forest setting. Notable landmarks include the dramatic Bull Creek Flats and nearby Eel River itself, offering photographic and relaxation opportunities. The park is a less crowded alternative to some of the larger redwood parks in the region, making it a great destination for quiet forest walks and nature appreciation. Wildlife enthusiasts may spot Roosevelt elk in adjoining areas, and spring brings wildflowers and active bird migration through the forest. For those seeking moderate recreation, the nearby Bull Creek Road trail accesses additional forested foothills perfect for day hiking or mountain biking excursions. Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park appeals to visitors who want to experience old-growth redwoods close to the river without the busier crowds found at larger parks.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park

Scenic viewpoints, outdoor landmarks, and notable points of interest within 60 miles.

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Old-growth coast redwood forest with towering trees over 200 feet tall✦ Scenic views along the Eel River with opportunities for wildlife observation✦ Bull Creek Flats picnic area providing a peaceful riverside setting✦ Quiet trails that offer solitude compared to larger redwood parks
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park

Explore curated guides for top outdoor sports, trail networks, and wilderness activities.

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park
Park Recreation

Bird Watching

Available in Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park
The Ranger Station

Visitor Logistics & Essential Planning

Everything you need to know about entrance passes, seasons, visitor centers, road transit, and wildlife safety in Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Daily parking fee required; California State Parks pass accepted

Wilderness Checklist

Carry paper topographic map & compass in remote zones.
Store all food and scented items in approved bear canisters.
Check wildfire / smoke advisories before backcountry departure.
Pack out everything you pack in (Leave No Trace).
Wilderness Stays

Camping & Overnight Stays in Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park

Frontcountry developed campgrounds, backcountry wilderness permit guidelines, and starry-night camping advice.

Grizzly Creek Campground

Small campground near Bull Creek Flats offering shaded campsites close to the Eel River with basic amenities.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park

Stay, dine, and gear up in these mountain towns and scenic basecamps surrounding the park.

Whitethorn, California
⌖ 4.48 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Whitethorn, California

Whitethorn offers access to the isolated beauty of California's Lost Coast. Ideal for hikers, surfers, and anyone seeking an adventurous escape, it provides incredible views and a peaceful retreat from urban life.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Shelter Cove, California
⌖ 7.37 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Shelter Cove, California

Shelter Cove, California, is a quiet coastal town on the Lost Coast offering rugged hiking, ocean kayaking, whale watching, and remote camping. Ideal for travelers seeking solitude and wild Pacific coastline adventures.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Redway, California
⌖ 7.40 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Redway, California

Redway is a quiet Northern California town centered among towering redwoods and wild rivers. Hike, bike, paddle, or fish in peaceful forests with minimal crowds, making it perfect for travelers seeking authentic nature escapes.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Garberville, California
⌖ 8.61 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Garberville, California

Garberville is a quiet Northern California town surrounded by giant redwood forests and rivers, offering excellent hiking, paddling, and camping opportunities. It’s a peaceful basecamp for exploring the famed Avenue of the Giants and nearby protected natural areas.

Late spring through early fall
Explore Town
Piercy, California
⌖ 12.04 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Piercy, California

Piercy offers peaceful access to towering redwoods and the scenic Eel River, perfect for hiking, paddling, fishing, and camping. This quiet Northern California town is your base for exploring vast forestlands and wildlife-rich river canyons.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Phillipsville, California
⌖ 12.27 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Phillipsville, California

Phillipsville is a tranquil spot on the northern California coast where river paddling, redwood hiking, and quiet camping offer a low-key outdoor escape amid ancient forests and scenic waterways.

Spring through early Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park

Explore scenic backcountry routes and epic wilderness adventures with certified local mountain guides, naturalists, and outfitters.

A Gentle Half-Day Float Through Del Loma’s Upper Trinity
ADVEXPEDITION
Del Loma, California
RaftingADV Bookable

A Gentle Half-Day Float Through Del Loma’s Upper Trinity

A four-hour scenic raft trip on the Trinity River that emphasizes calm floats, sandy beaches, mild Class II rapids and wildlife viewing—this guide explains what to expect and how to pack.

RaftingPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip