Humboldt Redwoods State Park wilderness guide
State Park · CA

Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Humboldt Redwoods State Park is home to the largest contiguous old-growth coastal redwoods forest, offering a majestic and tranquil outdoor experience.

State Park53,0004+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

53,000

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Humboldt Redwoods State Park is home to the largest contiguous old-growth coastal redwoods forest, offering a majestic and tranquil outdoor experience.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Humboldt Redwoods State Park is situated along the Avenue of the Giants in Northern California. Covering over 53,000 acres, the park hosts the largest remaining contiguous old-growth coastal redwoods forest in the world. These ancient trees can grow over 350 feet tall and live for more than 2,000 years. The region, critical for biodiversity, shelters several plant and animal species, some of which are rare or endangered. Established in 1921, the park reflects important efforts to conserve these iconic trees from logging. Visitors can enjoy varied recreational activities, including hiking on over 100 miles of trails, camping under towering redwoods, and scenic drives along the world-famous Avenue of the Giants. Notable features like the Founders Grove and Rockefeller Forest are favorite stops. The park also includes the Eel River, offering fishing and seasonal swimming opportunities. This setting is prime for nature photography and peaceful retreats, drawing thousands of visitors each year to soak in the tranquil beauty of the ancient forest.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Humboldt Redwoods State Park

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Avenue of the Giants - a scenic drive through the heart of the redwoods.✦ Founders Grove - home to some of the most majestic redwoods in the park.✦ Rockefeller Forest - the largest contiguous old-growth forest.✦ Eel River - offers opportunities for fishing and seasonal swimming.
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Humboldt Redwoods State Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Humboldt 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 Humboldt Redwoods State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

No entrance fees required; camping fees apply.

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 Humboldt Redwoods State Park

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

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Humboldt Redwoods State Park

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

Weott, California
⌖ 2.67 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Weott, California

Weott is a small town serving as the perfect basecamp for exploring Redwood National and State Parks. Its forested trails, river paddling, and peaceful camping attract lovers of towering trees and tranquil wilderness.

Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Scotia, California
⌖ 12.18 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Scotia, California

Scotia is a serene retreat for nature enthusiasts seeking outdoor activities amid colossal redwoods and along the scenic Eel River. It's an ideal spot for hiking, biking, and camping.

Spring and Fall
Explore Town
Honeydew, California
⌖ 12.57 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Honeydew, California

Honeydew, CA is a remote coastal town at the edge of California’s Redwood Country, ideal for hiking, kayaking, and camping in wild, quiet forests and rivers. It’s perfect for adventurers seeking solitude and rugged natural beauty.

Late Spring through Early Fall
Explore Town
Rio Dell, California
⌖ 12.74 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Rio Dell, California

Rio Dell is a quiet river town in Northern California perfect for outdoor lovers seeking hiking, paddling, and fishing along the wild Eel River. Surrounded by protected forests, it offers a peaceful adventure base away from crowded destinations.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Phillipsville, California
⌖ 13.20 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
Redway, California
⌖ 17.52 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
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Humboldt 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
Glide the Sheltered Channels of Humboldt Bay
ADVEXPEDITION
Eureka, California
KayakADV Bookable

Glide the Sheltered Channels of Humboldt Bay

A three-hour guided kayak tour launching from Woodly Island that traces Indian Island’s interior channels and Woodley Island marina—ideal for beginners, wildlife watchers and history buffs.

KayakPT2HCertified Outfitter
Bookable OnlineBook Trip