Navarro River Redwoods State Park wilderness guide
State Park · CA

Navarro River Redwoods State Park

Navarro River Redwoods State Park offers visitors a stunning coastal redwood forest with the scenic Navarro River running through it, providing exceptional hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

State Park6604+ Trails

Designation

State Park

Total Wilderness Area

660

Elevation / Terrain

Diverse Wilderness

Field Editorial Guide

About Navarro River Redwoods State Park

Navarro River Redwoods State Park offers visitors a stunning coastal redwood forest with the scenic Navarro River running through it, providing exceptional hiking, camping, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Wilderness Landscape & Natural Heritage

Navarro River Redwoods State Park is located along the Northern California coast in Mendocino County, encompassing a significant stretch of old-growth and second-growth coastal redwood forest along the Navarro River. The park's geography includes riparian river corridors, dense redwood groves, and coastal hills. The lush environment supports a diverse ecosystem featuring species such as Roosevelt elk, black-tailed deer, river otters, and a variety of birdlife. The park was established to protect one of the few remaining old-growth redwood tracts on California's North Coast and to offer recreational and conservation opportunities. Visitors enjoy activities like hiking through towering redwoods, river fishing, canoeing or kayaking on the slow-moving Navarro River, and camping in forested campgrounds. The scenic Navarro River Trail provides access to tranquil river views and abundant wildlife. The nearby Navarro Point Nature Preserve, managed by The Conservation Fund, enhances the area’s natural appeal. The park is popular for its peaceful setting and proximity to the Pacific Ocean, allowing exploration of beach access points just a short drive away. Its visitor-friendly campgrounds and accessible trails appeal to families and outdoor enthusiasts alike, especially those interested in experiencing majestic redwoods away from busier parks along the coast.

Field Guide · State Park
Adventure Destinations

Notable Destinations Near Navarro River Redwoods State Park

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

Key Wilderness Highlights

✦ Old-growth coastal redwood groves along the Navarro River✦ Scenic Navarro River Trail with peaceful river views✦ Excellent fishing spots for steelhead and salmon✦ The nearby Navarro Point Nature Preserve with estuarine habitat
Wilderness Recreation

Outdoor Adventures in Navarro River Redwoods State Park

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

Park Recreation

Hiking

Available in Navarro River Redwoods State Park
Park Recreation

Camping

Available in Navarro River Redwoods State Park
Park Recreation

Wildlife Viewing

Available in Navarro River Redwoods State Park
Park Recreation

Fishing

Available in Navarro River Redwoods State Park
Park Recreation

Paddle Sports

Available in Navarro River Redwoods State Park
Park Recreation

Photography

Available in Navarro River Redwoods State Park
Park Recreation

Bird Watching

Available in Navarro River Redwoods State Park
Park Recreation

Picnicking

Available in Navarro River Redwoods State Park
Park Recreation

Nature Study

Available in Navarro River Redwoods State Park
Park Recreation

Scenic Drives

Available in Navarro River 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 Navarro River Redwoods State Park.

Passes & Fees

Entrance Requirements & Interagency Passes

Day-use access is free; overnight camping requires reservations and fees.

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 Navarro River Redwoods State Park

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

Navarro Campground

Located along the Navarro River, this campground offers shaded sites with access to hiking trails and river activities, making it a favorite for families and anglers.

Adventure Basecamps

Gateway Towns Near Navarro River Redwoods State Park

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

Manchester, California
⌖ 7.19 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Manchester, California

Manchester is a peaceful Northern California coastal town known for rugged beaches, forested trails, and excellent kayaking spots. It’s a perfect basecamp for travelers seeking nature, quiet camping, and coastal hikes away from crowds.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Navarro, California
⌖ 7.78 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Navarro, California

Navarro offers a quiet coastal escape for outdoor lovers with hiking through redwoods, kayaking the river, and peaceful camping. Perfect for visitors seeking nature away from crowds along Northern California’s scenic coast.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Philo, California
⌖ 10.59 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Philo, California

Philo offers quiet outdoor escapes with hiking, biking, paddling, and top-notch wine tasting in California’s Anderson Valley. Enjoy peaceful forests, scenic rivers, and small-town charm year-round.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Point Arena, California
⌖ 11.22 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Point Arena, California

Point Arena offers rugged coastal beauty with hiking, kayaking, and whale watching along Northern California’s dramatic cliffs. It's a quieter spot to explore tide pools, bird life, and the iconic lighthouse.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Albion, California
⌖ 12.90 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Albion, California

Albion, California offers a peaceful coastal escape with hiking, kayaking, and beachcombing along the rugged Mendocino shoreline. Visitors enjoy quiet trails, ocean views, and state parks ideal for outdoor lovers seeking less crowded adventures.

Spring through Fall
Explore Town
Little River, California
⌖ 16.05 miles
Gateway Basecamp

Little River, California

Little River, California offers peaceful coastal hiking, kayaking, and wildlife viewing just north of Mendocino. This quiet town is a great basecamp for exploring ocean cliffs, beaches, and coastal forests from late spring through early fall.

Late Spring to Early Fall
Explore Town
Expert-Led Wilderness Expeditions

Guided Experiences in Navarro River Redwoods State Park

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