When planning a trip to Redwood National Park, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is where to stay. With its towering trees, scenic hiking trails, and stunning natural beauty, you’ll want to be close to the action to make the most of your visit. However, with so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the perfect accommodation. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to the best places to stay in Redwood National Park, to help you find the ideal base for your adventure.
Overview of Redwood National Park Accommodations
Redwood National Park offers a range of accommodations to suit all tastes and budgets, from rustic campgrounds to luxurious lodges. Whether you’re looking for a secluded spot to connect with nature or a convenient base for exploring the park’s many attractions, there’s something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to stay in and around Redwood National Park, including:
Camping Options
For those who want to immerse themselves in the great outdoors, Redwood National Park offers several campgrounds, each with its own unique character and amenities.
Lodges and Resorts
If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, there are several lodges and resorts in and around the park that offer comfortable rooms, fine dining, and a range of amenities.
Vacation Rentals
For a more home-away-from-home experience, consider staying in a vacation rental, which can offer more space and flexibility than a traditional hotel room.
Towns and Cities Nearby
If you prefer to stay outside the park itself, there are several charming towns and cities nearby that offer a range of accommodations and amenities.
In the following sections, we’ll delve deeper into each of these options, providing you with all the information you need to choose the perfect place to stay for your Redwood National Park adventure.
Best Places to Stay in Redwood National Park
Redwood National Park is a stunning destination in Northern California, known for its towering coastal redwoods, scenic hiking trails, and breathtaking natural beauty. When planning a trip to this incredible park, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. With a range of options from camping to luxury lodges, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you find the best places to stay in Redwood National Park. (See Also: Best Places To Stay Grand Teton)
Camping in Redwood National Park
If you’re looking for an immersive experience in nature, camping is an excellent option in Redwood National Park. There are four campgrounds to choose from, each with its own unique character and amenities.
| Campground | Number of Sites | Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Jedediah Smith Campground | 104 | Flush toilets, potable water, picnic tables, and fire rings |
| Elk Prairie Campground | 75 | Flush toilets, potable water, picnic tables, and fire rings |
| Gold Bluffs Campground | 25 | Vault toilets, potable water, picnic tables, and fire rings |
| Mill Creek Campground | 145 | Flush toilets, potable water, picnic tables, and fire rings |
Keep in mind that camping reservations can be made through recreation.gov, and it’s essential to book well in advance, especially during peak season.
Lodges and Resorts
If camping isn’t your thing, or you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, there are several excellent lodges and resorts near Redwood National Park.
- Benbow Inn: Located in Garberville, about 30 minutes from the park’s southern entrance, this historic inn offers comfortable rooms, a restaurant, and a lounge.
- The Inn at 2nd & C: Situated in Eureka, about 45 minutes from the park’s northern entrance, this boutique hotel features stylish rooms, a fitness center, and a complimentary breakfast.
- Redwoods River Resort: Located in Leggett, about 20 minutes from the park’s southern entrance, this resort offers cabins, RV sites, and tent sites, as well as a general store, restaurant, and swimming pool.
- The Lost Whale Inn: Situated in Trinidad, about 30 minutes from the park’s northern entrance, this bed and breakfast features cozy rooms, a hot tub, and a complimentary breakfast.
Vacation Rentals
Vacation rentals are an excellent option for families or groups, offering more space and amenities than traditional hotels. You can find a range of options, from cozy cottages to spacious houses, through websites like VRBO, Airbnb, and HomeAway.
Some popular areas to consider for vacation rentals include:
- Crescent City: Located near the park’s northern entrance, Crescent City offers a range of vacation rentals, from apartments to houses.
- Orick: Situated near the park’s southern entrance, Orick has a selection of vacation rentals, including cabins and houses.
- Trinidad: This charming coastal town has a range of vacation rentals, from cottages to houses, many with stunning ocean views.
Backcountry Camping
For the more adventurous, backcountry camping is an option in Redwood National Park. This involves hiking to a remote campsite, where you’ll need to bring all your gear and supplies.
There are several backcountry campsites to choose from, including: (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Wrightsville Beach Nc)
- Ossagon Trail Camp: Accessible via the Ossagon Trail, this campsite offers stunning views of the surrounding redwoods.
- Elam Camp: Located near the Smith River, this campsite is accessible via the Elam Creek Trail.
- Miners Ridge Camp: This campsite is accessible via the Miners Ridge Trail and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains.
Keep in mind that backcountry camping requires a free permit, which can be obtained at the park’s visitor center.
Tips and Essentials
Before planning your trip to Redwood National Park, here are some essential tips and information to keep in mind:
- Weather: The park’s weather can be unpredictable, with fog, rain, and wind common in the area. Be sure to pack layers and waterproof gear.
- Food and Water: There are limited dining options within the park, so be sure to bring snacks and water. You can also stock up on supplies in nearby towns.
- Transportation: The park has limited public transportation, so it’s recommended to bring a car or rent one for the duration of your trip.
- Reservations: Be sure to book your accommodations and campsites well in advance, especially during peak season.
Recap
In conclusion, Redwood National Park offers a range of accommodation options to suit every style and budget. From camping to luxury lodges, vacation rentals, and backcountry camping, there’s something for everyone. Remember to plan ahead, book your accommodations early, and be prepared for the park’s unpredictable weather. With this guide, you’ll be well on your way to an unforgettable trip to Redwood National Park.
Key points to remember:
- Camping reservations can be made through recreation.gov
- Lodges and resorts offer a range of amenities and services
- Vacation rentals are a great option for families and groups
- Backcountry camping requires a free permit and advanced planning
- Be prepared for unpredictable weather and pack accordingly
By following this guide, you’ll be able to find the perfect place to stay in Redwood National Park and make the most of your trip to this incredible destination.
Frequently Asked Questions about Best Places to Stay in Redwood National Park
What are the best towns to stay in near Redwood National Park?
Some of the best towns to stay in near Redwood National Park are Eureka, Arcata, and Crescent City. These towns offer a range of accommodations, from budget-friendly motels to luxury resorts, and are close to the park’s main attractions. Eureka is a great option if you want to be close to the park’s southern entrance, while Arcata is a good choice if you want to explore the park’s northern section. Crescent City is a charming coastal town that offers stunning ocean views and is close to the park’s northern entrance. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Berkeley Ca)
Are there any campgrounds within Redwood National Park?
Yes, there are four campgrounds within Redwood National Park: Jedediah Smith Campground, Elk Prairie Campground, Gold Bluffs Campground, and Mill Creek Campground. These campgrounds offer a range of amenities, from basic sites to RV hookups and flush toilets. Keep in mind that the campgrounds can fill up quickly, especially during peak season, so it’s a good idea to make reservations in advance.
What are some budget-friendly accommodation options near Redwood National Park?
If you’re on a budget, consider staying at a hostel or motel in one of the nearby towns. The Arcata Hostel and the Eureka Hostel are both affordable options that offer dorm rooms and private rooms. You can also look for budget-friendly motels like the Redwood Inn in Eureka or the Crescent City Motel. Another option is to stay at a campground and pitch a tent or rent an RV.
Can I stay in a cabin or vacation rental near Redwood National Park?
Yes, there are many cabin and vacation rental options near Redwood National Park. You can find everything from cozy cabins in the woods to luxury vacation homes with stunning views of the redwoods. Websites like Airbnb, VRBO, and HomeAway offer a wide range of options, from budget-friendly to luxury. Keep in mind that some of these rentals may be located in remote areas, so be sure to research the location and amenities before booking.
Are there any pet-friendly accommodations near Redwood National Park?
Yes, many of the accommodations near Redwood National Park are pet-friendly. Some campgrounds, like Jedediah Smith Campground, allow pets, and many vacation rentals and cabins also welcome furry friends. However, it’s always a good idea to check the pet policy before booking, as some accommodations may have restrictions or fees for pets. Additionally, be sure to follow park rules and regulations regarding pets in the park.