A traveler's guide to Redwood National and State Parks
Redwood National and State Parks is a U.S. National Park in California. Coastal giants, jointly managed with California state parks.
Tall Trees, Prairie Creek, and a coastline of Roosevelt elk. The national park is a complex with state parks; your pass and your map both matter. Fog is part of the light California.
When to go
May–September is the window most visitors aim for. Shoulder seasons mean fewer cars at trailheads. Winter can close roads; summer can fill parking lots by 8 a.m. Check NPS alerts the night before you drive in.
How to see it
Start with prairie Creek or Jedediah Smith groves. Then newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway. If you have a second day, fern Canyon if the road is open. Keep one spare hour for elk at Gold Bluffs Beach.
Park practicalities
An America the Beautiful pass covers entry at most national parks. Timed-entry reservations are used at several busy parks in peak season — book those before lodging. Wildlife has the right of way; 25 yards from most animals, 100 yards from bears and wolves.
If you only remember this
- Tall Trees access needs a permit. The scenic parkway already delivers the cathedral.
- Download offline maps. Cell service drops in most parks.
- Bring layers. Elevation and wind change the day faster than the forecast.
- Enter the park early. Famous lots and shuttles fill first.