By Cicely A. Richard
Camping at Redwood National Park is a unique natural experience for visitors. Located in Northern California and Oregon, Redwood National Park is home to a multitude of redwood trees, many reaching more than 30 stories tall. The Redwood National Park system is also home to other plant species, such as rhododendrons, ferns and mosses. Biking, hiking, boating and viewing the wildlife are activities available to visitors.
Developed Campgrounds
Redwood National Park has five developed campgrounds. These campgrounds, except for Mill Creek, are opened year-round and include restrooms, showers and fire pits. Most of these developed campgrounds have campfire programs, guided walks and junior ranger programs. The Redwood Information Center provides details about all of the campgrounds located in the state park.
Backcountry Campgrounds
The park has about 10 backcountry sites in the northern, southern and middle areas of the Redwood National Park. In the backcountry, campers can take advantage of 200 miles of walking and hiking trails. Backcountry hikers can see old-growth redwood trees, prairies, streams, mixed evergreen forests and natural beaches. Backpackers can gather up to 50 pounds of dead wood per day for their campsites. Backpackers must obtain backcountry permits at the visitor's center.
Hiking
The park offers more than 10 trails. Campers can take short nature walks, hike on day trails or take overnight hikes. Lady Bird Johnson Grove, a one-mile nature trail, leads to the redwood forest via an old logging road. Redwood National Park campers with physical limitations and those confined to a wheelchair can enjoy the diverse flora and fauna seen on this short trail. Campers who want to enjoy a day hiking trail, like the 4.2-mile James Irvine Trail, can see an assortment of natural wonders, including canyons, streams and grasslands. Overnight trails, such as the 8.5-mile-long Redwood Creek Trail, give campers the opportunity to sleep under the stars amid the redwood trees.
Paddling
Six rivers run through the redwoods, and visitors can kayak or paddle down them. Klamath River, the main waterway flowing through the interior of the park, is 187 miles long and is riddled with about 200 rapids.
Precautions
Be cautious of wildlife; bears do roam the area. Put food in metal containers to seal in odors or hang leftovers on a tree branch 15 feet off the ground and 200 feet from your campsite. Keep toothpaste, soaps and other scented items in the trunk of the car. The information center also has bear-proof containers for campers.
Resources
About the Author:
Based in Tucson, Ariz., Cicely A. Richard has been writing since 1996. Her articles have been published in the “Arizona Daily Star” newspaper and “ForeWord Magazine.” Richard earned Bachelor of Arts degrees in English and journalism from Louisiana State University.
