California (or coast) redwoods, found only in a 450-mile stretch of the Pacific coastline from central California to southern Oregon, are the tallest and among the oldest living organisms on planet Earth---so it may surprise you to learn you can camp in an RV beneath their grand canopies. With trees up to 360 feet tall and more than 2,000 years old, RVing among the Sequoia sempervirens is an incredible experience.
Through the work of the Sempervirens Club, a conservation group and land trust established in 1900 by photographer Andrew P. Hill now known as the Sempervirens Fund, a number of old-growth redwood forests were purchased in the early 20th century, transferred to California State Parks and preserved for future generations to enjoy. Members of the club were among the first to motor to the redwoods, some camping there for the entire summer. During the Great Depression, the Works Progress Administration improved roads in state and national parks for better access. As RVing grew in popularity in the 1960s, the redwoods became a popular destination. Today, our redwood forests offer experiences for all, from rigorous hikes through steep, coastal terrain to peaceful strolls along groomed paths made accessible for visitors with disabilities.
Sequoia National Park, with giant redwoods, waterfalls and abundant wildlife, allows RV camping in four of its seven campgrounds. You can make reservations at Lodgepole and Dorst Creek via the Reserveamerica website. Other campgrounds are first come, first served. Check the National Park Service website for vehicle-size limits at each campground as well as park roads. The site cautions, "The 16 miles of road from Ash Mountain to Giant Forest includes 130 curves and 12 switchbacks." In the steepest stretches, big RVs may require alternate routes.
Redwood National Park, home to majestic redwood groves, Fern Canyon and herds of Roosevelt elk, expanded in 1978 to surround three California state parks: Del Norte, Jedediah Smith and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Parks. Together, these parks preserve 45 percent of California's old-growth redwoods. Recreational vehicle camping is offered in all three state parks. Check the National Park Service website for details. Reservations are recommended, but with fees as low as $10 (with senior discount) to $20 per night (as of 2010), camping in a national park is a bargain.
Jedediah Smith State Park, Del Norte State Park and Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park are home to hundreds of species of birds as well as bear and elk. Four campgrounds (three in the redwoods and one on the coast) provide sites for RVs from 24 to 45 feet.
Just south of these parks, the 31-mile "Avenue of the Giants" takes visitors through Humboldt Redwoods State Park, with its 17,000 acres of virgin old-growth redwoods. Camping is available in the park and at private campgrounds in the area. For big RVs, RV parks provide the best options and hookups. The Avenue of the Giants website includes details and reservation links.
Several state parks in the San Francisco Bay area also permit RV camping among the redwoods. Henry Cowell Redwoods, Portola Redwoods and Big Basin Redwoods state parks share their own special treasures, with groves of towering trees, fantastic vistas, miles of hiking (from nature walks to challenging quests), and superb educational opportunities. Be sure to obtain up-to-date information about park usage, restrictions and reservations from the state park website. As of 2010, most of California's state parks are first come, first served so arrive early to secure a site. At $35 per night it's well worth it.
When you enjoy the privilege of camping among these ancient trees, read and observe all rules. Obviously, wood cutting and gathering are not allowed, fires must be contained, food must be contained in the RV (or in a bear locker) and generators can be used only during posted times. There are also a few other tips to keep in mind when camping in the redwoods. First, the habitat means cold evenings and mornings so pack a warm jacket. Redwoods are watered by heavy coastal mists in the mornings so be prepared for the damp and protect camera gear and items you stow outdoors. It grows dark in the big trees well before sunset, especially when the fog rolls in, so take a flashlight late in the afternoon.
And be prepared to give and receive a good massage at the end of the day---your neck will be sore from gazing up, up, up.
