Humboldt Redwoods State Park
🏆 Official Guide: Humboldt Redwoods State Park — Home to the largest remaining old-growth coast redwood forest on Earth — 17,000 acres of ancient trees in California’s Humboldt County, including the legendary Avenue of the Giants and the Rockefeller Forest.
Humboldt Redwoods State Park protects 17,000 acres of old-growth coast redwoods — the largest contiguous stand of ancient redwoods remaining on the planet. The park’s 53,000 total acres span the Eel River Valley in southern Humboldt County, anchored by the world-famous Avenue of the Giants — a 32-mile scenic highway that passes through cathedral-like groves of trees over 300 feet tall and 2,000+ years old.
Visitor Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Location | Humboldt County, CA (between Garberville & Fortuna) |
| Total Acreage | 53,000 acres |
| Old-Growth | 17,000 acres — largest on Earth |
| Avenue of Giants | 32 miles — scenic drive through redwoods |
| Campgrounds | 3 main + environmental camps |
Must-See Groves
| Grove | Highlights | Access |
|---|---|---|
| Rockefeller Forest | Largest old-growth redwood forest — “Giant Tree” | Short drive from Avenue |
| Founders Grove | Dyerville Giant (fallen 362-ft tree) | Easy loop trail off Avenue |
| Williams Grove | River access, swimming hole | Off Avenue of Giants |
Camping
| Campground | Features | Season |
|---|---|---|
| Burlington | Old/second-growth, near visitor center | Year-round |
| Hidden Springs | Along Avenue of Giants | Memorial Day–Labor Day |
| Albee Creek | Near Rockefeller Forest, popular trails | May–Labor Day |
Note: None of the campgrounds have electrical hookups or dump stations. Proper food storage is required — this is bear country.
Activities
| Activity | Details |
|---|---|
| Scenic Driving | Avenue of the Giants — 32-mile old-growth corridor |
| Hiking | 100+ miles of trails through ancient forest |
| Camping | 3 campgrounds — no hookups, reservations required |
| Swimming | Eel River — summer swimming holes |
| Cycling | Avenue of Giants — world-class bike route |
| Fishing | Eel River — steelhead, salmon (seasonal) |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Avenue of the Giants?
The Avenue of the Giants is a 32-mile scenic highway (old Route 101) that runs through the heart of Humboldt Redwoods State Park. It passes through cathedral-like groves of old-growth coast redwoods, with numerous pullouts, trailheads, and picnic areas. It’s widely considered one of the most beautiful drives in the world.
What is the Rockefeller Forest?
The Rockefeller Forest is the largest remaining old-growth coast redwood forest on Earth — purchased with donations organized by the Save the Redwoods League with funding from John D. Rockefeller Jr. The “Giant Tree” within the forest is one of the largest coast redwoods by volume. A 0.5-mile loop trail provides easy access.
Do the campgrounds have electrical hookups?
No. None of the campgrounds at Humboldt Redwoods have electrical hookups or dump stations. Burlington is the only year-round campground. All campgrounds require bear-proof food storage. Reservations through ReserveCalifornia are highly recommended, especially for summer visits.
Can I swim in the Eel River?
Yes — during summer months, the South Fork Eel River provides popular swimming holes within the park. Williams Grove is a favorite access point. Water levels drop significantly in late summer, creating calm pools. The river is cold — even in summer. Always check current conditions as winter flooding can change the riverbed.
Park Location
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