Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park is where California’s most magnificent old-growth redwoods tower over the pristine Smith River—the state’s last major free-flowing river. This 10,430-acre World Heritage Site protects 7% of the world’s remaining old-growth redwoods, including trees over 300 feet tall and 2,000 years old.
Experience the legendary Stout Grove—considered one of the most beautiful redwood groves on Earth—drive the narrow Howland Hill Road through an otherworldly forest of monster trees, and camp among the giants at one of 106 riverside campsites. This is redwood country at its most sacred and awe-inspiring.
Named for mountain man Jedediah Smith, who explored this wild region in 1828, the park delivers an experience unchanged for millennia—ancient forests, crystal-clear waters, and a stillness that touches the soul.
Park Fast Facts
| 📍 Location | Near Crescent City, Northern California |
| 🗺️ Region | Redwood National and State Parks |
| 📐 Total Area | 10,430 acres |
| 🌲 Old-Growth | 7% of world’s remaining old-growth redwoods |
| 🏅 Designation | World Heritage Site & International Biosphere Reserve |
| 📞 Phone | (707) 464-6101 |
Stout Grove
Stout Grove is consistently ranked among the most beautiful redwood groves in the world. This 44-acre sanctuary features some of the largest trees in the entire Redwood National and State Parks system.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| 📐 Grove Size | 44 acres |
| 🥾 Trail Loop | 0.5 miles |
| 🌲 Tree Heights | Over 300 feet |
| 🌳 Stout Tree | 340+ feet tall, 16 feet diameter |
| 📝 Signage | Minimal—pure immersive experience |
Pro Tip: Visit early morning or late afternoon when light filters through the canopy. The grove is located across the river from the main campground.
Howland Hill Road
One of California’s most spectacular scenic drives, Howland Hill Road is a single-lane gravel road winding 6 miles through an “otherworldly landscape of monster trees.”
- 🛣️ Length: 6 miles (allow ~1 hour)
- 📅 Built: 1887 as a stagecoach route
- 🚐 Not suitable for: RVs or vehicles with trailers
- 🥾 Trailheads: Boy Scout Tree Trail accessible from road
- 📸 Get close: Trees grow right to the roadside
Hiking Trails
| Trail | Distance | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 🌲 Stout Grove Trail | 0.5 mi loop | World-famous old-growth grove |
| 🌲 Boy Scout Tree Trail | 5.6 mi RT | Massive trees, fern canyons |
| 🌲 Simpson-Reed Trail | 1 mi loop | Accessible, interpretive signs |
| 🌊 River Beach Trail | 1 mi | Smith River access, swimming |
The Smith River
The park is named for the Smith River—California’s last major free-flowing river. Its crystal-clear waters support:
- 🎣 King Salmon spawning (fall/winter)
- 🎣 Steelhead Trout runs
- 🏊 Swimming in summer months
- 🛶 Kayaking through pristine waters
- 🤿 Snorkeling in exceptionally clear water
Camping
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| ⛺ Total Campsites | 106 sites among the redwoods |
| 🏠 Cabins | 4 available |
| 🚴 Hike/Bike Sites | 5 primitive sites |
| 👥 Group Camping | Available |
| 🚐 RV Limit | Trailers to 21ft, RVs to 25ft |
| 🚿 Amenities | Flush toilets, hot showers, dump station |
| 📅 Season | Year-round |
Each campsite includes a picnic table, fire ring with grate, and food storage locker. Reservations up to 6 months in advance via ReserveCalifornia.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Jedediah Smith Redwoods special?
Jedediah Smith Redwoods protects 7% of the world’s remaining old-growth redwoods in a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The park features some of the largest trees in the Redwood National and State Parks system, including trees over 300 feet tall and 2,000 years old. It’s also home to California’s last major free-flowing river.
What is Stout Grove?
Stout Grove is considered one of the most beautiful redwood groves in the world—a 44-acre sanctuary with a 0.5-mile loop trail. Trees here exceed 300 feet in height, including the famous Stout Tree at 340+ feet tall and 16 feet in diameter. The grove has minimal signage for a pure immersive experience.
Can I drive through the redwoods?
Yes! Howland Hill Road is a 6-mile gravel road winding through ancient redwoods—trees grow right to the roadside! Originally an 1887 stagecoach route. Allow about an hour. Not suitable for RVs or trailers due to the narrow, winding nature.
Can you swim in the Smith River?
Yes! The Smith River offers swimming in exceptionally clear water during summer months. Access points are available near the campground. The river is also excellent for kayaking, snorkeling, and fishing for King salmon and steelhead trout (fall/winter).
How large are the redwoods here?
Many trees exceed 300 feet in height and are up to 2,000 years old. Some reach over 22 feet in diameter. The famous Stout Tree stands 340+ feet tall with a 16-foot diameter. These are among the tallest and oldest living things on Earth.
Do I need reservations for camping?
Highly recommended! The campground has 106 sites and is popular year-round. Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance via ReserveCalifornia. The park also offers 4 cabins, 5 hike/bike sites, and group camping options.
🌲 Walk Among Earth’s Tallest Living Things
A UNESCO World Heritage Site protecting 7% of the world’s old-growth redwoods. Camp along California’s last free-flowing river, explore legendary Stout Grove, and drive through trees over 300 feet tall on Howland Hill Road.
