Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is a 14,000-acre redwood sanctuary featuring the iconic Fern Canyon (from Jurassic Park!), Roosevelt elk, and over 75 miles of trails. Part of the UNESCO World Heritage Redwood Parks!
⚠️ 2026 Alerts
- Elk Prairie Campground: Partially closed (flooding)
- Cathedral Trees Trail: Partially closed (washout)
- Fern Canyon Permit: Required May 15 – Sep 15
- Davison Road: Max 8ft wide × 24ft long, no trailers
Fern Canyon
| Info | Details |
|---|---|
| 🌿 Famous For | Jurassic Park filming location! |
| 📅 Permit Required | May 15 – Sep 15 (by vehicle) |
| 🥾 Alternative | 9mi James Irvine Trail (no permit!) |
Roosevelt Elk
Magnificent Roosevelt elk graze in meadows near Elk Prairie Campground. Best viewing: early morning and evening!
75+ Miles of Trails
| Trail | Notes |
|---|---|
| 🌲 Big Tree Loop | Easy, ancient redwoods |
| 🥾 James Irvine | 9mi to Fern Canyon |
| ♿ Redwood Access | ADA accessible |
| ❌ Tall Trees | Permit required year-round |
Camping
| Campground | Details |
|---|---|
| 🦌 Elk Prairie | 75 sites, 4 ADA cabins, RV to 27ft |
| 🏖️ Gold Bluffs Beach | Beach camping, vehicle limits, closed winter |
FAQ
Wildlife & Nature
Prairie Creek Redwoods SP — 14,000 acres — is home to Fern Canyon, where five species of ferns drape 50-foot canyon walls in living green — a location so stunning that Steven Spielberg filmed Jurassic Park 2 here. The park’s elk prairie has a herd of Roosevelt elk (the largest land mammal in California, bulls exceeding 1,000 lbs). Old-growth redwoods reach 300+ feet. Northern spotted owls (threatened) nest in the canopy.
Nearby Attractions
Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway — through the park — has a cathedral-like drive through old-growth redwoods. Gold Bluffs Beach — in the park — has Roosevelt elk on the beach. Redwood NP — surrounding — has the tallest trees on Earth. Klamath River — 15 miles north — has fishing and jet boat tours. Orick — 5 miles south.
Do I need a permit for Fern Canyon?
Yes—from May 15 to September 15 if driving via Davison Road. No permit needed September 16 – May 14, or if hiking the 9-mile James Irvine Trail from the visitor center.
What are the vehicle restrictions on Davison Road?
Vehicles must be 8 feet wide max and 24 feet long max. No trailers permitted. The unpaved road leads to Gold Bluffs Beach and Fern Canyon.
Where can I see elk?
Roosevelt elk frequently graze in meadows near Elk Prairie Campground. Best viewing times are early morning and evening. Keep a safe distance!
🌲 Ancient Redwood Wonder
Things to Do
California state parks span an extraordinary range of landscapes — from ancient redwood forests and rugged Pacific coastline to Mojave Desert dunes and Sierra Nevada alpine meadows. Depending on the park, visitors can enjoy hiking through old-growth groves, swimming and surfing along miles of wild beaches, camping beneath towering sequoias, kayaking coastal sea caves, mountain biking oak-studded foothills, fishing in alpine lakes, rock climbing granite formations, and wildlife watching for everything from elephant seals to California condors.
Best Time to Visit
California’s parks are a year-round destination, though the ideal season depends on the region. Coastal parks enjoy mild weather from spring through fall. Desert parks are best visited October through April. Mountain parks in the Sierra Nevada are most accessible June through October. Spring brings wildflower super blooms. Fall offers thinner crowds and stunning foliage at higher elevations.
Visitor Tips
Most California state parks charge a day-use parking fee of $10 per vehicle. An annual pass ($125) is recommended. Camping reservations through ReserveCalifornia up to 6 months in advance. Cell service is limited in many parks. Dogs are generally allowed in campgrounds but not on most trails or beaches.
Explore More California State Parks
Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in California. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in California guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
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