Wandering Among Giants: Unveiling the Mystique of Redwoods
The Redwoods, both Coastal Redwoods and Giant Sequoias, dominate the Northern California landscape with their colossal presence. As you set up your campervan beneath the towering giants, you'll immediately feel a sense of awe and wonder. The dense canopy of leaves high above creates an enchanting world of filtered sunlight and gentle breezes. It's as if you've stepped into a storybook forest.
Traveling through the Redwoods in a campervan rental allows you to immerse yourself in the unique ecosystem that thrives beneath this canopy. The forest floor is carpeted with ferns, mosses, and a rich tapestry of undergrowth. Shafts of sunlight pierce through the towering trees, creating a natural light show that dances upon the forest floor.
A mere 5% of the original old-growth redwood forests endure today due to extensive logging in California that gained momentum during the mid-1800s. Fortunately, Redwood National Park was designated in 1968, and conservation measures persist to safeguard the remaining fragments of these ancient forests, ensuring their vitality for generations to come.
So soak it in, and remember- take only memories, leave only footsteps. This is where your adventure begins.
How many days do you need for your Campervan trip to the Redwoods?
Exploring the California Redwoods by campervan offers flexibility, allowing you to tailor your visit to your schedule and interests. Whether you have just a few hours to spare or a whole week to immerse yourself in these magnificent parks, there's an ideal duration for everyone. However, if you're seeking a balanced experience that covers the main highlights, dedicating three-four days is likely your best bet if you’re setting off from the San Francisco Bay Area in a rental. Below, you'll find a recommended four day itinerary for visiting the Redwood region.
What time of year is best to go in a Campervan?
For an optimal Redwood National Park expedition, set your sights on the springtime, spanning from April through May. During these months, you'll bask in delightful, mild weather with plenty of sunshine. What's more, you'll savor a quieter experience, as the crowds tend to thin out compared to the bustling summer season. Conversely, winters tend to be marked by frequent rainfall.
Throughout the year, the area maintains its characteristic moisture, enveloping you in a perpetual sense of dampness. The thermometer range stays between mid-40s to mid-60s. Along the coastal fringes, expect the sky to have a marine layer of clouds, often shrouding the morning and late afternoon shores.
The ongoing debate revolves around the best months for embarking on your hiking adventures in the Redwoods. Some people prefer from May to September, while others advocate for the summer months, specifically from June to September, as the perfect weather for your outdoor endeavors. One thing to keep in mind- what’s great about staying in a campervan is weather is less of a concern since you are protected from rain and cold at night.
What should I bring on my trip?
Binoculars – In the Redwood region, there's an abundance of wildlife to observe, with the Roosevelt Elk being a particularly impressive sight. It's always crucial to maintain a respectful distance from wildlife, so it's advisable to have a pair of binoculars handy for a closer view. I personally use an affordable, compact binocular set available on Amazon. Linked Here.
Insulating Jacket or Fleece – To ensure comfort in the variable weather of the Redwoods, having insulating layers like a down jacket or a cozy fleece pullover is essential. I find options like the Arc’teryx Cerium LT Down jacket or the Patagonia Better Sweater to be excellent choices.
Waterproof Rain Jacket – If your visit falls during the rainy season, it's vital to include a rain jacket with Gore-Tex, a highly effective waterproof material, in your packing list. My go-to option is the REI XeroDry GTX rain jacket.
Lightweight Hiking Shoes – For impromptu hikes along the coastal beaches, it's advisable to wear lightweight shoes with dependable traction. I personally favor the Altra Lone Peak 4.5 Trail Runners for short beach hikes.
The 10 Essentials – If you plan to embark on one of the numerous hikes in the area, it's imperative to carry the 10 essential items for hiking to ensure your safety on the trails.
Roadside Assistance Kit – Given the limited cell service in the region, it's wise to prepare for unexpected vehicle issues. Consider obtaining a roadside assistance kit that includes items such as jumper cables and essential repair tools. A practical choice is the emergency roadside kit offered by AAA
Rental Campervan - You can get a Wandervan that sleeps 3-5 people of course ;)
Where should I begin my journey?
Ideally, you’d start in the San Francisco area, where we have a rental hub in nearby Livermore.
Layout Trip Summary:
To explore Redwood National Park throughout the year, you'll require a National Park Pass. My suggestion is to opt for the Annual National Park Pass, offering a full year of access to all National Parks. This pass not only grants you the privilege of exploring Redwood National Park but also opens doors to other incredible national parks you may have on your travel agenda. Furthermore, it serves as your ticket for entry into California state parks. However, if your journey primarily involves visiting state parks, consider obtaining a California State Park Pass for the same purpose.
4-Day San Francisco to Redwoods Campervan Adventure
Day 1: San Francisco to Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Depart from San Francisco early in the morning, ensuring you have all your camping gear and supplies ready. Drive north on Highway 101, a scenic route that will take you through beautiful landscapes. Alternatively take Highway 1, which weaves along the California coast but takes a little longer.
Arrive at Humboldt Redwoods State Park, located in the heart of the Redwoods region. Check-in to your chosen campground. I recommend the Burlington Campground, it’s beautiful, a good location, and has all the amenities you’d need. Set up your campsite and enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the towering Redwoods.
After lunch, I’d recommend to take a short hike along the Founders Grove Nature Trail to witness the majestic Founders Tree. Return to your campsite and savor a campfire-cooked dinner under the ancient trees.
Day 2: Exploring Humboldt Redwoods State Park
After breakfast at your campsite, embark on a longer hike like the Bull Creek Flats Loop Trail. This will give you a chance to really soak the beauty of these trees. The forest is lush, so keep an eye out for animals you may be able to spot like deer or a chipmunk!
Head north into Scotia for lunch. Check out local favorite The Patron Kitchen for a stellar Avocado Burger or any of their delicious lunch options. Walk around the small town afterwards and check out some shops and chat with locals.
Back at camp, unwind and soak in the serene ambiance of the Redwoods.
Day 3: Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
Time to experience a different campground and head south to Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. Check-in at Elk Prairie Campground.
Explore the awe-inspiring Fern Canyon Trail. This lush canyon is adorned with ferns and featured in "Jurassic Park.” It truly is one of the most serene, and incredible hikes I have ever done, so I definitely recommend this. It’s an easy, short hike that doesn’t take long. Keep an eye out for Roosevelt Elk in the meadows. After the hike, if you’re feeling up for a little beachy experience I recommend checking out Gold Bluffs Beach, where you can take a stroll along the shoreline.
After, return to your campsite, cook dinner, and relax by the campfire. Listen to the sounds of the forest as night falls.
Day 4: Coastal Adventure and Return to San Francisco
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and pack up your campsite.
Before hitting the last viewpoint before heading home, head into Crescent City and get some fresh seafood at local favorite Chart Room Restaurant.
Before heading home, drive to the coast for a visit to Gold Bluffs Beach, where you can take a stroll along the shoreline. Continue your coastal exploration with a visit to the picturesque Crescent Beach Overlook. Option *Get lunch to-go and enjoy it at the overlook.
Begin your journey back to San Francisco, savoring your last glimpses of the Redwoods along the way. Arrive in San Francisco in the evening, concluding your remarkable campervan adventure.
There are multiple options to modify this trip, whether you want to shorten/lengthen your stay or visit other locations. Remember, it is impossible to see everything, and it’s best to make the most of the time you do have and see what feels best with the time you have allotted for the trip. You can always come back! I highly recommend renting a Wandervan for your trip. It made my trip a million times more enjoyable. It was convenient to get to all the different places I wanted to see, and I always had everything I needed with me! Also, make sure to check campsite availability and make reservations in advance, they get reserved many months in advance. Also, consider the seasonal weather variations when planning your campervan trip. Enjoy your memorable journey from San Francisco to the Redwoods! Happy exploring!
If you want to extend your trip for a few days we highly recommend checking out these places:
Day 5: Tall Trees Grove Trail: It’s a famous grove that was once home to the tallest known living tree.
Day 6: Trees of Mystery: Trees of Mystery is an iconic roadside attraction nestled in the heart of the Redwood forests. This enchanting destination boasts towering, centuries-old Redwood trees and captivating trail systems, offering visitors an immersive experience among these ancient giants. It is even home to the iconic SkyTrail, which is a gondola through the tree canopy.
Day 7: Check out the town of Arcada before heading home. With its charming downtown, thriving arts scene, and proximity to the breathtaking Redwood National and State Parks, Arcata offers a delightful blend of small-town charm and natural beauty.
Some final thoughts: Getting your kids to Unplug is so important!
We at Wandervans are a network of rental operators which nearly all have kids. We all collectively see the benefits firsthand of taking kids camping and keeping them off electronic devices is a powerful tool for their growth and development. While we love operating the business and assisting others to find their adventures, our managers and Franchise operators absolutely love taking their own kids and families out on adventures into the regions where they live. It’s fascinating to watch young kids gradually learn to become better and better campers, explorers, and adventurers. These are oftentimes learned characteristics that take time to develop. Camping and exploring in a Wandervan offers a natural environment where children can engage their senses, fostering a deeper connection with the world around them. Away from screens, kids are encouraged to explore nature, stimulating their curiosity and imagination. The absence of electronic distractions allows them to focus on the present moment, honing their mindfulness and concentration skills.
A campervan adventure also promotes physical activity, from hiking and swimming to setting up camp, learning to cook in the outdoors, contributing to the development of gross and fine motor skills. The challenges of outdoor living, such as building a fire or navigating a trail, instill a sense of independence and confidence in young minds. Moreover, the simplicity of camping encourages creativity, as children find entertainment in nature's offerings rather than pre-programmed digital content. We often tell parents to reserve campgrounds at multiple locations throughout their trips so that kids get to experience the feeling of adventure and exploration when they arrive at a new campsite. This sense of adventure therefore become integrated into their experience, and something that they begin to look forward to. Without doing this process over and over, the sense of adventure is not always recognized by children, and just sitting at one campground or campsite for an entire trip or a full week can result in kids getting bored or complacent. Trust us, reserving a different campsite for every day or every couple of days is a much more fun and engaging experience for kids!
Socially, camping and exploring in a campervan encourages teamwork and cooperation, as families collaborate to set up camp or cook meals. The shared experiences create lasting memories, fostering stronger family bonds. Lastly, exposure to the natural environment nurtures an appreciation for the outdoors, instilling values of environmental stewardship. By keeping kids off electronic devices during camping trips, parents provide a holistic and enriching experience that positively impacts their physical, cognitive, social, and emotional development. Now, let’s get you out on a campervan adventure to kick start your kids sense of adventure and exploration that will last a lifetime!
