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Where to Stay in Redwood National Park

Where to Stay in Redwood National Park

Redwood National Park California, USA Travel Guide

Accommodation Types

Variety of Stays

  • Low-cost Motels:

    Available in towns like Orick, Klamath, Crescent City, and Weott, offering basic amenities.

  • Mid-Range Hotels & Motels:

    Found in larger towns like Arcata, Eureka, and Crescent City, with facilities like free Wi-Wireless internet and breakfast.

  • Vacation Rentals:

    Numerous cabins or houses available on platforms like Vrbo in surrounding towns.

  • Boutique Hotels & Inns:

    For the most part in charming towns like Ferndale or Eureka, offering unique character.

Camping & Unique Options

  • Developed Campgrounds:

    Managed by California State Parks and NPS within park boundaries. Reservations highly recommended.

  • Backcountry Camping:

    Limited designated sites available, requiring permits for a complete immersion.

  • Private Campgrounds:

    Found along Hwy 101, often with more services like full hookups and showers.

  • Victorian Inns:

    Beautifully preserved historic inns exist in spots such as Ferndale, south of the principal park.

Neighborhood Guide

The region offers diverse areas, each possessing unique character and proximity to park attractions and services.

Crescent City

Benefits
  • Full services available
  • Close to Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
  • Coastal attractions
  • Hospital access
Considerations
  • Further drive to southern park sections
  • Standard urban noise levels
  • Fewer boutique options

Klamath & Orick

Benefits
  • Nearest to core redwood groves
  • Near scenic drives
  • Immersive natural experience
  • Very quiet atmosphere
Considerations
  • Very restricted services (gas, food)
  • Fewer lodging options
  • Often poor cell service

Trinidad

Benefits
  • Scenic coastal charm
  • Good dining options
  • Central for day trips
  • More boutique lodging
Considerations
  • Further drive to main redwood groves
  • Can be busy in peak season

Arcata & Eureka Base

Benefits:

Widest selection of lodging, dining, and shopping. Access to Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV). Architecture from the victorian era in Eureka.

Considerations:

Longer daily drives to main park attractions, often over an hour each way. Standard urban noise levels.

Booking Strategies

Advance Booking Recommendations

  • High Season (June-Sept): Schedule 6+ months in advance. Campgrounds get reserved quickly.
  • Shoulder Season (Apr-May, Oct): Book hotels and popular campgrounds 2-3 months ahead.
  • Low Season (Nov-Mar): Easier availability, but still book a few weeks ahead for unique stays.
  • Campground reservations can open at specific times and fill in minutes.

Trusted Booking Platforms

  • For State Park Campgrounds: ReserveCalifornia.com.
  • For NPS Campgrounds: Check NPS.gov/redw for specific park information.
  • For Hotels & Motels: Major online travel agencies like Booking.com or Agoda.
  • For Vacation Rentals: Platforms such as Vrbo or An airbnb rental.

Policies & Fluctuations

Deposit & Cancellation Policies:
  • Policies vary by accommodation category and platform.
  • Most hotels offer free cancellation up to 24-48 hours prior.
  • Campgrounds often have stricter cancellation rules.
  • Always review terms before confirming a saved place.
Seasonal Price Fluctuations:
  • Prices are much pricier in high season (summer) and during local events or holidays.
  • Lower prices are common in the shoulder and low seasons.
  • Walk-in rates can be more than online pre-booked rates.
  • Negotiation for walk-in rates is not a common practice in the U.S.

Important Information

Safety Considerations:

All areas are generally safe. Standard precautions apply in larger villages for personal belongings plus parking. Vehicle break-ins are a concern at trailheads, avoid leaving valuables visible.

Proximity to Attractions:

Klamath and Orick are closest in proximity to core redwood attractions. Arcata and Eureka are closest to ACV airport.

Noise Levels & Ambiance:

Camping and villages (Orick, Klamath) offer peaceful natural sounds. Larger towns (Crescent City, Arcata, Eureka) have standard urban noise levels.

Accommodation Recommendations

Explore a diverse array of lodging that caters to every budget and travel style, ensuring a memorable stay in the middle of the redwoods.

Top Picks by Budget

Budget

Tent/RV Campsites in Jedediah Smith, Elk Prairie, Mill Creek Campgrounds ($35-45).

  • Motels/Inns in Orick, Klamath, Crescent City ($80-150).
  • Basic, tidy rooms, often with no-cost Wi-Fi.
  • Direct access to redwoods from campsites.
Mid-Range

Hotels/Motels in Arcata, Eureka, Trinidad ($150-250).

  • More amenities (breakfast, pool), wider dining options.
  • Vacation Rentals/Cabins in Trinidad, Orick, surrounding towns ($180-350).
  • More space, kitchen facilities.

Specific Recommendations

Luxury

Upscale Hotels/Boutique Inns in Eureka, Trinidad, Ferndale ($250-400+).

  • Unique character, higher-end amenities, fine dining access.
  • Premium Vacation Rentals in Trinidad, private properties ($350-600+).
  • Secluded, luxury amenities, scenic views.
Family-Friendly Options

Campgrounds like Jedediah Smith or Elk Prairie with nearby trails.

  • Vacation rentals offer kitchens, multiple rooms, common areas.
  • Hotels in Arcata or Eureka with amenities for kids, like pools.

Solo Traveler & Long Stay

  • Solo Traveler:

    Low-cost motels provide practical and safe lodging. A few hostels exist in Arcata or Eureka for social opportunities.

  • Long-Stay Accommodations:

    Vacation hires on Airbnb or Vrbo, or extended-stay hotels in Eureka or Arcata. These alternatives commonly include kitchens and laundry facilities.

  • Unique Stays:

    Consider unique house-sitting opportunities via TrustedHousesitters for longer, cost-effective visits.

  • Hotel Chains:

    For consistent quality, major hotel chains like IHG Hotels have buildings in the broader region.

Properties with Cultural or Historical Significance

  • Victorian Inns in Ferndale:

    Offer a charming historic town experience with beautifully preserved Victorian architecture.

  • Historic Hotels in Old Town Eureka:

    These accommodations provide a glimpse into the region's past and unique character.

  • Local Charm Stays:

    Look for independent inns that reflect the customs and traditions of the place and artistic community, specifically in Trinidad and Arcata.

  • Coastal Lodges:

    Some lodges along the coast near the park have a long history of accommodating travelers seeking redwood adventures.

Explore and Book Your Stay

Vacation Rentals & Unique Stays

Discover homes, cabins, and unique properties for a local experience:

Planning Your Stay

Choose Your Base

Decide between closer, limited service towns (Orick, Klamath) or larger cities (Arcata, Eureka) with more amenities, considering driving distances to park sections.

Book Early for Peak Season

Especially for campgrounds and popular vacation rentals, ensuring your lodging well in advance is strongly recommended.

Consider Vacation Rentals

For families or longer stays, vacation homes provide extra space, kitchen facilities, and a home-like experience.