Unreserved Camping Amongst California's Redwood Forests in a State Park
Navarro River Redwoods State Park, nestled in the heart of California, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities for visitors. The park, home to the Paul M. Dimmick Campground, follows a winding path along the Navarro River and provides opportunities for peaceful kayaking trips, fishing for steelhead, and scenic swimming spots.
The area is rich in wildlife, making it an ideal spot for bird watching and observing other forest creatures. One of the highlights is the opportunity to hike through a redwood tunnel that leads to the ocean, a unique feature known as the Redwood Tunnel to the Sea.
For nature enthusiasts, the Redwood Tunnel to the Sea route is a must-visit. This natural archway of redwoods guides hikers to the coastline, offering stunning views of the ocean at Navarro Beach, the final stop of the route. The 11-mile route extends from the campground, following Highway 128, and provides a scenic drive for sightseers.
Visitors can extend their vacation with another night of camping at Navarro Beach Campground, located at the end of the Redwood Tunnel to the Sea drive. The Paul M. Dimmick Campground, open only during the summer, offers reservation-free camping and operates on a first come, first served system. Campers should prioritize packing water-resistant gear and moisture-wicking clothing for personal comfort.
Outdoor enthusiasts can also take day trips to nearby attractions such as Mendocino Woodlands State Park, Manchester State Park, Gualala Point Regional Park, and experience rail tours with the Skunk Train from nearby towns like Willits and Fort Bragg.
During different seasons, visitors can enjoy whale watching between November and April or see wildflowers in the spring. Fall is a great time to experience smaller crowds and attend local festivals like the abalone festival and mushroom, wine, and beer festivals.
Navarro River Redwoods State Park and its surrounding areas make for a fantastic destination for those seeking a serene escape among the towering redwoods, sparkling waters, and the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can camp near the ocean, waking up to the sound of waves and enjoying the sunset over the Pacific. A picnic at Navarro Beach, surrounded by curving green hills, is the perfect way to end a day of exploration.
Travel guides often recommend Navarro River Redwoods State Park as a destination for those interested in both travel and lifestyle, offering a unique blend of natural beauty, outdoor activities, and serene escapes among towering redwoods, sparkling waters, and the Pacific Ocean. For nature enthusiasts, the Redwood Tunnel to the Sea route, a 11-mile scenic drive that follows Highway 128, is a must-visit, providing opportunities for bird watching, hiking, and stunning views of the ocean at Navarro Beach, the final stop of the route.
