Camping at Mill Creek Southern Loop Campground
General Information
Mill Creek Southern Loop Campground is one of the campgrounds located in Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, which is part of the larger California State Park system. The park boasts ancient redwoods and is located five miles south of Crescent City on Highway 101 in northern California. The campground is set among a stunning second-growth redwood forest along Mill Creek.
Camping Seasons and Reservations
Seasons: Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park and its Mill Creek Southern Loop Campground are open year-round; however, the campground may have specific opening and closing dates for the camping season, which can vary from year to year depending on maintenance and weather conditions.
Reservations: Campsites at Mill Creek Campground can usually be reserved up to six months in advance. To secure a spot, especially during the peak summer season, early booking is recommended. Reservations are typically handled through ReserveCalifornia, the official reservations system for the California State Parks.
Facilities and Amenities
Campsites: Mill Creek Campground offers a range of campsites suitable for both tents and RVs, though hook-ups may not be available. Each site typically includes a picnic table, food storage locker, and a fire ring.
Restrooms: Restroom facilities with flush toilets and running water are usually provided. Some may also have shower facilities.
Supplies: While there may be limited supplies available at the campground, Crescent City nearby provides ample shopping opportunities including grocery stores, outdoor gear, and other essentials.
Activities and Points of Interest
Hiking: The park offers numerous trails, ranging from easy strolls amongst the redwoods to more strenuous hikes with elevation gains.
Wildlife Viewing: The park is home to an abundance of wildlife, including various bird species, deer, and other native animals.
Scenic Views: There are opportunities to enjoy stunning views of the Pacific coastline, as well as the dense redwood forest.
Rules and Regulations
Fires: Campers should check for current fire regulations, as there may be restrictions or bans, especially during fire season.
Food Storage: Due to the presence of wildlife, proper food storage is crucial. Use bear-proof lockers where provided and follow park guidelines to keep animals away from campsites.
Noise: To preserve the natural serenity of the park, there are quiet hours which campers are expected to respect.
Pets: Dogs are typically allowed but must be kept on leashes no longer than six feet and should not be left unattended.
Conservation: Campers are encouraged to practice Leave No Trace principles, including packing out all trash and preserving the natural environment.
Accessibility
ADA Accessibility: Visitor centers, restrooms, and some of the campsites are ADA accessible to accommodate individuals with disabilities.
Contact and Emergency Information
Before heading to Mill Creek Southern Loop Campground, it's always best to check the latest information on the official California State Parks website or contact the park directly for current conditions, specific rules, and any alerts or advisories. For emergencies, campers should be aware of the nearest hospital in Crescent City and have the number for the park rangers and local law enforcement.
