Camping at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

Overview of Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is a state park located in Humboldt County, California, about 50 miles north of Eureka and 25 miles south of Crescent City. It is a sanctuary of old-growth coast redwood trees and offers a rich tapestry of ecosystems that include prairies, woodlands, and coastal zones. The park is part of the larger Redwood National and State Parks complex and is designated as both a World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve.

Camping Information

Campsites Availability: Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park has two developed campgrounds: Elk Prairie and Gold Bluffs Beach. Both campgrounds offer a number of sites and are equipped with basic amenities like toilets, potable water, and fire pits.

• Elk Prairie Campground: Nestled within the redwood forest, this campground mainly offers sites for tents, trailers, and RVs with no hookups.
• Gold Bluffs Beach Campground: Located along the Pacific coastline, it provides a unique beach camping experience, but is more primitive and accessible only by vehicles with high clearance due to unpaved roads.

Reservations: Reservations for camping at Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park are strongly recommended, especially during peak season (late spring through early fall). They can be made up to six months in advance through the California's state park reservation system.

Campground Facilities: Facilities at both campgrounds include picnic tables, fire rings, flush toilets, and solar-powered showers. A dump station is available at Elk Prairie. Food lockers are provided due to the presence of wildlife, including black bears.

Camping Fees: Fees for camping vary based on the site and time of year. It's best to check the most current fees when making your reservation or planning your trip.

Hiking and Trails

The park offers over 70 miles of hiking trails, ranging from easy to strenuous. Some popular trails include:

• Fern Canyon Trail: A walk through a lush, fern-covered canyon featured in the movie "Jurassic Park 2."
• Miners’ Ridge and James Irvine Trails: A loop hike through redwood forest to the coast and back.
• Prairie Creek and Foothill Trail Loop: A moderate loop that highlights the park's meadows and redwoods.

Wildlife and Safety

Wildlife: The park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including Roosevelt elk, black bears, and a variety of bird species. Observing wildlife from a safe distance is important for your safety and their well-being.

Safety: When camping and hiking in the park, safety precautions include being aware of your surroundings, keeping food stored in bear-proof containers, and staying on designated trails. Also, the weather can be variable, so come prepared for rain and temperature changes.

Visitor Center and Interpretative Programs

Visitor Center: The Prairie Creek Visitor Center offers exhibits, maps, and other educational resources about the park. It's a good place to start your visit, learn about trail conditions, and get advice from park rangers.

Interpretative Programs: The park offers a variety of interpretive programs, including guided hikes and campfire talks during the summer months. These programs are excellent for gaining a deeper understanding of the park’s ecology and history.

Tips for Visiting

• Plan Ahead: Make reservations early, especially if you’re visiting during peak season.
• Prepare for the Weather: Bring layers for cool, damp weather, and rain gear year-round.
• Respect the Environment: Stay on designated trails to protect delicate ecosystems and follow Leave No Trace principles.
• Road Conditions: Check the state park website for road conditions to Gold Bluffs Beach, as they can be rough and are occasionally closed due to weather.
• Check Campground Amenities: If you require certain amenities, verify what’s available at the campground before booking.
• Wildlife Interactions: Store food appropriately and do not approach or feed wildlife.
• Limit Impact: Use established fire rings for fires and check fire restrictions, especially during dry summer months.