Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park: Your Guide

Jacklyn Hegmann 18 May 2025

Ever dreamt of walking amongst giants, where the air hums with ancient secrets and the sunlight dapples through a cathedral of towering trees? Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park offers an unparalleled journey into the heart of California's redwood forests, a place where nature's majesty reigns supreme.

Nestled in the northernmost reaches of California's redwood country, near Crescent City, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park is a collaborative effort, managed jointly by the National Park Service and California State Parks, mirroring the cooperative management of Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park, Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, and Redwood National Park. This shared stewardship ensures the preservation of these precious ecosystems for generations to come.

For those seeking an immersive experience, the park offers a diverse array of activities. Hiking trails weave through the heart of the ancient groves, inviting visitors to lose themselves in the quiet beauty of the towering redwoods. Camping options abound, allowing for an extended stay amidst the natural splendor. Fishing enthusiasts can cast their lines in the Smith River, while kayakers can explore its calm waters. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot various animal species. The park is also a haven for history buffs, with historic sites scattered throughout, providing glimpses into the area's rich past.

The park's significance is further enhanced by its designation as the location of the largest coast redwood by volume, the Boy Scout Tree, as well as the Grove of Titans, a cluster of extraordinary redwood specimens. These remarkable features, among others, draw visitors from far and wide to marvel at the sheer scale and unique characteristics of these ancient trees.

The park protects 10,000 acres of primeval redwood groves, a lush undergrowth of rhododendrons and azaleas, and tons of ferns. Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park is an unusual animal.

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, named in honor of the renowned American explorer Jedediah S. Smith, was officially established on June 3, 1929. The Save the Redwoods League played a pivotal role in its founding, dedicating Stout Grove near the confluence of Mill Creek and the Smith River. This marked the beginning of a dedicated effort to preserve the extraordinary redwood forests of this region.

The park is an enjoyable way to appreciate the wildlife. Explore the ancient coast redwoods and the smith river, the last major free flowing river in california. Take photographs of the majestic redwoods and lush landscapes. The redwoods of jedediah smith state park create a photographers paradise.

The main trailhead is located on the eastern side of Howland Hill Road in Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. The best access is from Hwy 199 near Hiouchi, California. The trail also connects to the Mill Creek Trail. The area is abundant with recreational opportunities including picnicking, swimming, and paddling. In the summer, hikers are able to take a spur trail and cross a bridge over the Smith River.

Feature	Details
Name	Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park
Location	Near Crescent City, California (1000 Hwy 199, Crescent City, CA 95531)
Size	10,000 acres
Established	June 3, 1929
Managed By	National Park Service and California State Parks
Key Features	Ancient Redwood Groves, Smith River (last major free-flowing river in California), Hiking Trails, Camping, Wildlife, Historic Sites, Grove of Titans, Boy Scout Tree
Activities	Hiking, Camping, Fishing, Kayaking, Wildlife Viewing, Photography, Scenic Drives, Picnicking
Campground	106 campsites, 4 cabins, 5 hike/bike sites, group camping available. Sites accommodate tents, trailers up to 21 feet, and RVs up to 25 feet.
Trails	Main trailhead is located on the eastern side of howland hill road in jedediah smith redwood state park. The trail also connects to the mill creek trail.
Howland Hill Road	Built in 1887 as part of the Crescent City to Grants Pass road.
Day Use Area	In summer, you can park any vehicle at the jedediah smith redwoods state park campground day use area ($8 fee required).
Campsite Amenities	Each site has a table, fire ring, and cupboard, with restrooms nearby.
Vehicle Information	Some sites can accommodate trailers up to 21 feet and rvs up to 25 feet (no hookups). The campsite fee covers one vehicle. Extra vehicles will be charged a fee. Each campsite may have up to eight persons (including children).

The Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park campground is a standout feature, offering 106 beautifully situated campsites along the scenic Smith River, nestled amongst towering redwood trees. These sites are complemented by 4 cozy cabins, 5 hike/bike sites, and options for group camping, providing diverse accommodation options for visitors. The campsites are well-equipped to accommodate tents, trailers (up to 21 feet), and RVs (up to 25 feet), ensuring comfort and convenience for all. Each campsite is thoughtfully designed with a table, fire ring, and cupboard, complemented by nearby restrooms.

The park is largely undeveloped, it can be hard to know where to start. Best access is from hwy 199 near hiouchi, california.

Exploring the park involves navigating the natural landscape. The main trailhead lies along the eastern side of Howland Hill Road. Another option for access to the campground from the day use area, which can be reached by following a footpath that extends for 0.8 miles (1.2 km). Once at the campground, visitors can embark on a walking trail that meanders upstream along the riverbank.

In the summer months, a day use area is available at the Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park campground for parking, with a modest fee of $8. However, it's important to note that Howland Hill Road, a scenic drive within the park, built in 1887, may experience temporary closures for repairs during the spring season following winter storms. The campsites, designed to cater to various needs, can accommodate up to eight individuals per site, including children. It's important to remember that the campsite fee covers one vehicle, and additional vehicles will be subject to a fee. Moreover, vehicles are permitted to park solely in designated parking areas within the park.

This area is located on the stunning wild & scenic smith river on the north side of the park near crescent city. It is the northernmost unit of redwood national. Named for the famous mountain man, jedediah smith state park is often many visitors first experience in redwood national park. Allow an hour to drive the length of the road which is located inside jedediah smith redwoods state park. There are many trailheads along the road, and parking and pullouts are limited.

The redwoods of Jedediah Smith State Park offer a unique experience for those seeking to connect with nature. Whether you're looking to hike among the giants, camp under a canopy of stars, or simply soak in the serene beauty of the Smith River, this park has something for everyone. Its well-preserved old-growth forests, recreational activities, and convenient facilities make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring California's redwood coast.

The trail also connects to the mill creek trail. This is a short but delightful trail that takes visitors through a beautiful grove by the smith river. Enjoy fishing, kayaking, hiking, camping, wildlife, and historic sites in this ancient forest. Jedediah smith redwoods state park california state parks supports equal access.

For more information about Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, visitors are encouraged to explore the resources available through the California State Parks website or other reputable sources. By planning ahead and utilizing the available tools, you can ensure a memorable and enriching experience in this extraordinary redwood sanctuary.

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Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park: Your Guide

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