Summer in Crescent City: Your Guide to the Best of the Redwoods and Northern California Coast

1. Wander Among Ancient Giants

You’re camping in a redwood grove, so start close to home. Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park is just minutes away and home to some of the most impressive old-growth trees on the coast. Walk the easy loop at Stout Grove, or, if you’re up for more of a challenge, tackle the Boy Scout Tree Trail.

For a bigger adventure, head south to Redwood National and State Parks, where trails wind through Lady Bird Johnson Grove and the coastal bluffs at Damnation Creek. Note that Fern Canyon and Gold Bluffs Beach require a day-use reservation and small fee from mid-May through mid-September, so book ahead if that’s on your list.

2. Cool Off in the Smith River

The Smith River is one of the last major undammed rivers in California, and its clear, blue-green water is the perfect antidote to a warm summer hike. Find a calm bend to swim, or rent a kayak or paddleboard in town to explore further. Guided kayak tours sometimes depart from the Hiouchi Visitor Center, a fun way to spot wildlife while someone else handles the logistics.

3. Spend a Day at the Beach

Crescent City’s namesake South Beach offers a wide, crescent-shaped stretch of sand perfect for a walk, a picnic, or beginner-friendly stand-up paddleboarding. From there, the Crescent City Harbor Trail is a flat, paved six-mile path that carries you past the harbor, tide pools, and out to the bluffs at Point St. George, great for biking or an easy evening stroll.

4. Spot Wildlife at Castle Rock

Just offshore, Castle Rock National Wildlife Refuge is a haven for seabirds, sea lions, and elephant seals. Take in the view from Pebble Beach Drive, or book a guided sea kayak tour to paddle closer to the action.

5. Explore Crescent City’s Working Waterfront

Round out your day at the Crescent City Harbor, where you can watch fishing boats come in, grab a table at a harborside restaurant, or pick up fresh Dungeness crab straight off a boat. It’s also a great spot to catch the sunset with a scoop of ice cream in hand.

6. Visit Battery Point Lighthouse

At low tide, walk across the sandy causeway to this historic lighthouse for sweeping ocean views and a glimpse into Crescent City’s seafaring past.

Home Base for Your Redwood Coast Adventure

However you spend your day, Ramblin’ Redwoods Campground puts you close to it all, tucked in the trees, minutes from the beach, and just down the road from some of the tallest trees on Earth. Book your summer site or cabin today and make us your basecamp for the coast.