Welcome to Richardson Grove State Park—a majestic redwood enclave nestled along Highway 101 in southern Humboldt County, California. Just 200 miles north of San Francisco, this hidden forest gem is home to ancient giants. These rise above the South Fork of the Eel River. It invites travelers into a world where old-growth redwoods, swirling river pools, and peaceful trails converge.
What Makes Richardson Grove State Park Unique
This year-round state park spans approximately 2,000 acres. It shelters coast redwoods that soar over 300 feet tall. These trees stand for more than a millennium. These towering sentinels are interwoven with lush understory of ferns, sorrel, madrones, and orchids. The serene Eel River threads through the grove, offering seasonal swimming, fishing, and quiet reflection. Cultural history runs deep here too. The Sinkyone people once thrived here. The era of early concession-era lodges is now preserved as the visitor center.
Top Activities & Amenities
Campsites & RV Access
Richardson Grove offers 160 family campsites. These include three campgrounds: Huckleberry, Madrone, and Oak Flat. Oak Flat is larger and nestled in oak forest. There is also a large group campground. Sites are spacious and shaded, equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and food lockers. RVs up to 30 feet are accommodated. Accessible and hike/bike campsites are also available.
Hiking, Nature Walks & Interpretive Exhibits
Explore over nine miles of trails, from the easy ADA-accessible Grove Nature Trail near the visitor center to more rugged paths like the Toumey Trail and Lookout Point Loop. Discover living history along the exhibit trail, past the walk-through tree and the famed “bat tree”. The visitor center—housed in the historic 1930s lodge—features engaging interpretive displays on redwoods, ecology, and cultural heritage.
Swimming & River Fun
When water levels are safe, the South Fork of the Eel River offers inviting swimming holes. It also provides cool wading spots and peaceful riverside lounging. These activities are perfect on a summer afternoon.
Fishing & Wildlife Viewing
In fall and winter, anglers can try catch-and-release fishing for salmon and steelhead. Birdwatchers and nature lovers will delight in sightings of bald eagles, ospreys, kingfishers, river otters, deer, and the lesser-known marbled murrelet and Yuma myotis bats.
Visitor Center, Campfire Programs & Junior Rangers
The visitor center hosts nature walks. It offers Junior Ranger programs. Seasonal campfire events enrich your forest immersion with storytelling and redwood lore.
Practical Site Amenities
- Clean restrooms and coin-operated showers
- Drinking water available; dump station nearby
- Wi-Fi near ranger station and small nature store
- Potable water, firewood (available from staff), and ADA-accessible sites
Practical Visitor Tips
- Day-use and camping require vehicle passes or individual fees.
- Campground reservations are accepted up to six months in advance—highly recommended during summer.
- Maximum stay is 30 nights per year (15 during summer); group sites have a 14-night maximum and require a 48-hour leave before return.
- Extra vehicle fees may apply and are collected on entry.
- Pets are allowed in campsites and day-use areas but not on trails.
- Quiet hours: 10 pm–6 am. Generators may only run between 10 am–8 pm.
- Collecting firewood is prohibited—obtain wood from park staff.
- Stay alert when entering/exiting—Highway 101 runs directly through the park.
- To protect wildlife, always secure food and dispose of trash properly.
Local Insight
Late spring and early fall offer the most magical visits. The forest floors become lush, covered in fern and sorrel. Golden light filters through the ancient redwood crowns. For peaceful solitude, time a midweek morning swim in the Eel River followed by a shaded nature walk before the weekend campers arrive. Don’t miss the “bat tree” at dusk—Yuma myotis bats emerge in wisps like living mist to feed, a quiet spectacle that connects you with the living forest in unexpected ways.
Richardson Grove State Park is more than a stop—it’s a pause within time itself. Experience California’s redwood heart, where giants, river, and history intertwine, and leave refreshed by forest, water, and century-spanning calm.