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Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area

Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area Overview


Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area is a beautiful park located in Mendocino County, California. The park is situated along the South Fork of the Eel River, which provides visitors with a stunning backdrop for their outdoor adventures. The park is easily accessible from Highway 101, making it a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

There are plenty of things to do at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area. The park offers a variety of hiking trails, ranging from easy to challenging, that wind through the park’s lush forests and along the river. Visitors can also enjoy fishing, swimming, and kayaking in the river. The park has a large picnic area with tables and grills, making it a great spot for a family outing or a group gathering.

In addition to outdoor activities, there are also plenty of things to see and learn at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer, raccoons, and a variety of bird species. Visitors can also learn about the park’s history by visiting the Standish-Hickey House, which was built in the 1870s and is now a museum.

One of the most unique things about Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area is the park’s famous “Chandelier Tree.” This massive redwood tree has a hole carved through its base, allowing visitors to drive their cars through it. The tree is a popular attraction and a must-see for anyone visiting the park.

Overall, Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area is a beautiful and unique park that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventure, a peaceful picnic spot, or a chance to learn about the area’s history and wildlife, this park is definitely worth a visit.

Visitor’s Experience


Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area is a beautiful destination located in Mendocino County, California. The park offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages, making it an ideal spot for families, couples, friends, and solo travelers. The park is known for its stunning natural beauty, including towering redwoods, crystal-clear rivers, and scenic hiking trails.

Families visiting Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area can enjoy a variety of activities, including camping, fishing, and hiking. The park has several campgrounds that are perfect for families, with amenities such as picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms. The park’s river is also a great spot for fishing, with a variety of fish species available. Families can also explore the park’s hiking trails, which offer stunning views of the surrounding redwoods and river.

Couples looking for a romantic getaway will find plenty to love at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area. The park’s peaceful setting and natural beauty make it an ideal spot for a romantic picnic or hike. Couples can also rent a canoe or kayak and explore the park’s river together, taking in the stunning scenery and wildlife.

Friends visiting Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities together, including hiking, fishing, and camping. The park’s hiking trails offer a great opportunity for friends to explore the area and take in the stunning views. The park’s river is also a great spot for fishing, with plenty of fish species available. Friends can also camp together in one of the park’s campgrounds, enjoying a night under the stars and around the campfire.

Solo travelers looking for a peaceful retreat will find plenty to love at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area. The park’s natural beauty and peaceful setting make it an ideal spot for solo travelers to relax and recharge. Solo travelers can explore the park’s hiking trails, take a peaceful canoe or kayak ride down the river, or simply relax in the park’s peaceful surroundings.

The best times of year to visit Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area are in the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. The park can get crowded during the summer months, so visitors looking for a quieter experience may want to plan their visit during the off-season. Additionally, visitors should be aware that the park can get quite chilly during the winter months, so they should come prepared with warm clothing.

Overall, Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area is a beautiful destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, you’re sure to have a memorable experience exploring the park’s stunning natural beauty.

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