Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area is nestled along the South Fork of the Eel River. It is just north of Leggett on Highway 101. It offers a timeless retreat into towering redwoods and sparkling river canyons. The campgrounds are rooted in nearly a century of outdoor tradition.
What Makes This Park Unique
The Hickey family made a generous gift in 1922. Descendants of Captain Miles Standish and the Save the Redwoods League expanded it further. Standish-Hickey encompasses over 1,000 forested acres and historic groves. One highlight is the magnificent Miles Standish Tree—a colossal 225-foot redwood estimated to be more than a millennium old. This landscape uniquely blends old-growth character, river access, and accessible trails for all outdoor enthusiasts. (some info derived from park history and landscape descriptions)
Top Activities and Amenities
Campsites, Showers & Restrooms
Choose from three developed campgrounds—Hickey, Redwood, and Rock Creek. Together, they offer a combined total of over 160 family sites. The sites accommodate tents, RVs (up to ~27 ft), and provide hike/bike access. Facilities include flush restrooms, hot coin-operated showers, drinking water stations, picnic tables, fire rings, and even a campfire center for evening interpretive programs. One accessible campsite and restroom facility are also available.
Hiking Trails & River Swimming
Explore nearly 10 miles of forested trails: the easy 1.7-mile Taber Nature Trail loops among redwoods. The moderate 2-mile Big Tree Trail leads to the Miles Standish Tree. The more strenuous Mill Creek Loop remains closed. Each path delivers scenic views of the river and tall trees, with several inviting swimming holes carved into granite for cooling off.
Fishing, Boating & Wildlife Viewing
Fall through winter brings catch-and-release salmon and steelhead fishing. The river also invites peaceful wildlife encounters—look for river otters, deer, and soaring bald eagles, as well as herons, ospreys, and kingfishers along the banks.
Picnicking, Interpretive Programs & Amphitheater
Day-use facilities include picnic areas shaded by majestic redwoods, perfect for riverside lunches. During summer, the park’s amphitheater (which seats around 140) hosts ranger-led interpretive programs on natural history and local heritage.
Visitor Center & Accessibility Features
The Bridgeport Visitor Center is operable mid-week to weekend. It provides educational displays and maps. There is also life-jacket lending for rivergoers, enhancing both understanding and safety. The accessible Taber Nature Trail ensures that visitors using wheelchairs or those with mobility needs can meander through redwood glades too.
Practical Visitor Tips
- Day-use parking and camping areas charge around $10 per vehicle; annual California park passes are accepted.
- Reservations are advised for campsites during peak season; hike/bike sites may fill first-come.
- Bring a valid California fishing license for salmon and steelhead seasons.
- All fires must stay within provided fire rings; do not collect firewood.
- Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.; generators allowed only from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Dogs are welcome on leash, except at designated swimming spots like Family Beach.
- River conditions shift quickly—double-check for seasonal bridge closures before attempting trails that cross the river.
- Summer temperatures range quite warm (70–100 °F), while winters can dip significantly—dress in layers.
Local insight: Early morning light across the Eel River brings glassy reflections and wildlife stirrings—especially upstream near Redwood Campground. Try a late afternoon dip in the natural swimming holes paired with peaceful riverside solitude. In spring, wildflower clusters dot the trails—pair a walk to the majestic Miles Standish Tree with a break at the park amphitheater during an evening interpretive talk for a deeply connected outdoor experience. Standish-Hickey remains one of the North Coast’s most inviting retreats—wild, refreshing, and grounded in redwood legacy.