Things to Do in Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park

Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park brings together old-growth forest, rugged coastline and Mill Creek Basin in one steep coastal landscape. California State Parks describes the park as established in 1929 and covering 6,400 acres; approximately half of it is old-growth coast redwood, alongside eight miles of wild coastline.

The terrain rises from sea level to 1,277 feet. That change in elevation shapes the experience: redwoods grow inland, while much of the coast is difficult to reach. Coastal areas are generally inaccessible except by Damnation Creek Trail and Footsteps Rock Trail.

Mill Creek adds a different perspective from the ocean-facing scenery. At the Mill Creek Day Use Area, you can learn about restoration efforts addressing the effects of logging that took place in the mid-20th century.

The park’s trails and shoreline stops let you pair redwood scenery with coastal views, but steep terrain calls for a realistic plan. Choose a route based on the walk you want and check conditions before setting out.

Damnation Creek Trail

Damnation Creek Trail descends through redwood forest toward rocky tidepools and the ocean. It runs two steep miles, so account for the climb back as well as the descent. The coast here is rocky rather than an easy beach approach.

California Coastal Trail

A scenic stretch of the California Coastal Trail crosses the park and is used by hikers and bicyclists. It offers a way to experience the park’s coastal setting alongside its forested routes.

Wilson Beach and Mill Creek

Wilson Beach, also known as False Klamath Cove, extends for half a mile. It suits a shoreline stroll and tidepool viewing at low tide, but swimming is unsafe because the beach is steep and rocky, the seas are rough, and the water is cold.

For another coastal outing in the area, Crescent City’s beaches offer a broader choice of shore settings.

At the Mill Creek Day Use Area on the park’s east side, take time to learn about the landscape’s restoration history.

If you’re planning a separate redwood outing, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park is another state park in the region to consider.

Park access, fees and conditions can vary, so check the official site before you go. The vehicle day-use fee is $8.00, with special rates possible on weekends, holidays and during peak-demand periods; prices may change without notice.

The maximum trailer length is 24 feet, and the maximum camper or motorhome length is 28 feet. Dogs are not allowed on trails, except for service animals.

If you’re camping, Mill Creek Campground has 145 campsites and is open from May through September. Reservations are accepted from May through September; for the rest of the year, sites are first-come, first-served. Each site has a picnic table, food locker and fire ring.

The campground is reached by turning east from Highway 101 about 7 miles south of Crescent City, then continuing 2 miles east of the highway. Store food in animal-proof lockers, put rubbish in animal-proof cans and do not feed wildlife.

Conditions can change quickly. Before setting out, check for trail closures, fire restrictions, road conditions and park alerts through the National Park Service. The park’s typical weather also varies: summer temperatures range from 40–80 °F, winter temperatures from 30–55 °F, morning and evening fog is common, and rain should be expected from November through May.

From Crescent City, you can organize a visit around a forest walk, a coastal stop or both, depending on conditions and how much time you have. The park lies just south of town, and the Mill Creek area is on its east side.

For a coast-focused outing, make Wilson Beach or a coastal trail the main stop, then leave time for the steep terrain and shoreline conditions.

For a forest-and-history visit, head to Mill Creek Day Use Area to see the setting and learn about restoration work. If you plan to camp, note the campground’s May-to-September operating period and its different reservation arrangements for the rest of the year.

Pack with changeable weather in mind: the park commonly has fog in the morning and evening, and rain is expected from November through May. Keep food and rubbish secured in the animal-proof facilities provided.

What is Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park known for?

The park combines old-growth coast redwood forest, Mill Creek Basin and eight miles of wild coastline. Approximately half of its 6,400 acres is old-growth coast redwood.

Can you swim at Wilson Beach?

No. Swimming is unsafe because of the steep, rocky beach, rough seas and cold water. The half-mile shore is better suited to strolling and tidepool viewing at low tide.

Are dogs allowed on the park trails?

Dogs are not allowed on trails, except for service animals.

Is there a fee to use the park?

The vehicle day-use fee is $8.00, though special rates may apply on certain days or during peak-demand periods, and prices may change.