Known as Redwood NSP by the National Park Service, the entire complex stretches roughly 50 miles . from near the Oregon border to south of Orick. The individual parks border and intersect one another to such an extent that they have come to be managed as if they were one entity, although different rules apply in the national and state-run sections. Truly one of the world's premier natural destinations, these parks provide a wide spectrum of recreational opportunities that include both the rugged and the sedate. Outdoor activities range from hiking, kayaking, rafting, fishing and camping to nature photography, peaceful strolls and awe-struck quiet contemplation. Many species of wildlife call these parks home. Furthermore, in addition to redwoods there are quite a few other types of trees found in the parks, and a variety of ecosystems, with areas of seacoast, river and prairie as well as densely forested zones. The rivers and streams are among the most pristine in the United States. MORE INFO: Visitor Information Center, 1111 2nd St., Crescent City, 707-464-6101 , Daily 9am to 5pm; call for shortened winter hours; www.nps.gov
• Redwood National Park The tallest tree currently known to exist in the world was discovered here in 2006. Named “Hyperion,” it is a coastal redwood that stands over 379 ft. in height, making it about 75 ft. taller than the Statue of Liberty plus its pedestal. Scientists estimate that Hyperion is about 700 or 800 years old, but coastal redwoods can live to an astounding age of 2000 or more. The tree's location has been kept secret to protect it from souvenir hunters. Camping in the park is permitted, but you'll have to hike to reach the designated camping areas, which are located in the backcountry. Stays are limited to five consecutive nights, and you'll need a permit. You will need to pack your water in with you, or purify or filter the water that you find, and you're required to carry all your trash out with you. MORE INFO: 707-464-6101 , 707-465-7765, www.nps.gov/redw
• Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park This jewel of a state park protects 7% of all the old growth redwoods left in the world along with the Smith River, the last major free-flowing river in California. Most of the park is watershed for this untamed river and Mill Creek, a major tributary. There are 20 mi. of hiking and nature trails that are excellent for exploring, along with many places to access the river for kayaking, swimming or fishing. King salmon and steelhead trout fishing are excellent in the fall and winter. Driving along the gravel Howland Hill Road or strolling in Stout Grove, with some of the most intense old-growth redwood habitat in the world, is a never-to-be-forgotten experience. Scenes for the 1983 Star Wars film “Return of the Jedi” were filmed in this grove. There are also splendid campgrounds available for those who would like to spend the night. Make sure you stop at the Visitor Center; it has many exhibits which will enhance your experience of the park. The park and its campgrounds are open all year long. WHERE: 9 mi. east of Crescent City on Hwy 199 near Hiouchi MORE INFO:707- 464-6101 , 707-458-3018, www.parks.ca.gov
• Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park With 8 mi. of wild, rugged coastline and acres upon acres of old-growth redwoods, Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park is a wonderful place to spend the day. Tall trees tower above, allowing thin rays of light to shine through. Adjacent to the Pacific Ocean, there is a mountain range that runs north to south. The rocky coast is only accessible by Damnation Trail and Footsteps Rock Trail. Once down there, you will be able to see the cliffs from a new, awe-inspiring perspective. Wilson Beach or False Klamath Cove is a half-mile sandy beach that is great for strolling at low tide. Throughout the park there are miles of biking, hiking and nature trails along with guided tours. WHERE: 7 mi. south of Crescent City along Hwy 101 MORE INFO: 707-464-6101 www.parks.ca.gov
• Tolowa Dunes State Park and Lake Earl Wildlife Area You'll find some of the finest wetland habitats on California's northern coast in Tolowa Dunes State Park. Stroll along beaches, river banks, open and vegetated sand dunes, wildflower-filled meadows, tree-coated ridges and wetlands full of life. Two very important parts of the park are the Lake Earl Wildlife Area and the Lake Earl Coastal Lagoon. Located on the Pacific Flyway, you will be able to spot hundreds of species of birds including peregrine falcons, migrating ducks, geese and swans that gather by the thousands. There is excellent fishing for cutthroat trout and starry flounder at Lakes Earl and Tolowa. You can pitch a tent at one of the two campgrounds, which include a ride-in horse camp and walk-in sites. The park is open year-round. WHERE: 2 mi. north of Crescent City off Hwy 101 on Northcrest Drive and then onto Old Mill Road, or further down Northcrest Drive which becomes Lake Earl Drive. Take Lower Lake Road to Kellogg or Pala Road. MORE INFO: 707-464-6101 , www.parks.ca.gov