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Prairie Creek Redwoods/Elk Prairie
Overview
Elk Prairie Campground provides a truly immersive experience within the heart of Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park. It stands as one of the premier locations to stay directly among ancient old-growth redwoods. This rustic setting is co-managed by California State Parks and the National Park Service, ensuring the landscape remains pristine and protected. It is designed for those who want to disconnect from technology and reconnect with the natural world, offering a quiet atmosphere dominated by the sounds of the forest.
Location & Surroundings
Located just north of Orick, CA, the park is defined by the expansive Elk Prairie meadow. This open space serves as a frequent gathering spot for majestic Roosevelt elk, which visitors can often spot right from their campsites during the quiet hours of dawn and dusk. The campground is bisected by the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway, a ten-mile stretch of road that winds through some of the most impressive and accessible forest scenery in Northern California, providing easy access to the coast.
Amenities & Park Features
This is a classic dry-camping destination with a focus on simplicity and conservation. The campground offers 75 individual sites, but it is important to note that there are no electric, water, or sewer hookups available. Essential facilities include accessible restrooms and hot showers powered by coins. Each campsite includes a heavy-duty food locker to protect against local wildlife, along with a sturdy picnic table and a dedicated fire ring. Due to the narrow roads and thick tree cover, there are strict vehicle length limits in place.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The park serves as a gateway to some of the most iconic landscapes in the Redwood National and State Parks system. Visitors are within easy reach of Fern Canyon, a spectacular geological feature with towering fern-draped walls that served as a filming location for major films. Hikers can access over 75 miles of interconnected trails, including scenic routes that lead through the forest directly to the Pacific coastline. The nearby visitor center offers interpretive programs that explain the unique biology of these thousand-year-old trees.
Who This Park Is Best For
This destination is a haven for wildlife photographers and hikers who want immediate access to the forest. It is perfectly suited for those traveling in small camper vans or shorter trailers, as the narrow turns and densely forested sites cannot accommodate large luxury motorhomes. If your travel style favors quiet evenings under a starlit canopy and mornings spent watching elk grazing in the mist, this park offers an unparalleled and authentic California wilderness experience.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Melissa
Gorgeous. Went today. Big Tree trail was fabulous, following the creek, falling leaves everywhere, ferns everywhere, so much moss and greenery. Thick forest that provided shelter from the rain. The air was damp and cool and smelled lovely. Exactly as I imagined the redwoods would be. Saw Bear scat but no bears.
Tracie Bratcher
Wow so beautiful the trail was easy with a few obstacles one of the best hikes we have been on in the redwoods kid friendly five finger ferns waterfalls on moss. We saw elk just walking out of the parking lot at the beach. You do need a permit easy on line to get.
Austin
Great park! The information center when you first arrive is extremely helpful. Parking can be tight at some of the trails but parking along the main road has plenty of space. Big Tree wayside was my favorite. There's a good number of people at the beginning of the trail but once you start walking more than 10 minutes you're by yourself. Its absolutely gorgeous.
Tino Plank
This park has so much to offer. From camping to hiking to wildlife viewing it's all right here. I've been visiting here for over 40 years. The staff at the information center can help you find the best activity to match your interests. But I'd recommend Trillium Falls or a hike along the trails adjacent to the Drury Parkway to get a taste. If you want more, and have the time, hike or drive to Fern Canyon. Personally, I like to hike the James Irvine Trail to get there. The trail will take you through some majestic and ancient groves of redwoods. The Elk Prairie campground is a good place to camp. Some of the facilities are a bit old. But the location is hard to beat. You'll likely see Roosevelt Elk in the prairie meadow. Give them plenty of space. Particularly during calving season (May-June) they can be aggressive.
Wyatt W. Penke
It really ranks as one of the best state parks you will ever visit. Where else can you possibly see giant elk on the beach next to ocean waves. Fern canyon is a once in a lifetime experience. Plus, giant redwoods on a scenic drive. It has a wonderful combination of views, drives, trails, and wildlife. Overall, the best stops in the greater Redwood park system.