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Standish-Hickey SRA
Overview
Located as the southern gateway to the legendary Redwood Empire, Standish-Hickey SRA offers a rugged and refreshing escape in Mendocino County. This park serves as a transition point where the oak-covered hills meet the towering redwood forests. Travelers often stop here to experience the natural beauty of the South Fork of the Eel River, which winds through the heart of the recreation area, providing a serene backdrop for a traditional camping experience.
Location & Surroundings
Situated directly off Highway 101 in Leggett, CA, the park is nestled within a steep-walled canyon environment. The landscape is defined by its dense forest canopy and the dramatic elevation changes that characterize the Northern California coast range. The surrounding area feels remote and wild, providing a distinct sense of seclusion despite its proximity to the main travel corridor through the Mendocino wilderness, making it a convenient yet immersive stop.
Amenities & Park Features
This state recreation area provides a traditional, rustic camping experience across three distinct loops: Redwood, Hickey, and Rock Creek. While there are no hookups available, the park offers essential comforts including flush toilets and coin-operated showers for guest convenience. RVers should note that sites are best suited for smaller rigs, typically accommodating trailers or motorhomes up to 24 feet in length depending on the specific loop and site chosen.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The park is famous for the Captain Miles Standish Tree, an ancient redwood estimated to be over 1,200 years old. During the summer months, the Big Hole swimming area becomes a primary draw for visitors looking to cool off in the river. Hikers can explore over nine miles of trails, including the Mill Creek Loop, which showcases some of the last remaining virgin old-growth redwoods in the immediate vicinity.
Who This Park Is Best For
Standish-Hickey SRA is ideal for nature enthusiasts who prefer a quiet, backcountry atmosphere over a resort-style stay. It is perfectly suited for van lifers and small trailer owners who are comfortable with dry camping and tight forest turns. If you are looking for a scenic stopover to appreciate the transition into the redwood forests and enjoy river-based recreation, this park fits your travel style perfectly.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Jasmine Wilson
Great location, nice showers, clean campsites, and the river was beautiful!
Sara MacCracken
Great campground though the maintenance of the bathrooms was minimal when we were there for a weekend. The river is gorgeous with a deep swimming hole.
John Hering
Comfortable park. We had sun and mild temperatures the first week of June, with plenty of shade in the camp site. We stayed Monday through Friday, and there were only a couple of other campers on our loop until Thursday night. Bathrooms were well stocked and maintained, and showers are $2 for 15 minutes. There is a market across the street with pretty good stock but, of course, steep prices. ("Never don't stop at the Peg House!" - Ice was about $1/lb.) Also there was a restaurant we didn't try under the same management. They had free live music on the patio Thursday afternoon (which I didn't hear from the campground). Downsides were being a little close to highway 101, lots of poison oak, which we managed to avoid, and some sort of leaf dropping fungus afflicting the laurels (I think?). Also, remember your bug spray! (They are only fierce for a couple of hours morning and evening, so my botanical stuff worked as well as wifey's super extra strength chemical.) All in all, a very nice campground, but not IN the redwoods like Richardson Grove 20 miles further north. We'll try that one next time.
Tina Scott
Campground was closed. It is off season. Understandable, but should be listed on website. The park looked like mostly camping facilities. There was a trail, but we didn't pursue.
Scott Stearley
I stopped on a whim and am extremely glad I did. The staff was very nice and very friendly, the sites are huge and clean. There are big open spaces and great hikes. I came during the blue-green algae bloom so no swimming for me or the dog, but it was still absolutely beautiful. I'll definitely be back.