Dawn Redwood Group Campground
4.3962 reviewsRichardson Grove State Park, 1600 US-101, Garberville, CA 95542
Dawn Redwood Group Campground
$8.00 - $35.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$8.00
Group Site Fee$35.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Campsites are charged $35 per night. Day-use fee is $8 per vehicle. Showers require quarters, and firewood is available for sale at $8 per bundle.
About this campground
Nestled within the enchanting embrace of Richardson Grove State Park, Dawn Redwood Group Campground invites you to sleep beneath the gentle giants that have stood sentinel for centuries. Here, where ancient redwoods stretch skyward and the melodic South Fork of the Eel River whispers through the forest, you'll discover a camping experience that connects you with nature's most magnificent cathedral.
The Dawn Redwood Group Campground accommodates primitive camping, tent camping, group camping, and cabin lodging. Reviews highlight the spaciousness of campsites and the availability of cabins, though the latter are described as minimally equipped.
Historical SignificanceFor countless generations, the Sinkyone people walked among these sacred groves, their lives intertwined with the ancient redwoods they revered as living spirits. The 1930s brought the industrious hands of the Civilian Conservation Corps, who carefully crafted the park's infrastructure while preserving its wild heart. Today, thanks to the visionary efforts of the Save the Redwoods League, these majestic trees continue to inspire wonder in all who enter their realm.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days warm the forest floor to a comfortable 75-95°F, while mystical morning fog weaves through the redwood canopy, creating an ethereal atmosphere that photographers dream about. As winter arrives, temperatures settle into a crisp 30-50°F range, and gentle rains nourish the forest, releasing the intoxicating scent of damp earth and evergreen that defines the Pacific Northwest experience.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery, the campground rests comfortably within the coastal redwood belt, where ocean influences meet mountain terrain to create the perfect conditions for these botanical skyscrapers.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living fairytale where colossal old-growth redwoods form natural cathedrals overhead, their massive trunks disappearing into a canopy so dense it creates its own twilight. Emerald ferns carpet the forest floor while velvet mosses drape every surface in nature's softest tapestry. The South Fork of the Eel River adds its own magic, its crystal waters reflecting dappled sunlight and providing a refreshing soundtrack to your camping adventure.
Geological RegionThis remarkable ecosystem thrives on rich alluvial soils deposited over millennia, creating the perfect nursery for some of Earth's tallest living things. Richardson Grove stands as a testament to the unique confluence of mild coastal climate, nutrient-rich earth, and abundant moisture that allows coast redwoods to reach heights that defy imagination, making this one of the planet's most awe-inspiring forest environments.
Campsite details
AccessibilityRichardson Grove State Park provides accessible campsites near water stations and facilities like combo restroom/shower buildings that meet general accessibility standards. Trails, including the Grove Nature Trail and Redwood Exhibit Trail, have accessible features such as compacted soil surfaces and minimal slopes.
Sites SizeSites are reportedly large and spacious, although some visitors noted that certain sites are close to the road and may experience traffic noise.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Some sites are close together, leading to less privacy, while others are more secluded.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites farther from Highway 101 to minimize traffic noise. Be aware of seasonal weather conditions when planning your visit.
Best CampsitesGroup sites are noted for being spacious; however, proximity to the highway may detract from the experience.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is unspecified.
Check-out
Check-out time is unspecified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is 15 days per calendar year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Capacity for group sites is unspecified.
Groups
Group camping is available, but specific details about the number of people or vehicles allowed per site are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are described as spacious but may be close together, with some located near Highway 101.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season starts a week before Memorial Day weekend and ends the Sunday of Labor Day weekend.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via www.reservecalifornia.com. Bookings are available six months in advance.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo specific details on walk-up availability for Dawn Redwood Group Campground; other campgrounds operate on a walk-in basis during the off-season.
Cancellation PolicyRefunds for cancellations are not detailed, but one user review noted difficulty in receiving refunds.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities at the Dawn Redwood Group Campground, such as hiking, swimming, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The South Fork of the Eel River offers opportunities for swimming and catch-and-release fishing for salmon and steelhead during their respective seasons.
HikingHiking trails range from accessible loops such as the Grove Nature Trail to moderately challenging routes like the Lookout Point/Tan Oak Springs/Durphy Creek Loop. Trails allow visitors to experience the majestic redwoods and diverse habitats of the park.
FishingFishing is permitted, with opportunities for catch-and-release fishing for salmon and steelhead during the fall and winter seasons. Specific details about fishing spots and fish types are not provided.
SwimmingSwimming is available in the South Fork of the Eel River, particularly during the summer months. Safety precautions such as supervising children are recommended, as no lifeguards are on duty.
BikingBiking is allowed on paved roadways within Richardson Grove State Park. Trails suitable for biking are not explicitly mentioned.
Wildlife viewingWildlife sightings include black-tailed deer, gray foxes, river otters, and various bird species like bald eagles and great blue herons. Endangered marbled murrelet chicks are also observed in the park.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe park offers guided nature walks, campfire programs, and Junior Ranger activities during the summer months.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted only in designated fireplaces; ground fires are prohibited.
- Quiet hours begin at 10 PM, according to multiple user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include occasional visits by bears and mountain lions, proximity to Highway 101 leading to traffic noise, and seasonal flooding of the Eel River.
Active alertsSeasonal closures occur during hazardous weather, such as wind speeds exceeding 55mph.
Weather forecast
57
°F
Aug 2
Saturday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 83%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The nearest hospital and emergency services are located in Garberville, 7 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly described in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is walking distance to the South Fork of the Eel River, with opportunities for swimming and fishing.
Common complaintsNoise from Highway 101 is frequently mentioned in user reviews. Some campsites are described as being too close together, impacting privacy.
HostFriendly hosts are frequently mentioned in reviews, providing services such as firewood sales and assistance with navigating the park.
Campground Map
Richardson Grove State Park, 1600 US-101, Garberville, CA 95542
Driving directionsThe park is located 7 miles south of Garberville on Highway 101. The entrance is marked by signage, but visitors coming from the southwest entrance should note it is a sharp left turn.
Access is easy off Highway 101, which bisects the park. However, seasonal closures may occur during hazardous weather, including wind speeds over 55mph.Nearby places
Garberville: 7 miles, 15 minutes by car
San Francisco: approximately 4-hour drive
Eureka: approximately 1.5-hour drive.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Garberville, approximately 7 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.4
62 reviews
Dawn Redwood Group Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews emphasize the beauty of the redwoods, spacious campsites, clean bathroom and shower facilities, and the proximity to the South Fork of the Eel River. Noise from Highway 101 is a frequent complaint, and some cabins are described as too basic for comfort. Visitors appreciate the park's focus on family-friendly activities and strict enforcement of quiet hours.
Review Summaries
Positive aspects noted by users include clean facilities, friendly staff, spacious campsites, and the stunning natural surroundings of the redwoods and river.
Common complaints include noise from the nearby highway, the cost of showers, and occasional malfunctioning of shower facilities. Some visitors found the cabins too barebones for their liking.
Tips from users include bringing earplugs to mitigate highway noise, reserving campsites six months in advance, and packing quarters or tokens for shower use.
Summer is the most popular time for camping due to warm weather and additional activities such as swimming and campfire programs. Winter brings opportunities for fishing but is less favored due to...
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1. 'Magical place... You don't want to miss this park!' - Bre Ximenes
2. 'Great showers, clean and nice restrooms.' - Dustin Lawrence
3. 'Spaces for tent, trailer, or you can use cabins.' - Jocelyn...
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Sites near the highway are reported to be noisier compared to other areas. Site #23 at the Huckleberry Campground is recommended for its unique layout and privacy.
Accessible campsites (#14, #23, and #33) at the Huckleberry Campground provide proximity to water stations and accessible bathrooms. Trails such as the Grove Nature Trail offer compacted soil...
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Pets are allowed but are restricted from hiking trails and must be leashed during the day and kept in vehicles or tents at night.
Last updated July 31, 2025