How much does camping cost at Jedediah Smith Campground?

Camping fees at Jedediah Smith Campground range from $35/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Can I see photos of campsites at Jedediah Smith Campground before I book?

Yes! Jedediah Smith Campground has 7 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Jedediah Smith Campground?

Jedediah Smith Campground is open Not explicitly stated, but user reviews suggest summer as a peak season.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Jedediah Smith Campground?

Yes, Jedediah Smith Campground has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Jedediah Smith Campground have?

Jedediah Smith Campground has 76 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Jedediah Smith Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Jedediah Smith Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Jedediah Smith Campground?

Jedediah Smith Campground offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Jedediah Smith Campground?

Popular activities at Jedediah Smith Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Jedediah Smith Campground

Q: Is Jedediah Smith Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Jedediah Smith Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground does not currently allow walk-ups. User reviews suggest high demand and the necessity for advance reservations during operating periods.

Q: Can I have a campfire at Jedediah Smith Campground?

Fire policies at Jedediah Smith Campground: Firewood is available for $10 per bundle, with proceeds going to the Redwoods Conservancy. Campfires may be restricted during certain conditions.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.40

327 reviews

Scenic ViewsSwimmingSummer Destination

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

April 2026

Compare availability across multiple campgrounds

Quick Facts

266 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

76 campsites

Season

The campground is cu...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on Jedediah Smith Campground Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

April 2026

Compare availability across multiple campgrounds

Quick Facts

266 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

76 campsites

Season

The campground is cu...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on Jedediah Smith Campground Official Website

Get Directions

Jedediah Smith Campground

$35.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The nightly camping fee is $35. Some user reviews indicate off-season pricing at $35 as well, but there are additional costs for showers ($1 per 4...

Standard Site Fee$35.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes

150,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

1-800-444-7275redw_information@nps.gov

Help improve this page

See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

4.40

Recommended

Based on 327 reviews

462 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanspaciouslocationsites

"Jedediah Smith Campground receives high praise for its stunning location among old-growth redwoods, clean facilities, and access to outdoor activities. However, some reviewers pointed out issues with site maintenance, unfriendly staff, and the lack of amenities like free showers and hookups."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Jedediah Smith Campground

41.7957, -124.0864

Nearby places

1 mile west of Hiouchi, California. Nearest city is Crescent City.

Nearby supplies

Not explicitly mentioned in the source materials, but Crescent City is the nearest population center and may provide general supplies, fuel, and other essentials.

Best Time to Camp at Jedediah Smith Campground

Summer brings the perfect balance of warm days and cool nights to this redwood sanctuary, with daytime temperatures reaching a comfortable mid-70s while evening air cools to a refreshing mid-50s—ideal for campfire gatherings and restful sleep. The forest maintains its signature cool, humid embrace year-round, creating that mystical atmosphere where morning mist dances between ancient trees. While the dry season offers the most predictable weather, visitors during other months should come prepared for the region's renowned rainfall that nourishes these magnificent forests.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 14% in CA

Summer described as ideal: warm days, cool nights, active ranger programs and peak activities.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Not explicitly stated, but user reviews suggest summer as a peak season.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The campground is currently closed until further notice due to power loss from the Smith River Complex Fire.
Current Alerts: "Campground is closed until further notice due to extended power loss from the Smith River Complex Fire."

About Jedediah Smith Campground

Nestled beneath towering ancient redwoods, Jedediah Smith Campground offers an enchanting escape where the pristine Smith River winds through one of California's most spectacular old-growth forests. Here, centuries-old giants create a natural cathedral overhead while adventurers explore winding trails, cast lines into crystal-clear waters, and gather around evening campfires for ranger-led programs. Rustic cabins and well-appointed campsites provide the perfect basecamp for discovering this magical corner of the redwood coast.

The campground offers a mix of camping accommodations, including tent sites, RV sites, and cabins. It is suitable for families, couples, and solo travelers seeking a combination of rustic camping and basic comforts.

Historical Significance

As part of the prestigious Redwood National and State Parks—both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve—Jedediah Smith Campground stands as a testament to conservation triumph and natural wonder. This protected landscape preserves not only the world's tallest trees but also centuries of ecological and human history, from the indigenous peoples who first called these forests home to the conservation movements that saved these irreplaceable groves from disappearing forever.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the perfect balance of warm days and cool nights to this redwood sanctuary, with daytime temperatures reaching a comfortable mid-70s while evening air cools to a refreshing mid-50s—ideal for campfire gatherings and restful sleep. The forest maintains its signature cool, humid embrace year-round, creating that mystical atmosphere where morning mist dances between ancient trees. While the dry season offers the most predictable weather, visitors during other months should come prepared for the region's renowned rainfall that nourishes these magnificent forests.

ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery, the campground rests in the gentle river valley where the Smith River has carved its path through the coastal mountains, creating the perfect microclimate for both ancient redwoods and modern adventurers.

Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to shafts of golden light filtering through a living skyscraper forest, where redwoods older than memory stretch toward the sky. The campground's crown jewel setting places you directly within this old-growth cathedral, while the wild and scenic Smith River—renowned for its emerald pools and pristine waters—flows mere steps from your tent. Verdant ferns carpet the forest floor, while the interplay of shadow and light creates an ever-changing masterpiece of natural beauty throughout each day.

Geological RegionThe campground occupies a remarkable geological crossroads where the crystal-clear Smith River has carved its course through the heart of the redwood empire. This unique landscape showcases the powerful forces that shaped the region—ancient seas that deposited rich sediments, tectonic movements that lifted the coastal ranges, and the patient work of water that created the river valleys where these botanical titans could flourish. The result is a living museum of geological and biological wonder within the greater Redwood National and State Parks system.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Not explicitly mentioned.

Check-out

Not explicitly mentioned.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground layout is described as spacious and well-maintained, with a mix of private and less-private sites. It includes sites in loops or semi-circles, especially near the river.

Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available at this time as the campground is currently closed. Reservations can typically be made via Recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground does not currently allow walk-ups. User reviews suggest high demand and the necessity for advance reservations during operating periods.

Cancellation PolicyA $10 late cancellation fee applies along with forfeiture of the first night's fees if canceled after 12:00 AM local time the day before the reservation start date. Detailed cancellation policies exist for other reservation types.

AccessibilityThe campground offers handicap-accessible sites that are flat and free of obstacles such as roots and large rocks, making them suitable for wheelchairs and strollers.

Site SizeSites are described as large and spacious, with enough room for multiple tents. Smaller sites are also available, catering to tents and small trailers or RVs.

PrivacyPrivacy varies by site; some sites offer excellent seclusion surrounded by redwoods, while others are closer together with limited shrubbery for separation.

Total Campsites76 campsites

Recommended SitesSites closer to the river are recommended for views and access. Sites #52 and #50 are specifically highlighted as top choices.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Jedediah Smith Campground provides a variety of activities for outdoor enthusiasts. Campers can enjoy hiking, swimming, fishing, and wildlife viewing in the serene redwood forest surroundings. Seasonal ranger-led programs offer educational opportunities, making this campground a diverse recreational hub.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Wildlife viewing

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsUser reviews mention poison oak, and there are bears in the area, requiring the use of food storage lockers.

Active Alerts"Campground is closed until further notice due to extended power loss from the Smith River Complex Fire."

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Food Storage RequiredBear-proof food storage lockers are provided at each campsite to protect food and reduce wildlife encounters.

Fire PolicyFirewood is available for $10 per bundle, with proceeds going to the Redwoods Conservancy. Campfires may be restricted during certain conditions.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are User reviews mention that the campground enforces quiet hours, with everything being "quiet by 10 PM."

Emergency ServicesNot explicitly mentioned in the source materials.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling bins are conveniently distributed throughout the campground. Campers appreciated the availability of these facilities, noting their contribution to keeping the campground clean.

Water FeaturesThe campground is directly adjacent to the Smith River, offering opportunities for swimming, fishing, and scenic enjoyment.

Camp HostMixed reviews about staff: positive comments about friendly and helpful rangers but some negative mentions of rude camp hosts.

Weather at Jedediah Smith Campground

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.4

327 reviews

Recommended

Jedediah Smith Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Jedediah Smith Campground receives high praise for its stunning location among old-growth redwoods, clean facilities, and access to outdoor activities. However, some reviewers pointed out issues with site maintenance, unfriendly staff, and the lack of amenities like free showers and hookups.

Review Summaries

Based on 327 reviews

What Campers Love

Users highlighted the serene beauty of the redwoods, clean bathrooms, spacious sites, and the Smith River's swimming and fishing opportunities. Cabins were also praised for their comfort and location.

Based on 327 reviews

Common Concerns

Criticisms included unfriendly or unhelpful staff, grounds maintenance issues, and the extra cost for showers. Some reviewers noted a lack of privacy in certain campsites and the presence of poison...

Based on 327 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring quarters for showers, arrive early for the best site selection, and consider booking months in advance. Campers recommend sites near the river for the best experience and suggest exploring...

Based on 327 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews are mostly positive, highlighting the vibrant outdoor activities and ranger programs. Winter reviews note fewer crowds but limited access to some features. Off-season visitors...

Based on 327 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The Smith River is beautiful! Great to swim in. Wonderful hikes." - Michelle. "Bathrooms were cleaned daily, if not twice daily. Showers were spacious." - Abigail Bruce. "The cabins are super nice...

Based on 327 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #52 is highly recommended for its privacy and proximity to the river. Site #50 is noted for offering fun trails for activities like mushroom hunting. Visitors to sites in Loop 78 reported...

Based on 327 reviews

Accessibility Features

Campers with disabilities praised the campground's accessible sites and well-maintained facilities. Handicap spaces were described as flat and obstacle-free.

Based on 327 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed at the campground. Reviewers noted the park's dog-friendly policies and the opportunity for pets to enjoy nature alongside their owners.

Based on 327 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

0 review

Add your voice to the Outdoorithm community

Been to Jedediah Smith Campground? Your review helps fellow campers discover what makes this place special—and what to expect.

Last updated April 3, 2026

Need help planning your trip?

Ask Camp Sage for personalized camping recommendations

Campgrounds

Redwood National and State Parks

Jedediah Smith Campground