Johnson Trail Campground
04 reviews17119 Avenue of the Giants, Weott, CA 95571
Johnson Trail Campground
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Fees for trail campsites such as Johnson Trail Campground are $15 per night. Additional vehicle fees apply.
About this campground
Deep within Humboldt Redwoods State Park, Johnson Trail Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness escape. As one of five remote trail camps scattered throughout the park, this hidden gem offers solitude beneath ancient giants and a fascinating glimpse into California's logging heritage through weathered tie-hacker cabins that whisper stories of a bygone era. Early season visitors should come prepared for nature's welcoming committee—mosquitoes are particularly enthusiastic hosts during late spring and early summer months.
Johnson Trail Campground caters to primitive camping enthusiasts seeking a rugged, backcountry experience.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time among the remnants of California's rugged logging era. These woods once echoed with the rhythmic thud of axes as hardy tie-hackers harvested massive redwoods, shaping them into railroad ties that helped build the American West. Their legacy lives on in the weathered cabins scattered near the campground—silent monuments to the backbreaking work and simple lives of those who called this remote wilderness home.
Weather and SeasonsThis redwood sanctuary experiences nature's gentle rhythms throughout the year. Summer days warm to a comfortable 70-90°F while nights cool to a refreshing 50°F, perfect for campfire gatherings. Morning fog often drifts through the towering trees, creating an ethereal atmosphere that photographers dream about. Winter transforms the landscape with cooler 50-60°F days and crisp 20-30°F nights, while 60-80 inches of rain between October and May nourish the ancient forest and fill the air with the earthy scent of damp redwood bark.
ElevationPerched at 1,600 feet above sea level, Johnson Trail Campground enjoys a sweet spot in the coastal mountains where temperatures remain pleasantly moderate. This elevation gifts campers with noticeably cooler nights—perfect for deep sleep under star-filled skies—while daytime temperatures stay comfortable for hiking and exploration without the intense heat found in lower elevations.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to shafts of golden light filtering through a cathedral of ancient redwoods, some standing for over a thousand years. These botanical titans create a hushed, almost sacred atmosphere where time seems to slow. Scattered throughout the area, weathered tie-hacker cabins add haunting beauty to the landscape, their sagging roofs and moss-covered walls gradually being reclaimed by the forest. The interplay of natural grandeur and fading human history creates a uniquely contemplative camping experience.
Geological RegionJohnson Trail Campground sits atop one of Earth's most geologically dynamic regions. Nestled in Northern California's coastal range, the campground rests near the legendary Mendocino Triple Plate Junction, where three tectonic plates converge in a slow-motion dance that has shaped this dramatic landscape over millions of years. This seismic activity, combined with abundant rainfall, has created the perfect conditions for the old-growth redwood forests that define this remarkable ecosystem—a living testament to the power of geological forces and time.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features specific to Johnson Trail Campground are not mentioned.
Sites SizeJohnson Trail Campground offers basic trail sites for backpackers, sizes are not specified.
Sites PrivacySites at Johnson Trail Campground are presumed to offer privacy due to their remote location.
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid visiting early in the season to minimize mosquito exposure.
Best CampsitesSites at the Johnson Trail Campground offer seclusion but are notorious for mosquito activity.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
- Maximum stay is 15 nights for individual sites
- hike and bike campsites are limited to 2 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy per campsite is 8 people.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutScattered sites amidst old-growth forest with historical remnants of cabins.
Open and Closed SeasonTrail camps are open year-round.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable; reservations are not accepted for trail camps.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served, no reservations accepted.
Cancellation PolicyReservations not applicable for the Johnson Trail Campground; all sites are first-come, first-served.
Amenities available
Food storage lockers
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Johnson Trail Campground provides opportunities for hiking and exploring the backcountry. However, activities are limited compared to other campgrounds within Humboldt Redwoods State Park.
Hiking
Several hiking trails lead to Johnson Trail Campground. Notably, the Johnson Camp Trail offers a strenuous hike with elevation gains of 1,400 feet. Access to the site may require navigation over summer bridges (installed mid-June to September), depending on seasonal weather conditions.Fishing
Catch-and-release fishing is allowed on the South Fork and main stem of the Eel River. Salmon and steelhead trout are prominent during fall and winter seasons.Swimming
Swimming is encouraged in the South Fork Eel River, particularly in designated areas near the recreation zone.Biking
Humboldt Redwoods State Park features multiuse trails suited for experienced bicyclists, though biking facilities at Johnson Trail Campground are unspecified.Boating
Kayaking and canoeing are available on the South Fork Eel River, providing scenic exploration opportunities.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as Roosevelt elk, black bears, and marbled murrelets can be observed within the park's ecosystem.Cultural and Educational Programs
During summer, Humboldt Redwoods State Park offers interpretive activities, including nature walks and campfire programs.Winter Activities
Winter activities, such as observing salmon runs and enjoying the seasonal scenery, are available, but Johnson Trail Campground is not specifically noted for winter recreation.Water Sports
Johnson Trail Campground may facilitate water sports like kayaking and canoeing on the Eel River, but specific rental services or equipment are not available.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fires are prohibited at trail camps.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsHigh mosquito activity early in the season. Bear activity is possible due to location in bear country.
Active alertsNone currently reported for the trail camp area.
Weather forecast
79
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 15 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Clear sky
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
Emergency services are accessible in nearby towns; the park is ~20 miles from Garberville Medical facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune to September is peak season for the park with summer footbridges installed.
Trash and recyclingCampers are required to store trash in animal-proof receptacles and clean up after themselves to maintain the area's pristine condition.
Proximity to water featuresTrail camps have limited access to water; visitors are advised to inquire about conditions in advance.
Common complaintsMosquitoes are frequently mentioned as a nuisance in early season visits.
Hostnull
Campground Map
17119 Avenue of the Giants, Weott, CA 95571
Driving directionsFrom Eureka, drive 45 miles south along the Avenue of the Giants. Alternatively, from Garberville, drive 20 miles north on Highway 101 and exit onto State Route 254.
Accessible via paved roads year-round. Seasonal footbridges are installed mid-June through September for backcountry access to some areas.Nearby places
Eureka (45 miles, ~1 hour), Garberville (20 miles, ~30 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies available in Garberville (~20 miles) for groceries, camping gear, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Johnson Trail Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews consistently emphasize the remote and primitive nature of Johnson Trail Campground. Positive feedback highlights the serene atmosphere and access to challenging hikes.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews praise the tranquility of the campground and its proximity to breathtaking redwood forests. Many users appreciate the lack of crowds, allowing for a peaceful escape into nature.
Based on 4 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints often center on the lack of potable water, mosquito prevalence, and the challenging hike required to access the site.
Based on 4 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing sufficient water, insect repellent, and sturdy hiking gear. Reviews also suggest timing visits to coincide with the installation of summer bridges for easier access.
Based on 4 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews during summer months mention easier access due to bridge installations, while winter reviews highlight the cold weather and potential snowfall. Mosquitoes are a recurring problem in spring...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The hike to Johnson Trail Campground is both rewarding and strenuous. Bring plenty of water and be prepared for mosquitoes early in the season." "I loved the solitude and the towering redwoods. It...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews are not available for Johnson Trail Campground.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed at Johnson Trail Campground, as mentioned in official sources.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025