Jedediah Smith Campground

Star4.40
327 reviews
Scenic ViewsSwimmingSummer Destination

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

Opens Jedediah Smith Campground site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

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January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
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...
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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

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

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Campground Map

Jedediah Smith Campground

41.7957, -124.0864

Driving directionsWe are a six to seven hour drive north of San Francisco. This campground is just off HWY 199, and is located 1-mile west of Hiouchi, California.
The campground is located near Highway 199, which indicates good road access. However, there is no specific mention of seasonal closures or challenging terrain in the authoritative source or user reviews.
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: warm days, cool nights, peak season; reviews highlight vibrant activities and programs.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall: fewer crowds, pleasant conditions; trails and river remain attractive though cooler.

Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Spring: good conditions, blooming understory and active river recreation as flows allow.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5

Winter: fewer crowds but limited access to some features; cooler, off-season experience.

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.
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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.
HikingNumerous hiking trails are accessible directly from the campground, including the Stout Memorial Grove and the Mill Creek Trail leading to the Grove of Titans. Trails range from short walks to more challenging hikes, allowing visitors to explore the ancient redwoods and scenic river views.
FishingFishing in the crystal-clear Smith River is a major attraction. Anglers often find opportunities to catch fish while enjoying the tranquil setting.
SwimmingThe Smith River offers clean and clear swimming areas suitable for all ages. Some campers described the water as cold but refreshing.
Wildlife viewingWildlife is abundant in the park, with visitors frequently spotting deer and various bird species. Campers suggest walking quietly along trails for the best viewing opportunities.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsRanger-led programs, including kid-friendly presentations, are offered during the summer. Topics include local wildlife, plant life, and cultural history.
Winter Activities
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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.

Weather at Jedediah Smith Campground

Reviews

4.4
327 reviews
Recommended
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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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...
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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

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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