How much does camping cost at River Campground?

Camping fees at River Campground range from $35/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is River Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

River Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at River Campground before I book?

Yes! River Campground has 18 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 River Campground?

River Campground is open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.. 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 River Campground?

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

Can I have a campfire at River Campground?

Fire policies at River Campground: Fires are allowed only in designated fire rings or stoves provided by the park.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does River Campground have?

River Campground has 28 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at River Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at River 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 River Campground?

River 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 River Campground?

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

River Campground

4.22

64 reviews

16949 Highway 36, Carlotta, CA 95528

Top 16% in CASummer

Family FriendlySwimmingSummer Destination

Featured in:Camping Near Redwood National Park

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

420 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

28 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowersWiFi

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

420 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

28 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowersWiFi

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

River Campground

$35.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Standard campsites are $35 per night. Group campsites are $90 per night. Reservation fees are $8.25 per booking.

Standard Site Fee$35.00

Group Site Fee$90.00

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Reserve California

Provider

707-777-3683NoCoastRedwoodsInfo@parks.ca.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

16949 Highway 36, Carlotta, CA 95528

River Campground

16949 Highway 36, Carlotta, CA 95528

Nearby places

Eureka (20 miles, ~30 minutes), Fortuna (15 miles, ~20 minutes), Ferndale (20 miles, ~30 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Carlotta (~5 miles) has a small convenience store for ice, drinks, and firewood. Larger stores and fuel can be found in Fortuna (~15 miles).

Weather at River Campground

Current alert: The campground is closed during fall/winter seasons or due to flooding risks.

Best Time to Camp at River Campground

Summer brings the warmest, driest conditions. Daytime highs hit the mid-70s to 79°F, nights drop into the 40s and 50s. The Van Duzen runs at pleasant summer flows for swimming and boating. Facilities are fully staffed, and ranger programs run in the evenings. Expect moderate to busy crowds. Winter rains increase river currents. Snow occasionally dusts the redwoods. Temperatures drop enough that campers need extra layers even in summer once the sun sets.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 16% in CA

Open Memorial Day–Labor Day; warm days, swimming hole, interpretive programs and full facilities in summer.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open seasonally from Memorial Day to Labor Day.

About River Campground

River Campground sits beneath old-growth redwoods along the Van Duzen River in Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park, 28 sites for tents and RVs at $35/night. Highway 36 runs close enough that road noise carries through the canopy, but river-side sites catch more water sounds than traffic. The campground attracts families for swimming holes, ranger-led evening programs, and hiking through the redwood groves.

River Campground accommodates various camping styles, including tent and RV camping. Sites are arranged in a loop bordering the river, with group camping available for larger parties.

Historical Significance

Cheatham Grove, where scenes from 'Return of the Jedi' were filmed, was donated to the park by Georgia Pacific Lumber. The redwoods that appeared as the forest moon of Endor in the film now stand protected from logging.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the warmest, driest conditions. Daytime highs hit the mid-70s to 79°F, nights drop into the 40s and 50s. The Van Duzen runs at pleasant summer flows for swimming and boating. Facilities are fully staffed, and ranger programs run in the evenings. Expect moderate to busy crowds. Winter rains increase river currents. Snow occasionally dusts the redwoods. Temperatures drop enough that campers need extra layers even in summer once the sun sets.

ElevationCradled in the embrace of a river valley, the campground rests at the perfect elevation where coastal mountains rise dramatically on all sides. This sheltered position creates a unique microclimate where morning mists linger among the redwood branches and afternoon sunshine filters through to warm the forest floor.

Natural Features and SceneryCoast redwoods and Douglas-firs tower over the campground at 420 feet elevation in the Van Duzen River Valley. The river curves through the sites, creating swimming holes and fishing spots beneath the canopy. Spring brings calypso orchids and white trillium to the forest floor. Campers hear the river from most sites. Riverbanks are rocky. Cheatham Grove, visible from the campground, contains the redwoods that appeared as the forest moon of Endor in 'Return of the Jedi.' Georgia Pacific Lumber donated these trees to the park instead of harvesting them.

Geological RegionPositioned within the dramatic Van Duzen River Valley, the campground occupies a special corner of the Northern California Coast Range where geological forces have crafted the perfect conditions for redwood majesty. This temperate realm, blessed with coastal moisture and protected valleys, represents one of Earth's most remarkable ecosystems—a place where some of the planet's tallest living things thrive in the embrace of ancient river corridors and fog-kissed mountains.

Scenic ViewsMany campsites provide views of the Van Duzen River, while others are shaded by redwoods and other trees.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodges, but the campground offers rustic camping facilities with tent, RV, and trailer sites.

Programs & ActivitiesSeasonal educational programs include nature walks, Junior Ranger activities for children aged 7–12, and campfire talks focusing on local wildlife and ecology. The visitor center provides self-guided tour materials and interactive exhibits.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 30 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

8guests per standard campsite

Groups

The group site accommodates up to 40 people and eight vehicles with a fee of $90 per night. Reservations are site-specific and include amenities such as fire pits and picnic tables.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSingle loop with sites close together. Limited natural brush between sites reduces privacy. Tent pads measure around 12x12 feet, RV sites accommodate rigs up to 24 feet. Sites closer to the river get more water sounds, sites near Highway 36 get more traffic noise.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through ReserveCalifornia.com.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability is possible but limited during peak season due to high demand.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled online or by phone; cancellation fees may apply.

AccessibilityTwo designated accessible campsites are adjacent to restrooms, providing larger spaces for those with mobility issues. Reviews highlight the accessible restroom's front-transfer toilet and a shower with a folding bench requiring possible assistance. A generally accessible picnic area and parking space are available.

Site SizeStandard size campsites are available with tents pads measuring approximately 12x12 feet and RV site lengths around 24 feet.

PrivacyThe privacy level at River Campground varies significantly. Several user reviews note that campsites are spaced close together without natural brush separating them, leading to limited seclusion. However, sites on the river side are somewhat buffered from road noise and allow better privacy.

Total Campsites28 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose river-side campsites for reduced road noise and better views. Avoid sites close to Highway 36.

Best CampsitesSites 14 and 20 have clear views of the Van Duzen River. River-side sites in general buffer road noise better than sites closer to Highway 36.

Need help booking River Campground?

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ReserveCalifornia Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

River Campground at Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park provides a variety of amenities designed for families and campers seeking a rustic experience amidst towering redwoods and alongside the Van Duzen River. The campground features coin-operated showers, flush toilets, potable water spigots, fire rings, picnic tables, and bear-resistant lockers. It is adjacent to Highway 36, leading to frequent comments about road noise, particularly from logging trucks. Firewood is sold onsite, and Wi-Fi access is available near the camp host area but operates only between 8 AM and 10 PM.

Showers

Potable water

WiFi

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

River Campground provides a rich variety of activities. Guests can enjoy hiking through scenic redwood trails, fishing in the nearby Van Duzen River, swimming in its crystal-clear waters, and participating in seasonal interpretive programs. The visitor center adds an educational dimension with nature displays and scheduled events.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Cultural and Educational Programs

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRoad noise from Highway 36 can be disruptive; wildlife such as bears and mountain lions are present.

Food Storage RequiredFood storage lockers are provided at each campsite to protect food from wildlife.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyFires are allowed only in designated fire rings or stoves provided by the park.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services include Humboldt County Sheriff's Department (~15 miles, Fortuna) and Redwood Memorial Hospital (~15 miles, Fortuna).

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are near the campground. However, assistance may be required for accessibility in some cases.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to the Van Duzen River, providing swimming and fishing opportunities.

Camp HostCamp hosts are present and provide assistance; they sell firewood and offer helpful advice.

Cell CoverageMultiple user reviews do not explicitly mention cell phone service quality or coverage, although Wi-Fi is provided in limited areas near the camp host.

Trip Planning Tools

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

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.2

64 reviews

Satisfactory

River Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews reveal a mix of positive assessments of the beautiful setting, proximity to the Van Duzen River, and well-maintained facilities, contrasted with complaints about road noise and crowded campsites. The campground is noted for its family-friendly atmosphere and seasonal educational programs.

Review Summaries

Based on 64 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 64 reviews.

Site 14Loved
Sites on the river side (e.g., Site 14) are praised for scenic views and quieter surroundings.
Site 29Issues noted
Sites near Highway 36 (e.g., Site 29) receive frequent complaints about traffic noise.

What Campers Love

1. "Showers are warm...the kids who work there are very nice and good workers." 2. "Pete the State Park ranger led an awesome fireside talk in the evening about the local wildlife." 3. "Sites are...

Based on 64 reviews

Common Concerns

1. "VERY close to a busy road AND no gate or keeper after evening...random folks drive in." 2. "Logging trucks screamed by in the night...sleep was near impossible." 3. "Spaces are close...

Based on 64 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

1. Reserve sites closer to the river to minimize highway noise. 2. Bring quarters for the showers and swim shoes for rocky riverbanks. 3. Avoid sites closer to Highway 36 for quieter experiences.

Based on 64 reviews

Seasonal Insights

In summer, guests appreciate the swimming hole and interpretive programs but find road noise from Highway 36 more disruptive. Winter reviews focus on calm surroundings and wildlife viewing...

Based on 64 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "The bathroom facilities were good and clean; my grandbaby loved the Junior Ranger activities." 2. "Cheatham Grove is close by, an amazingly scenic hiking opportunity." 3. "The visitor center...

Based on 64 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible campsites and restrooms are a highlight for users with mobility concerns. Reviews note the helpful placement of larger sites near facilities.

Based on 64 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must remain leashed at night and are prohibited on trails. Dog-friendly river access is limited.

Based on 64 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Families with kids ages 7-12 will get the most out of this place: Junior Ranger programs, evening wildlife talks from rangers like Pete, and a calm swimming hole steps from camp. Book a river-side site (Site 14 gets good reviews) and bring quarters for the coin showers and swim s

Skip if

Light sleepers should be cautious, logging trucks on Highway 36 run through the night, and reviewers describe the noise as near sleep-destroying on highway-adjacent sites. The campground also has no gate, so random late-night drive-throughs happen.

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4.4

(84)

Albee Creek Campground

5 miles west of the Avenue of the Giants on Mattole Road, near Weott, CA

Albee Creek Campground sits at 446 feet elevation within Humboldt Redwoods State Park, surrounded by second-growth redwoods and open meadows. The 40-site campground operates Memorial Day through Labor Day, charging $35 per night. It's a seasonal base camp for exploring both the recovering forest here and the old-growth stands nearby, with deer wandering through sites and occasional bear sightings keeping campers on their toes.