How much does camping cost at Dawn Redwood Group Campground?

Camping fees at Dawn Redwood Group Campground range from $8-$35/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Dawn Redwood Group Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Dawn Redwood Group 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 Dawn Redwood Group Campground before I book?

Yes! Dawn Redwood Group Campground has 22 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 Dawn Redwood Group Campground?

Dawn Redwood Group Campground is open Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend.. 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 Dawn Redwood Group Campground?

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

Can I have a campfire at Dawn Redwood Group Campground?

Fire policies at Dawn Redwood Group Campground: Fires are permitted only in designated fireplaces; ground fires are prohibited.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Dawn Redwood Group Campground have?

Dawn Redwood Group Campground has 1 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Dawn Redwood Group Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Dawn Redwood Group 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 Dawn Redwood Group Campground?

Dawn Redwood Group 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 Dawn Redwood Group Campground?

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

Dawn Redwood Group Campground

4.46

89 reviews

Richardson Grove State Park, 1600 US-101, Garberville, CA 95542

Top 16% in CASummer

Scenic ViewsSwimmingSummer Destination

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

446 ft

Price

$8 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open season starts a...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Showers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

446 ft

Price

$8 - $35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open season starts a...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Showers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Dawn Redwood Group Campground

$8.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

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.

Hike and Bike Site Fee$8.00

Group Site Fee$35.00

Get Notified When Available

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

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Reserve California

Provider

707-247-3318NoCoastRedwoodsInfo@parks.ca.gov

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Dawn Redwood Group Campground

Compare with similar sites, watch availability, and build a packing list — Camp Sage handles all of it.

Campground Map

Richardson Grove State Park, 1600 US-101, Garberville, CA 95542

Dawn Redwood Group Campground

Richardson Grove State Park, 1600 US-101, Garberville, CA 95542

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.

Weather at Dawn Redwood Group Campground

Current alert: Seasonal closures occur during hazardous weather, such as wind speeds exceeding 55mph.

Best Time to Camp at Dawn Redwood Group Campground

Summer is the best time to visit. Daytime temperatures typically run 75-95°F with nights in the 50-60°F range. Morning coastal fog settles into the redwood canopy. The river is warm enough for swimming, and weather is reliably dry for group activities and hiking. The site operates during summer months. Expect higher weekend crowds from Memorial Day through Labor Day, though midweeks stay quieter. Winter brings 30-50°F temperatures and rain.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Top 16% in CA

Park's open season and swimming/camp programs make summer the peak season and best time to visit.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Memorial Day weekend to Labor Day weekend.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season starts a week before Memorial Day weekend and ends the Sunday of Labor Day weekend.

About Dawn Redwood Group Campground

Dawn Redwood Group Campground sits within Richardson Grove State Park, where old-growth coast redwoods tower above the South Fork of the Eel River. The campground offers one group site at 446 feet elevation, with fees ranging from $8-$35 per night. Highway 101 runs through the park, so traffic noise is a factor.

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 Significance

The Sinkyone people historically inhabited this area. The Civilian Conservation Corps built park infrastructure in the 1930s. The Save the Redwoods League played a role in forest preservation efforts.

Weather and SeasonsSummer is the best time to visit. Daytime temperatures typically run 75-95°F with nights in the 50-60°F range. Morning coastal fog settles into the redwood canopy. The river is warm enough for swimming, and weather is reliably dry for group activities and hiking. The site operates during summer months. Expect higher weekend crowds from Memorial Day through Labor Day, though midweeks stay quieter. Winter brings 30-50°F temperatures and rain.

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 SceneryThe campground sits among old-growth coast redwoods growing on rich alluvial soils. These trees reach exceptional heights in the combination of mild coastal climate, nutrient-dense earth, and abundant moisture that defines this stretch of the Eel River corridor. Ferns and moss cover the forest floor. The South Fork of the Eel River runs through the park, offering swimming holes and fishing riffles. Morning fog from the coast often drifts through the canopy, especially in summer.

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.

Scenic ViewsViews include towering coast redwoods, the South Fork of the Eel River, and forested landscapes.

Lodging & AccommodationsLodging options include primitive camping, tent sites, and group camping. Cabins are also available, though reviews describe them as 'barebones' with minimal amenities, such as plywood beds and small heaters.

Programs & ActivitiesThe park offers guided nature walks, campfire programs, and Junior Ranger activities during the summer months.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in time is unspecified.

Check-out

Check-out time is unspecified.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 7 consecutive nights.

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 camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe group site is large and can accommodate multiple tents. It sits on relatively flat ground under the redwood canopy, but proximity to the highway means you'll hear traffic. Some spacing exists between the site and the road, though not enough to fully block noise.

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.

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.

Site SizeSites are reportedly large and spacious, although some visitors noted that certain sites are close to the road and may experience traffic noise.

PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Some sites are close together, leading to less privacy, while others are more secluded.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites farther from Highway 101 to minimize traffic noise. Be aware of seasonal weather conditions when planning your visit.

Best CampsitesThe single group site is spacious but sits close enough to Highway 101 that traffic noise carries through the forest. Pack earplugs. Reserve six months out, as the site books early for summer weekends.

Need help booking Dawn Redwood Group Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

ReserveCalifornia Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

The Dawn Redwood Group Campground is located within Richardson Grove State Park, offering visitors access to the majestic old-growth redwoods, the South Fork of the Eel River, and a variety of services. Amenities include bathrooms, showers, firewood for sale, and picnic areas. The campground features flush toilets and showers, which are reportedly clean according to user reviews. However, the showers require quarters or tokens for operation and may occasionally be non-functional, which was noted as a complaint by some visitors. Drinking water is available on-site, and firewood can be purchased for $8 per bundle. Pets are allowed but have restrictions, such as needing to be on a leash during the day and kept in vehicles or tents at night.

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Firewood available

Group Sites

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

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.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Biking

Wildlife viewing

Cultural and Educational Programs

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include occasional visits by bears and mountain lions, proximity to Highway 101 leading to traffic noise, and seasonal flooding of the Eel River.

Fire PolicyFires are permitted only in designated fireplaces; ground fires are prohibited.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours begin at 10 PM, according to multiple user reviews.

Emergency ServicesThe nearest hospital and emergency services are located in Garberville, 7 miles away.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly described in the source materials.

Water FeaturesThe campground is walking distance to the South Fork of the Eel River, with opportunities for swimming and fishing.

Camp HostFriendly hosts are frequently mentioned in reviews, providing services such as firewood sales and assistance with navigating the park.

Cell CoverageCell phone service availability is not explicitly mentioned. Some visitors noted being able to contact AAA with ranger assistance.

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

Rate Dawn Redwood Group Campground

Been here? Tap a star to start. Takes about a minute.

Sign-in required only if you want your name on it.

From Booking Sources

4.5

89 reviews

Recommended

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

Based on 89 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects noted by users include clean facilities, friendly staff, spacious campsites, and the stunning natural surroundings of the redwoods and river.

Based on 89 reviews

Common Concerns

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.

Based on 89 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

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.

Based on 89 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Tips from users include bringing earplugs to mitigate highway noise, reserving campsites six months in advance, and packing quarters or tokens for shower use.

Based on 89 reviews

Seasonal Insights

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...

Based on 89 reviews

Camper Quotes

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...

Based on 89 reviews

Accessibility Features

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...

Based on 89 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but are restricted from hiking trails and must be leashed during the day and kept in vehicles or tents at night.

Based on 89 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

Every adventure creates another. Share what you learned so the next camper feels a little more prepared heading out.

Go if

Groups of families or scouts who want a single reservable site with flush toilets, showers, and direct access to the Eel River swimming holes, plus guided junior ranger programs on summer weekdays. Midweek arrivals get the best of it.

Skip if

Highway noise is a real presence at this site, and reviewers consistently recommend earplugs. Couples or solo campers wanting seclusion should look elsewhere in the park, this is a group site, one site only, with no quiet-site alternative within the booking.

Nearby Campgrounds

1600 U.S. Highway 101 Garberville, CA 95542

Madrone Campground sits among coast redwoods in Richardson Grove State Park, near Garberville along the South Fork Eel River. The campground has 75 sites for tents, RVs, and cabin lodging, with nightly fees of $8. Campers return year after year for the well-spaced sites, clean facilities, and peaceful atmosphere under old-growth trees.