Redwoods to Crater Lake
Volcanoes, the tallest trees on Earth and America's deepest lake.
Best time to visit · California
Best Time to Visit Redwood National Park
Walk among the tallest living things on Earth, then hit a wild Pacific beach.
The best time to visit Redwood National Park is May–October. For great conditions with fewer people, aim for May, June and October. It's busiest in July and August.
Month by month
Jan FairFeb FairMar GoodApr GoodMay PrimeJun PrimeJul PrimeAug PrimeSep PrimeOct PrimeNov GoodDec Fair
Best monthsMay–Oct
Best valueMay, Jun and Oct
BusiestJul and Aug
Established1968
Redwood by season
Winter Fair
Rainy, quiet and green. The groves feel almost empty, and the creeks and waterfalls are running.
Spring Good
Rhododendrons bloom under the redwoods in May and June, and the coast turns green.
Summer Prime
Busiest season. Coastal fog is common, so head inland to Jedediah Smith for sunshine.
Fall Prime
Often the clearest weather on the coast. September and October are excellent, and Roosevelt elk are in rut.
What to do
- Walk Lady Bird Johnson Grove
- Explore Fern Canyon's 50-foot fern walls
- Drive Howland Hill Road through Jedediah Smith
- See Roosevelt elk at Elk Prairie
- Hike to the Tall Trees Grove (free permit)
Local tip
Redwood is co-managed with three California state parks. Some of the best groves (Jedediah Smith, Prairie Creek) are state park land inside the boundary.
Good to know
Redwood protects the world's tallest trees, including coast redwoods over 370 feet tall.
Before you go: Tall Trees Grove requires a free permit, and Gold Bluffs Beach/Fern Canyon has used seasonal parking reservations. Check current conditions on nps.gov.
Getting there
Closest major airport: Arcata–Eureka (ACV), about 30 minutes.
Nearby national parks
Approximate driving distance. Check a map for exact routes.
Where to stay
Redwood month-by-month ratings
| Month | Rating | Crowds | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | Fair | Quiet | |
| February | Fair | Quiet | |
| March | Good | Quiet | |
| April | Good | Moderate | |
| May | Prime | Moderate | Prime season starts · Best value |
| June | Prime | Moderate | Best value |
| July | Prime | Peak crowds | |
| August | Prime | Peak crowds | |
| September | Prime | Busy | |
| October | Prime | Moderate | Last prime month · Best value |
| November | Good | Quiet | |
| December | Fair | Quiet |
Road trips with Redwood
Questions about visiting Redwood
When is the best time to visit Redwood National Park?
The best time to visit Redwood National Park is May–October. For great conditions with fewer people, aim for May, June and October. It's busiest in July and August.
What is the worst time to visit Redwood National Park?
December through February are the weakest time, when conditions are at their worst.
When is Redwood National Park most crowded?
Crowds peak in July and August. May, June and October offer the best balance of good conditions and fewer people.
Is Redwood National Park worth visiting in winter?
Rainy, quiet and green. The groves feel almost empty, and the creeks and waterfalls are running.
Do you need a reservation for Redwood National Park?
Tall Trees Grove requires a free permit, and Gold Bluffs Beach/Fern Canyon has used seasonal parking reservations. Always check the official NPS page for the current year's rules.
What is the closest airport to Redwood National Park?
The most convenient airport is Arcata–Eureka (ACV), about 30 minutes.
How many days do you need at Redwood National Park?
Most road trips spend 2 to 3 days here.
More in California · National parks in California · Season calendar
Last reviewed October 4, 2026. Ratings are editorial. Rules and road openings change each year, so confirm on the official NPS site before you go.