May 3-4, 2019
After packing up camp at Mattole Campground, we headed east to Humboldt Redwood State Park. As we drove on Mattole Road toward the Visitor Center we stumbled upon Albee Creek Campground. And we hit the jackpot; this is the campsite I dream about! It is located in a beautiful second-growth forest and tucked away from the main road. The campground had just opened for the season so only about 10 of the 40 sites were taken. We had the whole little area to ourselves. It’s a dog friendly campground (dogs need to stay on leash) and there are several great hikes within walking distance.
After setting up camp and enjoying some fresh grilled chicken sandwiches, we decided to go for a hike (sans Henri). We walked about half a mile to Bull Creek Trail South Trailhead for some forest bathing in these amazing trees. We got to not only got to walk along an amazing lush green forest, but got to see banana slugs, the Giant Tree (measured at 363 ft tall in 1991), and got to walk across a creek on a fallen tree.
The next day, we checked out the Visitor Center (and other campsites for comparison) and took the Avenue of the Giants. We made a spontaneous decision to make a pit stop at Williams Grove Day Use Area. It made for an amazing lunch spot before the long road home.
Trip Logistics:
There are three main campgrounds in Humboldt Redwoods State Park (Albee Creek, Burlington, and Hidden Springs). Albee Creek is hands down the best one in our opinion (we checked out the others the next day). It is the smallest and farthest from the Visitor Center, meaning it was less crowded and quieter. The camping fee is $35 per site.
We stayed in was site 39; it was right by Albee Creek which provided great ambient noise and was close to the bathrooms, recycling bins, and fresh water spout (near site 38). The road at the end of Site 40 leads to Thornton Loop Trail. Reservations are highly recommended.
Each site includes a fire pit and metal bear box for storing food. There are showers, bathrooms with running water and have running lights. The bathroom near site 29 has big utility sinks too. Check out time is at noon.
Momentary Locals 