Redwood Creek Backcountry Camping Near Orick Closed for High-Water Season

ORICK, Calif. — Backpackers planning to camp near Redwood Creek should not assume summer access arrangements apply through the rainy season. The National Park Service’s current conditions page identifies a seasonal closure of Redwood Creek dispersed camping from October 15 through April 1 because high water levels can create serious hazards.

Is all hiking in the park closed?

No. The advisory specifically concerns dispersed backcountry camping on the Redwood Creek gravel bar, not a blanket closure of Redwood National and State Parks. Individual trails can remain open, become partially restricted or close independently after fallen trees, bridge damage or flooding. NPS lists several trail-specific updates on its conditions page.

What permits do overnight visitors need?

Backcountry camping in designated park areas requires a free permit; the agency asks applicants to obtain one at least 48 hours in advance. A permit does not override a seasonal closure or guarantee that a crossing is safe. Campers should check their route with park staff, review forecast rainfall and prepare for cold, wet conditions.

The October–April closure period may change depending on actual water levels. Travelers should review the current notice rather than assume April 1 automatically means the gravel bar is safe.

Official sources: NPS — Redwood Park Current Conditions; NPS — Permits and Reservations.

YOUR LOCAL NEWSPAPER NEEDS YOU

Help this community newspaper grow

Your support helps build coverage for the people and places this local newspaper serves.

Donate once by card ↗

Help Orick News grow Help strengthen reporting on Orick: community voices, important decisions and local life.

Support Orick News

Choose how to support Orick News:

Credit / Debit Card via Stripe

Choose an amount from $1. One-time support through the publisher's LINKERNO Stripe account.

Continue with PayPal Continue with Zelle

Zelle payments go to Vitaly Ataev Troshin. Please verify the recipient in your bank before sending. Availability depends on your bank.

Optional reader support. When possible, add “Orick News” to the payment note. Contributions are not advertised as tax-deductible. Support does not influence editorial decisions.

Optional support through the publisher. Contributions are not advertised as tax-deductible and never buy editorial influence.

Orick News — Your Community Newspaper

Have a correction, news tip, local announcement, or story to submit? Contact our editorial team. All submissions are reviewed before publication.