Madrone Campground

For Californians yearning to stand in awe beneath the towering giants of the ancient world, Madrone Campground in Garberville, CA, offers an unparalleled opportunity. Situated within the magnificent Humboldt Redwoods State Park, this campground provides an immersive experience in one of the most stunning natural environments in our state. It's a place where the air is fresh, the silence is profound, and the sheer scale of nature’s artistry leaves an indelible impression. If you're seeking a classic California redwood camping adventure with excellent facilities and a welcoming atmosphere, Madrone Campground is a destination you simply must consider.

Madrone Campground is consistently praised by visitors for its well-maintained sites and exceptional amenities. One delighted camper shared, "Beautifully kept campsites. Bathrooms and showers were huge and very clean. Tons of great hiking. The visitor center was so charming and the hosts so welcoming. All nestled in the most gorgeous redwood Grove, with river access as well. We met many families who had been coming to the park for 20+ years. We can't wait to do the same." This review highlights the comfortable and inviting atmosphere, making it a place families return to generation after generation. Another equally impressed visitor reiterated, "Beautiful campground set among the redwoods along the Eel River. Facilities are well maintained, bathrooms and showers are clean and well kept. Most campsites are wide, flat, and well separated. I will not hesitate to camp here again!" These firsthand accounts attest to Madrone Campground’s reputation as a pristine, welcoming, and unforgettable base for exploring the iconic redwood forests.

Madrone Campground is ideally located within Humboldt Redwoods State Park, with its address at Garberville, CA 95542, USA. This places it along the famed Avenue of the Giants, a scenic alternative to Highway 101 that winds directly through some of the largest remaining old-growth redwood groves in the world. Its position makes it easily accessible for Californians embarking on a road trip through the Redwood Coast.

The campground is nestled directly on the South Fork of the Eel River, providing both stunning riverside views and convenient water access. Roads leading to and within the campground are typically well-maintained, accommodating a variety of vehicles including cars, tents, trailers, and RVs, although specific site lengths and restrictions should always be checked when making reservations. Its integration into one of California's most iconic state parks means visitors benefit from clear signage and established park infrastructure, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable journey to their redwood retreat.

• Campsites: Madrone Campground offers numerous well-kept campsites, many of which are spacious, flat, and well-separated to provide privacy amidst the dense redwood forest. Sites can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs (check specific length limits when booking).
• Clean Restrooms: Campers consistently rave about the cleanliness and size of the bathrooms, which are equipped with flush toilets.
• Hot Showers: Spacious and very clean hot showers are available, providing a comfortable way to refresh after a day of hiking and exploring.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is furnished with a sturdy picnic table for outdoor meals and gatherings.
• Fire Rings: Individual fire rings are provided at each site for campfires and cooking, allowing for classic camping evenings (always remember to check for current fire bans and restrictions before lighting any fires).
• Potable Water: Easily accessible spigots provide potable (drinking) water throughout the campground.
• Food Lockers/Bear Boxes: To protect food from wildlife, especially bears, many sites are equipped with metal food lockers.
• Visitor Center: The Humboldt Redwoods State Park Visitor Center is nearby, offering exhibits, park information, maps, and a gift shop. It is often described as charming with welcoming hosts.
• Camp Hosts: Friendly and helpful camp hosts are typically on site to assist visitors, answer questions, and ensure a pleasant stay.
• Dump Station: A dump station is available within Humboldt Redwoods State Park for RV and trailer waste disposal, though its exact location relative to Madrone Campground may require a short drive.

• Old-Growth Redwood Setting: The absolute crowning glory of Madrone Campground is its location "nestled in the most gorgeous redwood Grove." Camping here means being surrounded by ancient, towering redwood trees, providing an awe-inspiring and truly unique atmosphere.
• Eel River Access: Direct access to the South Fork of the Eel River allows for swimming, wading, and fishing (with a valid California fishing license). The river offers a refreshing escape during warmer months.
• Extensive Hiking Trails: The campground serves as an excellent base for exploring the vast network of trails within Humboldt Redwoods State Park. Visitors have "tons of great hiking" opportunities, including trails that wind through cathedral-like groves, along the river, and to various points of interest like the "Immortal Tree."
• Avenue of the Giants: Being located directly on or very close to the Avenue of the Giants provides easy access to this scenic bypass, allowing campers to explore numerous other groves, trailheads, and points of interest without heavy highway traffic.
• Wildlife Viewing: The diverse ecosystem supports a variety of wildlife, offering opportunities for birdwatching and spotting local fauna.
• Family-Friendly Atmosphere: The clean facilities, spacious sites, and engaging natural environment make Madrone Campground highly suitable for families, with many returning for decades.
• Photo Opportunities: The majestic redwoods offer endless photographic opportunities, from towering tree shots to serene river landscapes.
• Educational Opportunities: The nearby Visitor Center provides valuable insights into the redwood ecosystem, history, and conservation efforts.

Address: Garberville, CA 95542, USA

For direct inquiries or to confirm current conditions and specific park information for Humboldt Redwoods State Park (which oversees Madrone Campground), the main park office can be reached.

Phone: (707) 946-2263 (Humboldt Redwoods State Park Headquarters/Visitor Center)

It is highly recommended to check the California State Parks website for Humboldt Redwoods State Park for the most up-to-date information on reservations, park alerts, and seasonal changes.

Madrone Campground is an absolute gem for Californians looking to experience the iconic redwood forests. Its prime location within Humboldt Redwoods State Park, easily accessible via the scenic Avenue of the Giants, makes it an ideal destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation without the need for extensive travel across state lines. For locals, this means less time driving and more time immersing themselves in the unparalleled beauty of their own state.

What truly sets Madrone apart for California residents is the combination of its breathtaking natural setting and its well-maintained, comfortable facilities. The "huge and very clean bathrooms and showers" are a significant advantage, particularly for families or those who prefer a less rustic experience. The privacy offered by the "wide, flat, and well separated" sites, coupled with direct access to the Eel River for swimming and fishing, ensures a relaxing and engaging stay for all ages. The abundance of hiking trails within easy reach means endless opportunities for exploration and connection with nature. Furthermore, the strong sense of community, evident in families returning for "20+ years," speaks volumes about the welcoming atmosphere. For a truly classic California camping experience amidst the world's tallest trees, with all the necessary comforts, Madrone Campground in Garberville is a must-visit destination for any local seeking an unforgettable escape into the heart of the redwoods.

Madrone Campground

Garberville, CA 95542, USA