Marin Garden Club Grove

For Californians looking to gather a group of friends, family, or fellow adventurers for an unforgettable experience amidst the awe-inspiring giant redwoods, Marin Garden Club Grove in Humboldt Redwoods State Park offers a truly special opportunity. This isn't your everyday family campsite; it's a dedicated group camping reservation-only site, designed to accommodate larger gatherings in a magnificent natural setting. Nestled on the famous Avenue of the Giants, it provides a unique chance to immerse yourselves in the grandeur of ancient trees and the tranquility of the Eel River.

Marin Garden Club Grove is a hidden gem for those in the know, offering a more intimate and secluded group camping experience compared to some of the park's larger, more bustling areas. While it can be challenging to secure a reservation due to its popularity, the reward is an unparalleled connection with nature's giants. With essential amenities like treated water and flush toilets, it balances rustic charm with comfortable conveniences. Whether you're planning a reunion, a scouting trip, or a nature-focused retreat, this grove provides the perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories under the towering canopy of California's iconic redwoods.

Marin Garden Club Grove is strategically located on the Avenue of the Giants, Weott, CA 95571, USA, right within the majestic Humboldt Redwoods State Park. This places it in the heart of the world's largest contiguous old-growth redwood forest.

The grove is situated approximately 2 miles north of the Humboldt Redwoods State Park Visitor Center on the Avenue of the Giants, and just north of the old town site of Weott. Access is generally straightforward, being directly off the scenic Avenue of the Giants, which is a designated bypass to Highway 101. While the campground is accessible via a gravel trail from the main avenue, it's crucial to understand that it's designed for tent camping only, and due to a limited turnaround area, RVs and trailers are not permitted within the group site itself. This preserves the tranquil atmosphere and the integrity of the redwood grove. The location also offers excellent accessibility to the South Fork of the Eel River, with a swimming hole just a mile away, and a summer bridge that provides easy access to miles of backcountry trails on the other side of the river. Given its popularity, especially for group reservations, securing a spot often requires booking well in advance, sometimes up to six months out, as it tends to be booked throughout the year.

Marin Garden Club Grove is specifically equipped to cater to group camping needs, offering a thoughtful selection of services within its rustic setting.

• Group Camping Only: This campground is exclusively for group reservations, accommodating up to 40 people per site. This makes it ideal for large families, scout troops, or organized outdoor groups.
• Tent Camping Only: The site is designated for tent camping. Due to limited space and turnaround areas, RVs and trailers are not permitted directly at the campsites.
• Treated Water: Potable, treated water is available at the campground, eliminating the need for campers to bring all their own drinking water. This is a significant convenience for group camping.
• Flush Toilets: The campground provides flush toilets, offering a more comfortable restroom experience compared to primitive vault toilets found in many other remote sites.
• Picnic Tables: Ample picnic tables are available within the group site, providing dedicated areas for dining and communal activities.
• Fire Rings: Fire rings are provided for campfires, allowing groups to gather around and enjoy the traditional camping experience (always check for current fire restrictions before lighting a fire).
• Oversize Grill: An oversize grill is available, making it easier to cook for larger groups.
• No Electricity or Lights: It's important to note that the campground does not provide electricity or artificial lighting at the campsites, reinforcing the natural, rustic ambiance. Campers should bring their own lighting solutions.
• No Showers On-Site: While the grove itself does not have showers, campers are welcome to use the hot pay showers at nearby Humboldt Redwoods State Park campgrounds such as Burlington or Hidden Springs.
• Reservations Required: All stays at Marin Garden Club Grove require advance reservations through the California State Parks reservation system (ReserveCalifornia.com). Due to high demand, booking well in advance is essential.
• Seasonal Operation: The campground is typically open from mid-May (around Memorial Day) through September (around Labor Day), aligning with the best weather for enjoying the redwoods.

Marin Garden Club Grove's allure lies in its unique setting and the opportunities it presents for group enjoyment in the redwood forest.

• Ancient Redwood Grove Setting: The most significant highlight is its location "nestled in a redwood grove." Campers are surrounded by towering old-growth and second-growth redwoods, providing a majestic and awe-inspiring backdrop for their stay.
• Secluded and Private: Despite being a group camp, its layout and natural surroundings offer a sense of privacy, creating an intimate setting for your gathering away from the crowds of individual sites.
• Proximity to Eel River Swimming: The campground is just a mile away from a beautiful swimming hole and easy access to the South Fork of the Eel River. This offers a fantastic way to cool off on warm summer days.
• Access to Avenue of the Giants: Being directly on the Avenue of the Giants provides easy access to one of California's most scenic drives, allowing groups to explore numerous interpretive stops, hiking trails, and other attractions within Humboldt Redwoods State Park.
• Rich Biodiversity: The redwood ecosystem supports a wide variety of wildlife. Campers might spot black-tailed deer, chipmunks, raccoons, and a diverse range of bird species, including red-tailed hawks, ospreys, and bald eagles.
• Hiking and Biking Opportunities: The park boasts over 100 miles of trails, ranging from easy strolls to strenuous hikes, offering ample opportunities for group exploration. Paved roads and multi-use trails are also suitable for bicycling.
• Peaceful Atmosphere: The "tent-only" policy and the natural buffer of the redwoods contribute to a quieter, more serene camping environment, perfect for a peaceful group retreat.
• Educational Programs: Humboldt Redwoods State Park often offers campfire programs and nature walks, providing engaging educational activities that can enhance a group's understanding of the local flora, fauna, and park history.
• Excellent Value for Groups: At a cost of approximately $135 per night for up to 40 people, it offers an economical option for large groups to experience prime redwood camping.

For reservations and detailed information about Marin Garden Club Grove, the primary contact point is through the California State Parks reservation system and the Humboldt Redwoods State Park Visitor Center.

Address: Avenue of the Giants, Weott, CA 95571, USA

For Reservations:

Online: ReserveCalifornia.com (Highly recommended to book well in advance).

Phone: 1 (800) 444-PARK (7275)

For General Park Information (Humboldt Redwoods State Park Visitor Center):

Phone: (707) 946-2263 (Typically open 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM, May-September; 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM, October-April).

Email: vc@humboldtredwoods.org

Physical Address of Visitor Center: 17119 Avenue of the Giants, Weott, CA 95571.

For Californians, Marin Garden Club Grove offers an unparalleled opportunity for group camping that truly celebrates the state's natural heritage. Its exclusive focus on group reservations, accommodating up to 40 people, makes it an ideal choice for local clubs, family reunions, school groups, or any gathering seeking a collective outdoor experience. Unlike individual campsites that limit social interaction, this grove is designed to foster camaraderie amidst the giants.

The location within Humboldt Redwoods State Park, on the iconic Avenue of the Giants, is a significant draw. Locals understand the profound majesty of the ancient redwoods, and camping directly among them is a uniquely Californian privilege. The convenience of treated water and flush toilets provides a level of comfort that makes group logistics much smoother, allowing more focus on enjoyment and less on primitive challenges. While it's a tent-only camp, this preserves a traditional camping feel, encouraging a deeper connection with the natural surroundings free from the hum of RV generators.

Furthermore, the proximity to the Eel River for swimming and the vast network of hiking and biking trails means that groups have endless opportunities for shared recreation. This group-friendly setup, combined with the educational programs often offered by the park, provides an enriching experience for all ages. For Californians seeking to share the magic of their state's natural wonders with a large party, Marin Garden Club Grove, though requiring foresight in booking, offers an unforgettable and truly local way to bond under the silent, towering sentinels of the redwood forest.

Marin Garden Club Grove

Avenue of the Giants, Weott, CA 95571, USA