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Like the other Redwood campgrounds, Elk Prairie is something to
behold. Most of the sites are tucked into an ancient redwood forest,
with massive ferns and hushed atmosphere. When I pulled into this
stunning campground, I was shocked at the size of the trees, and
even more amazed at the kids riding on their bikes in and out
of the humongous ferns which towered above their heads. Chalk
it up to another surreal Redwood experience.
Those interested in observing large wildlife will find Elk Prairie
an ideal spot. A large meadow borders the grounds, and the largest
species of elk in North American (Roosevelt elk) can frequently
be seen grazing on the lush grasses. Once full, these lumbering
beasts spookily disappear into the forest. The black-tailed deer
also calls the campground home, but spotting the shy deer requires
patience.
Elk Prairie campground offers a seasonal ranger presentation and
an amphitheater as well as showers, bear lockers, a visitor center,
picnic tables, barbecues and the standard fire pit Unfortunately,
Elk Prairie campground also charges the very high $35 daily fee
common to Redwood National Park campgrounds. Reservations are
highly recommended and available between January and September.
Elk Prairie is a medium-sized campground, with 75 sites. The top
photo was taken between the campground and the picnic grounds.
There is a tidy path between the picnic area and campground which
travels gently among the ancient forest, offering stellar redwood
views and the ever-present ferns. A portion of the campground
is in the large meadow with exposed sites.
I found Elk Prairie to be a nice central location in Redwood National
Park and would not hesitate to stay there again. Those who do
not wish to take the rugged Davison road to Gold Bluffs will find
this much easier to access and also much easier to take day trips
from across the Redwood area. Overall, Elk Prairie is another
classic Redwood campground, and superior to most other national
park campgrounds. If your goal is to camp in ancient redwoods
and to observe elk, this is your spot.
A Roosevelt elk across from Elk Prairie campground.
Elk Prairie campground facts:
Video Tour available: Yes.
Download now!
Open: All year
Sites: 75
Laundry: No
Showers: Yes
Dump Station: No
Store: No
Fee: $35 per vehicle, $5 for hiker/biker, $8 for day use.
Vehicle length limit: 27 foot RV or 24 foot trailer
Handicapped Accessible: Yes(toilet and sites)
Toilets: Yes | Tables: Yes | Fire rings: Yes
Water: Yes
Elevation: 125 feet
Fishing: Yes (Prairie Creek)
Generator: No
Gas: No (5.57 miles to Orick)
Repairs: No(5.57 miles south to Orick)
Reservations: 1-800-444-7275
The picnic grounds at Elk Prairie.
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