The best camping near Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Standish-Hickey adventure.

87% (20 reviews)
87% (20 reviews)

An arboreal Eden straddles Highway 101 in Northern California.  

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Stay at a public campground in Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area

Top-rated campgrounds near Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area

92%
(6)

Shelter Cove Campground

90 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Whitethorn, CA
Take a deep breath. Experience nature. The drive out to this remote area is well worth it for those who like to fish, crab, dive for abalone or watch for whales. Photographers, hikers and nature lovers will have plenty to do as well. The thick redwood forests surrounding the village are home to bald eagles, Roosevelt elk, black tail deer.....and if you believe the legend, Bigfoot. The rock shoreline makes Shelter Cove a refuge for seals and sea lions, and it boasts some of the world's richest tide pools. There are picnic areas that offer access to the beach or the rocks below the bluffs. Each rate is for four people at a site, access to bathrooms, showers and coin operated washer and dryer. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring (see note below reference firewood). NOTE: State ordinances require firewood to be purchased locally, therefore we source our firewood from the local provider here in the cove. Alan wraps extra big bundles and packs a little kindling in each. Let us know how many we need and we'll deliver right to your site. The campground is open all year. During our busy season, we suggest that you call for reservations and for more information regarding the rates and what they include. Our numbers are listed on our Contact page, our Facebook page and on Instagram. The Lost Coast In the 1920's, when they built the Coast Highway in Northern California, engineers decided a stretch of coast from Northern Mendocino County through the King Range in Humboldt County was too rugged for a road. Thus, this expanse of magnificent coastline was soon isolated and became known as the "Lost Coast". Highly-valued seaside resort. The small community of Shelter Cove, on the coast just below King Range, lies at the core of the Lost Coast. Being cut off from the rest of California has helped Shelter Cove remain a peaceful seaside resort with peerless scenery that is an oasis for outdoor enthusiasts. Diverse wildlife within reach We are home to many deer that like to hang out in the campground and on the golf course. We also have bald eagles, osprey, and foxes. Not to mention our many sea creatures, such as whales, seals, sea lions, otters and fish of many different species. Take a walk on the beach during low tide and enjoy the many tidepools. Events and Functions at Shelter Cove Campground. From May to October we have many different events for those that are looking for something to do. In May we have our Kayak Conventions and Memorial Day celebration. May also starts our Campground Karaoke which takes occasionally on Friday night at 6:00 pm - 9:30 pm. During our holiday celebrations, we have BBQ's with chicken, ribs and fresh oysters. We also offer music for your listening pleasure while you enjoy the beautiful ocean views and the Cape Mendocino lighthouse. Full Hook Up RV Sites Settle your RV into our designated back-in grass sites, tailor-made for RVs under 35 feet. Enjoy full hookups, 30 amp electricity, water, and sewer. Ocean views grace every corner of our campground, creating a serene backdrop for your stay. Each site accommodates up to six people, with a nominal charge for each person beyond four. Book your spot today! Van/Tent Dry Camping Sites Establish your campsite, whether it's a tent, truck camper, van, or RV, in our dry camping area. Water is conveniently accessible at fill stations scattered across the campground, and our guests have access to a communal bathroom with showers. Join us for a delightful blend of nature and comfort at Shelter Cove Campground. Your adventure begins here!
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$25
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96%
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Jug Handle Creek Farm

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents33 acres · Caspar, CA
Jug Handle Creek Farm and Nature Center is a nonprofit with a five minute walk to Jug Handle State Reserve, Jug Handle beach and the Ecological Staircase trail. We offer 11 unique campsites with plenty of space and privacy. Each site has two picnic tables, a fire ring, parking for two cars and plenty of space for your tents. We also offer three lovely cabins, which have power and access to a shared kitchen and bathroom with a hot shower. Our 33 acres include a native plant nursery, community gardens, forests, meadows, and nature trails. Our site has lots of nature trails, is peaceful and beautiful and just a 5-minute walk to Jug Handle Beach and the Jug Handle Preserve. Our Mission: We offer a welcoming and supportive environment for people of all backgrounds to explore nature and connect with the natural word. Nature stewardship is central to our non-profit mission and as an organization we are engaged in many nature restoration projects throughout Mendocino County. We also provide a supportive learning environment for nature education for disadvantaged youth during the school year. If you teach k-12 and would like to bring your classroom to Jug Handle contact us about special rates and our immersive nature education programs.
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$40
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95%
(353)

Eel River Escape

18 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Benbow, CA
This property is conveniently located in historic highway 101. It's 4.5 terraced acres overlooking the south fork Eel River. It is adjacent to the Reggae on the River and Northern Nights festival sites. It's less than a mile from the tourist attraction One Log house and Richardson Grove state park. The property is a permitted educational cannabis farm implementing regenerative agriculture practices.We have several accommodation options! You can stay in our fully furnished bell tent tucked away in a charming garden. It has a full bed with foam topper, charge station, lounge chair, fan or heater, wireless speaker, and wifi. The property has hot outdoor shower and viewing bluff overlooking Eel river. Enjoy convenient hwy 101 location close to state park and dispensary. Wake up, dine and stroll in this dreamy garden! We also have camping and  RV sites that have morning shade, and epic views and two levels of camping area. 
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$55
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94%
(826)

Mendocino Magic

122 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents600 acres · Laytonville, CA
Mendocino Magic is a camping, fishing, wedding and outdoor events destination in inland Mendocino county, Northern California, just a few miles off Highway 101 in the heart of the Emerald Triangle. This unique sprawling 600-acre property is home to the largest privately-held reservoir in the North Coast region, perfect for swimming and catch & release fishing. We offer tent camping, RV & Car camping, luxe furnished tents, and cabins for your stay. Star gaze from the rolling hills of the Mendocino forest, kayak on our private Reservoir, and show off your BBQ skills with included campground amenities. Reserve your camp site early for the best availability. About half of our 2023 summer weekends are currently sold out. All Mendocino Magic Campers Enjoy the Following Amenities - Central Camp with tables, BBQ grills (propane provided), filtered water, and weekend fire dish run by staff. - Portapotty bathrooms with outdoor sinks. - Outdoor showers with hot water. - Access to Holland Reservoir, our private lake, for swimming, boating, and fishing. Kayaks are available at no charge. Bring your own life jackets if you need them. - Miles of hiking and biking trails through mountainous hillsides and scenic valleys. - Some of the best stargazing in Northern California with frequent meteor showers. - Camping supplies delivered to your camp site (for an additional charge), including cooler rentals, ice. Mackenzie manages the campground with a team of incredible people. In a world increasingly connected in the digital sense, we invite you to come up and get back to your roots, and connect with people the old fashioned way. Come join us for stargazing, paintball, fishing & swimming, weddings & outdoor events, and camping!
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$60
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Root's End

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Mendocino, CA
Nearly four acres close to town and amenities, yet quiet and secluded. Away from any major roads and on quiet nights, the fog horn from the Big River buoy can be heard. Wildlife on the property include piliated woodpeckers, deer, raccoons, jack rabbits, bears (keep your trash and food inside!), mountain lions, foxes, and of course, our resident ravens. Wild huckleberries and rhododendrons are abundant among the redwoods and fir. A beautiful spot to spend the night!
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$70
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100%
(148)

CAMPFIRE!

3 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Mendocino, CA
Come make yourself at home on our beautiful 10 acre property just up the road from the town of Mendocino. This site is only a 5 min drive to town, so it’s close to the beach, river access and local restaurants and shops.. Walk through the redwoods or enjoy the sunshine, the property offers a bit of it all! All we ask is that you make yourself at home!
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$60
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96%
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Ocean Forest Mendocino

18 sites · Lodging50 acres · CA
Ocean Forest Retreat is a nature lover’s sanctuary on the Mendocino Coast. Magical and pristine old-growth redwood groves overlook a beautiful ridge-top ocean view. The Retreat is surrounding by thousands of acres of serene redwood forest, remote nature trails and just minutes from the beach. There are 4 private and unique glamping cabins. The Honeybear and Garden Cabins have French doors with beautiful old growth forest views, cozy glass-door wood stoves, deck and patio . The Adobe Earth Cabin is surrounded by a covered Gathering Area with Earthen benches, a firebrick pizza oven and simple outdoor kitchen. The Redwood TreeCabin has French doors, an extra sleeping loft and a redwood deck. All cabins have comfortable queen beds, cozy heaters, private outdoor fire pits, plenty of forest or ocean view seating, solar string lights, hammocks and nature gathering spaces. Each cabin has a private outdoor hot showers, and the earth cabin has an outdoor bathtub in a redwood grove. The land has direct access to hiking trailheads leading into miles of redwood forest. Ocean view seating and gathering area (shared space.) Just a 5 minute drive to the coastal trails in Mackerricher State Park, famous Glass beach, Ten Mile Beach and River, The Dunes Nature Reserve, and much more. Ocean Forest is Off-the-Grid with simple lighting in the cabins and outdoor solar string lights. Outhouse Eco-composting toilets. Please note that the cabins are 10x12 and each comfortably sleep 2 people ( and perhaps small children.) For additional guests please bring a tent. Please note that the Earth Cabin and Redwood TreeCabin are close to each other and share a composting toilet in a common location. There's privacy fencing in-between and plenty of private outdoor space as well. The Garden and Honeybear cabins are farther apart. Adventurous nature activities available just minutes away! Including: beach horseback riding, guided ocean and river kayaking, famous Skunk train and Rail bike rides through the redwoods and more. Or enjoy hiking, mushroom picking, and soaking in the unique magic of rare old growth redwoods right on the property. Close to the amenities charming Fort Bragg and Mendocino have to offer including delicious restaurants ( seafood at the harbor) yoga studios, botanical gardens, art galleries and more. Send Inquires if you are interested in booking the entire property for private retreats, small gatherings, private family camping trips etc. We welcome you to come unplug and reconnect to your Self, each other and Nature in this magical Ocean forest. 🙏🏽
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$140
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93%
(28)

Briceland Vineyards Ranch

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents57 acres · Redway, CA
Briceland Vineyards Ranch is 57 acres of oak woodlands 5.5 miles west from Redway Ca. on Briceland Thorn Road. This is the one road in and out of the lost coast and leads to Shelter Cove, about 15 miles west. This is about 15 miles to Avenue of the Giants as well. The property is the home of Briceland Vineyards, the first winery in Humboldt based on Humboldt grown grape and the most awarded winery in the county.
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$45
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97%
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Shangri-La

8 sites · Lodging, Tents100 acres · Upper Lake, CA
For 21 years, we have worked on keeping this property as a Sacred Space. There's a meadow with an Indian artifact and amazing views. We are a team, husband and wife, this is off-the-grid and we raise our children here. At the same time, we grow organic food and work on our crafts and spiritual practice, never using chemical fertilizers, and keeping all of the groundwater clear and clean with an abundance of spring water for drinking. This is a magical forest retreat and we love to share it with others who are like-minded. Right out of the Mendocino National Forest, 100-Acre Forest and Meadow Retreat is just minutes to the Eel River out of the small town of Potter Valley and 15 minutes to Lake Pillsbury. Private views, fresh spring water and endless possibilities. *******We also recommend that you have AWD or 4x4 vehicle, as the road is dirt coming in and the campsite are up the mountain off of a dirt road*******We have 2 campsites currently with fresh spring water, and fire pits. Private and in the woods. Lots of hiking on the land, with stunning views. Bring your own tent, hammock, food whatever you need to be a happy camper!! In the spring of 2019 we added in 2 new yurt sites, with soaking tubs, filled with hot spring water. We have 2 campsites to book for regular camping tents and we just added a community bathroom . Nestled away in the forest very private queen size bed natural spring water for soaking in the tub on your porch. In addition for comfort and convenience we have a nice bathroom with hand-washing station. Each yurt can come with propane heat in winter time you need to request it, in the Extras. making it cozy all year long. *******We also recommend that you have AWD or 4x4 vehicle, as the road is dirt coming in and the campsite are up the mountain off of a dirt road*******.
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$75
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97%
(432)

South Facing Ridge With Views

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Comptche, CA
Surrounded by cooperate timberland,  it feels like there are no neighbors!  There is not a house in sight but the the ridge views seem to go on forever!  - There is a simple latrine at each site. A full bath house with a flush toilet and hot shower is available next to the main house. A water spigot is attached to the main house. - Spare camping supplies are available by the bath house if you forget something! Ask ahead if you need to borrow a specific item. More about the property: I built my home high upon a southern ridge. Watching the river of coastal fog flow in and out below me is one of the most wonderful views to behold! I have 30 acres of land to explore and camp upon in the surrounding redwood forest. 10 miles east are Montgomery Woods redwood preserve with GIANT trees, and a little farther, perhaps a mile is the famous Orr Hot Springs Resort. If you drive a half hour west from my land you will be in the coastal Mendocino village. We are marijuana friendly!! Thus, we have created more of an adult oriented atmosphere. one last note: We recently made separate listings for different sites. See campsite #1 for reviews.Guests love staying here "What a fantastic experience. I arrived to Cosmo’s super late after a long day going up the coast. It was a last minute book that morning, if I remember right - my campsite had fallen through. His directions were spot on, and very kindly he stayed up to take me to my site and help me get set up, even going so far as to light me a fire. His property was easily navigable in the dark, and my two wheel drive made it fine. We talked for a while - what a cool guy. He was able to give me recommendations from a friend of what to do during the next legs of my trip, which was great and really did make a difference for the rest of my week. I cooked my dinner and sat stunned looking at some of the best stargazing I’ve had in a long time.When I woke up I realized that I had been sleeping next to a mountainside view - this was site 3. Talk about the best surprise I’ve gotten in a while unzipping a tent. The clouds were gathered in the valley and as I ate breakfast I got to watch the sun slowly clear then out. It was unbelievable.Before I left, Cosmo let me use his indoor solar-heated shower and told me all about his projects to build his own home and roads and move towards a more sustainable future. Overall this is really the best of what I imagine hipcamp has to offer - kind property owners & unique individuals who care about their guests while also allowing them to have their own experience. If I’m ever near Mendocino I will gladly make the trip inland to stay at his property again."
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$40
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98%
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Meadow Farm & Forest

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents28 acres · Fort Bragg, CA
Meadow Farm is a quiet and creative sanctuary surrounded by the forest. The ocean breezes freshen the air and the pulse of the planet is heard as the surf sounds travel to put us to rest at night.. We are a place for people experimenting with the new old ways to live with low impact and conservation of our precious resources. We offer affordable accommodations, organic gardening, and education on plants and living simply. We welcome your interest in veganic garden and diet, orchards, and forest trails. Our organic vegetables and fruit may be available if you wish to bring some of our farm to your table. Our garden is reduced this time of year but we may still have something to share. We can offer you a quiet and peaceful place without social pressures if you wish to "decompress" from city life, jobs or any stressful times. Or come to the communal fire near the bathhouse for sharing some time with family and the few other campers that may be there. Bringing your own wood is welcome. The coastal bike and hike trails are many. From South of Ft Bragg to the Sand Dunes near Ward Ave. you can travel over 7 miles one way and go down to quiet little beach coves along the way. Meadow Farm is a nonprofit 501c3 with goals of coastal food security, disaster preparation and sheltering, carbon sequestering and forest restoration. We offer native plant tours on or off site with advance notice. We like our dog companions! Two McNab collies, Moxie and Shama live here and may bark at first...still very friendly and social with people and other dogs.. There are several dog friendly off-leash areas such as, Noyo North Harbor Beach, Seaside Beach and dog parks in both Ft Bragg and Mendocino. Our farm is dog friendly tho we wish pets to be kept close, must be neutered and friendly to other dogs and people. Please be sure to bury or bag the waste. Speaking of waste, Meadow Farm strives to reduce waste by avoiding plastic as much as possible, recycling what we can and composting our veggie scraps. Please bring your own waste receptacles and take them along when you go. We take ours to the Caspar Transfer Station which is open Saturday through Wednesday... the location and hours can be found online. Our water is from a deep well and we periodically test it for bacteria. It is cold and delicious. Our irrigation pipes that have spigots and hoses at each camp are safe for drinking, cooking and cleaning. Our solar pump moves water into storage tanks that provide all the water to the farm. It is very important that the water valves on your camp spigot is turned off (gently please) to avoid losing 2500 gallons of water in a short time. If you see a leak or break in a line please contact us immediately. There are also water shut offs for the camps on the west side of the Farm House if you are unable to reach us right away.. When doing dishes we request that you use the strainer to catch food particles from the dish water and toss them in your trash or compost bucket. If you have vegetable waste let us know and we can pick them up for adding to the worm bins or composting piles. We make worm "tea" fertilizer and rich soil from these offerings. No animal products or oil please... a few egg shells are okay. We do have the usual wildlife though we haven't had problems with them. Ravens will raid your camp if food or bags are left out while you are away. From dusk to dawn keep children and pets close. We coexist well here with the critters...and glad to have them. Wishing you a very peaceful and soul refreshing stay at Meadow Farm. Come and allow this natural setting to heal and restore your sense of well-being.
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$65
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Lucky Penny Laytonville

7 sites · RVs, Tents4 acres · Laytonville, CA
Lucky Penny Laytonville is a thriving multi-generational family home and campground, dedicated to music, art, gardening, cooking, and family fun. Just 4 sites on 4 acres! Camping made easy with a FULLY OUTFITTED OPEN AIR OUTDOOR KITCHEN and HOT SHOWERS (not available in the coldest times of the year when pipes freeze). Kitchen includes sinks, refrigerator, stove, toaster oven, toaster, blender, espresso machine, coffee grinder, dishes, utensils, plates, pans, cutting boards, etc. If there's something you need and can't find it, we'll bring it out from our kitchen in the house. LIBRARY OF TOYS, BOOKS, PUZZLES, AND GAMES. Around the property, there's plenty of cool forest shade, a park like lawn, and a sunny meadow. Find yourself a cozy spot on a sofa under the trees or in a hammock with a good book from our library. There's always a jigsaw puzzle out on one of the picnic tables by the pizza oven. We’ve got badminton and croquet, just ask. Enjoy looking at the stars through the telescope, just ask. Each campsite has a picnic table & benches. Outlets to CHARGE YOUR PHONE and DEVICES. Wifi in several places in town (1 mile). Please LIMITED FIRES during Fire Season. CHECK WITH HOSTS about whether fires are currently allowed. Fire MUST be completely extinguished before you go to sleep at night. Firewood available for purchase. SMOKERS, please be super careful! Fruit trees and extensive gardens dot the property. Feel free to pick a piece of fruit. We often have extra fresh eggs from the chickens, so just ask. We're in a wooded country neighborhood where lots of folks have dogs, so you might hear some barking and see some neighbors. Very occasionally we see a dog off leash. We ask that you keep your dogs on leash at all times, as we have cats and chickens and our neighbors have small children. Please respect our neighbors' privacy. We encourage you to enjoy the forest, but do be aware that there is poison oak. If you don't know what it looks like we can show you. Please arrive between Noon - 8pm. Text us your estimated arrival time and then when you're 15 minutes out, let us know you're getting close. Please try to get here by 8:00pm. However, you can prearranged for a late arrival in "Extras." We are flexible about check out time, if we do not have other campers arriving for your site. Just ask. We are flexible about cancelations. If you cancel 24 hours before check-in time (1pm), you get a full refund, automatically. Cancelling with less than 24 hours notice? We will refund you as follows: A booking of 2 or more days, you will be charged for only one day. Mendocino County guidelines regarding Covid-19: We follow the current State and Local Covid regulations. All hosts are fully vaccinated. Masks are no longer required outdoors. More than one group can use the kitchen and other communal areas at the same time, but please be respectful of others who wish to maintain distance from other campers. We want to keep vulnerable folks safe and comfortable here at Lucky Penny!
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$75
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The best camping near Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area guide

Overview

About

Enjoy hiking, fishing, and swimming on the scenic South Fork of the Eel River. An inland river canyon, with steep sides and giant trees, shelters you from highway noise. The ancient trees here are truly a sight to behold as the gateway to tall trees country.

The pride of this forest is the Captain Miles Standish Tree. This massive redwood towers 225 feet above the forest floor. It's more than 1,200 years old. The tree was just a sapling when the Europeans were still in the Dark Ages.

Deep holes, shallow pools, and riffles make this spot popular for kayaking, swimming, and fishing. The canyon offers scenic overlooks thanks to the hiking trails. Give a shout and listen to your echo as it bounces from one side of the canyon to the other. The Grove Trail heads into a virgin redwood stand.

At least one campsite stays open year-round. Be careful of high water in winter time.

Notable campgrounds

  • Family Campsites: Nestled among the redwoods, these sites offer a classic camping experience for all ages.
  • Hike or Bike Campsites: Ideal for the more adventurous, these sites are accessible by trail and promise a secluded retreat.
  • RV Access: Spacious sites accommodate RVs up to 27 feet, providing a comfortable and convenient stay amid nature.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early, as sites can be reserved up to six months in advance and fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
  • Be flexible with your dates to increase your chances of finding an available spot.
  • Check for cancellations regularly, as plans change and previously booked sites may become available.
  • Explore nearby camping options if Standish-Hickey is fully booked, as the surrounding area offers additional opportunities.

When to go

The best time to visit Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area is from late spring to early fall when the weather is warm and the park's full splendor is on display. Winter brings high water levels, making some areas inaccessible, but the park's beauty endures year-round for those prepared for the conditions.

Know before you go

  • Always check for any park closures or alerts before planning your visit, especially during the off-season.
  • While dogs are allowed in the park, they are not permitted on trails, so plan accordingly if bringing a pet.
  • Day use areas are open from sunrise to sunset, perfect for picnics and short hikes.
  • Accessible features are available; check the park's website or contact the park directly for more information.
  • Remember to pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the park's natural beauty.

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