Big Basin Redwoods State Park

California state parks are world renowned, featuring some of the most breathtaking, powerful landscapes that nature has to offer. For many, no single living organism captures the grandeur and majesty of nature than the Coastal Redwood, and thankfully, California is full of them. They grow all through northern California and well into Oregon, and are protected in several state parks, including Big Basin Redwoods State Park in California’s San Francisco Bay Area.

Most people come to Big Basin to see the ancient redwoods that stand over 300 feet tall, which have lived for between 1,000 and 2,500 years. Due to the nature of these ancient ecosystems, dogs are not permitted in most places in Big Basin Redwoods State Park, although there are places that you can take your dog while still enjoying the immense beauty of the park. 

The Big Basin Redwoods State Park allows dogs at tent sites and has set aside several tent cabins where dogs are free to be, which you can reserve. Additionally, dogs can traverse the North Escape Road, a 7-mile fire road which runs along Opal Creek and contains plenty of recovering redwoods for you to enjoy. California Department of Parks and Recreation oversees and manages the park, which is public and free to enjoy except for parking in the designated parking lots. 

Over 18,000 acres of land is included in Big Basin Redwoods State Park, from ocean view heights above 2000 feet to the coast of California at sea level. While you won’t be able to travel the more than 80 miles of trails weaving and winding throughout the park with your dog, simply camping among the most majestic trees in the world is an experience that neither you nor your dog will want to miss out on.

Plan your trip to the Big Basin Redwoods State Park well in advance, especially if you want to go during peak season in the summertime. By reserving one of the dog-friendly tent cabins, or planning a getaway hike with your dog along North Escape Road, you can make memories with your beloved dog in the shadow of living giants.