Navarro River Redwoods State Park

For a nature adventure that you and your pup won't soon furget, head to the Navarro River Redwoods State Park! This unusual 660-acre park is basically an 11-mile tunnel of beautiful redwood groves flanking either side of Highway 128, which runs parallel to the north bank of the Navarro River.

There are no trails in this state park, but feel free to pull over to the side of the road to admire the magnificent redwoods, breathe in the fresh air, and take lots of photos of your doggo in this almost otherworldly environment. The impressive, shady corridor is composed of second-growth redwoods that developed from the cut stumps of the original trees, as well as redwood sorrel, western sword fern, wild huckleberry, and salal. Raccoons and black-tailed deer call this area home, and if you and Fido stop by at dawn or dusk, you might spot a mountain lion as well.

The main activities here include swimming, fishing and camping. Swimming and wading in the Navarro River are pawpular activities at Navarro River Redwoods during the summer, while kayakers and canoers take over the waters come the spring and winter months. Anglers fish for steelhead here during fishing months, and do need a valid California fishing license with a steelhead card.

If you'd like to spend the weekend at the state park, there are two campgrounds to stay at: the Navarro Beach Campground, located on a beach at the mouth of the river, and the Paul M. Dimmick Campground, which offers 26 sites nestled in a redwood grove between the highway and the river. Both places offer day use areas and campsites on a first-come, first-served basis. If you and Fido don't mind really roughing it, pitch your tent on Navarro Beach, where 10 primitive sites sit next to beautiful driftwood structures. Note that the river sometimes overflows into the beach and campgrounds, so always check the park's website or call the District office for the latest updates.

Remember to bring doggie waste bags for cleaning up after your furry charge. Keep your pup on a 6-foot leash at all times during the day, and inside your tent or vehicle at night. 

Whether you merely drive through the groves or camp out overnight, you and Fido will have a pawsome experience at the Navarro River Redwoods State Park!