Dreaming of towering redwoods and the open road? Join David and Mark, a married, same-sex male couple, as they navigate their first RV camping adventure in Redwood National Park. From meticulous planning to unexpected wildlife encounters, they share their experience at North Coast Redwood Prairies Campground, offering tips for fellow RV newbies and seasoned campers alike. This guide includes everything from securing reservations and setting up camp to exploring Fern Canyon and cooking a delicious Dutch oven meal under the stars. Get ready to plan your own Redwood adventure!

Finding the Perfect Campsite

David, the planner in the relationship, spearheaded the campsite selection. He meticulously researched campgrounds in Redwood National Park, focusing on those accommodating their rented 24-foot Thor Motor Coach Chateau. RV-specific GPS apps and campground review sites became his best friends, helping him navigate the windy roads leading to North Coast Redwood Prairies Campground. The journey wasn't without its challenges. The steep grades and tight turns along Highway 101 required careful driving, and David diligently monitored online RV forums to anticipate potential bottlenecks. Securing a reservation was crucial, booked well in advance through Recreation.gov, particularly important during peak season.

RV Setup at Campsite #42: A Learning Curve

Arriving at campsite #42, the real work began. Connecting to the 30-amp electric and water hookups was straightforward. However, leveling the RV on the slightly sloped site required the use of orange leveling blocks – a purchase David was very grateful for. The initial head-scratcher was the RV's water system. After some online research and a call to the RV rental company, David figured out the correct valve positions to ensure a steady water supply.

Campground Rules: Bear Safety and Firewood

North Coast Redwood Prairies Campground enforces strict rules, especially regarding bear safety. All food, even snacks for short hikes, had to be stored in bear canisters. The posted warnings about hefty fines for non-compliance were a serious deterrent. Generator hours were limited to 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM, a restriction that initially frustrated David, who prefers having consistent power for his gadgets. Only seasoned wood purchased within a 10-mile radius is permitted to prevent the spread of invasive species. Firewood was available at the campground store for $8 per bundle.

Bathrooms and Showers: A Mixed Bag

The campground showers were functional but not luxurious. David quickly learned to avoid peak hours (6:00 PM to 8:00 PM) due to limited hot water. Showering at 3:00 PM proved to be the sweet spot. Water pressure was consistently low. On the other hand, the facilities were generally clean and well-maintained.

Redwood Adventures: Hiking, Exploring, and Stargazing

Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail Hike

Their first hike was on the Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail. The towering redwoods created a cathedral-like ambiance, the only sound being the wind whispering through the canopy. Mark, a keen photographer, was in his element, attempting to capture the scale of these giants. He used a wide-angle lens to encompass the full height of the redwoods and a polarizing filter to cut down on glare.

Exploring Fern Canyon

Fern Canyon in Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park was a highlight, but required proper footwear. Waterproof boots suitable for wading in shallow water are essential. Mark’s Xtratuf boots were perfect, while David’s lightweight hiking boots proved inadequate. The unique microclimate within the canyon, with its cool, damp air and fern-covered walls constantly dripping with water, was mesmerizing.

Stargazing Under the Redwoods

They attempted to stargaze near the campground, but light pollution from Crescent City to the north and Arcata to the south hampered visibility. David used the SkyView Lite app on his iPad to identify constellations like Ursa Major and Cassiopeia, which were still visible despite the light pollution. Redwood National Park isn't a Dark Sky Park, so plan accordingly.

Campfire Cooking: Lemon Herb Chicken and Vegetables

Campfire cooking was a must, and their Lemon Herb Chicken and Vegetables Dutch Oven meal was a success. Here's the recipe:

Ingredients:

• 2 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1 lb baby potatoes (halved)
• 1 lb carrots (chopped)
• 1 large onion (chopped)
• 2 lemons (one sliced, one juiced)
• Fresh herbs (2 sprigs rosemary, 3 sprigs thyme)
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

Preheat Dutch oven by placing charcoal briquettes around the sides and underneath. Toss potatoes, carrots, and onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Place vegetables in the bottom of the Dutch oven. Arrange chicken thighs on top of the vegetables. Drizzle lemon juice over the chicken and vegetables. Tuck lemon slices and fresh herbs amongst the chicken. Pour chicken broth into the Dutch oven. Cover and cook for 45-60 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.

David meticulously managed the fire while Mark prepared the meal. Cleanup was equally meticulous, with all food waste disposed of in bear-resistant containers.

Technology Review: WeBoost and iOverlander

David, being a tech enthusiast, brought along a WeBoost Drive Reach RV cell signal booster. The antenna installation took about 30 minutes. Unfortunately, it only provided a marginal improvement in cell service (one extra bar) and wasn't sufficient for streaming video.

The iOverlander app, however, proved invaluable. It helped them find the dump station at the Elk Country RV Resort just outside the park and a potable water source at a nearby visitor center.

Wildlife Encounters: Roosevelt Elk and Banana Slugs

One evening, they spotted a herd of Roosevelt Elk grazing near the campground entrance. They maintained a safe distance (at least 25 yards), admiring the majestic creatures. Mark captured stunning photos using his telephoto lens. On the trails, they encountered banana slugs, and David, ever curious, researched their role in the ecosystem, learning about their importance as decomposers.

Packing List Oops: Forgetting Rain Gear

Their biggest packing mistake was forgetting rain gear. An unexpected afternoon shower left Mark using a poncho he bought at a local store, while David endured an uncomfortably wet walk back to the RV. Lightweight packable rain jackets are now a permanent addition to their RV camping checklist.

Cost Comparison: RV vs. Hotel

The RV rental cost approximately $180 per night, plus $35 per night for the campsite. A comparable hotel or lodge in the area would have averaged around $250 per night. The RV provided more flexibility but required more effort. A hotel would have been more comfortable but less immersive. RV camping is a great option for Gay RV Camping.

RV Gear Review

• Black Diamond Cosmo 350 Headlamp: This headlamp proved to be a reliable companion. Its 350 lumens provided ample brightness, and David used it for three nights without needing to change the batteries. It also performed well during a light drizzle.
• REI Co-op Camp X Chair: Mark especially appreciated the comfort of this chair, particularly the supportive back. It folds easily for storage and held up well on the uneven campsite ground.

Campsite #42: Pros and Cons

Their campsite, #42, had its advantages and disadvantages. The ample shade from the redwoods was a definite plus, as was its close proximity to the trailhead for the Simpson-Reed Grove Trail. However, the noise from neighboring campers with children was significant, and the slightly uneven ground required extra leveling.

Emotional Experience: Awe and Humidity

Surrounded by the towering redwoods, they experienced a sense of awe and wonder. The RV camping experience allowed them to explore the park at their own pace and create lasting memories. RV camping for the first time certainly had its challenges, from learning the intricacies of the RV's systems to the compromises they had to make regarding space and comfort. The humidity was a constant factor, making even short hikes feel more strenuous and items take longer to dry.

Ready to Roll?

Ready to experience the majesty of the redwoods? Find your perfect RV and start planning your Redwood National Park adventure with vistalocation.com!