Experience the Ultimate Adventure: Standish Hickey State Recreation Area Camping
Kind Reader, if you’re searching for a serene spot for camping, Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area camping is the perfect place to be. Located in Mendocino County, California, this beautiful Park is surrounded by majestic redwoods and offers a wide range of outdoor activities. The park is an excellent choice for those seeking adventure and a chance to unwind in a natural setting. Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area camping offers fascinating sites, trails, and campgrounds that provide a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of the city.
Camping options at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area
Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area is a perfect place for camping enthusiasts. Visitors can set up a tent or park their RV in one of the many scenic camping sites the park offers. There are two campgrounds that visitors can choose from: Standish-Hickey Campground North and Standish-Hickey Campground South. Both of these campsites provide easy access to the hiking trails and other recreational opportunities in the park.
Standish-Hickey Campground North
The Standish-Hickey Campground North has 30 campsites that are nestled in the redwoods and located near the South Fork of the Eel River. All campsites are equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and access to restrooms, hot showers, and drinking water. There are also some campsites that can accommodate RVs up to 24 feet in length.
Standish-Hickey Campground South
The Standish-Hickey Campground South has 75 campsites that are also situated in a beautiful redwood grove and near the South Fork of the Eel River. These campsites offer easy access to the hiking trails and the river. Visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities such as fishing and swimming. All campsites are equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and access to restrooms, hot showers, and drinking water.
Camping fees and reservations
If you are planning to camp at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area, it is essential to know about the camping fees and reservations. The camping fees for both campgrounds are $35 per night. Reservations are highly recommended during peak season, which is from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Reservations can be made by calling the park office or online through the Reserve California website.
Camping Fee Waivers
California State Parks offer several discount programs for qualifying individuals. One of these programs is the Golden Bear Pass, which is a lifetime pass that provides discounts on camping fees and other park services. This pass is available for U.S. citizens or permanent residents who are age 62 or older and receiving Social Security retirement benefits. For more information, visit the California State Parks website.
Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area Camping Facilities
The Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area boasts of a wide range of camping facilities that can accommodate different types of campers. Come and enjoy the beauty of nature at this RV-friendly campground with amenities that can give you the comfort you need while away from home.
RV Camping
If you are a fan of RV camping, the Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area is an excellent destination to park your RV. You can bring your vehicle and get to choose the best campsites that can accommodate RVs, trailers, and other camping vehicles. Also, electrical and water hookups are available to ensure that you will have access to necessary amenities you need.
Tent Camping
If you prefer to rough it out in a tent under the stars, there are campsites available for you as well. The park has a total of 75 campsites that are suitable for tents and car camping. It is best to bring your shades since some campsites have limited shade.
Group Camping
If you’re considering camping with a large group of people, Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area provides group campsites with ample space. These campsites can fit a large group and provide shared picnic tables and fi rings to keep everyone entertained.
Campsite Amenities
Every campsite at the Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area comes with a picnic table and fire ring. Drinking water and flushing toilets are conveniently located within the campground area. If you need to take a shower, the park also has a shower facility. Also, firewood and ice are available to purchase at the park entrance.
| No | Campsite Amenities |
|---|---|
| 1 | Picnic Table |
| 2 | Fire Ring |
| 3 | Drinking Water |
| 4 | Flushing Toilets |
| 5 | Shower Facility |
| 6 | Firewood and Ice on Site |
| No | Important Information |
|---|---|
| 1 | Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area is located in Mendocino County, California. |
| 2 | The camping area has 49 sites for tents, RVs, and trailers. |
| 3 | Camping fees range from $35 to $45 per night depending on the site. |
| 4 | Amenities include picnic tables, fire rings, potable water, and toilets. |
| 5 | Recreational activities at the park include hiking, fishing, swimming, and kayaking. |
| 6 | The park has two main hiking trails: the Redwood Grove Trail and the South Fork Eel River Trail. |
| 7 | Fishing is allowed in the South Fork Eel River and Steelhead Creek with a valid California fishing license. |
| 8 | The park has a seasonal swimming hole on the South Fork Eel River. |
| 9 | Kayaking and canoeing are popular activities on the South Fork Eel River. |
| 10 | The park has a visitor center that offers information on the park and its history. |
Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area Camping Facilities
Camping is one of the most popular activities in Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area. The campgrounds are nestled in the imposing redwoods and offer a unique backdrop for a camping trip. The park has two campgrounds, one in the redwoods and the other near the Eel River. Both campgrounds have a range of campsites to choose from. The park has approximately 98 campsites that offer good amenities for a comfortable camping experience.
Redwood Campground
The Redwood Campground is located in the cooler regions of the park and is ideally located beneath the towering redwoods. The campground has 30 campsites, which are perfect for families and groups. There are two hiking trails leading from the campground, one of which leads to North Fork Hickey Creek, where there is a small swimming hole.
Eel River Campground
The Eel River Campground is located near the Eel River and has 68 campsites in total. The campsites are large and can hold RVs of up to 31 feet long. The campsite is pet-friendly and has a range of amenities to enjoy. The Eel River is ideal for swimming and fishing.
Camping Reservation
Campsite reservations in Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area can be made up to seven months in advance online through the Reserve America website or by phone. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during the peak summer season from May to September. However, campsites may sometimes be available on a first-come, first-served basis, except during weekends and holidays.
Campsite Reservation Procedure
- Visitors need to sign up for an account on Reserve America website or call Reserve America by phone.
- Select Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area as your preferred campsite.
- Select the date you would like to reserve a campsite and choose your desired campsite from the available options.
- Pay the reservation fees, which vary depending on the campsite and time of year.
Note: A fee is charged for reservation services, but visitors can avoid the fee by arriving at the park and using the self-registration system.
The Best Time to Visit Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area Camping
Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area is open all year, but some facilities such as showers and water are closed in the winter months. The best time to visit Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area camping is between May and September, as this is when all the facilities are open, and the weather is warmer and dryer. In May, the weather is mild, and the waterfall is at its fullest due to the spring rains. June through August is the peak camping season for Standish-Hickey. In September, you will enjoy lovely weather, but campground may have less visitors as it’s after summer holidays.
Fall Camping in Standish-Hickey
Although fall can be a fantastic time of year in Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area camping, it is undoubtedly less predictable than the summer months in terms of weather. The weather is cooler, and the dampness may begin to set in. Additionally, the changing foliage in fall is a beautiful sight to see, making it the ideal time for a hiking trip, but you should still come prepared for mildly unpredictable weather conditions.
Winter Camping in Standish-Hickey
Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area is open all year, including the winter months, but the facilities, such as showers, water, and some campsites, are closed due to the cold weather, and snow may make the access to the campsite more difficult.
Spring Camping in Standish-Hickey
Spring is a good time to camp at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area. The weather is mild, and the rainfall makes all the greenery feel alive and lush. It’s a great time to hike and appreciate the beauty of the park’s waterfalls.
Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area Camping Fees
Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area camping fees vary depending on the type of site you select. Please be aware that campers are required to pay the park entrance fee on top of the camping fee. The following fees are for one night at a campsite:
| No | Type of Site | Daily Fee |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Standard Campsite | $35 |
| 2 | Premium Campsite | $45 |
| 3 | Hike & Bike Campsite | $5/person |
| 4 | Group Campsites | $90-$225 |
Notes:
Standard campsites accommodate a maximum of 8 people and 2 vehicles. Premium campsites vary in size, with a maximum of 12 people and 2 vehicles. Hike and Bike Campsites are available for cyclists/hikers and campers with bicycles/walk-in site. Each person must pay a `$5` fee. The park has two Group Campsites to choose from, accommodating 50 to 90 campers per site. Big Trees and Giant Redwoods are primitive and require hiking in.
This is just an overview of the fees, and visitors should do their own research to find out which campsite meets their needs before making a reservation.
Camping facilities
The camping facilities at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area offer visitors a wide array of options, including tent, RV, group, and hike/bike camping. There are 70 campsites in the park, some with a picnic table and bear box, and all with access to restrooms and showers. The campsites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, but reservations can be made up to 48 hours in advance by calling the park directly. There are also two group campsites, which can accommodate up to 50 people each and must be reserved in advance.
Tent camping
Tent camping is a popular option at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area. The campsites are nestled under the trees, providing shade and a natural setting. Each campsite has a fire ring and BBQ grill, and some sites have a picnic table and bear box. Tent camping is available year-round.
RV camping
RV camping is also an option at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area. There are 32 RV sites with full hookups, including water, electricity, and sewage. These sites are available year-round and can accommodate RVs up to 36 feet long.
Campground amenities at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area
The Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area campground offers visitors a wide range of amenities to make their camping experience more enjoyable. The campground has 88 campsites available for visitors who wish to stay overnight. There are also picnic tables and fire pits available for public use. Each site at the campground has a picnic table and a fire pit, and there are several restrooms available throughout the campground.
RV Campers
RV campers will be happy to know that the campground has several amenities designed specifically for them. The park has an RV dump station for campers to use before leaving the park. Each campsite has electric and water hookups. Daily and weekly rates are available for RV’s; however, nightly camping rates are only available for tents.
Pets
Pets are welcome to stay with their humans at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area; however, there are some rules that must be followed. Pets must be leashed at all times and cannot be left unattended in tents or RVs. All pet waste must be picked up and disposed of properly. Aggressive pets are not allowed in the park.
Camping Facilities
Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area Camping offers camping facilities for the visitors. The campground is clean and well-maintained, offering a peaceful atmosphere surrounded by beautiful scenery. There is a total of 94 campsites that are available on a first-come-first-serve basis, which includes standard campsites, tent camping, and cabins. If you are interested in group camping, there are also group campsites which can accommodate up to 30 people.
RV and Tent Camping
The campground offers various RV and tent camping options. The campsites include electric and water hookups, a picnic table, and a fire ring. The RV sites can accommodate up to 60 feet long vehicles and offer adequate space for slide-outs. There is also a dump station available for RV campers. Tent camping is also available, and campsites are located in a shaded area or near the riverbank, giving campers a beautiful view of the river.
Cabins
If you prefer a more comfortable camping experience, the cabins in Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area Camping are perfect for you. The cabins are equipped with comfortable beds, a small kitchen, a dining area, and an outdoor grill. The cabins do not have bathrooms, but the campground has shower and restroom facilities located nearby.
Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area Camping
FAQ on camping in Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area
1. What are the camping options available in Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area?
There are two campgrounds, Jordan Campground and Rock Creek Campground. Jordan campground offers 29 campsites with amenities like fire rings, picnic tables, vault toilets, and drinking water. Rock Creek campground has 20 campsites with similar amenities but with the addition of BBQ grills.
2. How can I make reservations for camping in Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area?
You can make reservations on the Reserve California website or by calling 1-800-444-7275.
3. What is the maximum length of stay for camping?
The maximum length of stay is 14 days in a 30-day period.
4. What are the check-in and check-out times for camping?
Check-in time is 2:00 PM and check-out time is 12:00 PM.
5. Are there any RV hookups available?
No, there are no RV hookups available in the campgrounds.
6. Is there an RV dump station available?
Yes, there is an RV dump station available near the entrance of the park.
7. Are campfires allowed?
Yes, campfires are allowed in the fire rings provided at each campsite.
8. Is firewood available for purchase?
Yes, firewood is available for purchase at the entrance kiosk and at the campground host sites.
9. Can I bring my pet?
Yes, pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash no longer than 6 feet and must not be left unattended.
10. Are there any trails to hike in the park?
Yes, there are several trails available for hiking, including the famous Standish-Hickey Trail and the South Fork Eel River Trail.
11. Are there any fishing opportunities in the park?
Yes, there are fishing opportunities in the South Fork Eel River.
12. Is there a swimming pool in the park?
No, there is no swimming pool in the park.
13. Is there a store in the park to purchase supplies?
No, there is no store in the park. However, there is a small store and gas station in Leggett, which is about 4 miles away.
14. Is there a place to dispose of trash in the park?
Yes, there are dumpsters located throughout the campgrounds and day-use areas.
15. Are there any restrooms or showers available?
Yes, there are vault toilets available in the campgrounds and day-use areas. There are no shower facilities.
16. Can I bring my own generator?
Yes, generators are allowed but must be used only during designated hours (8:00 AM-10:00 AM and 6:00 PM-8:00 PM).
17. Is there cell phone service in the park?
Cell phone service is spotty and not reliable.
18. Is there a fee for parking in the park?
No, there is no parking fee in the park.
19. Are there any picnic areas in the park?
Yes, there are picnic areas available throughout the park.
20. Are there any special rules or regulations I should be aware of?
Yes, visitors must follow all park rules and regulations. There is a quiet time from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM, and visitors must not disturb other campers. Visitors must keep the campsite clean and tidy and dispose of trash properly.
21. Is there a place to fill up drinking water?
Yes, there are drinking water stations available in the campgrounds and day-use areas.
22. Can I reserve a specific campsite?
No, campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and you cannot reserve a specific campsite.
23. Are there any activities for children in the park?
There are several activities for children, including hiking, fishing, and playing in the river.
24. Are there any designated areas for group camping?
No, there are no designated areas for group camping.
25. Is there a fee to enter the park?
Yes, there is a day-use fee of $8 per vehicle.
Looking for a camping trip in northern California? Check out Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area camping for a beautiful natural setting with activities like hiking, fishing, and biking.
Happy Camping, Kind Reader!
We hope that this article has given you a glimpse of what Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area has to offer. Whether you prefer hiking, fishing, swimming, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, camping in this beautiful park is a great pick. As you pack up your gear and head back home, we thank you for reading and hope to see you again soon for your next adventure. Until then, happy travels and stay safe!
