20 Best & Fun Things To Do In Humboldt County (CA)

Known for its tall and magnificent coastal redwood trees, Humboldt County is one of the most famous nature destinations in the world.

Did you know they are the largest producers of oysters?

Although there are other sides to Humboldt County, it comprises mainly rivers and lakes, with gorgeous natural landscapes filled with forests and ferns.

On a well-rounded vacation, you will take advantage of all the attractions that the city has to offer.

If you’re looking for the best and most fun things to do in Humboldt County, California, check this out.

Things To Do In Humboldt County

1. Trees of Mystery

Trees of Mystery is a park and tourist attraction. It is located along U.S. Route 101 near the coastal town of Klamath, California.

In addition, it features interpretive trails through Giant Redwoods and several unusual tree formations, many of which can be seen from its Trail of Mysterious Trees.

There’s also a huge Paul Bunyan statue where they are.

However, there are different redwood trees, and exploring the trail with those trees around the trail is a beautiful experience. One learns a lot about redwoods and, in general, about nature.

Aside from that, the redwood canopy trail has suspension bridges that make squeaky noises sometimes, but that’s part of the thrill.

Be rest assured, they’re safe to navigate. The gondola trip can be an enjoyable experience if you aren’t scared of heights.

Besides, using Skytrail, you can go on a gondola trip to Ted’s Ridge.

Also, you’ll have fun exploring the Wilderness Trail and also see the wonderful views of the areas nearby.

There’s also a gift shop where you can find items. You can, however, look around the trail.

In addition, this is a great place to stop and take a hike. The trees are great to view. The walk through the tree canopy on the rope bridge is enticing. You can bring your dogs too, except on the rope bridge.

You also get to take amazing pictures of the beautiful forest. The platforms/bridges looked cool, but you can skip that part if you are less mobile.

If you’re looking forward to spending the holidays with your family, I’d recommend this place in Humboldt County.

Address: 15500 US-101, Klamath, Humboldt County, CA 95548, United States

2. Redwood National Park

The Redwood National Park is located on the northern coast of Humboldt County, California. It is almost on the Oregon border.

Redwood National and State Parks give you access to the tallest living beings in the world.

It is covered with a magnificent forest of coastal redwood trees, the tallest and most impressive trees in the world.

The marine and land life are equally outstanding, particularly the sea lions, the bald eagle, and the endangered California brown pelican.

Experience the magic given off by the trees. It will fill you with an unforgettable imprint forever in your memory, and you will inevitably dream of returning.

Besides, you can hike in this place in Humboldt County. Try hiking the Skunk Cabbage Trail, which is a lesser-known trail, but it is gorgeous. It’s a pretty long trail with lots of elevation change.

In addition, there are well-marked paths, and you see lots of wildlife.

From mushrooms, varied plants, and also an almost entirely deserted beach.

You should, however, bring water and snacks for the trial!

You’ll see some banana slugs, mushrooms, rocks washed ashore, and a couple of lookouts.

Above all, you can take your family out to exercise a little here; sightseeing, picnics are a few of what it offers.

Address: US-101, Orick, Humboldt County, CA, United States

3. Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park

The Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park is a state park of Humboldt County, California, the United States, known to preserve old-growth redwoods along the Smith River.

It is located along U.S. Route 199, approximately 9 miles east of Crescent City.

This park in Humboldt County is an incredible gem in Northern California.

You can bring kids here and can also go on camping in this park. It is also totally safe with amazing staff who are very friendly.

On a cool day, you can bring the kids and family over to use the park and campground.

In addition, there are rigs of different sizes to suit your length limits. You’ll also enjoy the walking trails.

It is another great state park in Redwood area, Humboldt County to most definitely visit!

Also, there are quite a few hiking trails to explore. There are also notes on All Trails and other sites.

However, they have amazing views of tall redwoods where you can take pictures!

There are a lot of Campgrounds where you can lodge in Crescent City—planning on going camping? Add this to your list!

Address: Crescent City, Humboldt County, CA, United States

4. Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park

The Del Norte Coast Redwoods State Park is a state park of California, United States, and a part of the Redwood National and State Parks.

It has an old-growth forest of coast redwoods, and you’ll see about 8 miles of wild Pacific coastline.

There’s an amazing campsite right in the middle of the redwoods! You can camp here with your family. If you also need alone time, this is a perfect spot.

There is also wildlife; you can feed them if you want.

Above all, if you enjoy hiking, camping, and being close to nature is a perfect spot. So beautiful!

In addition, there are stunning views! You can take memorable pictures here.

It is worth the travel with also a lot of beautiful sceneries and a lot of places to check out. Watching the spectacular sunset leaves romantic feelings and a sense of accomplishment of just being there. Go here with your partner.

This place is magical.

You should also check out the Damnation Creek Trail. If you’re looking forward to a lot of fun, then this place in Humboldt County is highly recommended.

Address: Crescent City, Humboldt County, CA 95531, United States

5. Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is a state park located in Humboldt County, California, near the town of Orick and 50 miles north of Eureka.

The park is a coastal sanctuary for old-growth Coast Redwood trees. There are a lot of fun sites around the park, like Fern Canyon and Gold Bluffs Beach.

Albeit, the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park is also home to the tailed frog and other species of salmon.

In addition, this stunning state park is nestled between the Redwood National Park and the ocean.

Come by and hike gorgeous trails like the James Irvine or Fern Canyon trails. The trees are captivating, and the ferns are beautiful.

The facilities here are well kept, and the trails are well-marked.

However, the Campsite does not have a full hookup in this lovely park, but the Site is very quiet and tucked away from everything.

They also have a lot of accessible roads.

You can come here for a drive or sightseeing. Also, take amazing pictures here or hold concerts if you’re a nature person and it is allowed.

The most impressive part about this is that this is a Star Wars filming location. Can you guess which movie?

Address: 127011 Newton B. Drury Scenic Pkwy, Orick, Humboldt County, CA, United States

6. Humboldt County Fern Canyon

Have you heard about Fern Canyon?

The Fern Canyon is a canyon in the Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park in Humboldt County, California, western United States.

The park is managed in cooperation with other nearby redwoods state parks and Redwood National Park.

The Fern Canyon is recognized as a World Heritage Site and an International Biosphere Reserve. However, the Canyon makes the walls look like they are weeping.

In addition, there are some beautiful beach fronts on the way here. You’ll enjoy the scenery and take amazing pictures.

You can go hiking here, but you’ll see varieties of foliage colors at different times of the year.

There is also a stream crossing close by with rangers to guide whenever help is required. Kids will enjoy taking a lecture here and will also enjoy the scenery. You can take many pictures too and take in the fresh air.

The hike, however, goes upstream, wading through various water depths, ducking under trees, and climbing over some other trees.

In the end, you’ll also find a staircase you can take up to walk back along the rim of the canyon. There’s only one view of it, and that’s near the beach end of it.

I would recommend walking in the water to enjoy it more. From the James Irvine Trail, which is well-labeled on the side, you can get the entire view.

Address: Humboldt County, California, USA

Want to see more of California? Check out the list of things to do in Alameda, things to do in Irvine, things to do in Oceanside, and things to do in West Covina!

7. Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail

This Redwood trail was built to honor the former First Lady.

The hike is a little over a mile, with a loop towards the end portion. The trail itself is relatively flat and would be considered easy for people of all ages.

It is a beautiful place to see the redwoods forest if you haven’t seen one for the first time.

However, there is a fun bridge for kids to run around and have fun. There are also lovely trails for all ages to enjoy.

If you are worried about getting lost, they offer a self-guided tour.

There is also a nice memorial spot about halfway through the trail to learn more about Lady Bird Johnson.

It is a perfect place to hike for kids of all ages.

Numbered posts are also attached on every 0.1 miles of Lady Bird Johnson Grove Trail to entertain young children and help them count. You should also appreciate the great views on the side of the trail.

Address: Bald Hills Rd, Orick, Humboldt County, CA, United States.

8. Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Humboldt Redwoods State Park is a state park in California, United States, containing the world’s largest remaining contiguous old-growth forest of coast redwoods, Rockefeller forest.

The park is an amazing place in Humboldt County to be in and offers wonderful sites. It is amazing to have the opportunity to walk among all those giant trees, clovers, and packs of mushrooms, too.

Moreover, the trails are very easy and provide a lot of opportunities to have fun and enjoy to the fullest.

Breathtaking landscapes too, you’ll enjoy taking beautiful natural scenery. Come in different seasons of the year and see the different colors of the exhibit.

However, it feels just like being surrounded by nature. It is a real way to just relax and connect with the planet.

You can go down the Avenue of the Giants, too, and pull off at the different trails.

Camping and other authorized activities are also available for the family and children.

The Park rangers too are also really helpful. This place in Humboldt County is a must-go for anyone who is looking forward to relaxing and taking off time.

Address: 17119 Avenue of the Giants, Weott, Humboldt County, CA, United States

9. Sue-Meg State Park

Sue-meg State Park is 25 miles north of Eureka, California, in the heart of the coast redwood country.

The park is home to many tree species, including coastal redwoods, Sitka spruce, hemlock, pine, fir, red alder, and wildflower meadows.

There’s also a shoreline that consists of sandy beaches and sheer cliffs against the Pacific Ocean.

The Sue-Meg State Park is a great place to picnic and learn about the Yurok Native Traditions and Culture! Different trails throughout the park with great ocean and wildlife viewing.

There are also a lot of overnight campsites if you intend on camping with the family.

The Penn Creek campsite is a sight to look out for. With so much to compensate for its beauty and relaxing atmosphere.

You can also watch the sunsets, they are extremely gorgeous!

Aside from that, you can sit under light rain showers. There are lots of trails.

Check out the Agate beach trail, you’ll enjoy it. Also, at the bottom portion, there are logs with ropes attached to act as steps for the trail.

Pick up millions of washed-up and smoothed pebbles and agates. So many trails and all are beautiful! Nights are chilly, so bring sweaters.

Address: 4150 Patricks Point Dr, Trinidad, Humboldt County, CA, United States

10. Humboldt County Sequoia Park Zoo

The Sequoia Park Zoo is a zoo located in Eureka, California, in Humboldt, County.

There is also a large public playground and a duck pond, besides formal and natural gardens.

Have you seen a rhododendron? The gardens have many varieties of rhododendron.

Besides, there is also a small zoo perfect place to explore with your family and children.

You should allow them to see the petting area where the children can pet the goats and sheep.

The Sky walk is also great because it gives you a perspective of how incredibly tall the Redwoods are. Again, it is small, which is perfect for small children to enjoy and not feel overwhelmed.

However, you will have a great time exploring this small zoo amongst the enormous and magnificent trees.

Lots of cute animals to see. There are bush dogs, otters, red pandas, spider monkeys, etc.

There is also a redwood Grove with trails for walking and riding bikes that has no entry fee.

I’d recommend this place if you’re looking for a fun activity to do with your family in Humboldt County. It’s a 100 percent fun place.

Address: 3414 W St, Eureka, CA, Humboldt County, United States

11. Humboldt County Eel River

The Eel River is a major river, about 196 miles long, of northwestern California.

Did you know this river and its tributaries form the third largest watershed entirely in California?

Take a trip to the South Fork of the Eel River. You can camp and go on picnics here. Birthday celebrations can also be organized and performed here if permitted.

This is a Bear country. There are no grizzly bears, but you’ll find a lot of brown bears here.

You’ll find a lot of beavers, river Otters, eagles, and many more.

Nice place to walk your dog or bring family or friends for a nice and chilly back day.

Beautiful spot to stop and enjoy. Looks like a perfect place to host picnics or invite children on excursions.

You can also camp on the Hidden Springs Campground (Myers Flat) by the Eel River.

The fun part is hiking down to the Eel River and spending the day there, on inner tubes.

Walk across to the sandy beach on the other side and feel the cool breeze. I’d recommend coming to this beach to relieve stress.

Address: Humboldt County, California, USA

12. Richardson Grove State Park

Richardson Grove State Park is located at the southernmost border of Humboldt County, 75 miles south of Eureka, California, United States, and 200 miles north of San Francisco.

It has a nice lunch stop location. You should go out one of these days to this park and have picnics in this amazing place. Kids can also run around here and you can play games with your family here. River access for a dip or walk through the forest.

Although, there are also picnic tables to sit on.

Richardson Grove State Park is a nice state park to visit for the day to go hiking or spend the day along the river.

This is a popular camping state park with very few trails and some great scenery that is easily accessible. So plan on camping here with your family.

Besides, it is an excellent lunch stop with beautiful redwoods and a tranquil atmosphere. Clean and quiet.

Stop along the 101 and take breathtaking views of the redwoods. You will take amazing pictures on this site. Dogs are allowed too.

There are certain small roads where you can walk down and a short, accessible interpretive trail.

Also, by the side, you’ll find some nice swimming spots in the river. However, if you are here on a hot summer day dipping in these spots is to die for.

Address: 1600 US-101, Garberville, Humboldt County, CA, United States

13. Carson Mansion, Humboldt County

The Carson Mansion is a large Victorian house located in Old Town, Eureka, Humboldt County, California.

This is now a privately owned gentleman’s club – however, it is something to see.

The grounds of the Carson Mansion are very beautifully preserved.

Walking along the side of the home where the beach is, you’ll see little pieces of artwork on the pillars that surround the home.

A lot of people put up wonderful artworks around and this beautifies not only this mansion but also makes it super attractive.

You can go inside this mansion and explore and look at the amazing figure. However, it will only be possible if you’re a member.

You’ll see incredible examples of ornate and opulent Victorian architecture. You can take pictures here since the scenery is beautiful and if you’re interested in Victorian architecture, this is a must-see place for you.

Extraordinary architecture. This beauty will inspire you in so many ways and if you are creative, some ideas could pop in really quickly.

You should check this out, it promises to be exciting!

Address:  143 M St, Eureka, Humboldt County, CA, United States

14. Trinidad State Beach

Trinidad State Beach is a state beach 20 miles north of Eureka in Humboldt County, California.

Well, this beach is nice but not the largest. A lot of people visit this beach, but beautiful just the same.

You can get a wonderful view at the top of the trail.

You’ll enjoy the great view of the ocean and if you’re are extremely lucky, you’ll spot some whales jumping in and lazily moving in the water.

There are amazing hiking points and caves on this beach. Highly recommend seeing it if you ever get the chance.

At one side of the beach, there is a pier, a restaurant, and a little sheltered cove. At the other part of the site is the large beach. You can bring the family here to play beach ball and just lie down and look at the sun.

You should use this location many times for family photos, engagement sessions, and also photograph multiple weddings.

If you’re looking for an easily accessible beach for your wedding, engagement parties, and birthday ceremonies, then this is it!

It’s also very windy, a nice place to fly a kite or ride a hot-air balloon.

This beach is truly astonishing, and there is so much to do here.

From so many trails to hike, charter boats on the bay, great fishing, a climber’s paradise.

In addition, there are lots of ocean life, seals, sea lions, fish, crabs, etc.

If the ocean is your own very little imaginary world, then you should consider coming here.

You can also enjoy wonderful food if you are hungry, hygienic, and safe for consumption.

Finally, if you’d like a destination to remember, this place is a perfect memory.

Address: Humboldt County, California, United States

15. Humboldt County Shrine Drive Thru Tree

The Shrine Drive Thru Tree is a special attraction site in Humboldt County, California.

This is a fun little stop where you can drive through a tree, climb through a stump, and play in adorable tree houses.

It isn’t a huge attraction, but does have huge trees. It’s beautiful and a “must-see” of the redwood forest.

The trees are clustered closely, but you’ll enjoy riding through them with your car as it is very safe and accessible by car.

There are also a few other things to do as well. The chandler tree will be a top site for you to explore.

There are treehouses too which are really neat and well built. Your kids will enjoy playing in tree houses.

Places to sit and relax aren’t far-fetched, they are scattered everywhere. There’s a playground (made of real trees). There’s a ramp on a real old tree you can drive up.

If you are in the area, you need to visit this place, especially with kids. They won’t be able to contain their excitement.

Address: 13078 Avenue of the Giants, Myers Flat, Humboldt County, CA, United States

16. Humboldt County Big Lagoon County Park

The Big Lagoon County Park is a scenic beach for boating & beach combing. This area has many beautiful roadside trails and is nearly right on the beach.

Great place to bring the family while visiting the Redwoods. The kids can build sand castles, play on the water, go surfing, play beach balls and so many more.

Also, they have an inlet that has less sand but is warmer water. You can play here if you are a little sensitive to the temperature of the water.

The inlet is great for paddle boards and canoes. Bring those and sail through the waves.

Also, this beautiful large and long beach often has very tiny pebbles, washed smooth from the surf, in so many colors. You can pick them and create your collection.

Great campground by the side too and the most amazing part is that your pets are allowed too. Very laid back and friendly.

The Lagoon is nice. If you look around carefully you’ll see agates, all kinds of jasper, quartz, and even the famous Californian jade.

It’s a very nice relaxing beach to go hunting for agates. I will recommend this.

Address:   510 Big Lagoon Park Rd, Trinidad, CA, United States

Planning a road trip outside of Humboldt County? Be sure to check out things to do in Palm Desert, things to do in Anaheim, things to do in San Luis Obispo, and things to do in Bakersfield!

17. Clarke Historical Museum

The Clarke Historical Museum in Eureka, California, contains the area’s premier collection of California North Coast regional and cultural history.

This historical museum in Humboldt County is small but densely packed.

Firstly, if you look through the first section of this museum, you’ll find natural history.

Besides, there is a very large collection of birds and rocks.

If you check further, you’ll see that there is a Vietnam war memorial section that focuses on some of the locals. You’ll find the history of most locals who served during the Vietnam war and some memorable pictures.

If you’re a curator or a history student, then you should really check this site out.

There is also a Victorian section that showcases the history of the area. You’ll really love to see these!

The middle section is reserved for rotating exhibits. If you want to see those exhibits and learn more about them, then check them out. You can also bring the kids here to know a little history about his place and the amazing stuff it offers.

Lastly, they have the largest collection of Native American baskets in the country!

There are lots of informative signs in case you get confused.

Other exhibits included local firefighting and fire arms.

If you want to step into the past and get a glimpse into Humboldt County’s local history, this is your spot! Do not miss this place!

Address:   240 E St, Eureka, Humboldt County, CA, United States

18. Samoa Dunes Recreation Area

The Samoa Dunes Recreation Area, Humboldt County, is a recreation center in the city of California.

There’s a nice little beach with barely any waves for kids to cool in.

There are sand dunes and obstacle courses for people who prefer driving and going to car races. It’s a perfect place to build sandcastles and play beach ball in boredom.

A sandy beach where you can run, shoot videos, and take amazing pictures.

You can also fish on the curved stone jetty in the old boardwalk.

You can also surf on the ocean site, but you have to be really careful. Calm waters are on the bayside too if you’re scared of coming in contact with waves or you want to play with kids.

Cool place to take the family, buddies to watch the wave or sunsets.

Bring your dogs too, there are lots of room for the dog to run around. There are benches, trees, and sandy coves.

The immortal Samoa Cookhouse is also a great spot close by to eat. Their food is to die for.

Great place to teach kids to swim, moreover at super low tide, you can hunt for crabs and sea anemones.

Beautiful views and a great spot to hang out if you want to see impressive shells.

Expect to find something cool that has washed ashore from driftwood to sea glass.

Address: 1400 Bay St, Samoa, Humboldt County, CA, United States

19. Centerville Beach County Park

Centerville Beach County Park is a large, sunny beach in Humboldt County, California with easy access.

There is provision for a drive through Ferndale, which is lovely, and the peek-a-boo view of the ocean rounding the corners to the beach is spectacular.

The beach is big, and great to take kids. There are colorful rocks in the surf as well as sandy/clay cliffs to play on.

You’ll find a lot of large driftwood to climb. The tides also rise from time to time. Otherwise, it is a great place to run and play with kiddos. It’s a dog-friendly beach too!

You can take a walk along the ocean if you need to clear your mind or listen to the sea breeze.

A nearby cliff is a perfect sunset spot.

You can create bonfires and bring your pets along too. Out of the way, this beach is worth the beautiful drive.

So, if you want to play beach ball, build sand castles, go camping, create bonfires and run away from incoming waves, I’ll recommend this beach.

Address: Humboldt County, CA, United States, 95536

20. Willow Creek China Flat Museum

The Willow Creek China Flat Museum is a museum in Humboldt County, California. It is a spectacular history center.

If you love history so much, then check out this amazing place in Humboldt County. It is full of history and fun stuff.

You’ll love the information provided on Big Foot. They have a few books you can read through of people’s experiences with sightings of the old Harry man!!!

It is a really great place if you are thinking about collecting articles and documentation for a bigfoot research. Recommend it if you are looking for something to do.

It is just like an old vault. It has some nice foot castings and photos, but also lots of cool historical items.

They host the Christmas bazaar and blacksmithing seminars and a ton of other special events year-round.

If you’re looking for an educative place to take your family to and ponder on ancient historical items, then this is just the place.

Address:  38949 CA-299, Willow Creek, CA, United States

Final Remarks

There are lots of magnetic and attractive things to find and do in Humboldt County.

Take your time and experience the goodness the city offers.

From Beach fun, Parties and Educational activities too, you’ll get all.

Ensure to have a good time and enjoy the city to the fullest.

Safe travels.