Richardson Grove State Park

Richardson Grove State Park on the southern edge of Humboldt County preserves old-growth coast redwoods along the South Fork of the Eel River while being directly crossed by U.S. 101 at one of the highway’s narrowest points. Named for Governor Friend Richardson, the park grew around a road built through the grove in the early twentieth century that later became part of the highway. That access made it a popular place for camping, day use, hiking, swimming, and fishing, but it also led to enduring conflict over proposed highway changes for larger trucks, as supporters of shipping faced opponents concerned about harm to the grove’s massive trees and habitat.

California · United States