The 3 Closest Airports to the redwoods in california
The 3 Closest Airports to the Redwoods in California
Visiting the towering ancient giants of Redwood National and State Parks in Northern California is an unforgettable experience. However, due to the parks’ remote location along the coast, reaching them requires some planning. Choosing the right airport can significantly impact your travel time and convenience. Here’s a look at the three airports closest to the heart of the Redwood region.
1. California Redwood Coast-Humboldt County Airport (ACV)
This is the most conveniently located airport for accessing the central and southern parts of Redwood National and State Parks. Located just north of Arcata and McKinleyville, it puts you right on the doorstep of redwood country. While small, it offers essential services for travelers heading to the parks. This is generally considered the closest commercial airport to the main areas of Redwood National and State Parks.
- Distance to the Redwoods: Approx. 25 miles (to Kuchel Visitor Center/Orick area) or ~15 miles (to Eureka/southern park access points).
- Address: 3561 Boeing Ave, McKinleyville, CA 95519
- Pros: Extremely close proximity, short drive to parks and towns. | Cons: Fewer flight options, potentially higher fares, prone to fog delays, smaller aircraft. | Airlines: United Express, Avelo Airlines (check current schedules). | Car Rental: Avis, Enterprise, Hertz, National (availability may vary).
- Official Website: https://flyacv.com/
- Phone: (707) 839-5401
- Rating: Approx. 4.2 stars (Google)
2. Del Norte County Regional Airport (CEC)
Situated near Crescent City, this small airport is technically the closest option if your primary destination is the northernmost part of the Redwood parks, particularly Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park. It’s a very small airport with limited service.
- Distance to the Redwoods: Approx. 6 miles (to Crescent City/Jedediah Smith SP entrance) or ~40 miles (to Kuchel Visitor Center).
- Address: 1650 Dale Rd, Crescent City, CA 95531
- Pros: Closest airport to Jedediah Smith Redwoods, very small and easy to navigate. | Cons: Extremely limited flight schedule (often only one airline/destination), few amenities, potentially high fares for limited service. | Airlines: Contour Airlines (check current status and destinations). | Car Rental: Enterprise (often the primary/only option, confirm availability).
- Official Website: https://www.flycrescentcity.com/
- Phone: (707) 464-7288
- Rating: Approx. 4.0 stars (Google)
3. Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR)
Located across the border in Medford, Oregon, MFR is a larger regional airport than ACV or CEC. While it requires a longer drive (south along US-199 or US-101) to reach the California redwoods, it offers significantly more flight options, often with more competitive pricing. Of the three airports listed here, MFR is the closest major airport with a broader range of airlines and destinations.
- Distance to the Redwoods: Approx. 85 miles (to Crescent City/Jedediah Smith SP) or ~125 miles (to Kuchel Visitor Center).
- Address: 1000 Terminal Loop Pkwy, Medford, OR 97504
- Pros: More airlines and flight choices, potentially lower fares, larger airport amenities. | Cons: Longer drive to the parks (1.5-2.5+ hours), located in a different state (Oregon). | Airlines: Alaska, Allegiant, American Eagle, Avelo, Delta Connection, United Express (check current carriers). | Car Rental: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, National.
- Official Website: https://jacksoncountyor.org/airport
- Phone: (541) 776-7222
- Rating: Approx. 4.4 stars (Google)
Conclusion
The closest airport depends slightly on which part of the vast Redwood National and State Parks you plan to visit. California Redwood Coast-Humboldt County Airport (ACV) is generally the closest and most practical for accessing central park areas. Del Norte County Regional Airport (CEC) is marginally closer to the northernmost groves but has very limited service. The closest major airport among these options, offering more flights and potentially better prices despite the longer drive, is Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR) in Oregon.