Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area

Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area is the southern gateway to the world-famous redwood belt along California’s North Coast. About 10 miles of trails weave through its steep canyon bluffs, second-growth forests, and clusters of old-growth redwoods. The tallest redwood, the 225-foot Captain Miles Standish Tree, is more than 1,200 years old. A two-mile stretch of the South Fork of the Eel River—with riffles, deep holes, and calm shallow areas—is popular with swimmers, kayakers, and anglers.

RECREATIONAL ACTIVITIES

Trails — The park’s varied trails offer hikers scenic redwood and river views.
- Taber Nature Trail — An easy 1.7-mile, selfguided loop with a 360-degree view of the forested skyline.
- Big Tree Trail — Moderate 2-mile loop with views of Eel River.
- Mill Creek Loop Trail — Strenuous 1.44-mile loop with a view of Big Tree Meadow.

Day Use — Picnic tables and parking are available for day-use visitors.

Swimming — The South Fork of the Eel River, located at the base of rocky outcrops, creates pools nearly 20-feet deep with sandy bottoms. These pools are popular, sunny places to linger on hot summer days. Visitors will find placid water ideal for relaxation.

Fishing — In fall and winter, salmon and steelhead swim upriver at the park on their way to spawn. All anglers ages 16 and over must carry a valid California fishing license.

Camping — Hickey and Rock Creek Campgrounds are open seasonally. One campsite is set aside for bicyclists and hikers arriving on foot. The campfire center is the site of popular summer interpretive programs.

BOATING

OVERNIGHT FACILITIES
Family Campsites
Hike or Bike Campsites
RV Access

TRAIL USE
Hiking Trails

DAY-USE ACTIVITIES & FACILITIES
Picnic Areas
Fishing
Beach Area
Swimming