Arcata Community Forest

About

Arcata Community Forest is comprised of nearly 800 acres of public recreational park and woodland area! This is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike to visit and get active. There are dozens of trails for all types of activities. Some of the trail types you may find in this forest include hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. In addition, there are picnic areas, restrooms, and a playground.

Wildlife at Arcata Community Forest

The Community Forest is rich in wildlife - even home to some rare plant and animal species! You'll find nearly 150 bird species live here. There are also some endangered animal species that have made Humboldt County Forests their home. One example is the Coho Salmon. As plant life goes, there are also plenty of rare species here such as the California lady's slipper.

Location & More Information

Found just a a few blocks from downtown Arcata, it's found on the East side of the city. There are a few different access points. One is on the East ends of 11th and 14th Streets. An alternative entrance is at the East end of 11th and 7th Streets at Bayside Road. Lastly, you can find access at the East end of California Street, North of Cal Poly Humboldt. Note that Redwood Park is adjacent to the Community Forest - they have access points to one another throughout the trail network.

If you would like a map of the trail network, they are available in the parking lots. Parking is free in these lots, but there isn't a whole lot of it. Alternatively, if you are staying at a Casago Rental nearby, you can just walk into the forest to avoid the hassle of parking.

Dog Rules, Regulations & Public Forest Etiquette

These regulations and etiquette rules apply to all Arcata City Trails and Forests.

Dogs are allowed, but they must be kept on a leash at all times! This is actually a law.

Dogs may disturb the sensitive habitat and wildlife in the area. Additionally, keep in mind that horses may be on the trail.

The leash should be sturdy and measure less than 6ft. in length. Keep your dog and others safe by following the leash law.

Carry plastic bags and be sure to pick up after your animals.

Never toss pet waste into the trees, bushes, streets, or gutters.

Local Tips

Closed from sunset to sunrise.
Camping is prohibited in all of Arcata's parks and community forest lands.
Dogs are allowed, but must be kept on a leash at all times.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do you get to the Redwood Coast?

By air: The closest airport to McKinleyville, Eureka, and Arcata is the California Redwood Coast-Humboldt County Airport (ACV). Also known as the Eureka/Arcata airport, ACV is located in McKinleyville and serviced by United and Avelo airlines, providing direct connections to/from several hubs.

The closest major international airports to the Redwood Coast are located in San Francisco, Oakland, and Sacramento at about 5½ driving distance each.

By car: As a key drive-to destination, traveling along California or Oregon’s west coast provides spectacular scenery for the journey. Linking to Coastal Highway 101 from San Francisco and Sacramento is about a 5-hour drive to Eureka. For those driving southbound on Highway 101 from Oregon, it is about a 2-hour drive to Trinidad just north of Eureka.

When is the best time of year to visit the Redwood Coast?

Both the Redwoods National and State Park and Humboldt Redwoods State Park are open throughout the year, closing only for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s. Winter Hours also frequently include closures mid-week, while parks are open daily from late spring through fall. Each season offers its own feel for the Redwoods, though some like to plan around the rainier season from late October through April.

Where is McKinleyville located and how far is it to the Redwood National and State Parks?

McKinleyville is a coastal community on Highway 101 situated between the redwoods and the ocean, making it an ideal base camp for adventure on California’s North Coast. The Redwood National and State Parks are located about half an hour north of McKinleyville, with the southern gateway to the parks found in the town of Orick on Highway 101.