Backcountry Camping at Manning Flat

Obtain a day-of backcountry permit (first come-first served) from the Stewards of the Coast and Redwoods office inside Armstrong Woods State Park. Manning Flat campsite is located within the Austin Creek State Recreation Area, accessed through Armstrong Woods. A quick chat with any ranger on duty will point you in the right direction.Once the permit is in order, head up the winding, narrow paved road to the top of the park. The trailhead is called Gilliam Creek, and can be found on the left-hand side of the road at an obvious dirt road turn-off.

Prepare for early morning fog, depending on the season, and definitely bring layers that can be shed in the event of extreme heat, which is not uncommon in the summer months. If you choose to do the complete loop, bring plenty of water(or a water treatment system) and wear sun protection. This portion of the hike is a steady uphill climb and is exposed for long stretches.

The loop can be done in one day, but staying at least one night at the Manning Flat backcountry site is highly recommended! This makes for the perfect quick and easy or perhaps spur-of-the-moment jaunt through the redwoods and into the backcountry of Northern California, while feeling oh-so-close to home.