Originally Posted by
Fangorn
My In-Laws lived in Crescent City, CA for 35 years - up until they came to live with us 2 years ago. I've spent a fair bit of time in the area. While the natural wonder is incredible to see, imho, there is absolutely nothing else of any redeeming value to the area. Economically, the area is the poorest area in California - your tourist dollars will be welcomed.
The thing about Redwood Nat'l Park is that it isn't just one contiguous place. It's actually a series of several State Parks and Federal Lands that generally hug the far north coast of California. As you drive north on US101 from Eureka, you'll go in and out of the "Park" many times. Most of the Park is quite a bit north of Eureka. You'd probably be happier up in the Klamath area. Klamath is a small town as is every town on the North Coast. Eureka, in Humboldt county is the exception, but even Crescent City - the Del Norte county seat - has fewer than 10,000 people.
Outside of Eureka, you're not going to find much in the way of hotel chains - other than franchised motels like Super 8. You will find a few Best Westerns around, but there's a lot of inconsistency between them. There are a number of B&Bs in the area. Depending on you price range, you might look into the Requa Inn in Klamath. It's an historic hotel with lots of charm and a great dining room.
If you do get up to the far northern end of the Park - US 199 north of Crescent City - you'll be going through the area where the filmed the Moon of Endor scenes for Return of the Jedi.
Be aware that in October, on the northern California coast, the chance of rain is pretty much 100% for some part of your trip ;)
It is beautiful place to visit. Just make sure you have your hooded rain parka and good hiking boots. You'll want both.
Steve