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This is an awesome campsite for families with children and pets nestled in the deep redwood forest with a large area of untouched surroundings with large redwood trees and ferns centrally located close to a number of activities Highway one coast beach kayaking horseback riding hiking biking
All in a private quiet location right across the street from Austin Creek with multiple private swimming holes The only things required are a positive attitude and you’re OK with relaxing unplugging and ready to just be yourself in a magical redwood forest .
Beautiful coastal nature preserve. Lots of undisturbed natural forested areas to hike. Hike in the coastal range and observe the Pacific Ocean.
This grove of redwoods, known as the Enchanted Forest, contains many of these contorted trees, some of which are more than 500 years old. These trees were not purple iris harvested because their bent boughs could not be made into lumber. Today, they remain a delight for all who visit here.
Hiked the Peter Douglas trail to get here. Shady dell was an amazing hike, especially the candelabra redwoods you see along the way and towards the end of the hike. The trails are bumpy and there were a lot of gopher holes so be sure to wear comfortable shoes while on this hike. Only caution I would advise is driving along Usal Rd, you will need a larger vehicle, 4x4 or 4 wheel drive, I would not drive up usal in a 2 wheel drive or a smaller vehicle, you may have the chance to get your car stuck on the road. there was a huge, deep lake at the bottom of Usal Rd and we had to drive back. Other than that, the views make up for the drive up there. stay safe!
Getting there was half the adventure. There is a sign at the entrance of the dirt road warning you it is not maintained so make sure your vehicle has enough clearance and AWD. The campground is primitive. No water or power and you better hope you dont have to use the outhouse!!! Really Gross!!!
The name of the trailhead is Peter Douglas Coastal Trail and its just south of the bridge so you dont wander around looking for a Shady dell Enchanted trailhead that you'll never find. You hike up to these beautiful trees and keep going up to the coast for spectacular views!
