Gateway Town

McKinleyville

Gateway Town

Last gas and lodging before Redwood. No park entrance fee.

Quick facts

Town Type
Supply Depot
Population
16262
Best Known For
Gateway airport and last major services stop before heading north to Redwood
About This Town
McKinleyville is a practical supply hub in Humboldt County, 5 miles north of Arcata. With a regional airport, hotel options, and 16 dining establishments, it serves as the last major services stop before heading to Redwood National and State Parks. The town offers essential logistics—fuel, food, and lodging—without tourist-town pretension.

Town overview

Town Type
Supply Depot
Population
16262
Best Known For
Gateway airport and last major services stop before heading north to Redwood
About This Town
McKinleyville is a practical supply hub in Humboldt County, 5 miles north of Arcata. With a regional airport, hotel options, and 16 dining establishments, it serves as the last major services stop before heading to Redwood National and State Parks. The town offers essential logistics—fuel, food, and lodging—without tourist-town pretension.

Park access

Distance From Park
47.7 km south, approximately 30-40 minutes by car
Shuttle To Park
Redwood Transit System operates local public transportation along US 101, connecting McKinleyville with Arcata, Eureka, and surrounding Humboldt County towns
Nearest Airport
Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV), 2 miles north of town center. Served by SkyWest (United Express to San Francisco, Los Angeles, Denver), Breeze Airways (Burbank, Las Vegas, Provo; starts March 2026), and Alaska Airlines (Seattle-Tacoma; starts April 2026). On-airport rental car companies available.

Where to stay & eat

Hotel Count
1
Bnb Count
0
Lodging Variety
Hotel chains
Restaurant Count
16

Things to do

Main Attractions
Azalea State Natural Reserve, Clam Beach County Park
Breweries Bars
Six Rivers Brewery, 1300 Central Ave, 707-839-7580

Planning advice

The Vibe
Working supply hub, not a resort town. McKinleyville prioritizes logistics over charm—practical, affordable, and reliable for overnight stays and resupply before or after Redwood. Car-dependent but walkable downtown.

More details

Nearby Facilities
Hotels, restaurants, gas, and regional airport with multiple flight connections. Local transit via Redwood Transit System.

Location

Frequently asked questions

How far is McKinleyville from Redwood NP?

About 48 km south, roughly 30-40 minutes drive from the park center.

Is there a nearby airport?

Yes, Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV) is 2 miles north. Served by SkyWest (United Express), Breeze Airways, and Alaska Airlines. Rental cars on-site.

Does Redwood NP charge an entrance fee?

No entrance fee. The America the Beautiful annual pass ($80) covers federal recreation areas but is optional.

Where can I stay?

Hotels available, including Holiday Inn Express. Book in advance for summer months.

Is there public transit to the park?

Yes, Redwood Transit System operates along US 101, connecting McKinleyville to Arcata, Eureka, and nearby towns.

What's the dining scene like?

About 16 restaurants, cafes, and bars in the area. Six Rivers Brewery (1300 Central Ave) is a local option.

Klamath

Quiet river gateway 11 miles north. Most things close by 3 PM—eat early.

Arcata

Cal Poly town with bohemian heart. Full lodging, restaurants, shops. Book rooms early in summer.

Crescent City

County seat with last-stop lodging and supplies before the redwoods. Chain hotels, cafes, working-town pace.

Sources

  • YourNPGuide Editorial

Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated July 2026. Report an issue.