Off of scenic Highway 36 alongside the Van Duzen River lies Cheatham Grove, where you can walk the well-maintained trails through Humboldt’s iconic redwoods. Cheatham Grove is less trafficked than the neighboring state park, but just as lovely. Several scenes from Return of the Jedi were filmed in this grove in 1982. Among the sorrel and fern, one might forget they aren’t on Endor.

Van Duzen County Park is also home to a favorite local campground and swimming hole, Swimmer’s Delight. Over eons, the Van Duzen River has carved into a sheer mountainside, creating several clear, deep pools perfect for plunging. The small campground is first-come first-served only, but certainly worth the early morning alarm to claim your space. Nestled in a canopy of redwoods and lush with moss and ferns, sites offer a refuge from a day in the sun. Day use parking available for swimmers and picnickers.