The 7,472-acre Headwaters Forest Reserve (Reserve) was established in 1999 after a decade-long grassroots effort to protect the world's last unprotected, intact, old-growth redwood forest ecosystem. Several threatened species call the Reserve home, including coho salmon, the northern spotted owl, and the marbled murrel
Maybe — confirm before you go.
This Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
- Fee type Fee unknown — The fee structure here is unconfirmed.
- Source Find on Recreation.gov ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Check
- Official pagewww.recreation.gov ↗
- Contact 707-825-2300 · BLM_CA_Web_HW@blm.gov
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Headwaters Forest Reserve — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Depends Does the America the Beautiful pass work here?
Maybe — This Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go. Check with the managing agency before you go.
Yes Are there hiking trails?
Yes — trails here include North Fisher Road, Elk River Road, Palco Road, and more. Check length and difficulty before you go.
Yes Can you bike here?
Yes — biking is available at Headwaters Forest Reserve. Confirm which roads or trails allow it.
Yes Can you watch wildlife or birds here?
Yes — Headwaters Forest Reserve is a spot for wildlife and bird watching. Keep your distance and never feed animals.
Yes Can you bring a dog?
Generally yes — dogs are welcome when kept under control (usually leashed). Confirm any local rules.
Depends Are drones allowed?
Sometimes — often allowed away from wilderness and developed or crowded areas, with rules. Check locally before you fly.
Nearby sites
Salmon Pass Trailhead
CheckThis Bureau of Land Management site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.
USFWS / Public domain · Wikimedia Commons U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge
CheckThis U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service site may charge a fee your pass covers — confirm before you go.