A New Chapter for California’s Redwoods

A new chapter in conservation and recreation is underway in Orick, California, with the opening of ‘O Rew Redwoods Gateway, a tribally owned and operated public recreation space at the southern end of Redwood National and State Parks.

The Yurok Tribe and Save the Redwoods League celebrated the opening with a ribbon-cutting ceremony, marking the completion of a five-year restoration of the Prairie Creek area on the 125-acre former lumber mill property.

🌿 From Lumber Mill to Restored Landscape

Save the Redwoods League conveyed the property to the Yurok Tribe on June 30, 2026, transforming a former industrial site into a place centered on conservation, recreation, and cultural connection.

The Gateway officially opened to the public on August 1, inviting visitors to experience the landscape while learning more about the Yurok Tribe’s deep cultural and environmental connection to the region.

🥾 Explore, Learn & Connect

Visitors can discover interpretive exhibits presented in both Yurok and English, take in panoramic views from an elevated overlook, and explore a new section of the California Coastal Trail.

A new trail also connects ‘O Rew Redwoods Gateway with Redwood National and State Parks and the iconic Lady Bird Johnson Grove, creating new opportunities to experience the surrounding redwood landscape.

🤝 Conservation & Tribal Stewardship

The project represents a collaboration between the Yurok Tribe, Save the Redwoods League, state officials, conservation organizations, and community partners.

For the Yurok Tribe, whose work includes forest management, fisheries protection, cultural preservation, natural resource conservation and land acquisition, the Gateway reflects a broader commitment to protecting the region while creating opportunities for the public to experience it.

🌟 Final Thoughts

‘O Rew Redwoods Gateway is more than a new destination among California’s redwoods. It represents the restoration of a former industrial landscape, the preservation of cultural heritage and a new model for connecting visitors with nature through Indigenous stewardship.