Big Basin Redwoods – California’s Oldest State Park – Destroyed by Wildfire
The Big Basin Redwoods, a 10,800-acre haven of beautiful old-growth forest, was established as a California State Park in 1902. In 2020, it was completely destroyed by wildfire.
As the CZU Lightning Complex Fire continues to blaze 48,000 acres of land through San Mateo and Santa Cruz Counties, thousands of residents have been displaced and at least 50 structures have been destroyed. Some of the structures that were destroyed were in the Big Basin Redwoods State Park.
“We are devastated to report that Big Basin, as we have known it, loved it, and cherished it for generations, is gone,” wrote the Sempervirens Fund in a statement. “Early reports are that the wildfire has consumed much of the park’s historic facilities. We do not yet know the fate of the park’s grandest old trees.”
“We feel like we have lost an old friend. And we imagine that many of you will feel the same way. For millions of people, Big Basin is the place where they first experienced the majesty of the redwoods—where they were humbled and inspired standing amidst a grove of towering trees that have stood resolute for thousands of years. Those memories will live on.”
While loss of life and personal property is the current concern for fire officials, it’s hard not to feel the loss of this beautiful park. We may never experience it in the same way ever again.
