Humboldt, California facts for kids

Humboldt, California isn't a single city or town. Instead, when people say "Humboldt, California," they are usually talking about places in California named after a famous explorer. The two main places are Humboldt County, California and Humboldt Hill, California. Both are located in the northern part of the state.

Humboldt County: A Northern California Gem

Humboldt County is a large area in northern California, known for its amazing natural beauty. It's famous for its giant redwood trees and beautiful coastline along the Pacific Ocean. This county is a fantastic place to explore nature and learn about California's history.

Where is Humboldt County?

Humboldt County is located on the coast of northern California. It's about 200 miles (320 kilometers) north of San Francisco. The county covers a large area, stretching from the Pacific Ocean to inland mountains. Its geographic features include rugged coastlines, sandy beaches, and dense forests.

What Makes Humboldt County Special?

The most famous feature of Humboldt County is its redwood forests. These trees are the tallest living things on Earth! Many parts of the county are covered in these ancient forests, including Redwood National and State Parks. The county also has a beautiful coastline with cliffs, beaches, and lagoons. The climate is mild and foggy, which helps the redwoods grow so tall.

Who Lives Here?

About 136,000 people live in Humboldt County. The largest city and the county seat is Eureka, California. Other important towns include Arcata, California and Fortuna, California. These towns are often home to students, artists, and people who love the outdoors.

A Look at History

Humboldt County was officially created in 1853. It was named after Alexander von Humboldt, a famous German explorer and scientist. He explored many parts of the world and studied nature. Before European settlers arrived, many Native American tribes lived in this area for thousands of years. These included the Wiyot, Yurok, Karuk, Hupa, and Mattole people. They lived off the land and the ocean, building strong communities.

In the mid-1800s, people came to the area looking for gold. Later, the timber industry, which means cutting down trees for wood, became very important. Fishing was also a big part of the local economy.

What Do People Do Here?

Today, tourism is a major industry in Humboldt County. Many visitors come to see the redwood trees, hike, camp, and enjoy the coast. Fishing is still important, and the county is also known for its agriculture, especially dairy farming and growing various crops. Humboldt State University in Arcata is a well-known college that brings many students to the area.

Protecting Nature

Because of its unique natural environment, protecting the forests and coastline is very important in Humboldt County. Many parks and protected areas exist to keep these special places safe for future generations. Efforts are made to manage forests sustainably and protect wildlife.

Humboldt Hill: A Smaller Community

Humboldt Hill, California is another place in the county with "Humboldt" in its name. It is a "census-designated place," which means it's a community that the U.S. Census Bureau identifies for statistical purposes. It's a smaller residential area located near Eureka, offering views of Humboldt Bay. It's mainly a quiet neighborhood where people live.