Car Rental at McKinleyville Airport (ACV)

Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV) is located in McKinleyville, about 15 km north of Eureka and serves the Humboldt coast with 4 car rental companies on-site. The airport is small but well-organized, and you pick up your rental car directly in the terminal within minutes of landing. From here you reach Redwood National Park in about 45 minutes' drive north along US-101.

McKinleyville is a quiet community with direct access to Clam Beach County Park, just 5 km south along the coast. Eureka center with its Victorian architecture and Old Town quarter is reached in 20 minutes south. Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge is about 25 km south of the airport.

Book your rental car in advance – availability is limited at ACV and cars run out quickly during summer season. Choose an SUV or car with high ground clearance if you plan to drive into the Redwood forests on gravel roads. Fill up in Eureka rather than McKinleyville, prices are generally lower there.

How long does it take to drive from ACV to Redwood National Park? From McKinleyville airport to Redwood National Park's southern entrance at Orick takes about 40–45 minutes north on US-101, approximately 50 km. Is there a rental car desk open 24/7 at ACV?

No, opening hours follow the airport's flight times. Check with each rental company – the 4 operators typically stay open 07:00–22:00. Can I drive the rental car to Oregon from ACV?

Yes, most rental companies allow driving in Oregon. Check the terms when booking, as cross-border travel sometimes requires advance notice.

We compare prices from all major providers at McKinleyville Airport so you can see the total cost upfront — including insurance, fuel terms and any extras. Most bookings include free cancellation up to 48 hours before pickup, giving you flexibility if your plans change.