A.W. Way County Park

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Managed by Humboldt County and open year-round, A.W. Way County Park sits along the Mattole River with flat, grassy campsites that reviewers describe as notably large. Sites are mowed grass rather than dirt, a detail that stands out among drive-in campgrounds in the region. Coin-operated showers, drinking water, and trash service are on-site. The river runs low in summer. Deer and skunks are regular visitors, and the park tends to run well under capacity on summer weekends, making it a low-stress option for families with dogs. Campers exploring the area can also find places to camp near Petrolia or continue south toward Honeydew Creek Campground for a different setting along the same general corridor.

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Map & DirectionsA.W. Way County Park is located in California near Petrolia

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

Located 31 miles west of HWY 101; exit South Fork/Honeydew (22 miles north of Garberville) or 35 miles south of Ferndale on Mattole Road.

Address

36594 Mattole Rd
Petrolia, CA 95558

Coordinates

40.26900021 N
124.2300004 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Showers
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites
  • Big Rig Friendly

Contact

General Info

Drive Time


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Reviews3 Camper Reviews - A.W. Way County Park

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4.5

out of 5

3 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 17, 2026

One of the nicest campgrounds

Huge campsites, mowed grass instead of dirt, and coin-operated showers were a big plus. On a summer weekend the place wasn’t 25% occupied. Very well maintained.

Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed Sep. 11, 2016

Mattole River camping

This is a very family friendly lazy river camping area. Camp sites are flat. Deer and skunks frequent the area. dog-friendly. River is usually low on water in the summer months.

  • Review photo of A.W. Way County Park by JoJo H., September 11, 2016
  • Review photo of A.W. Way County Park by JoJo H., September 11, 2016
  • Review photo of A.W. Way County Park by JoJo H., September 11, 2016

Frequently Asked Questions

What facilities and amenities are available at A.W. Way County Park?

A.W. Way County Park offers family-friendly camping with flat campsites that accommodate various camping setups. The park features a lazy river area that's perfect for summer recreation, though water levels tend to be low during summer months. The campground is dog-friendly, allowing campers to bring their four-legged companions along. Wildlife sightings are common, with deer and skunks frequently visiting the area. While basic, the park provides a peaceful natural setting with river access as its main attraction.

Where is A.W. Way County Park located in Petrolia, CA?

A.W. Way County Park is located in Petrolia, California, a small community in Humboldt County. The campground sits along a river in this remote part of Northern California. Petrolia is situated in the Lost Coast region, known for its rugged beauty and relative isolation. The area offers a peaceful retreat away from more crowded destinations. For specific directions, it's recommended to contact the Humboldt County Parks department or check their official website before traveling.

What is the typical weather at A.W. Way County Park?

The weather at A.W. Way County Park follows Northern California coastal patterns, with mild temperatures throughout much of the year. Summers are typically pleasant but can be dry, resulting in lower water levels in the adjacent river. The area experiences more rainfall in winter months, which helps replenish the river. Spring and fall offer moderate temperatures ideal for camping. As with many coastal regions, fog can roll in occasionally. Check current weather forecasts before your trip, as conditions in this part of Humboldt County can vary by season.

How do visitors rate A.W. Way County Park in reviews?

A.W. Way County Park generally receives positive ratings from visitors who appreciate its quiet, uncrowded atmosphere. Campers particularly value the family-friendly environment and natural setting. The park scores well for its flat, accessible campsites and the peaceful river area. Visitors also appreciate the opportunity to see wildlife like deer in the campground. While not overflowing with luxury amenities, the park delivers a satisfying rustic camping experience that meets most visitors' expectations.