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Big Lagoon County Park

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Big Lagoon County Park, near Trinidad, California, is a charming spot that offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. With its picturesque views of the lagoon and proximity to the ocean, it’s a fantastic place to unwind and soak in the scenery.

The campground features a mix of tent and RV sites, though larger RVs might find the tight turns and narrow paths a bit tricky. Visitors often rave about the clean facilities, including flush toilets and hot showers, which are a nice perk after a day of exploring. As one camper put it, “The camp host was incredibly kind and helpful, and the showers and close bathroom a nice bonus.”

For those eager to explore, you’re just a short drive from the stunning Redwoods National and State Parks, where hiking and beachcombing await. The lagoon itself is perfect for kayaking or paddleboarding, providing a calm escape from the ocean’s rougher waters. Just remember to bring cash for your stay, as credit cards aren’t accepted here.

While some campers have noted that the sites can feel a bit close together, the overall vibe is friendly and respectful, making it a great choice for a peaceful getaway. Whether you’re here for a night or planning a longer stay, Big Lagoon County Park is a lovely spot to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors.

Description

County

From the website:

Day-use area with beach and lagoon access, restrooms
Boat ramp to lagoon
$5 day-use fee (per vehicle)
Campground (25 sites, first-come/first-serve, seven-night maximum, coin-operated showers, on-site camphost)
$25 camping fee
Kayaks available for rent from Kayak Trinidad – (707) 329-0085 or www.kayaktrinidad.com
Adjacent to Humboldt Lagoons State Park (managed by California State Parks)

Fee Info

$25 camping fee $5/person day use area (cost per vehicle)

Reservation Info

First come first serve

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Location

Big Lagoon County Park is located in California

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

41.16533289 N
124.12924867 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Available
  • Verizon
    Fair
  • AT&T
    Good
  • T-Mobile
    Good

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Firewood Available
  • Phone Service
  • Showers
  • Drinking Water
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Water Hookups
  • Big Rig Friendly

Contact

General Info


Reviews

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20 Reviews

Reviewed Oct. 19, 2024

We were very lucky!

Okay girl we have a 33 ft Class A RV with a car and tow. There was only one site that could accommodate us and it was open. This place has access to the beach and seems to be a very salt of the earth type place..

Site27
Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Scott A., October 19, 2024
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Scott A., October 19, 2024
Reviewed Oct. 1, 2024

Nice FCFS Campground

We like this little county campground- it’s FCFS only (it seems that early afternoon is the best time to snag a spot). We got the last spot when we arrived that we would fit in in our 26ft class C (there were some tent sites still available). There’s a loop that’s kind of tricky for RVs to navigate, though people will still do it, and other sites outside of the loop that are better suited for RVs. There are a couple of sites at either end of the loop that would work for RVs as well. There are also 2 sites with electric hookups that are $10 extra. 

You self-register at the bathroom, $30/night. Kind of pricey for what you get, but it’s a cute and mellow little park and it’s got a pleasant vibe, very beautiful surroundings. 

There are flush toilets and showers that we did not use. The road in to the campground is through some residential neighborhoods, but still relatively easy access from the main road. I wouldn’t recommend this campground for giant rigs.

Site20
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Laura M., October 1, 2024
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Laura M., October 1, 2024
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Laura M., October 1, 2024
  • (12) View All
Reviewed May. 1, 2024

Off the beaten path

The is only 2 sites with electricity and water, close to restrooms, no heat no light.. shower requires 25 cent coins. Need to pay in cash or check, no cc.. Restroom doors always open.. view of lagoon is great.. sat for hours and tuned out.. no big RV’s nowhere to turn around, Host is nice

Site21
Month of VisitApril
  • general view from my camp
    Play button icon
  • view of Lagoon.. short walk
    Play button icon
Reviewed Oct. 20, 2023

Close to Redwoods National & State Parks

Great location, great scenery, great price, but tight space for RVers. If you have a rig over 20ft, think twice before coming down this road to search for an available campsite. There are only two sites which could accommodate longer rigs.  The rest of the campground is a tent camper and vanlifers dream, though not a lot of privacy between sites.  We got lucky and snagged the one and only larger spot with some privacy and direct access to the lagoon!

Even small RV’s will have a problem negotiating the tight turns and narrow spaces between the towering trees and large roots extending into the narrow driveway. When in doubt, walk it out before you head in. There are also a few bike in / hike in only sites, which we love to see. This route is a classic bike packing trip as well. 

The campground offers fresh water, flush toilets, and hot showers. The bath house was definitely of vintage age but clean enough for our standards – and always grateful when a night of camping for around $25 includes a hot shower. 

This is Redwoods Country with both the State and National Parks within a short drive, and there are plenty of recreational options nearby, including hiking, beach combing, horse trails and paddling. This part of the No Cal Pacific coast is unprotected so the ocean can be pretty rough for kayaking, but the lagoon offers a protected space to explore by kayak, canoe, or paddleboard. 

Grocery stores and gas stations are pretty sparse in this part of the coast, so come prepared with what you need, or take advantage of the local diners and restaurants available along the road. This highway always reminds us of an earlier time during the golden age of the American road trip.

Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Shari  G., October 20, 2023
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Shari  G., October 20, 2023
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Shari  G., October 20, 2023
  • (10) View All
Reviewed Sep. 11, 2023

Quiet, Gorgeous, Everything You Could Want!

Only stayed one night, but I instantly fell in love with this lovely little campground. The views of the lagoon are beautiful! I saw an otter while walking the lagoon, and I loved that I could hear shorebirds nesting in the trees nearby. The camp host was incredibly kind and helpful, and the showers and close bathroom a nice bonus. Highly recommend.

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Lily H., September 11, 2023
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Lily H., September 11, 2023
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Lily H., September 11, 2023
  • (9) View All
Reviewed Aug. 12, 2023

Big La-Swoon

Gorgeous view, ocean lullabies, and helpful kind camp host. Stay here!

Site22
Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Queeriam A., August 12, 2023
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Queeriam A., August 12, 2023
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Queeriam A., August 12, 2023
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Aug. 28, 2022

Beautiful and peaceful campground

This camp is really beautiful! We were lucky to find a spot under the trees, it was perfect ! The campground was full but everyone was quiet and respectful. Toilets were clean and we were able to take a shower (coin operated) in the morning which was great. There’s also a beach you can walk to from your camp spot which is really pretty. Great experience !

Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed Jun. 30, 2022

Good for a getaway

I’ve stayed in a few different spots here and haven’t had any issues (other than some mud during wet months). If you get one of the lagoon side spots, the ocean at night might just lull you to sleep. For the most part there is a decent amount of room between camp sites and the people have been pretty respectful during quiet hours. This place is my first choice to stop for the night when I’m in the area

Site9
Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Jana J., June 30, 2022
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Jana J., June 30, 2022
Reviewed May. 29, 2022

Oceanside Stay

Spaces are fairly clean here, only a couple of them feel cramped. You're close to the ocean and can hear the waves. It's a little muddy right now, but I imagine it's like that always? Overall, it's a good campsite. Smaller sites, not for RVs or trailers.

Site7
Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Daniel S., May 29, 2022
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Daniel S., May 29, 2022
Reviewed Nov. 8, 2021

Decent

We stopped in on our way down the 101. It was very convenient being close to the beach and near the highway. The best part about this campground is the seclusion. It’s far enough away from the highway to block out road noise and close enough to the beach to hear waves. We drove in without a reservation and found a nice site. The trees are beautiful and the weather was nice.

Unfortunately, since it’s on a lagoon and not the actual beach the mosquitoes were killer even in November. The bathrooms aren’t very clean and the campsites were not very clean themselves with empty cans scattered around. I found the campsite to be too expensive for what it is ($25/night + $2/dog).

I would say that this is a good spot for stopping in for a night but that’s about it.

Site2
Month of VisitNovember
Reviewed Sep. 26, 2021

Camp rules not followed

This is a small campground on a very beautiful Lagoon next to the ocean. It is in a Rancheria Native American area. Unfortunately though the camp host being nice as he is does not enforce any Camp rules. The forest is torn apart with people taking wood illegally. Which leaves the surrounding area looking awful and torn up. There are people walking through your campsite all day and night like you did not pay for it. There is loud noise all the time. There are drunk and disorderly parties. There are only 25 campsites but on a Friday over a hundred people were allowed to Camp there violating the half capacity California covid-19 rule. And the campground capacity rule. It's a beautiful area but because of rule enforcement violations it is not worth the money. Breaks my heart to see so many people thrashing such a unique ecosystem.

Site25 and 6
Month of VisitSeptember
Reviewed Jul. 12, 2021

Beautiful little campground next to lagoon

First come first served, we managed to grab the last of a few sites on a Wednesday afternoon. We had a view of the lagoon and enjoyed playing in the water. We hiked over to the ocean as well. As the signs said, though, the beach was very dangerous due to the steepness of the beach, etc. See sign in pictures. Perfect stay for heading up to Redwoods the next day. Campground host was great, too. And lots of firewood to purchase.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Kristen S., July 12, 2021
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Kristen S., July 12, 2021
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Kristen S., July 12, 2021
Reviewed Apr. 24, 2021

Great spot-sites vary a lot

This campground was a little tricky to find as you drive through a little residential area, but follow the signs. Definitely drive through the whole campground before choosing a site- there are some tucked away, beautiful sites on the loop that says not recommended for RVs. We were fine in our Transit and scored a really nice site.

Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Karin , April 24, 2021
Reviewed Apr. 23, 2021

Beautiful!

This park is first come first serve, no reservations. My advice is walk the campground before choosing a spot as each site can vary greatly. There is a small main loop with about 10 sites and both the loop and those sites are TIGHT. We managed to fit into site #5 with our 26 ft class C, but it took some careful and slow maneuvering. Would definitely not recommend for large rigs, and I was so glad all the campers were out for the day and we had no audience. 

However, once we parked and set up, we took a walk around the campground and found some bonus sites off away from the loop- and snagged #25 as quickly as we could rush over and move the RV. The sites outside of the loop are definitely doable in larger rigs, but #25 is the most amazing site - you are just about right on the beach and have your own little walkway to the water, with very few neighbors. Amazing. This will be one we will want to come back to. 

There are also 2 sites side by side with water and electric for $10 extra near the host and the bathroom. 

There are also a few hike/bike in sites. 

The area has lots of shade so if you rely on solar it could be a problem with the exception of a few spots. 

No dump or RV sewer hookup on site.

$25/night is the base fee with some variations and additional charges, see photo of fee chart that we posted. Self pay at the the drop box near the bathrooms. 

There are flush toilets and showers, but showers currently closed for covid. There are picnic tables and fire pits in each site as well. Firewood for sale with the host. There are trash bins here as well as segregated recycling bins. Good cell service.

Site25
Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Laura M., April 23, 2021
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Laura M., April 23, 2021
  • site #25
    Play button icon
  • (15) View All
Reviewed Mar. 6, 2021

Closed due to Covid

GPS will make you trespass. I ran into no trespassing sign many times and had to turn around. Not very welcoming and never even got to see Campsites. They should add on their website they're closed.

  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Deleting App D., March 6, 2021
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Deleting App D., March 6, 2021
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Deleting App D., March 6, 2021
  • (4) View All
Reviewed Nov. 9, 2020

Easy access

Great quiet spot near 101. Easy access for small pulls or small RVs.

Reviewed Sep. 20, 2020

Another Hidden Gem

You wander down a road with signs all over that this is private property and you wonder if you are lost. And then you see the campground to the right and the beach and boat launch straight ahead.  You have found it.

This small campground (in the midst of native lands) is right on the Big Lagoon, one of many, in this area. And it is a short walk to a beach where agates abound.  And all off the beaten path.

First come, first served so plan accordingly. On weekends can be packed but I was there on a weekday.  Also was there six years ago and had a similar experieince.  On the freshwater lagoon you can kayak, canoe, paddle board etc.  There are lots of birds to watch.  On the beach there is large expanse and you can hunt for agates.

A well maintained park with a host (who has wood) good wooded sites with privacy and typical tables, fire pits.  The restrooms were clean and there are coin showers as well. Less expensive then the state parks and can be less crowded.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by MarinMaverick , September 20, 2020
Reviewed Aug. 9, 2018

Ocean, flatwater, dunes, agates, wildlife!

if you're looking for a get away with lonely, beautiful long stretches of beach wide expanses of stillwater and plenty of wildlife viewing come to the North Coast of California's Big Lagoon County campground. Part of the largest lagoon system in the country, the Humboldt Lagoons State Park has many treasures to explore. Dubbed "A String of Pearls", Big Lagoon is the largest of three natural "wet" lagoons and one Dry Lagoon. The county campground is located on its shore. Most of the campsites have views of the lagoon and the dunes on its opposite shore.

Guests will awaken to the sounds of crashing waves in the distance and maybe the chirping of osprey or squawking if great blue heron nearby. Launch of personal watercraft such as paddle boards, kayaks, canoes, sailboats or even catamarans can be done foot steps away from the campsites. The temperature of the Lagoon can get warm enough to swim in, even up to 75 degrees Fahrenheit. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available during the summer months at the boat launch area though Kayak Trinidad, outfitter. I don't believe there are RV hookups at this Campground.

Wildlife viewing is wonderful at this location at it as it is a resting place for migratory birds along with their route on the Pacific Flyway. There is also a resident heard of Roosevelt elk that frequents the brackish marsh areas to the east where Maple Creek drains into the lagoon. Agate hunting is a favorite at the beach nearby, but visitors must be aware that the ocean conditions on this beach are treacherous and should never approach the wave slope.

SiteLagoon front
Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Jul. 3, 2018

Beautiful

We stayed one night in July, when Patrick's Point was booked up. We found a site and the host brought us firewood and kindling. We were back a bit, but some sites are right up next to the lagoon. Sunset was gorgeous. Some residents stayed up late and we're a bit loud, but overall we would definitely come back.

  • Review photo of Big Lagoon County Park by Angie G., July 3, 2018
Reviewed Mar. 29, 2016

Off the beaten path in a nice location, but it can be a party spot

Stumbled onto this one while looking at a map. Nice county campground right next to a big lagoon. Large spots for tents and lots of privacy. However, the night that we stayed (late summer) found a huge party happening in the north end of the park. It didn't bother us much as we were far enough away (felt sorry for the folks who's campsites were nearby), but it was strange that such a wild party could happen in a county park. Regardless, a nice hidden gem.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Does Big Lagoon County Park have RV hookups?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Big Lagoon County Park has water hookups.

  • Are fires allowed at Big Lagoon County Park?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Big Lagoon County Park, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Big Lagoon County Park?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is fair, AT&T is good, and T-Mobile is good.