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Established Camping

Tolkan Campground

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Tolkan Campground, near Whitethorn, California, is a fantastic spot for those who love mountain biking and a bit of solitude. With a handful of sites tucked away in the King Range National Conservation Area, it’s perfect for campers looking to escape the hustle and bustle.

This campground is all about simplicity. Visitors often mention the clean pit toilets and the peaceful atmosphere, making it a great place to unwind. The Paradise Royal Loop trail is a highlight, offering a moderate challenge for bikers, especially when the leaves make the climb a bit slippery. As one camper put it, “Great place to just get away and do some mountain biking.”

While you won’t find many amenities here—no water, electric hookups, or picnic tables—what you do get is a chance to connect with nature. The sites are spacious, and the surrounding wilderness is perfect for those who appreciate a little peace and quiet. Just remember, it’s bear country, so keep your food secure!

If you’re up for an adventure, the drive in can be a bit bumpy, but it’s worth it for the tranquility and the stunning views. Plus, you’re not far from Shelter Cove, where you can grab a bite and enjoy the black sand beach. Whether you’re camping solo or with friends, Tolkan Campground offers a unique experience for those ready to embrace the great outdoors.

Fee Info

$15.00 per night for campsites First come-first served No day use fee

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Location

Tolkan Campground is located in California

Detail location of campground

Address

King Peak Road
Whitethorn, ca 95589, CA 95589

Coordinates

40.081651 N
124.057402 W

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Connectivity

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    Verizon
    No Coverage
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    AT&T
    No Coverage
    Verified by 3 users

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

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    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage
    Verified by 3 users

Access

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

Site Types

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

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Phone Service
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol

Contact

General Info


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Reviews

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8 Reviews

Reviewed Jun. 29, 2023

Great spot for MTB and camping all in one

Great place to just get away and do some mountain biking. Minimal services available bring what you need and leave no trace. very quiet, 9 sites and no crowds. Be aware this is bear country and no bear boxes available. Also note that the mosquitoes are relentless. The vaulted toilets are clean and well kept. The Paradise Royal Loop is worth the drive I rate it as a moderate trail the climbing can be a challenge when the trail is covered in leaves….slippery! I do not recommend trailers or large RV’s.

Site3
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Tolkan Campground by eric , June 29, 2023
  • Review photo of Tolkan Campground by eric , June 29, 2023
  • Review photo of Tolkan Campground by eric , June 29, 2023
Reviewed Jun. 12, 2023

Two nights

Got there early on a Friday, only one campsite left. Nice young couple wasn’t so lucky and ended up staying in my campsite. We had a wonderful time. Found a vista to watch the sun set about a mile up the somewhat sketchy gravel road. Drove down to Shelter Cove for lunch Saturday and walked on the black and beach. Afterward, night two of hanging out with my new friends. Great spot for mountain biking too apparently.

Site#8
Month of VisitJune
  • Watching the sun set over the Pacific Ocean.
    Play button icon
  • Review photo of Tolkan Campground by William B., June 12, 2023
  • Review photo of Tolkan Campground by William B., June 12, 2023
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Oct. 30, 2022

MTB paradise

Had the whole place to ourselves on a friday. Bathrooms on site, Quite a drive in but worth it if you like to MTB!

Site3
Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Tolkan Campground by Luke M., October 30, 2022
  • Review photo of Tolkan Campground by Luke M., October 30, 2022
  • Review photo of Tolkan Campground by Luke M., October 30, 2022
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Apr. 7, 2021

Out of the way, somewhat quiet spot

This could be a fantastic camping spot, but in reality it’s just okay. A bumpy four mile dirt road takes you the entrance to this campsite which keeps the general population out, which seems nice, but then again only the hearty make it here and it with it comes people who don’t seem to care about noise and privacy. Its so quiet out here that any talking, wood collecting, and general living can be heard around the small campsite. Excellent place for families that ride bicycles as marked trails start by campsite number 1. No water or other utilities, pit toilet (bring your own toilet paper) and an $8 fee per night. Not much to do if you’re not a hunter or cyclist besides relaxation, although that could be what you’re looking for.

  • Review photo of Tolkan Campground by Rick N., April 7, 2021
  • Review photo of Tolkan Campground by Rick N., April 7, 2021
Reviewed Mar. 31, 2021

Perfect for mountain biking!

Love this spot! Huge sites, clean pit toilets, and backs right up to the Paradise Royale bike trail and terrain park. It’s nothing fancy, but this little loop is just great. It costs $8/night and feels like a steal. Getting there on Kings Peak road from Honeydew is not for the faint of heart, or anybody without four-wheel drive and high clearance.

Reviewed Oct. 29, 2020

Top of the hill

Nicely spaced out sites. $8. 2 bars LTE Verizon. Well graded road in, most cars can make it. I took my motorcycle. No water. Pit toilets. Nice alternative if you don’t want to camp at the cove. Small trash cans on site. Pack out your trash.

  • Review photo of Tolkan Campground by Carter B., October 29, 2020
Reviewed Aug. 21, 2019

Wow!

Hit it on a Tuesday night. Unexpectedly awesome spot. One other group here, peaceful, beautiful, and there just so happens to be a mountain biking terrain park. Lucky find!

Reviewed Jul. 13, 2017

Lost Coast

Nice sites with plenty of room for tents, gets a little windy so make sure you have a wind break.

Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Tolkan Campground by Jamie R., July 13, 2017

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Tolkan Campground located and how do I get there?

Tolkan Campground is located near Shelter Cove in Northern California. To reach the campground, you'll need to navigate a 4-mile dirt road that can be bumpy and challenging. The route from Honeydew via Kings Peak Road is particularly steep and not recommended for all vehicles. Most passenger cars can make it, but the road is well-graded despite being rough. The remote location provides excellent seclusion and serves as a good alternative to camping at Shelter Cove. The campground's proximity to Shelter Cove allows for day trips to the coast, about a short drive away.

Do I need reservations for Tolkan Campground?

Tolkan Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system. The campground fee is $8 per night, which is considered quite reasonable for the experience offered. With only 9 sites available, the campground can fill up, especially on weekends during peak seasons. Arriving early is recommended to secure a spot, particularly on Fridays when sites tend to be claimed quickly. During weekdays, especially Tuesdays, you'll find the campground much less crowded and may even have it to yourself.

How can I see photos of Tolkan Campground before visiting?

To view photos of Tolkan Campground before your trip, check the official Forest Service or BLM website that manages the area. The Dyrt's campground page for Tolkan Campground also features user-submitted photos that showcase the campsite areas, surrounding landscapes, and the nearby mountain biking terrain park. Social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook may have photos tagged at this location as well. For the most current visual information, searching online using terms like "Tolkan Campground near Shelter Cove" will yield various images from visitors. These photos can help you preview the spacious sites, pit toilets, and natural setting before your visit.

What amenities are available at Tolkan Campground?

Tolkan Campground offers basic amenities for a rustic camping experience. The campground features clean pit toilets, spacious campsites with plenty of room for tents, and small trash cans at each site. There is no potable water available, so campers should bring their own supply. The area boasts a mountain biking terrain park and connects to the Paradise Royale bike trail, making it particularly appealing to mountain biking enthusiasts. Verizon users can expect approximately 2 bars of LTE coverage. The campground has 9 sites total, offering privacy and a peaceful atmosphere.