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Established Camping

Wailaki Campground

3 Reviews
CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Wailaki Campground, near Whitethorn, California, is a peaceful spot that invites you to unwind in nature. With its remote location, it’s perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy some tranquility.

This campground offers basic amenities, including vault toilets and trash disposal, but you’ll need to bring your own water and supplies. Visitors have noted the importance of bug spray, especially with the lush surroundings, and many have enjoyed cooking on camping stoves since fires aren’t allowed. As one camper mentioned, “Bring your Bear mace and watch your small animals at dawn and dusk,” highlighting the wildlife presence in the area.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the nearby trails provide stunning views and opportunities for exploration. Reviewers have raved about the epic walking trails and the chance to get lost in the beauty of the woods. Just keep in mind that it can get pretty cold at night, so pack accordingly.

While the campground is first-come, first-served, many have found it easy to secure a spot, especially during the week. The lack of light and noise pollution makes it a great place for stargazing and enjoying the sounds of nature. If you’re looking for a cozy retreat away from it all, Wailaki Campground is definitely worth a visit.

Fee Info

$15.00 per campsite per night First-come, first-served

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Location

Wailaki Campground is located in California

Detail location of campground

Directions

Location: U.S. 101 to Redway West 22 miles on Briceland/Shelter Cove Road south 2 miles on Chemise Mountain Road.

Coordinates

40.01958 N
124.003487 W

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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

Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
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1 hr 25 min away

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Usal Beach Campground

1 hr 37 min away

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • 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
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

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

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol

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Reviews

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3 Reviews

M
Reviewed Aug. 24, 2021

Great!

Off the beaten track but nice, safe, clean. $8 a night or $4 if you have an interagency pass. Large vault toilets. No water. There's a general store ~10 minutes away if you drive towards Shelter Cove. Bring your bug spray! Pretty quiet during the week but it filled up by Saturday.  Solo female traveler thumbs up for chill vibes.

Month of VisitAugust
Anton Y.
Reviewed Nov. 6, 2020

Beautiful, remote, cosy

My group and I stopped here while road tripping up to oregon from Los Angeles. There are no amenities like water or phone service but this spot really is special. Takes about an hour or so of driving from the nearest town, into the woods, to get here but it really is worth it. The site is very much so accessible and is nestled next to a small creek in the woods. Bears are common out there so lock up all your food well! No light or noise pollution in the slightest. There were no fires allowed but we cooked on our camping stove in the back of the jeep. All in all, for tent/hammock camping, this is a wonderful spot to drive in and cosy up for the night. While it's nice during the day, it gets pretty cold at night! Because it's so remote you're likely to find a spot regardless of the time of year but it's by no means a secret or hidden spot. Since it's first come first serve and outside of service, you have no way of knowing how full it is until you arrive. We believe we had neighbors but they were out of earshot so we weren't sure how many others there were, since the sites are pretty private and it's hard to see far through the thick trees.

Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Wailaki Campground by Anton Y., November 6, 2020
Stephanie S.
Reviewed Jun. 29, 2020

Little camp by a stream

This camp was where we stayed when we were trying to stay at Tolkan but it was full. Not yet knowing about the dispersed site at horse mountain just a bit further up the road from Tolkan we stayed here.
We arrived late and spent just one night but it had everything we needed. We found a spot easily and bathrooms were close.
Lots of little mosquitoes trying to suck our blood 😅 so bring bug spray as it’s by a lush stream!! $8 per night

  • Review photo of Wailaki Campground by Stephanie S., June 29, 2020
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Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Wailaki Campground?

Wailaki Campground offers basic amenities for a rustic camping experience. The campground features large vault toilets but does not provide water, so campers must bring their own supply. There's a $8 per night fee, reduced to $4 if you have an interagency pass. While limited in facilities, the campground is clean and well-maintained. A general store is located approximately 10 minutes away by car in the direction of Shelter Cove for additional supplies. Remember to pack bug spray, as insects can be prevalent in this wooded setting.

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

Wailaki Campground is nestled in a secluded forested area that requires approximately an hour of driving from the nearest town. The campground is situated near Shelter Cove in Northern California. To reach it, you'll need to navigate through wooded roads that take you deep into the forest. The somewhat remote location makes for a peaceful setting, though it does mean you'll be without phone service. Plan your route ahead of time and consider downloading offline maps, as navigation can be challenging in areas without cellular coverage.

How do I make reservations for Wailaki Campground?

Wailaki Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservation system. Simply arrive at the campground and select an available site. The campground can fill up quickly on weekends, especially Saturdays, while remaining quieter during weekdays. The fee is $8 per night, or $4 with an interagency pass. For the most current reservation policies or seasonal changes, contact the managing agency before your trip.

What recreational activities are available at or near Wailaki Campground?

Wailaki Campground offers a tranquil forest setting perfect for nature-based recreation. The natural surroundings provide opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and photography. While specific trails aren't detailed, the wooded environment is ideal for exploration. The campground's secluded location creates excellent stargazing conditions due to minimal light pollution. For more amenities, Shelter Cove is within driving distance. The peaceful atmosphere, especially on weekdays, makes this spot ideal for those seeking quiet reflection and a genuine wilderness experience away from busy tourist areas.

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