Dunlap Campground, near the scenic California coast, offers a straightforward camping experience for those looking to escape into nature. With a mix of tent and RV sites, it’s a decent spot for a quick overnight stay, especially if you’re passing through.

The campground features picnic tables and fire rings at each site, making it easy to enjoy meals outdoors and gather around the fire in the evenings. Visitors have noted the convenience of the self-pay station, which keeps things simple, and many appreciate the access to nearby hiking trails and the charming creek that runs through the area.

While you might hear some road noise, especially since it’s right off the highway, the wildlife sightings can make up for it. Campers have spotted deer, raccoons, and even foxes, so keep your food secured. As one visitor mentioned, “Tons of wildlife” adds to the experience, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a bit of nature's company. 

If you’re looking for a no-frills camping spot that’s close to Fort Bragg and Willets, Dunlap Campground could be just what you need for a night under the stars.

Existing Resources: This campground is located just west of Camp 20 off of Highway 20. There are a total of 17 campsites, (2) one stall outhouses, three trash can structures, camp host site, information board and an iron ranger pay station.

Dunlap Campground

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Comptche

The Best Camping Near Comptche, California

3 sites are currently closed due to COVID to encourage social distancing; sites fill up quickly on weekends; no on-site camp host, but Cal Fire does come through to write receipts and pick up trash. Not sure if there's water (we brought our own). Good option if needing first come first serve sites since all of the state parks are reservation-only currently. All sites have fire ring and picnic table, also some access to the creek/river bed below to explore. Really convenient to Fort Bragg (30 min away) or Willets (30 min away). No cell service. Only possible complaint would be that you can hear the road noise, but get used to it after awhile.

Great FCFS sites close to coast

Decent sized sites well spaced apart. Self-pay station $15 when I went. Expect a LOT of road noise. Access to the river. Went mid week and was the only one there. Tons of wildlife. Fox, deer, raccoon, etc. keep your food locked up at all times. Second option since camp one was closed. 

Right off the highway

Three stars is mostly due to road noise. We enjoy primitive sites like this. Self pay station was easy, several open spots when we arrived late afternoon. Nice hiking available and a visit to the little red school house was fun.

Easy in and out

This campsite was $20 a night. It has a good amount of sites. We got lucky getting in late on a Saturday and finding a spot. It is right off the road so you can hear it but not see it easily. Great spot for a quick stay for the night. 

Cheap, right off road

Run by Calfire and to be fair they likely have better things to do during fire season than maintain the campsites

Lots of trash piled up around the cans, sites were covered in loose trash including old rusted car parts. On the honor system for the pay box. Since rangers don’t come around much I think it’s a “party” camp for local kids. Campsite near me was blasting music day and night and a couple got into a drunken domestic fight that sounded like it nearly came to blows. I almost left in the middle of the night to find a hotel.

A shame bc the woods and creek are quite lovely. Near the road. 

Vault bathroom, no water, $20 a day. 

Photos of Dunlap Campground

Real photos from real campers