Lacks Creek BLM offers free dispersed camping in rugged terrain about 40 minutes east of Arcata, California. The area sits at approximately 2,000 feet elevation in a mixed conifer and oak woodland ecosystem. Summer temperatures can reach 90°F while winter months often drop below freezing, with seasonal access challenges common during wet periods.
What to do
Mountain biking on maintained trails: The Lacks Creek area features well-marked singletrack trails accessible directly from campsites. "There's a nice running/bike path right in the camp ground," reports one visitor, though they caution about ticks during warmer months.
Wildlife viewing: The surrounding BLM land provides opportunities to spot local fauna. "We saw wild horses driving up!" notes one camper at BLM Dispersed Camping - Lacks Creek, highlighting unexpected wildlife encounters.
Sunset watching: The elevated position of campsites offers exceptional western views. "The sunset was absolutely incredible," writes one visitor about their camping spot at Pine Ridge, noting the "insane view of the trees" from their selected site.
Hiking to viewpoints: The surrounding hills provide walking routes with panoramic vistas. "There are spots all along pine ridge road. Campsites have picnic tables and fire rings," explains a camper who found the well-developed trail network throughout the management area.
What campers like
Secluded atmosphere: The remote location ensures relative quiet outside peak periods. One visitor describes their experience at Lacks Creek as "wildly peaceful," recommending visitors "follow the directions, and you'll find yourself able to choose from a handful of campsites."
Multiple site options: The area offers several established spots with varying amenities. "The main area with the tables was overflowing with people and cars on a Thursday," writes one camper at Lacks Creek BLM, who then "went back the way I came and found another spot that did the trick for a night."
Designated facilities: The primary camping area includes basic amenities. "Clean, with a beautiful view. The whole BLM management area is well developed and has signs to guide you," reports a satisfied visitor who appreciated the infrastructure.
Cost-free camping: This area provides legitimate free camping near Arcata, California. "A beautiful drive and a great spot for a night or a few a little hard to find but it's all part of the adventure," notes one camper who enjoyed the value and scenic location.
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access requires navigating variable-quality gravel roads. "As of Sept '25, chunks of the gravel road were under construction; some blind, narrow turns, but nothing too intense; and dips, washouts, and big exposed rocks, so drive with care," advises a recent visitor.
Site accessibility challenges: Some vehicles may struggle with certain access roads. "Tried to camp here with a 20ft travel trailer and I turned around before I even made it to the gravel road. Road is narrow and steep with low hanging trees," warns a camper at Lacks Creek BLM who ultimately could not reach the camping area.
Cellular coverage inconsistent: Network availability depends entirely on carrier. "I was planning on staying here but had no service for miles with Verizon. Not just spotty service, literally nothing until I drove back down 15 minutes and camped on a road turnout," reports a visitor to BLM Dispersed Camping - Lacks Creek.
Direction confusion common: GPS directions may mislead visitors. "I took a wrong term but got to the spots anyways? I took a left at sign with the offices of some sort (thinking it was the camp ground entrance) and then took a few more turns and eventually found the place," describes one camper who eventually located the sites despite initial navigation challenges.
Tips for camping with families
Pest preparedness: During warmer months, insect prevention is essential. "BLM land with good signs and maps. The Lacks Creek campground (left turn at the 3-way) is just a gravel parking area. No creek water in early June but lots of ticks. Very hot too. We left after 30 minutes and 6 ticks," warns a visitor to Groves Prairie Dispersed Camp.
Wildlife encounters: Children may enjoy observing local animals. "We did have a few deer walking through our campsite through the middle of the night, and my dog loved chasing them away," reports a camper who enjoyed the natural setting.
Water sources planning: No reliable water exists on site during dry periods. "If you do not have a enough water for the morning you may want to consider getting some along the way as the nearest source is 3/4 mile downhill from the camp site," advises a backcountry camper about water management in the region.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Larger RVs cannot access most dispersed sites in the area. "We even pulled up our rear drop camper and had no issues at all," notes one camper at Redwood Creek Dispersed Camp, though access limitations apply to larger rigs.
Road clearance requirements: Ground clearance matters more than drive type. "The road wasn't as bad as I thought it would be, it took me about forty minutes to find the camp grounds from the bottom of the hill to the top. There were narrow moments in the road but plenty of larger two lane spaces," explains a visitor who successfully navigated a Subaru Crosstrek to the camping area.
Alternative parking strategies: Some RVers find nearby alternatives when primary sites prove inaccessible. "I drove back down 15 minutes and camped on a road turnout," shares one RVer who adapted when unable to reach their intended destination.
