Pet friendly camping around Arcata, California offers sites spread across redwood-covered mountains and coastal zones. The area sits at the junction of Humboldt Bay and coastal mountains with elevations ranging from sea level to 1,800 feet at Lacks Creek BLM land. Winter temperatures often drop to the 40s overnight, requiring proper insulation and waterproof gear even during summer camping trips.
What to do
Beach access at Clam Beach: Located near Trinidad, this county park offers direct beach access where pets can explore shoreline areas. "We've camped here at least 4 times now. It's small but there's only ever been a couple other campers while we were there. There's no showers. But you are on the beach. So your tent will be all moist especially in winter," notes Elyse C. The campsite features basic amenities with beach trails for exploring.
Hiking at Lacks Creek BLM: This free dispersed camping area sits at higher elevation with hiking trails through diverse terrain. "Wildly peaceful. Read the description in the bio, follow the directions, and you'll find yourself able to choose from a handful of campsites," writes Leah H. The area features picnic tables and fire rings with vault toilets available.
Explore historic sites: The Abalone Campground at Sue-meg State Park (formerly Patrick's Point) provides access to cultural sites. "There's plenty of hiking and things to see inside the park including Sumeg village...an old historic site that the Yurok tribe used back in the day," explains William M. The park maintains educational displays about local indigenous history.
What campers like
Private tent areas: At Emerald Forest Cabins & RV, tent sites offer better privacy than RV spaces. "The tent sites are in a redwood setting. Very rustic & nice. Also spacious," notes Cynthia K. The forested setting creates natural separation between camping spaces, particularly in the tent-only section.
Dog exercise areas: At Redwood Coast Cabins & RV Resort, dogs have dedicated activity spaces. "Dog area had agility items for the dogs," explains Jenni C. This allows pets to exercise after long travel days without needing to leave the campground.
Oceanside campsites: Campers appreciate the combination of forest and ocean proximity. "Campsites are in several loops in a lush green forest right next to the ocean," reports Ariel & John W. about Abalone Campground. The mixed ecosystems allow for diverse wildlife viewing opportunities and varied hiking experiences.
What you should know
Limited privacy at some RV parks: Many campers note the close quarters at RV-focused campgrounds. "The spots are best suited for trailers, with little dirt area to pitch a tent. The spaces are cramped if the area is full," says Sara Z. about Samoa Boat Ramp County Park. Sites often have minimal separation between camping spaces.
Muddy conditions: The northern California coast receives significant rainfall, creating seasonal challenges. "Pack a raincoat and light jacket. The coastal weather is unpredictable and temperatures vary throughout the day," advises Crystal C. about Clam Beach County Park. Even summer months can bring coastal fog and moisture.
Campsite differences within parks: At Blue Lake Casino, overnight RV parking comes with varied experiences. "This casino had several semi trucks parking in the RV area, so the engine noise of them coming and going made it sound a bit like a truck stop. However, it was really quiet overnight," reports Laura M. Understanding site locations helps select optimal spots.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds maintain dedicated children's areas. "Children's play area was nice. Grassy areas needed mowing," notes Jenni C. about Redwood Coast Cabins & RV Resort. These areas provide supervised activity options after hiking or beach trips.
Enclosed pet areas: For families traveling with dogs, designated pet spaces increase safety. "The casino is currently open with limited capacity, and your temperature is checked at the door. The restaurants inside offer in house dining, and the guests were seated at tables far apart from each other, and all the staff had masks on," Laura M. explains about Blue Lake Casino's facilities.
Educational opportunities: Agate Campground offers learning experiences for children. "There's plenty of hiking and things to see inside the park including Sumeg village...an old historic site that the Yurok tribe used back in the day. If you want to explore outside there is also plenty to do," notes William M. The combination of natural and cultural history creates educational camping experiences.
Tips from RVers
Pull-through availability: Emerald Forest offers easy access sites. "Best site in the campground is site 20, which is a pull through. Don't get site 9 or 11," advises Cynthia K. Site selection significantly impacts the camping experience, especially for larger vehicles.
Road conditions for dispersed camping: Lacks Creek BLM requires caution with larger vehicles. "Road is narrow and steep with low hanging trees. The further I got down it the more incomfortable I got. Ended up turning around while I still had a chance to," warns Jules S. Smaller RVs and high-clearance vehicles fare better on these roads.
Free dump stations: Budget-conscious RVers appreciate free waste facilities. "There was a free dump and rinse station. It was $11 for the night - had to join the Blue Lake Casino Players Club but was free to join and we got 20% off meals," shares Michelle about the Blue Lake Casino amenities. These facilities help extend boondocking capabilities for self-contained campers.
