Best Campgrounds near Arcata, CA

Camping near Arcata, CA, offers a mix of stunning natural beauty and unique experiences. With redwoods, beaches, and cozy campgrounds, it’s a great spot for outdoor lovers.

What to do:

• Explore the Redwoods: The majestic trees are a must-see. Campers at Elk Prairie Campground — Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park rave about the “incredible day trips into California’s interior” and the “old growth redwood trees” right at their doorstep.
• Beach Activities: Head to Gold Bluffs Beach Campground — Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park for beach fun. One visitor said it’s “right on the beach, beautiful campground,” perfect for relaxing and enjoying the ocean.
• Hiking Trails: There are plenty of trails for all skill levels. Campers at Emerald Forest Cabins & RV enjoyed “walking to town every morning for coffee” and exploring nearby hiking paths.

What campers like:

• Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. One reviewer at Agate Campground — Sue-meg State Park described it as “absolutely gorgeous” with “insane views.”
• Wildlife Encounters: Many campgrounds offer chances to see wildlife. At Elk Country RV Resort & Campground, a camper noted, “Elk wander around the campground and in the meadow,” making for a unique experience.
• Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and showers are a big plus. A visitor at Emerald Forest Cabins & RV mentioned, “Bathrooms were clean and showers had nice warm water.”

What you should know:

• Tight Spaces: Some campgrounds can be cramped. A reviewer at Gold Bluffs Beach Campground warned that “it is very tight, which is difficult for anyone with a larger trailer.”
• Weather Considerations: Be prepared for changing weather. Campers at Emerald Forest Cabins & RV noted it was “a little muddy” during their visit, so check the forecast before heading out.
• Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially in peak season. A camper at Abalone Campground — Sue-meg State Park mentioned, “It was busy! It was foggy and cold near the bay,” highlighting the need for early booking.

Tips for camping with families:

• Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby trails and beaches. At Agate Campground — Sue-meg State Park, families can enjoy “great beach walking” and exploring tide pools.
• Wildlife Watching: Kids will love spotting animals. A visitor at Elk Country RV Resort & Campground shared that they saw elk, which can be exciting for children.
• Plan for Quiet Time: Some campgrounds can get noisy. A camper at Clam Beach County Park noted, “Open, close campsites,” so be ready for some noise from neighbors.

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Big Lagoon County Park cautioned that “tight space for RVers” can be an issue, especially for larger rigs.
• Bring Quarters for Showers: Many campgrounds have coin-operated showers. A camper at Albee Creek Campground — Humboldt Redwoods State Park reminded others to “bring quarters” for shower access.
• Stay Prepared for Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have full hookups. A visitor at Samoa Boat Ramp County Park mentioned it’s “just a big parking lot,” so plan accordingly.

Camping near Arcata, CA, offers a variety of experiences, from redwoods to beaches, making it a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.