The Bridgeville area sits at the junction of Highway 36 and Highway 101, providing access to both coastal and inland camping destinations throughout Humboldt County. Elevations range from sea level at coastal RV parks to over 2,000 feet in some inland locations. Most campgrounds in the region operate year-round, though seasonal restrictions apply at Ancient Redwoods RV Park which closes from November through April.
What to Do
River swimming: At Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination, campers can access the Eel River directly from the property. "This campground had an accessible river right next to it. Great big redwoods surrounded you on every side," writes Tim G. The water level varies seasonally, with one visitor noting "the river is quite low" during late summer visits.
Beach exploration: From Samoa Boat Ramp County Park, visitors have direct access to the BLM Samoa Sand Dunes. "This campground sits about 200 yards from the BLM Samoa Sand Dunes, which is the main attraction. There is even access to them from the parking lot," reports one camper. The location offers unique opportunities for both beach activities and ATVs.
Tide pooling: Shelter Cove Campground provides exceptional marine wildlife viewing. "We stayed 10 nights all up the west coast and this was the best tide pooling we had. We went to sleep and woke up to sea lions and Harbor Seals barking," writes Travis H. The location requires navigating a challenging access road but rewards visitors with unique coastal experiences.
What Campers Like
Convenient locations: Blue Lake Casino offers an affordable option with additional perks. "This was our first time trying out a casino parking lot to stay in, and it was a nice treat to be able to walk from the RV to dinner. The casino has some good restaurants in it, and there are other options within walking distance," notes Laura M.
Clean facilities: Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination receives high marks for maintenance. "Park was mostly empty and very quiet. Plenty of full and partial RV hookups (generators are not allowed) and tent spots. Very clean facilities and well maintained," writes Ady O., who also mentioned the park has "excellent WiFi" but "weak Verizon and no AT&T service."
Natural surroundings: Despite being developed RV parks, many locations maintain their natural character. "Perfect first trip in our travel trailer. The park was about 1/3 full. Our site backed up to the Eel river with Giants redwoods everywhere," shares Randy J. about his stay at Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination.
What You Should Know
Varying water quality: Many campgrounds in the area have issues with water quality. At Stafford RV Park, one camper noted: "The laundry machines have a sign saying that your clothes may stain due to the iron in the water, and that you need to shake out the sawdust from your clothes before washing them." The water issues appear common throughout the region.
Challenging road access: Some campgrounds require navigating difficult roads. For Shelter Cove Campground, a reviewer warns: "The road is about 10 miles of steep switchbacks on a narrow poorly maintained road. It is not a fun ride (unless you're on a motorcycle perhaps), but once you get there it's worth it."
Variable site privacy: Most RV parks in the area feature sites in close proximity. "Sites are tight but clean & well maintained," notes Margie C. about Giant Redwoods. For more privacy, consider tent-only areas at campgrounds like Stafford RV Park which has a separate section for $30 per night.
Tips for Camping with Families
Cabin options: Redwood Coast Cabins & RV Resort offers family-friendly accommodations beyond traditional camping. "My boyfriend and I stayed in Cabin 2 on November 23, 2021. The electric fireplace was a nice touch to the cabin and it warmed the space up enough, we never needed to use the HVAC system," shares Jess I.
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds have dedicated play areas. At Redwood Coast Cabins & RV Resort, Jenni C. mentions, "Children's play area was nice," making it suitable for families with younger kids needing activities within the campground.
Off-site activities: Plan day trips from your campground base. "The Avenue of the Giants is right there. Must see if you haven't been," recommends Randy J., referring to the scenic drive through old-growth redwood forests accessible from most RV parks near Bridgeville.
Tips from RVers
Discount availability: Several RV parks Bridgeville visitors can access offer membership discounts. "We stayed here for half price with the Passport America discount - we paid $25 for a pull through E/W site (normally $50), and refreshingly there were no taxes or fees added on to the price," notes Laura M. about her stay at Stafford RV Park.
Size considerations: Ancient Redwoods RV Park accommodates larger rigs, with one reviewer mentioning it provides "full hookups" suitable for most RVs. However, reservations can be challenging, with another camper noting: "We phoned and immediately got a spot, the park was pretty empty on arrival but showed 'no availabilities.'"
Overnight options: For transient RVers traveling along Highway 101, Blue Lake Casino offers economical overnight parking. "It's $11 for the night - had to join the Blue Lake Casino Players Club but was free to join and we got 20% off meals, $10 gambling chips, $10 gambling machine credit and a mini Redwood Tree planting kit," explains Michelle, highlighting the added value beyond basic parking.
