The Carlotta area sits in Humboldt County about 25 miles southeast of Eureka at an elevation of 131 feet. Camping options near Carlotta range from established RV parks to creek-side sites, with most locations experiencing cool, foggy mornings during summer months. Winter rainfall averages 40-60 inches annually, making late spring through early fall the optimal camping season.
What to do
Eel River swimming access: Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination provides direct river access next to their campsites. "Our site was surrounded by other rigs but when it got late it was quiet, except for the mourning doves and the sounds of the redwoods in the wind," notes reviewer Tim G. The park includes a playground and maintained river access points.
Explore Avenue of Giants: Ancient Redwoods RV Park sits directly on the Avenue of the Giants scenic byway. According to Laura H., "Right in the middle of the Avenue of the Giants you will see trees upon trees. Central enough location to souvenirs, the immortal tree, 7 state parks, and the south fork eel river."
Beach access at Samoa: Travel 40 minutes northwest to Samoa Boat Ramp County Park for coastal recreation. "This campground is essentially a paved parking lot with numbered stalls. It 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," explains SpentBrassOffroad B.
What campers like
Clean bathrooms and affordable rates: Stafford RV Park offers budget-friendly camping with basic amenities. "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," shares Laura M. The showers are free for campers and maintain cleanliness despite being dated.
Quiet atmosphere in popular areas: Many campers mention the peaceful settings found throughout the region. At Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination, one reviewer noted how the campground was "very quiet except for the very occasional road noise during the day, extremely quiet at night, very well kept up, friendly hosts, and very nice sites."
Hot tub and pool access: Riverwalk RV Park offers recreational amenities uncommon in the area. "The heated pool and hot tub were really nice to relax in," reports Vinny A., while Lisa F. adds the site features an "outdoor kitchen, heated pool and hot tub" along with "great shower facilities."
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds in the area have iron-rich water systems. At Stafford RV Park, a reviewer mentioned, "the water jug we had filled with their water was full of rusty red residue at the bottom, ick. And that water is what we used to fill our onboard RV tank (and that's with using a filter)."
WiFi and cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. One camper at Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination reported "excellent WiFi" but "weak Verizon and no AT&T service." At Shoreline RV Park, Christy S. noted, "Website indicates that WiFi was recently upgraded but slow during our stay. Strong cellular signal for Verizon and T-Mobile so internet was quicker through the phone hotspot rather than the park's WiFi."
Pet breed restrictions: Some rv sites near Carlotta, California have specific pet policies. A Stafford RV Park visitor mentioned being "turned off by religious messages on the signage outside, instructions to dress 'modestly' and a long list of dog breeds not allowed."
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination features a playground that was "a huge hit with our toddler too, as well as river access," according to Georgina E.
Tree house accommodations: Stafford RV Park offers unique sleeping options. "Super cute tree house to rent for a good price, and other cabins," notes Monica F., making it a memorable option for families seeking alternatives to traditional camping or RV accommodations near Carlotta.
Cabin options for non-RV families: Redwood Coast Cabins & RV Resort provides cabin rentals with amenities. Rachel A. reported, "We stopped through while passing Eureka on our way north and we're so happy that we did! The cabins are cute and charming (be prepared, no kitchen) and the grounds clean."
Tips from RVers
Highway access considerations: When traveling to rv sites near Carlotta, California, be aware of road conditions. On Highway 36 from 101, drivers encounter sharp curves and limited turnouts. The main access routes to most campgrounds are via Highways 101, 36, and the Avenue of the Giants.
Laundry facilities: At Ancient Redwoods RV Park, "Laundry is $2 to wash. $1 to dry. Only 2 machines," according to Laura H. Widow White Creek RV Park also provides laundry facilities but with limited capacity.
Site spacing varies: Each campground has different site arrangements. At Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination, David M. found "very nice sites. The options here run the gamut from tent sites, cabins, W/E hookups and even some full hookups with sewer."
