Tent campsites near Carlotta, California range from coastal beach locations to mountain forests. Most sites sit at elevations between 200-3,000 feet, with coastal areas experiencing fog and inland areas seeing higher summer temperatures. The region contains both developed campgrounds with amenities and primitive sites requiring self-sufficiency, particularly in the King Range Conservation Area and surrounding BLM lands.
What to do
Explore black sand beaches: At Usal Beach Campground, campers can enjoy unique coastal terrain. "The marriage of land and sea... Dude! It's Northern CA. It's the Pacific Ocean. It's a dream combo you can only experience by being there," notes Chris N.
Hike forest trails: The area offers numerous hiking options through old-growth redwoods. A visitor to Baxter Environmental Camp mentions, "The campground is well organized, with tons of hiking trails and all of the standard amenities... All of this, in the midst of a forest with some of the tallest and oldest trees in the universe."
River activities: Several campgrounds offer river access for fishing, swimming, and relaxation. At A.W. Way County Park, JoJo H. describes it as "a very family friendly lazy river camping area. Camp sites are flat. Deer and skunks frequent the area. dog-friendly. River is usually low on water in the summer months."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer good separation between camping areas. At Wuss Camp, Colleen notes, "The sites are widely dispersed and circle around a beautiful meadow. Bathrooms and shower are easily found and clean."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region provides chances to observe local fauna. One camper at Usal Beach reported, "Saw some coyotes when setting up camp, but they didn't mind us. Most beautiful sunrise in the morning and saw mama and baby bear prints on the sand."
Clean facilities: Several developed campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. Dylan C. appreciated Wuss Camp's "Great, spacious and clean space with amazing bathrooms and showers. Couldn't have asked for a better spot."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires driving on unpaved roads. Jake S. warns about Usal Beach: "6 miles of potholes, rough dirt road and some deep puddles and you'll find a beautiful sandy beach with camping spots above the tide and some in the trees for privacy."
Water availability: Not all campgrounds provide drinking water. At Horse Mountain Campground, Stephanie S. explains it's "an old abandoned camp that is now free to use because it is no longer maintained. There are a few picnic tables and lots of trees."
Seasonal variations: Weather and accessibility change throughout the year. Connor M. notes about Usal Beach: "The road was a bit rougher than expected (took us roughly 45 min from the paved road to camp). People made it down in mini vans but I personally wouldn't try it."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with flat terrain: Look for level areas that accommodate tents easily. At A.W. Way County Park, one camper mentions, "This is a very family friendly lazy river camping area. Camp sites are flat."
Consider security concerns: Some campgrounds have reported theft issues. At Williams Grove Group Camp, Susan H. shares, "We were there as a group with Cubscouts and Boy Scouts and on the 2nd night had about $500 worth of food and gear stolen while we were sleeping. Definitely lock up or put away your gear at night."
Pack appropriate supplies: Bring necessary items based on available amenities. Mayra D. advises about Humboldt Redwoods State Park: "They have coin showers so bring lots of chain!"
Tips from RVers
Check vehicle clearance requirements: Many campgrounds have rough access roads. For King Range Conservation Area, Jon S. notes: "This relatively remote and unknown BLM campground is a real find: gorgeous scenery on the coast a few minutes down the hill and not many other campers."
Water considerations: RVers should plan water needs carefully. Robert S. recommends for beach camping: "I recommend 4x4 during the wet seasons and some recovery gear just in case."
Seasonal planning: Time your visit appropriately. Matthew S. advises about coastal camping: "Camped on the beach with the woods to our backs. Saw some coyotes when setting up camp, but they didn't mind us. Most beautiful sunrise in the morning and saw mama and baby bear prints on the sand."
