Camping spots near Piercy, California range from 40 to 1,000 feet in elevation, with temperatures typically 10-15 degrees warmer inland than at coastal sites. The region straddles the Eel River watershed and the rugged Lost Coast terrain, creating distinct camping experiences depending on which direction you travel from this small Mendocino County community. Cell service remains intermittent throughout the area, with best reception found at campgrounds along Highway 101.
What to do
Tide pooling: At Usal Beach Campground, visitors can explore the coastal ecosystems. "Pretty remote but great if that's what you're looking for. 30 minute drive up rocky dirt road in forest to get down there. Not many rules. Don't get stuck in sand," notes Braxton C.
River swimming: South Fork Eel River access points provide summer recreation. At Redwoods River Resort & Campground, one camper mentions, "The best part of this place is the river, it's a steep walk down the hill to get there, but it's totally worth it." Access varies with summer water levels, typically best from June through mid-August.
Wildlife viewing: Marine mammals frequent several coastal locations. "We 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," reports Matthew S. about his Usal Beach experience.
What campers like
Private campsites: Some campgrounds offer well-separated sites. At Hidden Springs Campground, "The camp sites are set up to make you really feel as though you're alone with the trees. The campsites nearby yours will not be of any disturbance to your getaway as each has its own part of the woods, or so it seems," explains Kirstin J.
Beach camping options: Several campgrounds offer direct beach access. "We broke down at the gate. The Rangers said they could not accommodate our 36'. The camp host (volunteer ranger John) knew we were stuck on a Friday nite. He said he would try to fit us in a spot reserved for emergencies. We fit with room to spare," recounts Gene B. about his experience at Richardson Grove State Park.
Swimming holes: River access points are favored features. "There is a redwood grove hiking trail behind the campsites that takes you from one end of the campground to the other. You can also walk across Avenue of the Giants from the entrance to a trail that leads you down to the South Fork Eel River. We stayed in July when the water was warm enough in which to swim and the fish are very playful," shares Craig M. about Hidden Springs.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to several campgrounds requires careful driving. For Shelter Cove Campground, "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," advises Karen M.
Shower facilities: Availability and costs vary between campgrounds. "Showers require tokens. This seems pretty standard in California State Parks but it's successful at deterring us from showering every night. One token gives 4 minutes of showering. Each token is $1," reports Mea H. about Mackerricher State Park.
Seasonal crowds: Visitation patterns affect camping experience. "We broke down at the gate. The Rangers said they could not accommodate our 36'. The camp host (volunteer ranger John) knew we were stuck on a Friday nite. He said he would try to fit us in a spot reserved for emergencies," shares Gene B. about his experience at Richardson Grove during peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Fire safety: Campfire restrictions vary by location and season. "Great to camp on the beach. Nice to enjoy campfire on the beach from wood provided by the sea. Some nice hikes close by," notes Robert about Usal Beach Campsites. Bring wood if camping at inland sites as beachwood might be limited.
Wildlife precautions: Several campers report animal encounters. "Animals stole 2 potatoes. No signs for animals. Overall fair," mentions Nadiya S. at Shelter Cove. Food storage guidelines vary by location, with some campgrounds providing bear boxes.
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer playground access. "We really enjoyed our campsite. It was private and level. We really enjoyed the play ground and all the outdoor games. The campground needs some updating/TLC," reports Missi about Redwoods River Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site access: Several campgrounds have challenging entrances. At Westport Union Landing State Beach, "Campsites are level and have enough space between them for adequate privacy. Our site along the beach side allowed for an easy walk to to the ocean," notes Melissa W., though she cautions, "We have a small trailer and would advise against anything larger than 30ft."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited in the area. "The campground is clean, enjoyable and has the camping vibe. Docking a star due to the extra fees and the water temperature. For weekend warriors I'd wager this is a 5-star campground," writes Mea H., adding details about facilities: "Dump station? - Yes, mandatory $10, Water fill? - Yes, free."
Leveling requirements: Site terrain varies significantly. "Campsite was pleasant, though the neighbors were loudly coughing the whole time and we could hear dogs barking all night. There needs to be more showers available and a curtain of some sort between the shower and the stall door," notes Amy R. about Hidden Springs Campground.
