RV sites near Essex, California are concentrated in the area from Trinidad to Eureka along Highway 101. The region sits at the edge of the Pacific Ocean with elevations ranging from sea level to 330 feet, creating varied landscapes where coastal fog often settles among redwood groves. Winter temperatures average 40-55°F with summer ranges of 50-65°F, while inland locations can reach 80°F during summer months.
What to do
Beach access at Samoa Dunes: The Samoa Boat Ramp County Park offers direct beach access for RVers and tent campers. "Driving right up to the beach and water is something I didn't know I NEEDED to do. Absolutely beautiful place and the people were all friendly!" reports Taylor, who visited the area.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Elk Country RV Resort & Campground, encounters with Roosevelt elk are common. One visitor notes, "There's a heard of elk that roam the campground which is pretty cool." The resort also features a small pond with diverse wildlife. Another visitor shares, "Saw otters in the small lake."
Casino entertainment: The Heights Casino RV Lot provides affordable overnight parking with gaming benefits. A visitor mentions, "20 dollars in cash for the security, and you get 10 dollars per person free play at the casino! After playing, staying was just 15 dollars for us and we had some fun."
What campers like
Year-round accessibility: Widow White Creek RV Park accommodates campers during all seasons. A winter visitor reports, "A mix of full time, seasonal and overnighters. Pull through sites. Shower, laundry room. Free Wi-Fi has a weak signal so if you need a strong signal it won't be found here. I stayed here through the winter and fell in love with it."
Affordability for families: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate the reasonable rates at some parks. According to Rachel A., Widow White Creek offers "Grounds [that] were clean with plenty of room for families and children to play, though at the time we stopped here in December, it was pretty quiet. $35."
Proximity to natural attractions: Redwood Coast Cabins & RV Resort serves as a convenient base for exploring redwood forests. A camper notes, "Clean restrooms. Courteous staff... small store w/ a few things we needed. Close to lots of hiking."
What you should know
Security varies between locations: While most RV parks maintain security personnel, open areas may have less monitoring. At The Heights Casino RV Lot, a camper mentioned, "There is security and it is a safe feeling with nice people."
Cell service and WiFi quality: Internet connectivity differs significantly between parks. At Mad River Rapids RV Park, one camper observed the bathrooms but noted technology challenges: "Clean bathrooms and showers thankfully. This is good for a quick one night stay. Otherwise it's just a standard RV park with a ton of people crammed together."
Long-term residents: Many parks host both travelers and permanent residents. At Widow White Creek RV Park, a visitor noted, "Manager was extremely nice and the long terms stays locals are friendly. However, the park itself needs major upkeep."
Tips for camping with families
Check park rules regarding children: Some facilities have specific policies about noise levels and activities. At Azalea Glen RV Park, one family had a difficult experience: "This should be a 55 and older community. Their rules for kids are crazy they ask kids make no noise and if they do you will get yelled at by who I assume is the owner or a manager."
Look for parks with play areas: Several parks offer recreational facilities for children. At Redwood Coast Cabins & RV Resort, a visitor observed, "Children's play area was nice. Grassy areas needed mowing. Dog area had agility items for the dogs."
Book early for summer visits: Parks fill quickly during peak seasons. The Blue Lake Casino RV area offers an alternative with facilities for families, with one visitor noting, "We actually made money staying here! Will definitely be back again. Staff was very nice and helpful."
Tips from RVers
Dump station quality: Facilities for waste disposal vary significantly. Blue Lake Casino provides complimentary services, with one RVer noting, "Free water and dump station! They also give you $10 of free table credits and $10 to play on slots plus coupons for their restaurants."
Space between sites: Privacy levels differ substantially between parks. At Redwood Coast Cabins & RV Resort, a visitor observed, "Nice spot, but no privacy, sites are right on top of each other."
After-hours check-in procedures: Late arrivals should verify check-in protocols. A Mad River Rapids RV Park visitor shared, "Online booking does not work after 3pm for same day booking so we called to make the reservation. Staff said they would leave us paperwork since they leave around 5pm with bathroom code and WiFi."
