Best Campgrounds near Ferndale, CA

Ferndale, California provides camping options in a range of settings from coastal areas to redwood forests. Campgrounds in the vicinity include Humboldt County Fairgrounds, which offers both tent and RV sites with full hookups, and Wuss Camp, a smaller established campground with just five sites. Several RV parks serve the area, including Riverwalk RV Park which features tent sites, RV spaces, and cabin accommodations approximately 10 miles east of Ferndale. The region contains both privately operated facilities and public campgrounds within county and state parks.

Camping is available year-round at many locations, though seasonal considerations affect visitor experience and site availability. Humboldt County Fairgrounds provides shower facilities, drinking water, and hookups for RVs, making it suitable for longer stays or travelers seeking more amenities. Several campgrounds in the area have fire pits and allow campfires when conditions permit. Access to most campgrounds requires drive-in capability, with few walk-in or hike-in options. Wuss Camp offers firewood on site, while most locations provide picnic tables. A camper noted, "While traveling to Redwood National Park, I discovered the Kinetic Sculpture Race and the oldest Memorial Day Parade were also taking place. I sought last-minute camping reservations nearby and found a tranquil spot with ample space, offering lovely views of farmland and sunsets."

Visitors to the Ferndale area frequently mention proximity to beaches and redwood forests as highlights of camping in the region. The Humboldt County Fairgrounds receives consistent positive reviews for its convenient location within walking distance of downtown Ferndale, a Victorian-era town with dining and shopping options. Campers appreciate the relatively quiet environment despite being near town amenities. One review emphasized, "Great location to the picturesque town of Ferndale California. Also a convenient location for exploring the Lost Coast area." Some campgrounds like Riverwalk RV Park include additional amenities such as pools, hot tubs, and outdoor kitchens. Weather conditions can vary significantly throughout the year, with reviewers noting the potential for rain and mud during winter months at some facilities.

Best Camping Sites Near Ferndale, California (100)

    1. Humboldt County Fairgrounds

    9 Reviews
    Ferndale, CA
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 786-9511

    $20 - $45 / night

    "Because of recent rains and some soggy areas I had to overnight campers close to me. 30 amp and 50 amp power and water at each side."

    "Walked around Ferndale and had great Mexican food. The coffee shop in town was super cool and cozy."

    2. Wuss Camp

    4 Reviews
    Ferndale, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 599-7381

    $58 - $70 / night

    "The sites are widely dispersed and circle around a beautiful meadow. Bathrooms and shower are easily found and clean. The hosts were kind and helpful."

    3. Samoa Boat Ramp County Park

    12 Reviews
    Samoa, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 445-7651

    "There is even access to them from the parking lot. Was here over a weekend, and it was pretty back with ATV and Side by side riders and rigs."

    "For a boat ramp camping site near town, this place is special. Remote from town but water 360 degrees. You can hear the ocean while looking at the towns across the water."

    4. Riverwalk RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Fortuna, CA
    6 miles
    Website

    "Close to highway so you get a little bit of traffic noise. The heated pool and hot tub were really nice to relax in."

    "I stayed only 2 nights, but what a great location amd campground. Bathroom and shower facilities, and a laundromat. As well as a pool and hot tub!"

    5. Mattole Campground

    19 Reviews
    Petrolia, CA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 986-5400

    $15 / night

    "In my opinion some of the best camping I’ve done on the California coast. So worth paying the $15 a night fee to camp. Very scenic area with lots to see and do, also very “remote” feeling area."

    "The drive from Ferndale to Mattole Campground was like entering another dimension."

    6. Albee Creek Campground — Humboldt Redwoods State Park

    15 Reviews
    Redcrest, CA
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 946-2409

    $35 / night

    "We are avid campers that prefer tucked away campgrounds which are often hard to find when you have a trailer but this one has everything on our list!"

    "This park is gorgeous and the drive into the site rivals the avenue of the giants. The location is very remote. "

    7. Van Duzen County Park - Pamplin Grove

    8 Reviews
    Carlotta, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 445-7651

    $30 - $35 / night

    "swimmerd delight is the correct name. this is our home away from home. good camping and fun swimming. its not to bad on pricing $25 a night for a regular sight. we come here every year for swimming and"

    "He was very helpful and kind and we loved seeing him walk his little dogs around the park."

    8. Humboldt County Fairgrounds RV Park and Campground

    1 Review
    Ferndale, CA
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 601-5210

    $22 - $50 / night

    "I sought last-minute camping reservations nearby and found a tranquil spot with ample space, offering lovely views of farmland and sunsets."

    9. Stafford RV Park

    6 Reviews
    Carlotta, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 764-3416

    "The park is nicely situated among the trees with an easy access from the highway, right near the entrance to the Avenue of the Giants. Would stay here again."

    10. Burlington Campground — Humboldt Redwoods State Park

    29 Reviews
    Weott, CA
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 946-2409

    "Camp site 12 backs up to a fence (houses or cabins occupied behind the fence) and had decent space from other sites. Large picnic table, bear locker and tall fire pit on site."

    "Every site is nestled among a grove of old growth California Redwoods - books up a long time in advance / I was lucky to get a walk up site. Great amenities and right on Avenue of the Giants"

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Recent Reviews near Ferndale, CA

571 Reviews of 100 Ferndale Campgrounds


  • Carol & Ed V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 15, 2025

    Big Lagoon County Park

    Great county campground

    First come first serve. Come early for best sites but it looks like there is something available even later. Showers and toilets were closed for reno, but Porta potty was available. Some sites completely exposed others private.

  • Vinny A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Riverwalk RV Park

    Riverwalk RV Park

    Nice RV park. Close to highway so you get a little bit of traffic noise. The heated pool and hot tub were really nice to relax in.

  • D
    Oct. 11, 2025

    Benbow State Recreation Area Campground

    Closed for the season

    Tried to stay here,only to find out it was closed either for the season or due to toxic bloom. Also, beware the road is somewhat washed out for quite a distance at the top of the hill ,and we have a small 21’ trailer and we barely made it across it was so narrow and it was quite steep. Again only to find out the park was closed!

  • K
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Clam Beach County Park

    Great place

    Great place easy access to everything has on site bathrooms as well as running water, $30 a night, has fire rings and a hike to the beach near by if u need a spot to camp for the night or a few nights max is 3 this is definitely a easy place to go too just be aware it’s right off the freeway and close to an airport so you will hear all the cars and planes taking off but over I do recommend this spot

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 4, 2025

    Humboldt County Fairgrounds

    Good for a night

    Warm showers and quite with most spaces still available even on a Friday night

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    camp trinadad

    Good camp

    We are a 35 ft class a with a toad, we git a pull through and didn't have to unhook.

  • Marasha L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 27, 2025

    Lacks Creek BLM

    Shockingly packed and mediocre road

    Unlucky timing on my part overall with this spot. As of Sept ‘25, chunks of the gravel road were under construction; some blind, narrow turns, but nothing too intense; and dips, washouts, and big exposed rocks, so drive with care. The area with the tables was overflowing with people and cars on a Thursday a few hours before sunset. Might have been one large group (or a few) but seemed surprising for a spot that’s not the easiest or most convenient to get to, but went back the way I came and found another spot that did the trick for a night, with a great hiking trail nearby the next morning. Gorgeous chunk of countryside with great views and wildlife.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Big Lagoon County Park

    Big Lagoon county

    Super chill laid back campground. Popular for locals. 10 minute walk to beach full of agates. Bathrooms. Quiet.

  • Ross F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    Richardson Grove State Park Campground

    Clean

    Pros: Clean campsites spaced apart reasonably with picnic tables and fire pits. Clean bathrooms. Beautiful redwoods.

    Cons: no dogs allowed on the walking trails. $35 for a tent site is a lot but I’m coming to realize that’s pretty much what it costs in California. Firewood is $10.


Guide to Ferndale

Camping near Ferndale, California, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and unique experiences. Whether you’re into tent camping or RVing, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: There are amazing trails nearby, especially in the Humboldt Redwoods State Park. One camper mentioned, “The drive into the site rivals the avenue of the giants,” highlighting the stunning views along the way.
  • Beach Access: Many campgrounds are close to the beach. A review noted, “We were able to take several walks down to the beach with our dogs,” making it a great spot for pet lovers.
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One camper shared, “We saw wild turkeys, a baby fox, deer, and our neighbors saw bears!” This area is rich in nature.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A review from Emerald Forest Cabins & RV stated, “Bathrooms were clean and showers were adequate.”
  • Secluded Campsites: Many enjoy the privacy offered by the sites. One camper at Hidden Springs Campground said, “For the most part, the trees and bushes gave us tons of privacy.”
  • Beautiful Scenery: Campers rave about the stunning landscapes. A review for Burlington Campground described it as “a beautiful campground in Humboldt Redwoods State Park right on Avenue of the Giants.”

What you should know:

  • Weather Conditions: Be prepared for changing weather. One camper at Mattole Campground mentioned, “You’ll get 4 seasons of weather in a day, so plan accordingly.”
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have full amenities. A review for Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination noted, “There did appear to be some folks that may be a bit long term which is always a bit of a turnoff for me.”
  • Tight Campsites: Some sites can be cramped. A camper at Hidden Springs Campground mentioned, “The area you have to park your rig are TINY, so it can definitely be difficult the bigger your rig is.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby beaches and hiking trails. One family shared, “Our dogs absolutely loved running on the beach,” which is great for kids too.
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on your kids, especially near water. A review for Clam Beach County Park mentioned, “The campground became full pretty quickly, but it didn’t feel crowded.”
  • Pack Snacks: Some campgrounds are remote, so bring food and drinks. A camper at Albee Creek Campground advised, “Make sure you bring quarters for the showers.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A review for Burlington Campground noted, “Some sites are small, some are somewhat private, but they are close together in general.”
  • Bring Quarters: Many showers are coin-operated. A camper at Hidden Springs Campground mentioned, “Showers were warm and was 25 cents a minute.”
  • Plan for Tight Turns: Some roads can be narrow. A review for Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination warned, “The road coming into the park is just kinda sketchy.”

Camping near Ferndale, California, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, with plenty of options for families and RVers alike. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the beautiful surroundings!

Frequently Asked Questions

When is the best season for camping in Ferndale, California?

Late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the most reliable weather for camping near Ferndale. Summer brings warmer, drier conditions ideal for exploring the area. Albee Creek Campground in Humboldt Redwoods State Park is particularly beautiful during summer months when the redwoods provide natural shade. Winter camping is possible but challenging due to significant rainfall. The shoulder seasons (May/June and September/October) often provide a pleasant balance of good weather with fewer crowds at places like Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park Campground, where you can enjoy amazing redwood hiking trails without summer crowds.

Where can I find camping areas near Ferndale, CA?

Several excellent camping options surround Ferndale. Humboldt County Fairgrounds offers convenient RV camping right in town with level spots, 30/50 amp power, and water hookups. For a more remote coastal experience, Mattole Campground provides breathtaking scenery about an hour from Ferndale via Mattole Road. The drive is challenging but rewarding with spectacular views. Other nearby options include Van Duzen County Park, Stafford RV Park, and several campgrounds in Humboldt Redwoods State Park, all within reasonable driving distance of Ferndale's Victorian charm.

What amenities are available at Ferndale campgrounds?

Amenities vary by location. Redwood Acres RV Park offers full hookups and convenient access to Eureka's services while serving as a central base for exploring coastal and forest attractions. At Hidden Springs Campground in Humboldt Redwoods State Park, you'll find more rustic facilities with basic amenities in a serene forest setting. The Humboldt County Fairgrounds provides clean, heated restrooms with free showers, water hookups, and 30/50 amp electrical service. Most campgrounds in the area offer toilets and potable water, while RV parks typically provide electrical hookups, dump stations, and shower facilities. Cell service can be limited at more remote locations.