Dispersed camping near Fields Landing, California extends beyond the immediate coastline into adjacent public lands managed by various agencies. Located in Humboldt County, the area sits at sea level with nearby camping options rising to elevations between 1,000-3,000 feet in the surrounding mountains. Summer temperatures typically range from 55-75°F with frequent coastal fog, while winter brings substantial rainfall averaging 40-60 inches annually, making road conditions variable for backcountry access.
What to do
Hiking trail access: Lacks Creek BLM area features developed hiking trails connecting directly to several camping areas. One camper reports, "There's a nice running/bike path right in the camp ground" though they caution about ticks in the area.
Creek exploration: Camp near Groves Prairie Dispersed Camp for easy water access. "There is a beautiful little creek right next to the campsite," notes a visitor who enjoyed the meadow setting despite some challenges with insects.
Wildlife viewing: 44 Backcountry Camp offers opportunities to see native wildlife. A camper describes it as "very remote, peaceful and quiet," noting the backcountry site has "picnic tables and bear lockers" with level tent sites nestled into the hillside.
Meteor shower observation: The dark skies at higher elevation sites provide excellent stargazing conditions away from city lights. A visitor to Groves Prairie Dispersed Camp specifically chose this location "to see the Perseids Meteor Shower" and "did not see a soul" during their stay.
What campers like
Fire facilities: Pine Ridge Road in the Lacks Creek area has established fire rings with practical cooking features. One reviewer noted, "We took the right turn once you get up to the sign showing you all the campsites. The second campsite you can drive to is on the left and you have an insane view of the trees."
Riverside camping: Aikens Creek Recreation Area provides river access despite being unofficially maintained. "Seems to have been a legit National Forrest campground that is no longer maintained. But it still has camp sites and a little further in there is dispersed very close to the river," reports a camper who found it "secluded and great."
Solitude opportunities: Many sites offer genuine isolation from crowds. A camper at Groves Prairie stated, "This secluded camp is well worth the effort to find. I've been 3 times and finally decided to add it to The Dyrt. There are 3 sites, each with a picnic table and fire ring."
Bear storage: Several backcountry sites provide bear-proof storage containers for food safety. At 44 Camp, a visitor observed "2 bear lockers are available for the whole site," making food storage more convenient than having to hang supplies.
What you should know
Permit requirements: Redwood Creek Dispersed Camp requires advance planning. "GO TO THE WEBSITE!! if you want to camp here, you MUST get a free permit on the website listed on here. If you do not, you will find yourself at a locked gate you cannot enter," warns one camper who successfully obtained access.
Road conditions: Access roads often deteriorate significantly during wet weather. A visitor to Lacks Creek BLM noted, "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."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is minimal or nonexistent at most sites. One camper at Lacks Creek reported, "I was planning on staying here but had no service for miles with Verizon. Not just spotty service, literally nothing until I drove back down 15 minutes and camped on a road turnout."
Seasonal closures: Gate access and road closures affect availability throughout the year. A frustrated visitor to Redwood Creek noted, "Access road is gated after a couple of miles, so unable to even get close" when attempting to visit without obtaining the required permit and gate code.
Tips for camping with families
Creek crossing preparation: Redwood Creek Dispersed Camp requires water crossings that can challenge younger campers. "You WILL cross a creek! The rocks are PAINFUL! Bring your sandals! We did not and that part sucked," advised a family that otherwise enjoyed their experience.
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for animal encounters common in these areas. At Groves Prairie, one camper reported, "We did have a few deer walking through our campsite through the middle of the night, and my dog loved chasing them away."
Sleeping surface preparation: Stream-side camping often means rocky surfaces requiring proper equipment. A visitor to Redwood Creek warned, "You will be camping next to a creek on top of rocks. If you have a sleeping pad, this is no problem. If not, be aware."
Tips from RVers
Road clearance requirements: Lacks Creek BLM roads present challenges for larger vehicles. "Tried to camp here with a 20ft travel trailer and I turned around before I even made it to the gravel road. Road is narrow and steep with low hanging trees," reports one RVer who abandoned their attempt.
Successful smaller setups: Compact camper vans and truck campers navigate better on forest roads. A camper at Lacks Creek BLM shared, "We even pulled up our rear drop camper and had no issues at all," adding that "we were there when it rained all day one of our days and it didn't affect the roads much."
Turnaround space limitations: Limited turning radius at some sites can trap larger vehicles. According to an RV camper, "The further I got down it the more uncomfortable I got. Ended up turning around while I still had a chance to. Tow and RV here at your own risk."
