RV sites near Fortuna, California offer direct access to redwood forests with tree heights reaching 300+ feet. The Eel River watershed crosses this area, providing fishing and swimming spots during summer months when water levels are safe. Winter temperatures drop to 40°F with frequent rain, requiring proper preparation.
What to do
River swimming spots: At Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination, visitors can cool off in the adjacent Eel River. "The grounds were super clean and quiet. Just hung out at the beach the whole time, but the Avenue of the giants is right there. Must see if you haven't been," notes one camper who appreciated the riverside location.
Explore Kinetic Sculpture Race: When staying at Humboldt County Fairgrounds RV Park and Campground, check event schedules. A visitor discovered, "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."
Redwood forest biking: Ancient Redwoods RV Park provides an ideal base for cycling enthusiasts. "Unloaded the bikes, rode the area and hung out for 4 nights. Very quiet and peaceful," shares a visitor who used the campground as a launching point for exploring Avenue of the Giants.
What campers like
Spacious tent camping areas: Stafford RV Park offers comfortable tent sites away from RV spaces. "The tent sites are very odd it's a strip of grass with a picnic bench every 5 yards," notes one reviewer who appreciated the setup despite the layout. The park features fire rings at tent sites and showers included with camping fees.
Riverside views: Redwood Coast Cabins & RV Resort gets positive feedback for its waterfront location. "The cabins are cute and charming (be prepared, no kitchen) and the grounds clean," reports a visitor who appreciated the simplified accommodation options near water features.
Beach access: Samoa Boat Ramp County Park provides unique beach proximity. "This campground is essentially a paved parking lot with numbered stalls. It sits about 200 yards from the BLM Samoa Sand Dunes, which is the main attraction. There is even access to them from the parking lot," explains one visitor who valued the easy beach access over campground amenities.
What you should know
Seasonal water quality varies: At Mad River Rapids RV Park, the terrain can get muddy with frequent coastal rain. "Try to park so your steps don't land over grass when it's rainy or you'll track mud in your rv," advises a frequent visitor who managed the conditions successfully.
Reservation systems change: Many parks require advance notice, especially during summer. "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," reports a camper describing check-in logistics.
Specific breed restrictions: Some parks limit dog breeds. "Keep in mind that anytime your within 30 min of Eureka, CA there will be sketchy people acting nefarious ways," notes one camper at Stafford RV Park, adding that the park posts restrictions about modest dress codes and dog breeds not allowed.
Tips for camping with families
Playground availability: Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination offers kid-friendly facilities. "The playground was a huge hit with our toddler too, as well as river access," mentions a family who found multiple activities to keep children engaged.
Off-season quiet: Winter camping provides a different experience. "Grounds 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," reports a visitor at Widow White Creek RV Park who appreciated the uncrowded conditions.
Beach activities: The Samoa dunes offer family recreation opportunities. "We left deciding that we'd definitely come back to spend a day on the beach later in the summer," shares a family who found the beach experience worthwhile despite mixed feelings about the campground itself.
Tips from RVers
Accessibility considerations: Shoreline RV Park accommodates larger RVs in central Eureka. "Less than 30 minutes from the Redwoods and the beach. Walking distance to target and a gas station with diesel. Very well kept yards, bathrooms, showers and laundry," notes a traveler who appreciated the convenient location.
Highway noise awareness: RV sites near Fortuna vary in noise levels. "Park is fine, spots are level and fairly easy to get into... laundromat had a few working machines, grounds kept up," reports a visitor to Mad River Rapids RV Park while noting the proximity to roads.
Full hookup availability: While many campgrounds offer water and electric, "The WiFi worked good until the last day. The 15A outlet worked until the last day," shares a camper who found the power and connectivity adequate but inconsistent at certain locations around Fortuna.
