The Garberville area sits at the southern edge of California's Lost Coast, where the King Range mountains meet the Pacific Ocean, creating one of the most rugged sections of coastline in the continental United States. Dispersed tent camping options range from beachfront sites to forested areas with elevations from sea level to 4,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 65-75°F during the day, while coastal fog and wind can make evenings significantly cooler, especially at beach campsites.
What to do
Explore secluded beaches: Drive to Usal Beach Campground where you can camp directly on the black sand. "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," notes Matthew S.
Hike wilderness trails: The King Range Conservation Area offers multiple trail options ranging from day hikes to multi-day backpacking trips. "Took on the lost coast trail. From Mattole River to the black sand beach in Whitethorn town. Took 3 nights finished the 4th day... Beautiful scenery but it doesn't change as much after all it is a beach trail. Watch out for rattlesnakes in the areas where you will camp," advises Jesus R.
River swimming: Visit A.W. Way County Park for family-friendly water access. "This is a very family friendly lazy river camping area. Camp sites are flat. Deer and skunks frequent the area. dog-friendly. River is usually low on water in the summer months," according to JoJo H.
What campers like
Off-grid seclusion: Camp Mattole provides a truly remote experience. "Wonderfully remote. Excellent weather in August. Chilly at night if wind starts to blow. I love the remoteness of this place, it is California's lost coast. Not for the faint of heart as you have to haul your own water in," shares Ann N.
Wildlife viewing: Many sites offer opportunities to see native animals. At Boy Scout Cove Campground, one visitor noted, "We stayed there the last weekend in May and enjoyed the mild weather and the lack of other campers. The views of the cove are great and provide decent fishing from the bank."
Community atmosphere: Some of the best tent camping near Garberville, California develops spontaneous camping communities. At Camp Mattole, "The other people camping were really fabulous. Super laid back. A lot of younger hikers and older hippy types all hanging out together and often sharing meals amongst other campers. A true community of people," describes Ann N.
What you should know
Access roads can be challenging: Many sites require high-clearance vehicles. At Usal Beach Campground, "The road was a bit rougher than expected (took us roughly 45 min from the paved road to camp). People made it down in mini vans but I personally wouldn't try it," cautions Connor M.
Cell service is limited: Most campgrounds have no connectivity. As one camper at Usal Beach noted, "T-Mobile had 0 service."
Pack in water: Several sites lack drinking water. At Boy Scout Cove Campground, "while it's advertised as having water available, it's marked non-potable. It's a bit of an adventure driving in, but well worth it," reports Paul H.
Tips for camping with families
Choose established sites: Nadelos Campground works well for larger groups. "Stayed here on a school trip with a group of over 50 people and we had plenty of room. Campsite had access to a few different foot paths which we didn't explore too far down but certainly seemed nice," shares Spencer J.
Secure your belongings: At Williams Grove Group Camp, one camper warns, "We were there as a group with Cubscouts and Boy Scouts and on the 2nd night had about $500 worth of food and gear stolen while we were sleeping. Definitely lock up or put away your gear at night."
Check for shower facilities: Most primitive sites lack showers. For tent camping near Garberville with bathing options, consider Baxter Environmental Camp where one visitor mentioned, "The campground is well organized, with tons of hiking trails and all of the standard amenities... along with well-maintained bathroom and shower facilities."
Tips from RVers
Choose campsites carefully: At Baxter Environmental Camp in Humboldt Redwoods State Park, RVers appreciate the full hookup options. "The campground is well organized, with tons of hiking trails and all of the standard amenities- 30/50 electrical, water and sewage hook-ups, along with well-maintained bathroom and shower facilities. All of this, in the midst of a forest with some of the tallest and oldest trees in the universe," reports Stuart K.
Bring coins for showers: If staying at established campgrounds with facilities, be prepared with change. One camper at Humboldt Redwoods State Park advises, "They have coin showers so bring lots of chain!"
Book ahead during peak season: The best tent camping sites near Garberville fill quickly during summer. A visitor to Humboldt Redwoods mentioned, "We did a west coast camping road trip around September. Once we hit red wood national park, all sites were booked."
