Lacks Creek Management Area offers primitive camping near Hoopa, California with established sites across several distinct locations. The area sits between 2,000-4,000 feet elevation, creating variable temperatures throughout the year. Summer brings hot, dry conditions while winter often makes access difficult due to mud and occasional snow at higher elevations.
What to do
Mountain biking opportunities: The Lacks Creek area contains over 30 miles of multi-use trails popular among mountain bikers. Visitors at Groves Prairie Dispersed Camp enjoy proximity to these trails, with one camper noting, "This secluded camp is well worth the effort to find... There are 3 sites, each with a picnic table and fire ring."
Creek exploration: Small streams run through many of the camping areas, providing cooling opportunities during summer months. At Redwood Creek Dispersed Camp, a visitor shared, "You will be camping next to a creek on top of rocks. If you have a sleeping pad, this is no problem."
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife including deer and birds of prey. A camper at Redwood Creek mentioned, "The hike is beautiful, downhill for the trek to the campsite but it is SO worth it. Very private, very pretty. We saw a bald eagle!"
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Many dispersed sites offer privacy not found in developed campgrounds. A visitor to Lacks Creek BLM reported, "Wildly peaceful. Read the description in the bio, follow the directions, and you'll find yourself able to choose from a handful of campsites."
Forest views: The elevated terrain provides forest vistas throughout the area. One camper described, "The second campsite you can drive to is on the left and you have an insane view of the trees. The sunset was absolutely incredible."
Basic amenities: Despite primitive conditions, some sites offer unexpected conveniences. A visitor to Aikens Creek Recreation Area explained, "Seems to have been a legit National Forrest campground that is no longer maintained.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."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Road signage can be confusing for first-time visitors. A camper at BLM Dispersed Camping - Lacks Creek advised, "Drive east on Highway 299 for 17.8 miles from Highway 101. Turn left at the Redwood Valley turn off (Bair Road) and travel 3.9 miles. Make a right turn at the sign that reads 'Hoopa- 22 miles', and travel 5.9 miles up this windy gravel road."
Permit requirements: Some sites require advance permits. A Redwood Creek camper warned, "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."
Bug issues: Insects can be problematic during warmer months. One visitor cautioned, "The BLM land with good signs and maps. The Lacks Creek campground is just a gravel parking area. No creek water in early June but lots of ticks. Very hot too."
Tips for camping with families
Bear safety precautions: Some backcountry sites provide bear lockers for food storage. A visitor to 44 Backcountry Camp noted, "This campsite has picnic tables and bear lockers... There are 4 picnic tables between what seem to be 3 sites each with a fire ring. 2 bear lockers are available for the whole site."
Water crossing preparation: Bring appropriate footwear for stream crossings. One camper advised, "You WILL cross a creek! The rocks are PAINFUL! Bring your sandals! We did not and that part sucked."
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for potential wildlife encounters. A camper at Groves Prairie mentioned, "We did have a few deer walking through our campsite through the middle of the night."
Tips from RVers
Road condition assessment: The access roads present significant challenges for larger vehicles. A visitor noted, "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."
Vehicle size limitations: Smaller trailers may navigate the roads successfully with caution. One camper reported, "We even pulled up our rear drop camper and had no issues at all."
Turnaround space: Consider potential difficulties with turning larger vehicles around. A visitor warned, "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."
