Camping in the King Range National Conservation Area combines oceanfront spots with inland forest sites across varied terrain. Located along California's northern coastline, this BLM-managed area sits where the King Range mountains meet the Pacific Ocean, creating diverse microclimates. Most tent campsites near King Range National Conservation Area lack cell service, with temperatures typically ranging from 40-75°F depending on elevation and season.
What to do
Beach exploration at low tide: Visitors to Usal Beach Campground can explore the shoreline during morning hours when tides are lower. "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.
Hiking mountain trails: The forested areas behind King Range Conservation Area offer day hiking options with elevation changes. "Gorgeous hike, a little rough due to sand and rocks but well worth the effort. Very few people, even in summer! This is a must see," says Jessica M.
Wildlife observation: Early morning is best for spotting wildlife throughout the conservation area. "We saw several parties of hunters using the campground as a base for the opening weekend of deer season, which we had not anticipated," mentions Jon S. about King Range Conservation Area.
What campers like
Remote beach access: Campers appreciate the seclusion of Camp Mattole despite the logistics required. "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," says Ann N.
Primitive coastal camping: Many campers value the rustic nature of tent sites near the conservation area. "We 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," reports Spencer J. about Nadelos Campground.
Communal atmosphere: Some campsites foster interaction among visitors. At Camp Mattole, Ann N. observed: "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."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles and can become impassable when wet. At Usal Beach, Jake S. warns: "6 miles of potholes, rough dirt road and some deep puddles and you'll find a beautiful sandy beach with camping spots above the tide and some in the trees for privacy."
Water availability: Bring sufficient water supplies as many locations have limited or no potable water. "When we were there a few years ago, there was no water available because illegal pot growers had 'poached' the park's water for their crops, forcing the BLM to shut down the water system," Jon S. reports about King Range Conservation Area.
Seasonal closures: Campground availability varies throughout the year, with some sites closing during winter months. Baxter Environmental Camp in Humboldt Redwoods State Park operates "mid-May to late September" according to park information.
Security concerns: Keep valuables secure as some campsites report theft issues. At Williams Grove Group Camp, Susan H. advises: "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."
Tips for camping with families
River camping options: Families seeking calmer water access might prefer A.W. Way County Park along the Mattole River. "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," explains JoJo H.
Wildlife preparation: Teach children about proper food storage and wildlife awareness. "Saw several rattlesnakes in the areas where you will camp," warns Jesus R. about the Lost Coast Trail area.
Bathroom accessibility: Consider campgrounds with maintained restroom facilities for easier family camping. At Wuss Camp, reviewers note "great, spacious and clean space with amazing bathrooms and showers" making it suitable for families with young children.
Tips from RVers
Alternative RV sites: Horse Mountain Campground offers primitive sites for smaller RVs willing to navigate rougher roads. Stephanie S. notes: "It's an old abandoned camp that is now free to use because it is no longer maintained. There are a few picnic tables and lots of trees. Road around camp is still drivable."
Sand hazards: RV campers should avoid driving on beach sand at coastal campsites. Braxton C. warns about Usal Beach: "Don't get stuck in sand. Pick up trash please lots of firework junk and stuff."
Hookup limitations: Most campsites near King Range lack full hookups, requiring self-contained operation. Cuneo Creek Horse Camp is an exception, offering electric hookups and sewer connections primarily for equestrian campers.
