Elam Backcountry Camp in Redwood National Park provides primitive accommodations for equestrians and hikers using the Orick Horse Trail. The camp sits at approximately 300 feet elevation within the dense coastal forest ecosystem typical of Northern California. Temperatures range from 40-65°F year-round with frequent fog and rainfall, creating consistently damp conditions.
What to do
Explore nearby beaches: A secluded beach sits just 2 minutes by car or a mile walk from Elk Country RV Resort & Campground. "It's a 2 min drive (or mile walk) to a beautiful and secluded beach," notes Erin A. who camped in the meadow area.
Observe wildlife: Roosevelt elk sightings are common at campgrounds near Klamath. "Elk country rv resort was AMAZING! Nothing beats sleeping under the canopy of redwood trees and waking in the brisk morning to find elk grazing in the adjacent pasture," shares Renee R. about Elk Country RV Resort & Campground.
Hike through redwoods: Several short trails provide access to old-growth forests. "A short and beautiful 20-minute drive to the Lady Bird Trail in Redwood National Park (a great 1.5 mile loop through a redwood grove)," reports Erin A. who used Elk Country as a base for exploration.
What campers like
Unique wildlife encounters: The natural setting provides opportunities for animal viewing. "We enjoyed seeing elk as we pulled in. We went on some nice walks around the pond and watched the otter swim in the water," describes Naomi H. at Elk Country RV Resort & Campground.
Trail network access: Backcountry areas connect to extensive hiking routes. "We just finished a backpacking trip in marble valley and sky high lakes area, both accessible about 5+ miles from the Lovers Camp Trailhead. It was absolutely beautiful!" explains Erin from Lovers Camp Trailhead.
Panoramic vistas: Elevated campsites offer forest views. "Wildly peaceful. 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," describes Leah H. about her experience at Lacks Creek BLM.
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Access to remote sites requires careful driving. "Road is narrow and steep with low hanging trees. The further I got down it the more uncomfortable I got," cautions Jules S. about approaching Lacks Creek BLM with a travel trailer.
Limited facilities: Most backcountry sites offer minimal amenities. "This is wilderness, so appropriate caution must be taken. Bear canister is required if you do not have access to a site with a bear locker," advises Sharon B. who stayed at Elam Backcountry Camp.
Seasonal crowds: Popular areas can become congested during peak periods. "The area with the tables was overflowing with people and cars on a Thursday a few hours before sunset. Might have been one large group but seemed surprising for a spot that's not the easiest to get to," reports Marasha L. about Lacks Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Check shower facilities: Comfort amenities vary widely between sites. "The only negative I could find was that you do have to pay to shower, and we rarely had warm water. Not sure if there was something going on with the showers, but I took some of the fastest showers in my life," notes Renee R. from Elk Country RV Resort & Campground.
Consider campsite location: Choose between open or wooded areas based on preferences. "We stayed on the 'meadow' side where the elk roam through your campsite. The 'forest' side is quite dark as you are camping in the redwoods," explains Nicole B. about the layout at Elk Country RV Resort.
Explore seasonal attractions: Spring brings unique wildlife viewing. "They have a small pond with a ton of polliwogs in it (end of June). No fish in the pond as a couple of otters came in and ate all the fish," adds Nicole B. about features that might interest children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: RV sites vary in privacy and exposure. "The spots are pretty close together. Paid WiFi connectivity," mentions Stefanie W. about Lacks Creek BLM, highlighting the density of camping spaces.
Check road clearance: Access roads may challenge larger vehicles. "Don't be confused when you arrive and head up the hill where you'll find camping spots. We even pulled up our rear drop camper and had no issues at all," advises Luke D. who successfully navigated to Lacks Creek BLM.
Plan for limited connectivity: Cell service is inconsistent throughout the region. "There's limited cell service in the campground," notes Stefanie W. about connectivity at Elk Country RV Resort, suggesting visitors should prepare for communication limitations.
