Join the fun near Leggett. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that California camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Leggett camping trip.
Usal Beach Campground
39 min away
Bailey Canyon Campground
2 hrs 11 min away
"It was easy to find the access road by the mile marker on Hwy. 1."
"It was our first time dispersed camping. We fell in LOVE!! The 45 min dirt road was filled with amazing views early morning. Will definitely be coming back here more often."
"The trail in is basically an old mountain pass logging road that isn't maintained the best. It's narrow in spots and steep grade. I towed my offroad camper up without issue but its only 13ft long."
"Only drawback is proximity to the access road and a bit exposed."
GuideIt was easy to find the access road by the mile marker on Hwy. 1.
The road itself is rough and could be very unsettling for anyone trying to do this trip in a vehicle without good off-road clearance. The ruts can be big and cause bottoming out of street cars. For the most part, the road is easy, but challenging in some spots and skinny. You may have to make way or room for oncoming vehicles.
The area has plenty of campsites and fires are allowed. You can choose to shelter in the wooded areas or setup right on the beach. Beware of the deep sand. Lots of folks get stuck here, so drive carefully.
I loved this place, but so many people know about it. Prepare for neighbors sharing the area. Still it was secluded enough to really enjoy.
What do I have to say about it further? Dude! It's Northern CA. It's the Pacific Ocean. It's a dream combo you can only experience by being there. Love this place and keep it clean!
RangerThe trail in is basically an old mountain pass logging road that isn't maintained the best. It's narrow in spots and steep grade. I towed my offroad camper up without issue but its only 13ft long. I wouldn't advise anything much larger then 18ft. I did have to use 4x4 on some of the grades due to the trailer but if just in a vehicle it would be pretty easy. It would definitely present a challenge if it has just rained or was raining. It's true dispersed camping of pack in and pack it out. There's no facilities or trash. Plenty of space to spread out. Don't forget to air down those tires when going out on the beach. I would definitely come back to this one. Also the internet test was based on my Starlink not cell service. I have Verizion and had no service here.
GuideGreat views — and often less soggy than down below on the water and beach. Only drawback is proximity to the access road and a bit exposed.
TravelerIt was our first time dispersed camping. We fell in LOVE!! The 45 min dirt road was filled with amazing views early morning. Will definitely be coming back here more often.
ScoutPicked this campsite on a whim during a trip up the coast. I was looking for an out of the way coastal campground that was still drivable, and boy, this campground did not disappoint. The road coming into Usal is a pretty messed up mountain road thanks to the fact that it's also used by logging trucks. I would really only recommend this road if you have AWD or 4WD, but we did see a Scion TC come into the campground at one point, so do whatever you feel comfortable with. Once you're down in the campground you'll be rewarded with a fairly secluded beach view and have your choice of either camping on the beach itself or camping in the wooded area a bit further back from the shore. We chose the latter, and even with the number of other parties near us, we were still able to find a fairly secluded spot. The only facility on-site is a single pit toilet that's sort of hidden by the entrance road. As far the fee is concerned, I've seen elsewhere that the camping fee is $25 but if there was a place to even pay that we couldn't find it. All in all, a wonderful campsite with some killer views, just be cautious and prepared for the drive in
GuideI’ve heard that this place can get crowded during the summer months I’m glad we waited until fall Definitely off the beaten path We were here on a Thursday night on our way to shelter cove via Usal rd
ScoutWe drove our awe small hatchback car - almost didn’t make it over one of the first huge road breakups - but we pushed through & found the beach at the end - I would fo back if I felt more confident in my car/ was driving a vehicle with better tires and higher clearance - it was glorious
ScoutYou will need at least a quarter of a foot of clearance to make it up the road, it is IMPASSABLE if the road is wet. We saw people getting rescued by firefighters. BE VERY CAREFUL
TravelerDrove my volvo xc70 to the sand. You’ll at least need awd to go the whole way. Takes about 30 mins. Bring firewood, the beach is picked clean.
Dispersed camping near Leggett, California, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the freedom of camping away from traditional sites. With stunning landscapes and a variety of experiences, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Leggett, California?
Usal Beach Campground offers excellent free dispersed camping opportunities near Leggett. It's accessible via a rough dirt road off Highway 1 (look for the mile marker). The campground provides beach camping with forest backdrop. While the 45-minute drive in requires careful navigation, campers are rewarded with beautiful coastal views and plenty of space to set up camp. A vehicle with good clearance is highly recommended, especially during wet conditions.
What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Leggett?
When dispersed camping near Leggett, practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash. At Usal Beach Overlook, campers should stay in established sites to minimize environmental impact. The area has no formal facilities, so come prepared with everything you need, including water and waste disposal options. Bring your own firewood as the beach is often picked clean. Fire safety is critical – use existing fire rings when available and fully extinguish all fires. Vehicle access is limited to designated roads and trails only.
Is dispersed camping in Leggett available year-round?
Dispersed camping near Leggett is technically available year-round, but seasonal conditions significantly impact accessibility. At Grizzly Flat Dispersed Campground, wildlife activity (including bears) increases in warmer months. For other dispersed sites in the area, winter and spring rains can make access roads impassable, especially for vehicles without 4x4 capability. Many campers report getting stuck during wet conditions, with some even requiring rescue. For the safest experience, plan your visit during drier months (late spring through fall) and always check road conditions before attempting access.
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