Tent campsites near Loleta, California offer access to the confluence of redwood forests and Pacific coastline at elevations ranging from sea level to 2,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-75°F, with marine fog common in morning hours and clearing by midday. Winter camping requires preparation for rainfall averaging 40 inches annually, concentrated between November and March.
What to do
Mountain biking at Lacks Creek: Located approximately 40 minutes from Highway 299, this BLM dispersed camping area provides free campsites with vault toilets adjacent to designated biking trails. One camper noted, "There's a nice running/bike path right in the camp ground," though they cautioned about tick prevalence during warmer months.
Wildlife viewing at A.W. Way County Park: Situated along the Mattole River, this county park offers opportunities to observe local wildlife in their natural habitat. According to a reviewer, "Deer and skunks frequent the area," making it an excellent location for nature photographers and wildlife enthusiasts.
Junior Ranger activities at Penn Campground: Children can participate in educational programming about local geology and ecology. One visitor shared that her "11 year old daughter got to participate in the Junior Ranger Program, learning about the geology of the area. The Ranger helped us Ron identify some of the berries we'd seen along the path and which were edible."
What campers like
Privacy between tent sites: Though many campgrounds have relatively close spacing between sites, smart layout and vegetation create personal space. At Penn Campground, campers appreciate how sites are arranged: "We spent 2 nights, one at site 3, which was tucked back a little more than site 5 on our 2nd night."
Clean, accessible facilities at Wuss Camp: Multiple reviewers highlighted the well-maintained amenities at this private campground. One camper stated, "Great, spacious and clean space with amazing bathrooms and showers," while another appreciated that "Bathrooms and shower are easily found and clean."
Community atmosphere at Camp Mattole: The remote nature of this campground fosters connections between visitors. A camper 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
Water availability varies significantly: Many dispersed camping areas require bringing your own water supply. At Camp Mattole, a reviewer cautioned, "Not for the faint of heart as you have to haul your own water in."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity is inconsistent throughout the region, particularly in more remote areas. One camper at Lacks Creek reported, "I was planning on staying here but had no service for miles with Verizon. Not just spotty service, literally nothing until I drove back down 15 minutes and camped on a road turnout."
Road conditions to camping areas: Access to some campgrounds requires navigating unpaved routes. A Lacks Creek visitor provided specific directions: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Security considerations: At Williams Grove Group Camp, a group leader advised, "Word of advice, 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."
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer structured learning activities for children. A parent at Baxter Environmental Camp recommended, "If you're looking for a hidden, out-of-the way campground oasis that will provide privacy, solitude and an intimate experience within the best of what nature has to offer, than look no further than Baxter Campground."
Beach collection activities: Certain parks permit limited collecting of natural materials. At Penn Campground, a family "hiked down to Agate beach where you can collect Agate to take home (no other natural souvenirs are allowed)."
Tips from RVers
Limited facilities at equestrian sites: Horse-focused campgrounds may not be suitable for standard RV camping. Regarding Cuneo Creek Horse Camp, one visitor warned, "Don't bother unless you have horses. A long drive between Garberville and Honey Dew. Great drive but not worth the trip."
Shower preparation at Penn Campground: RVers using tent-oriented facilities should come prepared. A camper advised, "Showers are coin operated and dark though so bring quarters and a flashlight!"
Off-season availability: Many RV-accessible campgrounds have limited seasonal operations. Baxter Environmental Camp operates from "mid-May to late September," while Williams Grove Group Camp is only available from "Memorial Day to Labor Day."
