Camping near Myers Flat, California takes place at elevations between 200-400 feet within the coastal fog belt where summer temperatures typically range from 65-75°F during the day and drop to 50-55°F at night. Winter camping sees cooler temperatures with higher rainfall between November and March. Most campgrounds in the area operate on the Pacific time zone and cellular service can be spotty throughout the redwood corridor.
What to do
River swimming access: 3-4 minute walk from Hidden Springs Campground leads to the South Fork Eel River, ideal during July when water levels are optimal. "We stayed in July when the water was warm enough in which to swim and the fish are very playful. Bring a blanket or pad to sunbathe, the scenery is beautiful. Careful hiking around the area though, poison oak is abundant," notes a Hidden Springs Campground visitor.
Wildlife viewing at Albee Creek: Morning and evening hours are prime times to watch for wildlife at Albee Creek Campground. "The large meadow in front of the camp sites has tall grass that helps hide the deer and bears that like to come out and eat from the fruit trees that produce during the summer time. It's not uncommon to stroll the meadow early morning or in the evening and see the Black Bears up the fruit trees munching away on apples and the Deer eating what the bear drop," explains a regular camper.
Cycling the Paradise Royale Loop: For mountain biking enthusiasts, Tolkan Campground offers direct trail access. "Love this spot! Huge sites, clean pit toilets, and backs right up to the Paradise Royale bike trail and terrain park," writes one cyclist who visited the area, adding that "Getting there on Kings Peak road from Honeydew is not for the faint of heart, or anybody without four-wheel drive and high clearance."
What campers like
Forest immersion and shade: The thick redwood canopy creates a cooler microclimate even on hot summer days. "The entire campground is ALWAYS in the shade because of the tree density," explains a Burlington Campground visitor. "You will hear traffic from the Highway 101 in the evening and morning, but it quiets down enough at night you wont even think about it," adds another camper about the ambient sounds.
Proximity to visitor center resources: Having educational materials and ranger knowledge nearby enhances the experience. "The highlight of the Burlington campground is that it's right by the Visitors Center so you have easy access to the wifi, free coffee in the morning, and lots of educational opportunities. In fact, I even had wifi access at my campsite," shares a Burlington visitor.
Natural play structures: "My daughter and her friend loved playing among the trees and stumps, and riding her scooter around the loop," writes a visitor to Hidden Springs Campground. Another camper adds, "There are many different loops in the park and we found a great large site with no neighbours so extremely quiet and private but a short little walk to the washroom."
What you should know
Shade affects solar power: For RVers with solar setups, be prepared for limited charging capabilities. "Tons of shade so don't expect your solar panels to keep your battery charged," warns a visitor to Burlington Campground.
Shower logistics: Bring quarters for shower facilities. "Coin operated showers and clean restrooms were very well maintained," notes one Albee Creek Campground camper. At Hidden Springs, "Cost was .25¢ per minute- I didn't notice a change machine near the bathrooms but the front office girl said they could make change, they closed at 9 when we were there."
Seasonal water levels: The South Fork Eel River changes dramatically throughout the year. "We visited in Winter and had nearly the entire place to ourselves. Quiet and peaceful, perfect for the entire family," shares a winter visitor, while a summer camper notes, "The river is less healthy in August" after the long dry period.
Insects: "All throughout our PNW camping trip, this was the only site we needed bug spray/bands and a bug zapper light to sit comfortably around the campfire," notes a camper at Hidden Springs.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom proximity for young children: Choose sites strategically when camping with kids. "Our spot felt secluded, but was only about 30 yards from one of the bathrooms," explains a visitor to Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination.
Kid-friendly water access: The South Fork Eel River provides shallow areas appropriate for children. "Bull Creek that runs along Albee is a wonderful for a shady hike in the cool water while looking for frogs, turtles, snakes and salamanders. My boys love doing this and hanging out here most of the time," shares a parent.
Nature exploration programs: The visitor centers offer junior ranger programs and educational activities. "Daily planned activities, so many great hiking trails, and the best part is: COFFEE at the visitor center! You don't have to brew your own!" shares an enthusiastic parent from the area.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions and road conditions: Larger rigs should carefully consider campground selection. "We are in a 42' 5th wheel and we're glad to not have had neighbors when we moved in. All hookups are at the very back of your site so the power posts are slightly in the way when pulling in. Driving in the grass is unavoidable," notes a visitor to Benbow KOA.
Full hookup options: For those needing utility connections, private campgrounds offer more amenities. "Perfect first trip in our travel trailer. The park was about 1/3 full. Our site backed up to the Eel river with Giants redwoods everywhere. The grounds were super clean and quiet," shares a camper at Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination.
Length limitations: Most state park campgrounds accommodate smaller RVs best. "We arrived late and selected unreserved level site for 24' RV. Paid using cash envelope. All sites are shaded under tall trees. A mix of tent and sites suitable for smaller RVs. No hook-ups," explains a Burlington Campground visitor.
