The Petrolia area sits at the southern end of the Lost Coast region, where the King Range meets the Pacific Ocean. This remote section of Northern California experiences a Mediterranean climate with dry summers and wet winters, receiving over 100 inches of annual rainfall in parts of the King Range. Camping near Petrolia offers access to both the Mattole River watershed and coastal beach camping opportunities, with most sites operating on a first-come basis.
What to do
River swimming: A.W. Way County Park provides access to the Mattole River for swimming during summer months. "This is a very family friendly lazy river camping area. Camp sites are flat. Deer and skunks frequent the area," notes a camper at A.W. Way County Park.
Redwood hikes: Visitors can explore ancient forests near several campgrounds within an hour's drive. "There is a redwood grove hiking trail behind the campsites that takes you from one end of the campground to the other. You can also walk across Avenue of the Giants from the entrance to a trail that leads you down to the South Fork Eel River," explains a camper at Hidden Springs Campground.
Lost Coast Trail: The northern terminus of this wilderness backpacking route begins near Mattole Campground. "This area is just unbelievably gorgeous. Some rough roads but well worth it," states one camper about the surrounding terrain.
What campers like
Coastal solitude: The remote beach location attracts those seeking quiet camping. "I stopped in at this site as I thought it was dispersed. It's ran by the BLM so it was $15. Sites are level, there is trash bins and paths to the ocean. I was here in June and it was still pretty chilly and windy," reports a visitor to Mattole Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds in the region offer animal sighting opportunities. "We saw wild turkeys, a baby fox, deer, and our neighbors saw bears! A really cool spot to camp! Large campsites," shares a camper from Albee Creek Campground.
Peaceful atmosphere: The distance from major population centers creates a tranquil environment. "Our site felt secluded, but was only about 30 yards from one of the bathrooms. The best part was that we were right on the Avenue of the Giants, and there was plenty to do," notes a camper about Hidden Springs Campground.
What you should know
Weather conditions: Coastal winds can be intense, particularly at beach campgrounds. "Be prepared for weather changes and cooler weather, it can change rapidly. Be prepared to be lulled to sleep by the sound of the waves crashing against the shore!" advises a Mattole Campground visitor.
Road accessibility: The roads to Petrolia and surrounding areas require careful navigation. "The journey to Mattole Campground was like entering another dimension. I drove in on a mild, sunny day in late July and as I began to make my way into the King Range I was spellbound with the magnitude of the beauty," reports one camper.
Limited supplies: There are few options for purchasing essentials near camping areas. "It's a good 25 minute drive each way to Myers Flat for provisions so stop on the way," recommends a visitor to Burlington Campground.
Tips for camping with families
River-focused sites: For families with children, riverside camping provides natural entertainment. "Great campground for families. Has an old apple orchard that bears frequently forage. A beautiful and quiet park," mentions a visitor to Albee Creek Campground.
Bear safety: Store food properly as bears are active in several campground areas. "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," explains a camper about seasonal wildlife patterns.
Educational opportunities: Several campgrounds offer nature programs and visitor centers. "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," notes one visitor.
Tips from RVers
Overnight options: RVers passing through the area have several choices for single-night stays. "Stayed in parking lot for an over night stay heading up the coast. Safe, easy, cheep. 14.00 for parking lot around $30 for hook ups in grass area," reports a visitor to Humboldt County Fairgrounds in Ferndale.
Size limitations: Many campgrounds near Petrolia have restrictions on larger RVs. "This campground can only accommodate smaller trailers in only a few spots. We are avid campers that prefer tucked away campgrounds which are often hard to find when you have a trailer but this one has everything on our list!" explains a camper with a 25-foot trailer at Albee Creek Campground.
Water quality considerations: Some RV parks in the region have mineral-heavy water. "The water jug we had filled with their water was full of rusty red residue at the bottom, ick. And that's with using a filter," cautions an RVer about local water conditions.
