Campers near Phillipsville, California can explore rustic sites nestled within a mixed forest ecosystem at elevations ranging from 400-800 feet above sea level. The area experiences mild summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping months (June-September) with notably cooler evenings dropping to 50-55°F. Winter camping remains viable with daytime temperatures rarely falling below 45°F, though precipitation increases significantly from November through March.
What to do
River swimming access: 15-minute hike required at Redwoods River Resort & Campground, where one camper noted, "The river is a steep walk down the hill to get there, but it's totally worth it." Swimming areas vary by water level and are typically best from late June through August.
Fishing opportunities: Catch multiple species at Bailey Canyon Campground where visitors report success with various techniques: "Caught bass and catfish. Watched Osprey diving for fish in the early morn right from my campsite. Bald eagles, Herons and Hawks were also a joy to watch."
Beach access camping: Pacific coast within 40 miles at coastal campgrounds where privacy varies significantly by season. A camper at Westport Beach mentioned, "We spent 4 nights here with our travel trailer. We had a site with full hook ups, including sewage. This is a great campground that is right on the beach!"
What campers like
Private river swimming: Less crowded than state parks at smaller campgrounds. Redwoods River Resort offers dedicated swimming areas that campers appreciate: "We really enjoyed our campsite. It was private and level. We really enjoyed the play ground and all the outdoor games."
Secluded glamping close to Phillipsville, California: Unique accommodations with varied privacy levels. Stafford RV Park offers "cute cabins (tiny)" according to reviewers, and "a cute tree house to rent for a good price."
Wildlife observation: Dawn and dusk opportunities at lakeside sites where campers report: "Kids enjoyed swimming catching frogs, turtles and baby catfish with their hands. Poison oak is cleared from around the campsite but need to use care off trail."
What you should know
Limited cellular connectivity: Plan accordingly at multiple area campgrounds. At Richardson Grove RV and Campground, a visitor warned, "Just don't count on wifi or cell connection. It's 1960 here."
Water quality issues: Iron content in local water affects some campgrounds. At Stafford RV Park, campers report seeing "rusty red residue at the bottom" of water containers, and laundry facilities have signs "saying that your clothes may stain due to the iron in the water."
Road noise: Proximity to highways impacts sleep quality at several campgrounds. At Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park, visitors report: "Close to the road, we heard vehicles all night. We were in a hard sided camper two rows away from the road and could hear them inside."
Seasonal availability: Book 2-3 months in advance for summer weekends at popular glamping sites near Phillipsville. Winter camping options remain available with reduced amenities at most locations.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: Supervised shallow areas with natural features. Bailey Canyon offers opportunities where "Kids enjoyed swimming catching frogs, turtles and baby catfish with their hands."
Multi-generational gathering spots: Large group sites available at Dean Creek Resort where facilities include "hot showers, flush toilets, even a pool" making it suitable for families with varied comfort needs.
Wildlife observation opportunities: Morning activity peaks for spotting local species. A camper noted, "Watched Osprey diving for fish in the early morn right from my campsite. Bald eagles, Herons and Hawks were also a joy to watch."
Safety considerations: Poison oak awareness required on trails. A Bailey Canyon visitor warned, "Poison oak is cleared from around the campsite but need to use care off trail."
Tips from RVers
Limited leveling at older campgrounds: Bring blocks as many sites require adjustment. At Humboldt County Fairgrounds, RVers noted, "The spots are level, it felt safe enough" but advised caution with larger rigs.
RV size restrictions: Length limits under 25 feet at some campgrounds near redwoods. At Grizzly Creek, one RVer warned the campground is "Not suited for most RVs and travel trailers, you need to be very small and fully self contained. Our 19' A-Line barely fit into our spot."
Dump station quality varies significantly: Check availability before arrival. At Humboldt County Fairgrounds, experienced RVers report the dump station is "by far the worst RV dump that I've used. It works, but needs a complete rebuild."
Hook-up reliability: Power fluctuations possible at smaller campgrounds. Redcrest Resort offers reliable services where campers noted, "Nice campground, clean restroom and shower facilities, just nice all-around."
