The redwood region surrounding Piercy, California offers diverse glamping and camping experiences amid coastal mountains at elevations ranging from 700 to 2,300 feet. Located on the Eel River, this area maintains moderate temperatures even in summer, rarely exceeding 85°F during peak season. Winter camping remains possible with proper gear as temperatures rarely drop below freezing.
What to do
River swimming: Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park features a swimming hole with surprisingly warm water by mid-June. "The river is nice earlier in the year before the water warms and it fills with algae," notes one camper, adding that "there's swimming and hiking on site as well as the ranger station to explore."
Beach exploration: Westport Beach RV Park and Campground offers direct beach access with relative privacy. "The beach is right there. You can see and or hear the waves crashing," explains one visitor. Another notes, "The beach is private so it's just you and the other campers," making it ideal for those seeking more secluded coastal camping.
Hiking: King Range Conservation Area provides access to challenging coastal trails. "Took on the lost coast trail. From Mattole River to the black sand beach in Whitetorn town. Took 3 nights finished the 4th day," shares one hiker, who advises, "Do your research before doing the trail. Tides, weather etc."
What campers like
Natural water features: Bailey Canyon Campground offers lakeside camping with wildlife viewing opportunities. A camper reports, "Watched Osprey diving for fish in the early morn right from my campsite. Bald eagles, Herons and Hawks were also a joy to watch. Kids enjoyed swimming catching frogs, turtles and baby catfish with their hands."
Outdoor games: Redwoods River Resort & Campground provides multiple recreation options beyond swimming. "We really enjoyed the playground and all the outdoor games," mentions one visitor, while another adds, "Great staff, store, heated pool. There is a moderate trail down to the river."
Digital disconnection: Some campgrounds offer limited connectivity, which many campers appreciate. At Westport Beach RV Park, "The waves are loud, the cell service sucks and the Wi-Fi is very spotty…which makes it a perfect spot to get away!" Another camper at Mendocino Magic valued the "pristine campgrounds and fabulous hiking. No people around to spoil the serenity and beautiful forests."
What you should know
Road noise: Several campgrounds near major routes experience traffic noise. At Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park, "The camp site is right next to the road that appears to be supporting a logging operation. Logging and construction vehicles pass within 10-20 feet of the roadside campsites at all hours."
Water quality issues: Some facilities have water concerns. At Dean Creek Resort, one camper noted, "The water is brown in your camp spot and at the motel." Similarly, at Stafford RV Park, campers found that "the water jug we had filled with their water was full of rusty red residue at the bottom."
Site privacy varies: Campground layouts offer different levels of seclusion. At Redwoods River Resort, a camper observed that "campsites are small and not much privacy," while at Richardson Grove, sites accommodate large gatherings: "It's a large campground and great for large groups our group is usually about 60+ people."
Tips for camping with families
Poison oak awareness: Bailey Canyon Campground requires vigilance with children. "Poison oak is cleared from around the campsite but need to use care off trail," warns a camper. Parents should teach children to identify this plant and supervise off-trail exploration.
Seasonal water activities: Plan visits based on river conditions for optimal swimming. At Richardson Grove RV and Campground, "During the July hot days we like to cross HWY 101 and go take a dip in the eel river," shares a regular visitor who has camped there for "the past 20+ years."
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Redwoods River Resort, families appreciate that there's "a playground" available, providing a contained area for kids to burn energy when not exploring the natural surroundings.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Many campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. At Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park, "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. The sites are close together, short, with roots coming up in the road and parking areas, and sharp angled turns."
Leveling considerations: Redcrest Resort requires preparation for uneven terrain. "Sites are tight and not level side to side. But clean and adequate with FHU," notes one RVer. Bringing leveling blocks is essential for comfortable stays at this location.
Premium site options: At Westport Beach RV Park, location within the campground significantly affects experience. One RVer suggests, "If you get a premium spot, you are almost right on the beach," while another notes the contrasting experience: "Here is the campground when it's full up. Very close rigs."
