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Best Dispersed Camping near Redwood National Park

51 Reviews

Dispersed camping in Redwood National Park gives you a chance to sleep among the giant trees without dealing with campground neighbors. Lacks Creek BLM land draws campers who want quiet spots, though you'll need to bring everything you need since there are no facilities there. Redwood Creek Dispersed Camp lets you set up along the river in true backcountry style. You must camp at least 200 feet from water and roads while following Leave No Trace practices. Most areas limit stays to 14 days. Many of these sites sit at the end of rough roads that need vehicles with good clearance to reach them. Fire rules are strict - only use existing fire rings when fires are allowed at all. Remember to pack in all your water, food, and supplies. Redwood Bar Dispersed Camping has rocky ground and sits closer to the coast. Since no trash cans exist at these sites, you'll need to haul out everything you bring in. While you won't find bathrooms or picnic tables, these spots put you right in the middle of some incredible forest landscapes.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Redwood National Park (16)

    1. Redwood Creek Dispersed Camp

    4 Reviews
    Orick, CA
    16 miles
    Website

    "Dispersed camping along the river banks after walking through the Tall Trees hike. Easy overnighter."

    "but be prepared, you will be camping next to a creek on top of rocks. if you have a sleeping pad, this is no problem. if not, be aware. Next, you WILL cross a creek! the rocks are PAINFUL!"

    2. Sand Camp - Dispersed

    4 Reviews
    Hiouchi, CA
    19 miles
    Website

    "Sand camp is essentially a dispersed camping area. There is a large gravel parking lot and a pit toilet available."

    3. 44 Backcountry Camp — Redwood National Park

    1 Review
    Orick, CA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 464-6101

    "It is located up the hill from the sign announcing it along the trail, look carefully if like me you've night hiked to get here."

    4. Lacks Creek BLM

    18 Reviews
    Hoopa, CA
    36 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 825-2300

    "Note the gps coordinates take you to the right of the sign at the top of the hill after you turn off the main road. I would recommend going straight. Just follow it to the end."

    "The whole BLM management area is well developed and has signs to guide you. There are spots all along pine ridge road. Campsites have picnic tables and fire rings."

    5. Patrick Creek Dispersed Camping

    5 Reviews
    Gasquet, CA
    30 miles

    "Only thing is the people before us did not practice leave no trace and there were some paper towels in a bush and dog toys left behind."

    "It is a bit steep coming down but since we were the only ones we had plenty of room to back the camper where we wanted. The creek is absolutely clear, a bit chilly but stunning."

    6. Dispersed Camp Hwy 199

    1 Review
    Hiouchi, CA
    24 miles
    Website

    7. middle fork smith river

    1 Review
    Gasquet, CA
    28 miles

    "There is a trail that leads straight down to the river! Plenty of room for swimming and fishing. Would definitely stay here again."

    8. Aikens Creek Recreation Area

    1 Review
    Orleans, CA
    29 miles

    "But it still has camp sites and a little further in there is dispersed very close to the river. It was secluded and great."

    9. Redwood Bar Dispersed Camping

    13 Reviews
    Brookings, OR
    47 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 618-2200

    "No, there’s no spaces and no hookups and no cell service for miles. It’s just a gravel bar on the river where you pull your camper wherever feels good and unhitch and camp."

    "Me and my girlfriend tent camped here and although the ground was rocky we managed to pitch the tent just fine. The road leading to the site is long, flat, relatively slim, and windy."

    10. Patrick Creek Dispersed Campsite

    2 Reviews
    Gasquet, CA
    32 miles

    "Easy access, nice spots on the creek. Almost no traffic using the road. Restroom was very clean."

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Redwood National Park

18 Photos of 16 Redwood National Park Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Redwood National Park

51 Reviews of 16 Redwood National Park Campgrounds

  • matt R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2023

    Lacks Creek BLM

    Awesome spot.

    Great spot. The site is very secluded and well maintained. Note the gps coordinates take you to the right of the sign at the top of the hill after you turn off the main road. I would recommend going straight. Just follow it to the end. There is three fire pits and a bathroom. That is okay. But it will do. Note there is no trash can on site and the closest gas station is probably an hour from the camp site. After you drive down the dirt roads. They are a little road but any vehicle could make it.

  • Ashley A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 16, 2025

    Patrick Creek Dispersed Camping

    Peaceful

    Very peaceful and secluded. Would definitely stay again! Only thing is the people before us did not practice leave no trace and there were some paper towels in a bush and dog toys left behind.

  • A
    Sep. 13, 2021

    Sand Camp - Dispersed

    No calling

    These coordinates lead us to private property, a driveway to a couple of houses. Maybe there was something a little further, but it was all blocked off. We had to turn around and camp elsewhere.

  • C
    Sep. 5, 2021

    Redwood Bar Dispersed Camping

    It is what it is….

    We live in Brookings and go up the Chetco to this river bar or to Nook or Miller Bar all summer long. No, there’s no spaces and no hookups and no cell service for miles. It’s just a gravel bar on the river where you pull your camper wherever feels good and unhitch and camp. You might have some USDA Forest Service employee drop off a pay envelope at your site but , there’s no place to leave it and they may or may not come back to get it. It sometimes gets crowded during holidays and weekends and the good places, not next to rapids and close enough to good swimming holes, become rare. So you might have to settle for something less than ideal. And, the porta potties might get full. There’s no one enforcing quiet hours or leash laws and no form of law enforcement anywhere nearby. There is a Forest Service LEO assigned to the area but in 18 years, I’ve never seen him on the bar. Despite all this, incidents involving injuries or violence or crime are exceptionally rare. It’s a great kayaking and swimming place and there’s nearby rocks for jumping off. Remember! It’s a river not a lake so kids ought to have life jackets. Please note….as the summer progresses, the water level drops, the temperature rises and the algae grows. As such, we prefer June camping.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 29, 2025

    Lacks Creek BLM

    Great Spot

    Not much more to say that others haven’t. Clean, with a beautiful view. The whole BLM management area is well developed and has signs to guide you. There are spots all along pine ridge road. Campsites have picnic tables and fire rings.

  • Kelly-Shane F.
    Aug. 11, 2021

    Sand Camp - Dispersed

    Nice quiet area

    Sand camp is essentially a dispersed camping area. There is a large gravel parking lot and a pit toilet available. There is a path down to the Smith River where you can set up tents and tent camp if you want. 

    The toilet was a basic pit toilet, but it was fairly clean as far as those go. 

    We parked our VW Bus in the gravel lot for the night, it was very quiet. Though its next to a road, there is very little traffic at night as this area is fairly remote. The sky was dark and clear, perfect for stargazing. The few other people camping there were quiet and friendly.

  • rThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 13, 2025

    Lacks Creek BLM

    Lacks creek blm

    Clean great view the gps was wrong it took me past the turn off and sent me to private property with a locked gate so at the top of the hill look for a clearly marked sign on the left turn up the hill when you get to the intersection take the road to the right and go up the hill I went past the first site and got on top there are three sites in a row and a bathroom at the end

  • Greg B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 12, 2024

    Groves Prairie Dispersed Camp

    Secluded & beautiful Meadow

    This secluded camp is well worth the effort to find.  I've been 3 times and finally decided to add it to The Dyrt.  Upon this return, I tried to find it online (Six Rivers's official site) but found no info.  There are two ways to this camp, the longer from Willow Creek, or the shorter from Hawkins Bar.  Both ways are via forest service roads that are "fair".  There are 3 sites, each with a picnic table and fire ring.  There is one vault toilet that was stocked with 'the papers'.  There is NO trash service or cans and NO POTABLE WATER.  There is a tiny creek running nearby if needed.  There is MAYBE one (1) bar of Verizon service, but it is extremely unreliable.  I came here to see the Perseids Meteor Shower, on a Sunday night/Monday, and did not see a soul.

  • Kalah H.
    Sep. 18, 2024

    Lacks Creek BLM

    Amazing place to stay for free with hikes close by

    I loved staying at lacks creek! I had good cell service with att and it was beautiful, quiet and serene. Hikes right by the campsites. Fire pit. No water at all though. Bring your own water. And no bathroom unless you drive like 3 miles down the other way and some of the roads weren't open due to landslides. I drove my honda civic all the way up there. There was a few points I thought I wouldn't make it but sure enough my good ol honda pushed through. Lol Anyways! Highly recommend! Just bring water! Lol

Guide to Redwood National Park

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Redwood National Park in California, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With a variety of locations offering unique experiences, you can immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes of this iconic region.

Dispersed campers should check out Sand Camp

  • Sand Camp offers a peaceful retreat with a short hike to the Smith River, perfect for those looking to set up tents in a tranquil environment.
  • This location allows campfires, making it ideal for cozy evenings under the stars, as noted by visitors who enjoyed the quiet atmosphere.
  • While it’s not suitable for large RVs, the site is pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry companions along for the adventure.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Redwood National Park in California

  • When visiting the highly rated Lacks Creek BLM, be prepared to bring your own water, as there are no water hookups available.
  • If you’re looking for a spot that allows alcohol, Lacks Creek is a great choice, offering a relaxed atmosphere amidst beautiful scenery.
  • For those who enjoy hiking, the 44 Backcountry Camp — Redwood National Park features picnic tables and fire rings, making it a perfect base for exploring the trails.

Enjoy hiking and nature while free camping near Redwood National Park

  • The Redwood Creek Dispersed Camp is accessible via a short hike, allowing you to immerse yourself in the towering trees and lush surroundings.
  • Campers have praised the experience of walking among the tall trees, with easy access to the riverbanks for a refreshing dip after a day of hiking.
  • For those seeking a more secluded experience, Patrick Creek Dispersed Camping offers a quiet creekside spot, perfect for unwinding after a day of outdoor activities.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is dispersed camping allowed on BLM land near Redwood National Park?

Yes, dispersed camping is allowed on BLM land near Redwood National Park. Lacks Creek BLM is a popular option about an hour east of the park, featuring multiple fire rings, picnic tables, and access to hiking trails. The site is well-maintained with clear signage throughout the BLM management area. Note that while camping is free, there are no water sources available, so bring your own supplies. Some GPS coordinates may be inaccurate, so look for clearly marked signs when navigating to the area. Access requires driving on dirt roads, which may be challenging in poor weather conditions.

Is there free camping available near Redwood National Park?

Yes, several free camping options exist near Redwood National Park. Free dispersed camping spots along Highway 101 provide secluded areas with minimal road traffic, making them convenient bases for park exploration. Though mosquitoes can be prevalent, these sites offer cost-effective alternatives to paid campgrounds. Redwood Bar Dispersed Camping along the Chetco River offers free camping on gravel bars where you can park wherever feels comfortable. Note that these free sites typically lack amenities like hookups, cell service, and running water, so come prepared with supplies.

What is Redwood Creek dispersed camping and how do I access it?

Redwood Creek Dispersed Camp is a backcountry camping option within Redwood National Park along Redwood Creek. To access it, you'll need a free backcountry permit from the park visitor center. The camping area requires a hike in, with access points including the Redwood Creek trailhead near Orick. Camping is only permitted on gravel bars along the creek, at least 1/4 mile from the trailhead. South Fork Chetco offers a similar creek-side dispersed camping experience with several spots where the South Fork meets the main Chetco River. These wild camping areas have minimal amenities (occasional pit toilets) and require vehicles with decent clearance.

Where are the best dispersed camping spots in Redwood National Park?

While Redwood National Park itself has limited dispersed camping, excellent options exist in the surrounding area. Patrick Creek Dispersed Camping offers peaceful, secluded sites that serve as great basecamps for exploring the park. Sand Camp - Dispersed provides access to the Smith River with a large gravel parking lot, pit toilet, and paths down to riverside tent camping areas. For a more remote experience, Groves Prairie Dispersed Camp is secluded and worth the effort to find, with access possible from either Willow Creek or Hawkins Bar.

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