Cabin camping opportunities near Samoa, California provide stays in the coastal redwood region of Humboldt County. The area sits at sea level along the northern California coast, with temperatures ranging 50-65°F year-round. Morning fog often blankets camping areas until mid-day, creating cool, damp conditions that support the towering redwood ecosystem where many cabins are situated.
What to do
Beachcombing at Agate Beach: Access the rocky shoreline at Sue-meg State Park near Trinidad, just north of Samoa. "Nice trail down. Each site has fire place, picnic table. Water within steps to each site," notes one visitor about the well-maintained path leading to the beach.
Explore Victorian Ferndale: Visit this historic town 20 minutes from Humboldt County Fairgrounds. "Walked around Ferndale and had great Mexican food. The coffee shop in town was super cool and cozy," according to one camper who enjoyed the town's preserved architecture.
Avenue of the Giants drive: Take a 45-minute drive south on Highway 101 to this famous scenic route. One Redcrest Resort guest described it as "an absolutely beautiful and fantastic drive among some of the most amazing redwoods I've seen in a while."
What campers like
Tent sites among redwoods: The tent camping areas at Emerald Forest Cabins & RV offer more spacious sites than the RV section. "The tent sites are in a redwood setting. Very rustic & nice. Also spacious," writes a reviewer who preferred these sites to the more compact RV spaces.
Swimming access: During warmer months, campers enjoy the river swimming spots. "There is a swimming hole at Big Rock River Access just 1.4 miles down the hill. Beautiful river," mentions a guest at Boise Creek Campground, highlighting easy water access.
Free shower facilities: Clean bathrooms and free showers make extended stays more comfortable. A Humboldt County Fairgrounds camper noted, "Clean restrooms, heated and free. Many long term residents. The spots are level, it felt safe enough."
What you should know
Highway noise considerations: Many sites experience road noise, particularly those closest to Highway 101. "Nice amenities and staff, but very loud as the site we were in (96) was right next to highway 101," explains one Emerald Forest Cabins & RV visitor who recommends requesting sites farther from the road.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly by location and carrier. One camper at Redcrest Resort reported: "The place advertised 'limited wifi' and for us it totally did nothing. Was hoping to work a bit on the laptop but even though I was connected everything just timed out."
Water quality issues: Some areas have mineral-heavy water. A Stafford RV Park guest mentioned, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. A visitor to Emerald Forest noted, "Great for family and big groups! Safe, protected and not a lot of trouble to get into. Lots of sites available in various sizes."
Glamping options with comfort: Family glamping in Samoa, California area includes cabin rentals with basic amenities. One reviewer of Redwood Coast Cabins & RV Resort shared: "The cabins are cute and charming (be prepared, no kitchen) and the grounds clean."
Pack for weather changes: Coastal fog can create unexpectedly cool conditions. "Gets cold at night, make sure to bring extra blankets!" advised an Emerald Forest camper who experienced the typical evening temperature drops common throughout the region.
Tips from RVers
Site size limitations: Many RV areas have tight spacing between sites. "Sites are tight and not level side to side. But clean and adequate with FHU," reported a Redcrest Resort visitor about the full-hookup amenities despite the compact layout.
Access road challenges: Some routes to campgrounds involve narrow or winding roads. One camper at Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park warned: "Hwy 36 from the 101 is very curvy with lots of narrow areas and very few turn offs," noting this presents challenges for larger RVs.
Fairground camping option: The Humboldt County Fairgrounds offers affordable overnight RV parking. "Super quiet on a Monday only 3 other RV's there," shared one visitor who appreciated the $25 full-hookup sites, substantially less expensive than luxury glamping options near Samoa.
