Tent camping options near Trinidad, California range from established sites with facilities to remote backcountry locations. The coastal location typically experiences mild temperatures year-round with summer highs averaging 65°F and winter lows rarely dropping below 40°F. Most campgrounds in the area sit within a dense coastal forest ecosystem where campers should prepare for frequent fog and up to 75 inches of annual rainfall concentrated between November and April.
What to do
Hiking ancient forests: Penn Campground in Sue-meg State Park offers direct access to forest trails. One visitor noted, "We spent a day hiking through the grounds, our 11 year old daughter got to participate in the Junior Ranger Program, learning about the geology of the area. The Ranger helped us Ron identify some of the berries we'd seen along the path and which were edible."
Beach exploration: Flint Ridge Backcountry Site provides coastal access with combined forest and ocean experiences. A camper shared, "We parked right along the coast and easily walked all of our gear to camp. Could see the ocean from our tent while among the GIANT trees."
Mountain biking: Primitive camping at BLM Dispersed Camping - Lacks Creek includes access to bike trails. A reviewer mentioned, "There's a nice running/bike path right in the camp ground," making it suitable for active campers willing to travel the rough access road.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Penn Campground, tent sites offer more seclusion than standard campgrounds. One camper described, "Each site is tucked back in its own little green enclave, so even though the neighboring sites are close to you, you feel secluded."
Free camping options: The Lacks Creek area offers no-cost tent camping with basic amenities. A reviewer explained the location: "Drive east on Highway 299 for 17.8 miles from Highway 101. Turn left at the Redwood Valley turn off(Bair Road) and travel 3.9 miles. Make a right turn at the sign that reads 'Hoopa- 22 miles', and travel 5.9 miles up this windy gravel road."
Unique overnight locations: Wuss Camp provides tent sites in meadow settings. A camper described, "The sites are widely dispersed and circle around a beautiful meadow. Bathrooms and shower are easily found and clean."
What you should know
Wildlife considerations: Ticks are common at several camping areas around Trinidad. At Lacks Creek, one visitor warned, "The Lacks Creek campground is just a gravel parking area. No creek water in early June but lots of ticks. Very hot too. We left after 30 minutes and 6 ticks."
Cell service limitations: Remote campsites often lack connectivity. A camper at Lacks Creek reported, "I was planning on staying here but had no service for miles with Verizon. Not just spotty service, literally nothing until I drove back down 15 minutes and camped on a road turnout."
Site maintenance varies: Flint Ridge Backcountry Site experiences changing conditions. A recent visitor noted, "Unfortunately the campsites no longer offer an ocean view as the vegetation has grown so much as of July 2023... Be warned there is tons of poison ivy even in the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Junior Ranger programs: Sue-meg State Park offers educational activities for children. A parent shared, "My family greatly enjoyed hiking to participate in the eduquest. I highly recommend it if you have kids!"
Safe storage systems: Redwood National Park provides bear-protection facilities. At Flint Ridge, a reviewer observed, "When you arrive on the ONE WAY coastal drive you pull into parking on the left which is a half moon gravel area facing the ocean. On the right of the road you have a 1/4 mile hike up through dense vegetation."
Location convenience: Wuss Camp offers proximity to beaches and towns. A camper stated, "The location is fantastic as it is literally a mile from the beach and a couple of miles from town."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping near Trinidad offers few accommodations for larger vehicles. At Flint Ridge, campers must park in designated areas and walk to tent sites. One visitor warned about security concerns: "There were signs warning us to not leave valuables in the car bc of thieves. I've never seen that at a campsite before."
Backcountry alternatives: For those seeking more primitive camping experiences, Elam Backcountry Camp provides walk-in tent sites with minimal facilities. A camper advised, "If I were to plan another trip I would only use this campsite as a way point on the way to more secluded sites. This is a main thoroughfare, so people will pass by your site."
