Best Campgrounds near Westport, CA

The camping near Westport, California provides a range of options along the rugged Mendocino coastline. Westport Beach RV Park and Campground offers tent sites, RV hookups, and cabins with ocean proximity, while Westport Union Landing State Beach provides more primitive camping with coastal views. Usal Beach Campground in Sinkyone Wilderness State Park offers a more remote dispersed camping experience about 10 miles north of Westport. Most campgrounds in this region feature fire rings, picnic tables, and varying levels of amenities, with several sites positioned for direct beach access or views of the Pacific Ocean.

Road conditions and accessibility vary significantly throughout the area, particularly for more remote locations. "Very Cool place to Camp and Enjoy! I've now been 3 times and each time it's a little different and always Total Zen Peace to be had! But make sure you only go during the week, because of the rowdiness, hell raising, dune driving doing donuts, drunken idiots that are there on the weekends," noted one visitor about Usal Beach. The dirt road to Usal Beach becomes particularly challenging during wet weather, requiring 4WD vehicles. Many developed campgrounds remain open year-round, though winter storms can affect coastal access. Cell service is limited throughout the region, especially in more remote areas. Travelers should check current conditions before arrival as some facilities close seasonally or have limited amenities during off-peak months.

Campers consistently mention the quiet beaches and coastal views as highlights of the Westport area. Several visitors noted the excellent tide pooling opportunities and sunset views at Westport Union Landing State Beach. A review mentioned, "The sites are very close to each other and the camp is very busy in the summer. There is a trail down to a wonderful beach for tide pooling and sunrise/sunset walks." The northern Howard Creek section of Westport Union Landing receives particularly positive feedback for its cliff-top ocean views. Usal Beach attracts visitors seeking more solitude and primitive camping experiences, though reviews indicate weekends can become crowded and noisy. Most developed campgrounds in the area provide basic amenities like toilets and drinking water, while dispersed sites typically require campers to be self-sufficient with supplies.

Best Camping Sites Near Westport, California (101)

    1. Mackerricher State Park Campground

    1463 Reviews
    Fort Bragg, CA
    10 miles

    $45 - $260 / night

    "There are many sites next to the ocean."

    "PROS Campground is adjacent to the beach. You can hear the ocean and sometimes catch peeks of the ocean from the campground.

    → Campsites have bear lockers."

    2. Westport Union Landing State Beach — Westport-Union Landing State Beach

    23 Reviews
    Westport, CA
    3 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 937-5804

    "The sites are very close to each other and the camp is very busy In The summer. There is a trail down to a wonderful beach for tide pooling and sunrise/sunset walks."

    "One of the few first come first served campgrounds around. Arrived late on a Thursday and were able to secure a site for the weekend."

    3. Westport Beach RV Park and Campground

    16 Reviews
    Westport, CA
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (707) 964-2964

    $55 - $155 / night

    "We were lucky to get a site right next to the beach for our class B RV. This is a beautiful site along Highway 1. PS if this site is full, there is a dry camp about a mile north on Highway one."

    "We stayed in our van in the tent area which was secluded, with a stream meandering through, and it was nearly deserted in April."

    4. Usal Beach Campsites — Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

    18 Reviews
    Leggett, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 677-3570

    "But make sure you only go during the week, because of the rowdiness, hell raising, dune driving doing donuts, drunken idiots that are there on the weekends."

    "Some nice hikes close by."

    5. Pomo RV Park & Campground

    15 Reviews
    Fort Bragg, CA
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 964-3373

    $50 - $73 / night

    "The convenience of being so close to town, yet feeling like you’re in the forest is hard to beat. There are showers & restrooms, although the showers operate on quarters."

    "Even though you are so close to town this is off the beaten path and you can’t even get into this campground unless you have a reservation."

    6. Usal Beach Campground

    11 Reviews
    Leggett, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 247-3318

    "The road itself is rough and could be very unsettling for anyone trying to do this trip in a vehicle without good off-road clearance. The ruts can be big and cause bottoming out of street cars."

    "We chose the latter, and even with the number of other parties near us, we were still able to find a fairly secluded spot."

    7. Hidden Pines RV Park & Campground

    10 Reviews
    Fort Bragg, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 961-5451

    $59 - $99 / night

    "It's not much to look at when you drive up on highway 1 but behind that facade is a great Campground. There are different sections and the upper loop is definitely the best."

    "The entrance to this campground is behind a store so it technically is hidden.  What it lacks in privacy of sites it definitely makes up for in amenities."

    8. Caspar Beach RV Park & Campground

    19 Reviews
    Caspar, CA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 964-3306

    $47 - $72 / night

    "The walk in sites are secluded and this park has all the amenities including free showers. Dog friendly. I hear it gets very busy in the summertime."

    "Our spot was nice and clean and next to the creek. Large enough for our three cars three tents and extra table and plenty of room to set up chairs around the fire for us."

    9. Van Damme State Park Campground

    25 Reviews
    Little River, CA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 937-5804

    $45 - $160 / night

    "Simple campground just outside of Mendocino/Ft Bragg. Steps from a beautiful sandy beach."

    "My family and I stayed here once on a road trip to California."

    10. Cleone Campground

    2 Reviews
    Fort Bragg, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 964-4589

    "Laundry and showers- close to Fort Bragg- Glass Beach and don’t forget a lock for the old train trestle bridge! Owner of campsite was very nice and helpful! Such a great time!"

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Recent Reviews near Westport, CA

580 Reviews of 101 Westport Campgrounds


  • M
    Oct. 6, 2025

    Usal Beach Campsites — Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

    Nice spot on the Lost Coast

    Nice camping on the Lost Coast! I came out here to get away from the crowds but it seems the people have heard about this out of the way spot. It was still pretty quiet with a few folks playing there music kinda loud. The beach was amazing and don't miss out on the Candelabra Trees!

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 23, 2025

    Usal Beach Campground

    Usal Beach

    Pretty remote but great if that’s what you’re looking for. 30 minute drive up rocky dirt road in forest to get down there. Not many rules. Don’t get stuck in sand. Pick up trash please lots of firework junk and stuff

  • Ross F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 21, 2025

    Richardson Grove State Park Campground

    Clean

    Pros: Clean campsites spaced apart reasonably with picnic tables and fire pits. Clean bathrooms. Beautiful redwoods.

    Cons: no dogs allowed on the walking trails. $35 for a tent site is a lot but I’m coming to realize that’s pretty much what it costs in California. Firewood is $10.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 13, 2025

    Kyen Campground

    A convenient and good campground

    I liked this tree shaded campground. Some Lakeside campsites for RVs and tents with many other campsites, stretching up a gentle hill. Potable water is available. Bathrooms were clean but showers not so much but plenty of hot water and does not require quarters. Campground can be very crowded prior to Labor Day, especially weekends. When I was there on 9/10/25 there were very few campers. Register on recreation.gov. Use your federal discount pass to get half price on the $35 or $65 electrical sites.

  • Nathan P.
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Richardson Grove State Park Campground

    Redwood Camping at its Finest!

    The Madrone Campground in Richardson Grove State Park does not disappoint. Nestled in the redwoods along Hwy 101, this campground had everything I could want with lots of beautiful surroundings to explore. It's the perfect getaway and easy to access. Park staff are friendly, and helpful.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Oak Flat Campground

    Beautiful and peaceful *on weekdays*

    Quiet and peaceful, watch elk, birds, lizards, toads/frogs on weekdays. All but the hardiest of wildlife and people should avoid the weekends. We finally learned our lesson after every Friday and/or Saturday over the years has been disrupted by people yelling and/or blasting music, running dogs off leash, and then (last trip) racing dirt bikes through the campground until 1 am.

  • laura U.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 6, 2025

    Richardson Grove RV and Campground

    Charming "Vintage" Campground

    The huge oaks are worth it alone. The host was attentive and very helpful. It's a bit down in the heels but things worked well enough and the setting it gorgeous! Just don't count on wifi or cell connection. It's 1960 here.


Guide to Westport

Dispersed camping near Westport, California offers access to dense coastal forests, dramatic Pacific headlands, and black sand beaches. Seasonal temperatures hover between 45-65°F year-round, with summer fog common along the immediate coastline. The area sits at the southern edge of the Lost Coast region, where the King Range mountains meet the sea.

What to do

Tide pooling excursions: Mackerricher State Park Campground features exceptional marine life viewing opportunities. "We stayed in the West Pinewood Campground which is adjacent to the beach. You can hear the ocean and sometimes catch peeks of the ocean from the campground," notes one visitor who also recommended exploring Laguna Point for wildlife observation.

Surfing sessions: The waters around Westport Beach RV Park and Campground offer decent surf breaks for experienced wave riders. A camper mentioned, "We saw a few people surfing right out in front," while staying at the oceanfront campground.

Mountain biking trails: The wooded areas around Usal Beach provide excellent terrain for mountain bike enthusiasts. "I've now visited a few times, and every time I've gotten little sleep because of the partying. Keep coming back because of the scenery and the great mtb trails," reported a visitor who valued the riding opportunities despite the sometimes noisy atmosphere.

Nighttime whale watching: During migration seasons, the elevated coastal campsites provide opportunities to spot California Gray whales. "Once through the forest stop and take pics, it's so beautiful 1000-2000 ft above the Ocean, watch for California Gray whales!" advised a camper who frequents the area.

What campers like

Private beach access: Campers consistently praise the seclusion of Westport Beach RV Park beaches. "The waves are loud, the cell service sucks and the Wi-Fi is very spotty…which makes it a perfect spot to get away! If you get a premium spot, you are almost right on the beach, which is pretty private since there's no public access," one reviewer explained.

Fresh seafood proximity: The Westport area's location provides easy access to coastal dining options. "Another plus is how close it is to 'downtown'. Lots of fresh seafood places so it was nice to go out for a hot meal and good food," shared a visitor to Mackerricher State Park.

Private campsite layouts: Several campgrounds in the region offer well-designed privacy features. At Pomo RV Park & Campground, "Sites are a bit tight together but have adequate privacy utilizing trees and shrubs," while another camper noted, "Nicely kept park with great privacy between sites. Lots of mature trees, bushes, and flowers."

Blackberry picking: Late summer visitors can enjoy wild fruit picking near some campsites. "Sites have tons of trees/greenery in between so it feels very secluded," noted one camper, while another specifically mentioned the "thick brush (blackberries!)" that provides both privacy and snacking opportunities.

What you should know

Road conditions: The access road to Usal Beach Campground requires preparation and appropriate vehicles. "The road was a bit rougher than expected (took us roughly 45 min from the paved road to camp). People made it down in mini vans but I personally wouldn't try it," shared one visitor, while another advised, "At least in Dec, very muddy. Would not advise without 4x4 and some experience."

Weekend crowds: Weekdays offer a significantly different experience than weekends at some locations. "I would fo back if I felt more confident in my car/ was driving a vehicle with better tires and higher clearance - it was glorious," noted one visitor about Usal Beach.

Limited amenities: Most dispersed sites require self-sufficiency. "Unfortunately there is no water source besides the creek, so make sure you bring enough fresh water for your stay. Be prepared to use pit toilets as well!!" warned a camper about the Sinkyone Wilderness area.

Wildlife encounters: Bear-resistant storage is recommended at some sites. "Campsites have bear lockers," noted a visitor to Mackerricher State Park, while others reported seeing wildlife tracks: "Saw mama and baby bear prints on the sand."

Tips for camping with families

Protected camping spots: For families with young children, seek locations with natural wind barriers. "This campground is protected by a buffer of coastal trees. It's not nearly as windy at the campground as it is on the beach," reported a visitor to Van Damme State Park Campground.

Educational programs: Some state parks offer ranger presentations for children. "There's an amphitheater where we were able to see a ranger/scientist presentation on sea birds of California," shared a family who visited Van Damme State Park.

Indoor backup activities: Weather can change quickly on the Mendocino coast. At Cleone Campground, "Laundry and showers- close to Fort Bragg- Glass Beach and don't forget a lock for the old train trestle bridge!" suggested a visitor who appreciated having alternative activities during inclement weather.

Safe beach options: Look for protected coves for swimming with children. "You are perched out in the open on a bluff above the ocean. So the view and sunsets are epic," noted one visitor, though they cautioned about wind exposure for tent campers.

Tips from RVers

Site selection strategy: At Hidden Pines RV Park & Campground, "There are different sections and the upper loop is definitely the best. Book spot #10 which is the largest and has a good view. Other spots on the outside of the upper loop are good too," advised an RVer familiar with the property.

Leveling considerations: Many coastal sites present leveling challenges. "The lot was so bad our auto leveling trailer couldn't level," noted one RVer, highlighting the importance of checking site conditions before booking.

Water pressure variations: Bring regulators for inconsistent water systems. "The water pressure was a little weak and we did not need a regulator in the line," reported one camper at Hidden Pines, while others mentioned significant variations between campgrounds.

Cell service planning: Connectivity varies dramatically throughout the region. "T-Mobile had 0 service," reported a camper at Usal Beach, while another noted at Westport Beach RV Park: "Cell service only on the beach and no working Wi-Fi which worked for me cuz I needed a break."

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds in Westport, California?

Westport offers spectacular coastal camping options. Westport-Union Landing State Beach is highly recommended, featuring oceanfront sites along coastal cliffs with excellent beach access for tide pooling and sunset walks. The Howard Creek section offers the most scenic spots. For a more secluded experience, Usal Beach Campsites in Sinkyone Wilderness State Park provides a peaceful retreat with beach access, though it's best visited during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. Both campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early, especially during summer months, is recommended to secure a site.

What is the best time of year to go camping in Westport, CA?

The best time to camp in Westport is during late spring through early fall when weather conditions are most favorable. Summer (June-August) offers warm days but campgrounds like Russian Gulch State Park Campground become very busy, so reservations are recommended. Fall (September-October) provides a sweet spot with fewer crowds, mild temperatures, and still-accessible campgrounds. For those seeking solitude, weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends at coastal sites like Burlington Campground in the redwoods, which offers cool shade even during hot summer months. Winter camping is possible but prepare for rain and potential road closures.

What amenities are available at Westport Beach RV Park and Campground?

Westport Beach RV Park and Campground offers basic amenities for a coastal camping experience. The campground provides drinking water stations and pit toilets, though these can get busy during peak season. Campsites include fire pits and are situated close to each other, especially in the summer months. For those seeking more amenities, Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort offers full hookups and is located a reasonable drive away. Alternatively, Benbow KOA & Golf Course provides more extensive facilities including full hookups, a swimming pool, hot tub, and an on-site store, though it's further from Westport.