Best Campgrounds near Whitethorn, CA

Are you in need of a campground near Whitethorn, CA? Whitethorn is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Whitethorn, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Best Camping Sites Near Whitethorn, California (96)

    1. Mackerricher State Park Campground

    1463 Reviews
    Fort Bragg, CA
    38 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. Richardson Grove State Park Campground

    17 Reviews
    Piercy, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 247-3318

    $35 - $200 / night

    "The most beautiful spot to brake down in Northern California."

    "The little river close by helped keep us cool. Not to far from town. And lots of big foot shops around."

    3. Benbow KOA & Golf Course

    15 Reviews
    Garberville, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 923-2777

    "They smiled, said "hello," and were all genuinely positive.  There's a golf course nearby if that is of interest, and a stream for fishing within walking distance.  "

    "This was the first stop on a drive from San Francisco to Seattle. The river access is pretty sweet!!"

    4. Shelter Cove Campground

    11 Reviews
    Whitethorn, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 842-0918

    $25 - $65 / night

    "It is a great way to escape the warm summers because it is a lot colder than inland due to the closeness to the sea. It is also nearby the famous Black Sands Beach."

    "It’s pretty much right on the ocean and next to a golf course. Has a store/deli with restrooms and an outdoor eating area with a music stage. Would stay here again anytime."

    5. Usal Beach Campsites — Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

    17 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."

    6. Tolkan Campground

    8 Reviews
    Whitethorn, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 986-5400

    $15 / night

    "A bumpy four mile dirt road takes you the entrance to this campsite which keeps the general population out, which seems nice, but then again only the hearty make it here and it with it comes people who"

    "Drove down to Shelter Cove for lunch Saturday and walked on the black and beach. Afterward, night two of hanging out with my new friends. Great spot for mountain biking too apparently."

    7. Hidden Springs Campground — Humboldt Redwoods State Park

    28 Reviews
    Myers Flat, CA
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 946-2409

    $35 / night

    "There is a redwood grove hiking trail behind the campsites that takes you from one end of the campground to the other."

    "There is a paved space to park above the campsite, and a narrow little path leading down into the site - maybe 10-15 yards, it’s not far at all."

    8. Burlington Campground — Humboldt Redwoods State Park

    29 Reviews
    Weott, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 946-2409

    "Camp site 12 backs up to a fence (houses or cabins occupied behind the fence) and had decent space from other sites. Large picnic table, bear locker and tall fire pit on site."

    "Every site is nestled among a grove of old growth California Redwoods - books up a long time in advance / I was lucky to get a walk up site. Great amenities and right on Avenue of the Giants"

    9. Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination

    22 Reviews
    Myers Flat, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 943-9999

    $65 - $85 / night

    "We were driving south away from rain did not have any park camp booked and I just looked it up next to redwoods park and we popped in and they had a spot on Saturday."

    "This campground had an accessible river right next to it. Great big redwoods surrounded you on every side. The staff was helpful whether you met them in the store or on the grounds. "

    10. Burlington Campground — Humboldt Redwoods State Park

    23 Reviews
    Weott, CA
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 946-2409

    $35 / night

    "The shade from the redwoods makes this a cool haven from the hot California summers. Campsites are mostly shaded. Campsites are large with good fire pits and picnic tables."

    "It's right next to the ranger station/visitor center and just a few minutes away from Miranda, where you can pick up some last minute supplies."

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Recent Reviews near Whitethorn, CA

505 Reviews of 96 Whitethorn Campgrounds


  • Nathan P.
    Sep. 10, 2025

    Mattole Campground

    The Lost Coast Is Pure Paradise!

    This was my first time to the Lost Coast. The drive from Ferndale to Mattole Campground was like entering another dimension. I drove in on a mild, sunny day in late July and as I began to make my way into the King Range I was spellbound with the magnitude of the beauty. I hardly took note of how rough the road was because of how gorgeous the surroundings were; mountains, valleys, ocean views, and wild flowers all added up to pure magic. The Mattole Campground is remote, oceanside, and the perfect spot to getaway. Most of the sites don't have much privacy, but there are a few that do. The vault toilet restrooms were clean enough to tolerate. The sites include a fire ring and picnic table. It was a little busier than I expected, though it was peak season. I hope to return during a slightly quieter time.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Michael R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Shelter Cove Campground

    Shelter Cove Camping

    Shelter cove is possibly the most beautiful place I’ve been! I’ve been coming here for 10 years and it never gets old. This campground has all the amenities you could need (showers, RV hook ups, etc) with a fully stocked deli area and very attentive staff. Only drawback is spots are small and directly next to neighboring sites. Typically this has not been a full campground anytime I’ve been here, but it picks up on summer holidays.

  • LThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Riverwalk RV Park

    Pleasant stay

    Nice place. Very clean. Great shower facilities. Outdoor kitchen. Heated pool and hot tub.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Hidden Springs Campground — Humboldt Redwoods State Park

    Lovely little stop amongst the giants

    I got to drive through first to be sure and select a spot I liked. Staff was friendly and helpful and had firewood available for sale, $10 a bundle, and offered change for the showers @ .25 cents a minute.

  • k
    Aug. 5, 2025

    Sportsmans RV Park

    Tiny house

    This tiny house is at the mouth of the Noyo Harbor and the ocean. It’s not truly camping per se. Although it does have tiny houses combined with RV spaces.

  • Gabby H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 29, 2025

    Riverwalk RV Park

    Great for RVs, trailers and big rigs.

    I stayed only 2 nights, but what a great location amd campground. Bathroom and shower facilities, and a laundromat. As well as a pool and hot tub! Its only 1hr or less drive from anywhere in the area you would want to check out.

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 26, 2025

    Benbow State Recreation Area Campground

    Its nice in a pinch

    Couldn’t find any availability at other campgrounds nearby but found a first come first serve site here. They have about 15-20 sites that are all first come first serve. Lots of road noise from the 101, not much privacy. Has access to the river.


Guide to Whitethorn

Camping near Whitethorn, California, offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in nature, especially among the towering redwoods. With several campgrounds in the area, you can find the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the great outdoors.

What to do:

  • Explore the Avenue of the Giants: This scenic drive is a must-see. One camper mentioned, "The Avenue of the Redwoods is an amazing drive!" It’s a great way to take in the beauty of the area.
  • Hiking: There are plenty of trails nearby. A visitor at Burlington Campground — Humboldt Redwoods State Park noted, "The sites are pretty large and had enough parking, but there is a fee for additional vehicles."
  • Beach Access: If you’re looking for some beach time, Westport Union Landing State Beach offers trails down to a beautiful beach. One reviewer said, "There is a trail down to a wonderful beach for tide pooling and sunrise/sunset walks."

What campers like:

What you should know:

  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A camper at Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination advised, "Get there early or make reservations in advance."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A review for California Hidden Springs — Humboldt Redwoods State Park noted, "Expect to hike to your site, even if labeled for a larger rig, with the climb being pretty steep."
  • Weather Variability: Be prepared for changing weather conditions. A visitor at Mattole Campground warned, "You’ll get 4 seasons of weather in a day, so plan accordingly."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby trails and beaches. One parent at Westport Beach RV Park and Campground said, "Everyone was super chill and friendly. You get PREMIUM beach access."
  • Safety First: Choose campgrounds that feel secure. A solo female camper at Burlington Campground — Humboldt Redwoods State Park felt very safe, stating, "The other folks camping when I was there were respectful, relaxed, and low-key."
  • Pack Essentials: Make sure to bring everything you need, as some campgrounds may not have stores nearby. A camper at Benbow KOA & Golf Course noted, "The market is tiny but has essentials if you forgot anything."

Tips from RVers:

Camping near Whitethorn, California, is a great way to enjoy the beauty of the redwoods and the coast. With a little planning and the right campground, you can have an unforgettable outdoor experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Whitethorn, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Whitethorn, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 96 campgrounds and RV parks near Whitethorn, CA and 2 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Whitethorn, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Whitethorn, CA is Mackerricher State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 1463 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Whitethorn, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 free dispersed camping spots near Whitethorn, CA.