1 campground with availability this weekend
Cuneo Creek Horse Camp in Humboldt Redwoods State Park is the primary equestrian campground near Whitethorn, California. The camp features horse corrals and accommodates riders with tent camping options. The site provides electric hookups, thirty and fifty-amp connections, and water hookups for campers staying with their horses. Vault toilets and showers are available for riders after a day on the trails. Picnic tables and fire rings are positioned at each campsite, allowing equestrians to relax while keeping their horses nearby. The road to reach the campground requires careful navigation, especially for those pulling horse trailers, as the drive between Garberville and Honeydew can be challenging but scenic.
The equestrian trails connect directly to the surrounding Humboldt Redwoods State Park trail system, offering riders access to paths through old-growth redwood forests. The campground operates seasonally from early May to mid-October, with advance reservations strongly recommended for horse campers. Trailer parking is available at designated areas within the campground. Riders should pack in sufficient feed and tack as there are limited supply options in the immediate vicinity. The remote setting creates a peaceful environment for both horses and riders after long days on the trail. Some visitors note that without horses, the campground may not be worth the journey, as its primary facilities are designed specifically for equestrian use rather than general camping.
"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."
"Having the gas station right next to the campground is great since you ca. Go buy anything you need / run out of such as sodas and beer oh and ice also."
from $25 - $35 / night
"Most stunning was these massive cliffs that open into this wild California coast. You can hike to the (non-working) lighthouse and enjoy yourself with a driftwood fire at night."
"As Humboldt locals, we like to be away from the crowds, in the most beautiful natural areas in California. This is the trail head to the famous Lost Coast Trail, and just a stunning beach campground."
from $15 / 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."
from $45 - $260 / night
"I love the remoteness of this place, it is California's lost coast. Not for the faint of heart as you have to haul your own water in. The other people camping were really fabulous. Super laid back."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $35 - $200 / night
"Because of recent rains and some soggy areas I had to overnight campers close to me. 30 amp and 50 amp power and water at each side."
"Close to Ferndale, which is Must See. Access from Fernbridge of of 101 as the other roads are very twisty for all but the smallest RVs. Camp host was great! Short drive into Eureka."
from $20 - $45 / night
"There was a small creek behind the campground which was nice. It was about a 30 minute drive to fort Bragg made for an easy day trip. The campground is maintained by cal fire $20 a night."
"Jackson State Demonstration forest is about 6 miles from fort Bragg on hwy.20 Campground is about 3 miles down a dirt road down into the forest from the highway. Beautiful, clean and peaceful."
GuideRough getting here but worth the struggle! Had it to ourselves during the week left Friday. Very windy at night but great sunny in the day. No cell service (Verizon) for me but starlink was fine. Headed out now because we heard it might rain but and that one way dirt road will be a nightmare!
LegendNeeded a hot shower and some chill time. And some saltwater. All the superlatives apply; just wish the spaces were more private. And paying for showers after the $45 camping fee was a bummer.
GuideThe road in is hilly and twisty. You don’t need 4x4, but you’ll want it. It’s a very amazing area and is in the middle of nowhere. BUT, there is trash and toilet paper everywhere. Avoid the place on weekends, unless you like drunks, idiots and loud trucks. During the week, it’s quiet and you can see elk on the sand, or a bear.
ScoutThis is a great place to camp. Very clean and beautiful views.
RangerPulled in on Wednesday night in mid May and there were plenty of sites left. Was windy at first but it eventually calmed down. Decent amount of activity around as it is a trailhead as well.
Really cool to see wildlife on the beach and an easy walk over the berm to the waters edge.
TravelerState park site showed zero availability. However drove in, tons of spots open, park rangers extremely helpful. New showers and bathrooms. Fire pits, bear boxes, picnic tables. Can see the ocean from our Surfwood spot!
TravelerSpending 3 nights here at Surfwood campground. Short walking distance to the beach. Cleanest restroom and shower we’ve ever been. Highly recommend this campground
LegendGreat campground when out exploring the Lost Coast. Easy beach access. Road in was a bit rough but worth the drive. Toilets were quite smelly so come self contained but it is primitive camping.
LegendAfter finding the local state parks closed for a few days due to having no water, we headed out to take a chance on this dispersed site. It was simply a pull off as all the designated campgrounds in the area were closed for the season. The sign posted at the day use noted they close campgrounds in wet weather to save wear and tear on them since they are maintained by the forestry service. It does make sense as the road was quite muddy.
Cuneo Creek Horse Camp sits within Humboldt Redwoods State Park at 700 feet elevation, surrounded by redwood forests 14 miles west of Garberville. The campground experiences coastal-influenced weather with temperatures ranging from 45-75°F during the main camping season, typically cooler than inland areas. Rainfall averages 55 inches annually, mostly concentrated between November and April, with summer months generally drier but sometimes foggy.
Explore Usal Beach trails: The Sinkyone Wilderness State Park offers equestrian-accessible routes within a short drive from Whitethorn. "The Lost Coast as a whole is a great choice for a camping trip. The trails are a bit overgrown, but the views are unreal!" according to Rachel O. at Usal Beach Campsites.
Visit nearby rivers: When temperatures rise, cool off in local waterways. "During the July hot days we like to cross HWY 101 and go take a dip in the eel river," notes Arturo C. from Richardson Grove RV and Campground, which is less than 20 miles from Whitethorn.
Hike through redwood forests: The Jackson Demonstration Forest provides trails through dense woods within driving distance of Whitethorn. "Beautiful, clean and peaceful. Plenty of trails to explore and Noyo River meanders through the center," writes Danielle F., who camped at the forest's campground.
Remote beach access: Equestrian campers appreciate coastal trails near Whitethorn. "I'm hesitant to tell anybody about this gem because I want it to remain as peaceful and perfect as it is... If you're going to do the lost coast, this is the way to do it," shares Rachel S. about Usal Beach.
Natural water features: Many horse campgrounds near Whitethorn include creek access. At Russian Gulch State Park, "a stream runs through camp and empties on to the beach," notes one camper, adding "I like the lower loop along the creek and the sites at the end, near the beginning of the fern canyon trail are choice."
Privacy between sites: Campers value the secluded nature of sites in the region. "The campsites are so beautiful and surrounded by trees. We couldn't even see our neighbor, it was private and secluded," writes Christina H. about her stay at Russian Gulch State Park.
Road conditions: Many horse-accessible campgrounds near Whitethorn require careful driving. At Mattole Campground, Noah C. notes, "The road from Ferndale (Mattole road) is paved but very rough in some places. Took me three hours to go 30 miles due to my rig being old and having to be very cautious in it. Also be prepared for very steep grades."
Weather preparedness: Coastal fog and wind affect most campsites. "It got really cold at night and SUPER WINDY (December)," reports Jesse H. about Usal Beach, while Ann N. mentions Camp Mattole has "Excellent weather in August. Chilly at night if wind starts to blow."
Reservation requirements: First-come, first-served policies exist at some locations. "Got Lucky and got a spot without a reservation for a night, I was impressed," writes Tim about Russian Gulch State Park. For peak season at equestrian campgrounds, advance planning is essential.
Beach exploration: Families enjoy tidepools and protected swimming areas. "From the small beach you can play in the waves and launch protected kayaks into the small bay. On the right day there are some tidepools (not a lot)," mentions a camper about Russian Gulch State Park Campground.
Creek play areas: Look for sites with safe water access. Danielle F. recommends Jackson Demonstration Forest, noting it has a "Nice day use area with tables and creek for playing in."
Consider proximity to supplies: Most horse camping areas near Whitethorn are remote. "Chilly at night if wind starts to blow. I love the remoteness of this place, it is California's lost coast. Not for the faint of heart as you have to haul your own water in," warns Ann N. about Camp Mattole.
Facility limitations: RV sites with horse accommodations may have basic amenities. At Mackerricher State Park Campground, Mea H. notes, "The dump station has a mandatory fee of $10. You pay with a credit card. When payment is approved, the cap to the dump hole unlocks... With pay showers we'd normal shower in the van and just run to the dump station daily to empty the tank but we didn't."
Road clearance: Higher clearance vehicles fare better on coastal access roads. "This was such a unique camping experience. The pictures do all of the talking. The road to reach the beach is only about 5 miles long, but It will take you around 45 minutes! We have an overland tent on a truck so we were having a blast!" shares Stephanie S. about visiting Usal Beach.
Seasonal timing: Weather affects horse camping conditions significantly. "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," reports Nathan P. about his visit to Mattole Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Whitethorn, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Whitethorn, CA is Usal Beach Campsites — Sinkyone Wilderness State Park with a 4.2-star rating from 22 reviews.
What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Whitethorn, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 8 equestrian camping locations near Whitethorn, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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