Dispersed camping options surround Whitethorn on California's North Coast, with sites ranging from beach bluffs to redwood forests. The region experiences cool coastal fog in summer mornings with temperatures typically between 50-70°F, while winter brings significant rainfall averaging 80 inches annually. Road conditions vary dramatically depending on location, with some sites requiring high-clearance vehicles.
What to do
Tide pooling at coastal sites: Shelter Cove Campground offers exceptional marine wildlife viewing. "We stayed 10 nights all up the west coast and this was the best tide pooling we had. We went to sleep and woke up to sea lions and Harbor Seals barking," reports Travis H.
Beach camping with bonfires: At Westport Beach RV Park and Campground, campers can enjoy oceanfront sites. "It's as if you're on the edge of the cliff, and there's absolutely nothing between you and those beautiful sunsets. The beach is a short walk from there, too," shares Chani K.
River swimming: During summer months, Richardson Grove RV and Campground provides access to the Eel River. "During the July hot days we like to cross HWY 101 and go take a dip in the eel river," notes Arturo C., who has been camping there for over 20 years.
Redwood exploration: The Avenue of Giants route passes several campgrounds. "The huge oaks are worth it alone," notes Laura U. about Richardson Grove Campground, adding, "the setting is gorgeous!" The nearby state parks offer numerous hiking trails through old-growth redwood forests.
What campers like
Private beach access: Westport Beach RV Park provides exclusive shoreline for guests. "The beach is private so it's just you and the other campers," writes Steven T. Another camper notes, "Fires on the beach are great. Rediscovered this place in February and have reservations for November."
Remote coastal camping: Usal Beach Campground requires determination to reach but rewards with solitude. "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," explains Braxton C. Another visitor adds, "We fell in LOVE!! The 45 min dirt road was filled with amazing views early morning."
Riverside camping under redwoods: Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination combines forest and water access. "This campground had an accessible river right next to it. Great big redwoods surrounded you on every side," writes Tim G. The shaded sites provide relief during summer heat.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds offer wildlife encounters. At Shelter Cove, visitors report, "We went to sleep and woke up to sea lions and Harbor Seals barking." Another camper at Usal Beach noted, "Camped on the beach with the woods to our backs. Saw some coyotes when setting up camp, but they didn't mind us... saw mama and baby bear prints on the sand."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to Usal Beach Campground requires preparation. "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," cautions Connor M. A fellow camper adds, "The ruts can be big and cause bottoming out of street cars."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by location. At Giant Redwoods RV, visitors note "Very weak Verizon and no AT&T service." At Usal Beach, a camper reports, "T-Mobile had 0 service." Plan accordingly for emergency communication needs.
Seasonal weather patterns: The North Coast experiences significant seasonal differences. Summer often brings fog and mild temperatures, while winter brings heavy rainfall. Some campgrounds like Ancient Redwoods RV Park operate seasonally from May through October due to weather conditions.
Water quality considerations: Some facilities have mineral-rich water. At Stafford RV Park, campers report "the water jug we had filled with their water was full of rusty red residue at the bottom." Bringing bottled water for drinking may be advisable depending on your campground.
Tips for camping with families
Beach camping amenities: Westport Beach RV Park and Campground offers family-friendly facilities. "This is a great campground that is right on the beach! It has showers, flushing toilets, a little store, fire wood for sale, dish washing station, and even WiFi! The campground was very clean and really perfect for families!" shares Jessicca.
Wildlife education opportunities: At Shelter Cove, families can observe marine life. "We went to tide pooling and the seals" notes one visitor, making this an ideal spot for nature-oriented education. Remember to maintain appropriate distances from wildlife.
Store access for supplies: Multiple campgrounds offer on-site stores for essentials. At Shelter Cove Campground, Michael R. notes it has "a fully stocked deli area and very attentive staff." Similarly, at Giant Redwoods RV, the "Market is tiny but has essentials if you forgot anything."
Food storage precautions: Wildlife may investigate unattended food. One camper at Shelter Cove reports, "Animals stole 2 potatoes. No signs for animals." Proper food storage in secure containers is essential throughout the region.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Shelter Cove Campground, RVers should note size limitations. "The RV Park is really just a large dirt lot that has likely seen better days, but it is a great location and well worth spending some time here. Road down is a bit challenging, especially the last 7 miles. Windy and steep so take your time," advises Christy S.
Hook-up reliability: Electric service varies by location. At Giant Redwoods RV, campers can expect "plenty of full and partial RV hookups (generators are not allowed)." Richardson Grove offers 30-amp service, while Benbow KOA provides 50-amp connections for larger rigs.
Dump station availability: Most RV parks provide dump stations. At Stafford RV Park, "There's a dump station (free for campers)," while facilities like Ancient Redwoods RV Park maintain sanitary stations during their May-October operating season.
Site spacing variations: Proximity to neighboring RVs differs by campground. At Westport Beach RV Park, Mark F. notes, "Lots of pics of the beach which is wonderful. Here is the campground when it's full up. Very close rigs." Consider shoulder seasons for more space between sites.
