The best camping near Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Sinkyone Wilderness adventure.

99% (34 reviews)

Hike the Lost Coast and take in the ethereal beauty of this California state park.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

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Bear Harbor Camp

8 sites · RVs, Tents In Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

from

$25

/ night

Railroad Camp

4 sites · RVs, Tents In Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

Orchard Camp

6 sites · RVs, Tents In Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

Needle Rock Camp

10 sites · RVs, Tents In Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

from

$25

/ night

Streamside Camp

4 sites · RVs, Tents In Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

Jones Beach Camp

8 sites · RVs, Tents In Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

Wheeler Camp

10 sites · RVs, Tents In Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

Little Jackass Creek Camp

8 sites · RVs, Tents In Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

Usal Beach Camp

25 sites · RVs, Tents In Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

Anderson Camp

4 sites · RVs, Tents In Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

from

$25

/ night

Top-rated campgrounds near Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

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Shelter Cove Campground

90 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Whitethorn, CA

Take a deep breath. Experience nature. The drive out to this remote area is well worth it for those who like to fish, crab, dive for abalone or watch for whales. Photographers, hikers and nature lovers will have plenty to do as well. The thick redwood forests surrounding the village are home to bald eagles, Roosevelt elk, black tail deer.....and if you believe the legend, Bigfoot. The rock shoreline makes Shelter Cove a refuge for seals and sea lions, and it boasts some of the world's richest tide pools. There are picnic areas that offer access to the beach or the rocks below the bluffs. Each rate is for four people at a site, access to bathrooms, showers and coin operated washer and dryer. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring (see note below reference firewood). NOTE: State ordinances require firewood to be purchased locally, therefore we source our firewood from the local provider here in the cove. Alan wraps extra big bundles and packs a little kindling in each. Let us know how many we need and we'll deliver right to your site. The campground is open all year. During our busy season, we suggest that you call for reservations and for more information regarding the rates and what they include. Our numbers are listed on our Contact page, our Facebook page and on Instagram. The Lost Coast In the 1920's, when they built the Coast Highway in Northern California, engineers decided a stretch of coast from Northern Mendocino County through the King Range in Humboldt County was too rugged for a road. Thus, this expanse of magnificent coastline was soon isolated and became known as the "Lost Coast". Highly-valued seaside resort. The small community of Shelter Cove, on the coast just below King Range, lies at the core of the Lost Coast. Being cut off from the rest of California has helped Shelter Cove remain a peaceful seaside resort with peerless scenery that is an oasis for outdoor enthusiasts. Diverse wildlife within reach We are home to many deer that like to hang out in the campground and on the golf course. We also have bald eagles, osprey, and foxes. Not to mention our many sea creatures, such as whales, seals, sea lions, otters and fish of many different species. Take a walk on the beach during low tide and enjoy the many tidepools. Events and Functions at Shelter Cove Campground. From May to October we have many different events for those that are looking for something to do. In May we have our Kayak Conventions and Memorial Day celebration. May also starts our Campground Karaoke which takes occasionally on Friday night at 6:00 pm - 9:30 pm. During our holiday celebrations, we have BBQ's with chicken, ribs and fresh oysters. We also offer music for your listening pleasure while you enjoy the beautiful ocean views and the Cape Mendocino lighthouse. Full Hook Up RV Sites Settle your RV into our designated back-in grass sites, tailor-made for RVs under 35 feet. Enjoy full hookups, 30 amp electricity, water, and sewer. Ocean views grace every corner of our campground, creating a serene backdrop for your stay. Each site accommodates up to six people, with a nominal charge for each person beyond four. Book your spot today! Van/Tent Dry Camping Sites Establish your campsite, whether it's a tent, truck camper, van, or RV, in our dry camping area. Water is conveniently accessible at fill stations scattered across the campground, and our guests have access to a communal bathroom with showers. Join us for a delightful blend of nature and comfort at Shelter Cove Campground. Your adventure begins here!

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Jug Handle Creek Farm

20 sites · RVs, Tents33 acres · Caspar, CA

Jug Handle Creek Farm and Nature Center is a nonprofit with a five minute walk to Jug Handle State Reserve, Jug Handle beach and the Ecological Staircase trail. We offer 11 unique campsites with plenty of space and privacy. Each site has two picnic tables, a fire ring, parking for two cars and plenty of space for your tents. We also offer three lovely cabins, which have power and access to a shared kitchen and bathroom with a hot shower. Our 33 acres include a native plant nursery, community gardens, forests, meadows, and nature trails. Our site has lots of nature trails, is peaceful and beautiful and just a 5-minute walk to Jug Handle Beach and the Jug Handle Preserve. Our Mission: We offer a welcoming and supportive environment for people of all backgrounds to explore nature and connect with the natural word. Nature stewardship is central to our non-profit mission and as an organization we are engaged in many nature restoration projects throughout Mendocino County. We also provide a supportive learning environment for nature education for disadvantaged youth during the school year. If you teach k-12 and would like to bring your classroom to Jug Handle contact us about special rates and our immersive nature education programs.

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Eel River Escape

18 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Benbow, CA

This property is conveniently located in historic highway 101. It's 4.5 terraced acres overlooking the south fork Eel River. It is adjacent to the Reggae on the River and Northern Nights festival sites. It's less than a mile from the tourist attraction One Log house and Richardson Grove state park. The property is a permitted educational cannabis farm implementing regenerative agriculture practices.We have several accommodation options! You can stay in our fully furnished bell tent tucked away in a charming garden. It has a full bed with foam topper, charge station, lounge chair, fan or heater, wireless speaker, and wifi. The property has hot outdoor shower and viewing bluff overlooking Eel river. Enjoy convenient hwy 101 location close to state park and dispensary. Wake up, dine and stroll in this dreamy garden! We also have camping and RV sites that have morning shade, and epic views and two levels of camping area.

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Root's End

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Mendocino, CA

Nearly four acres close to town and amenities, yet quiet and secluded. Away from any major roads and on quiet nights, the fog horn from the Big River buoy can be heard. Wildlife on the property include piliated woodpeckers, deer, raccoons, jack rabbits, bears (keep your trash and food inside!), mountain lions, foxes, and of course, our resident ravens. Wild huckleberries and rhododendrons are abundant among the redwoods and fir. A beautiful spot to spend the night!

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Mendocino Magic

122 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents600 acres · Laytonville, CA

Mendocino Magic is a camping, fishing, wedding and outdoor events destination in inland Mendocino county, Northern California, just a few miles off Highway 101 in the heart of the Emerald Triangle. This unique sprawling 600-acre property is home to the largest privately-held reservoir in the North Coast region, perfect for swimming and catch & release fishing. We offer tent camping, RV & Car camping, luxe furnished tents, and cabins for your stay. Star gaze from the rolling hills of the Mendocino forest, kayak on our private Reservoir, and show off your BBQ skills with included campground amenities. Reserve your camp site early for the best availability. About half of our 2023 summer weekends are currently sold out. All Mendocino Magic Campers Enjoy the Following Amenities - Central Camp with tables, BBQ grills (propane provided), filtered water, and weekend fire dish run by staff. - Portapotty bathrooms with outdoor sinks. - Outdoor showers with hot water. - Access to Holland Reservoir, our private lake, for swimming, boating, and fishing. Kayaks are available at no charge. Bring your own life jackets if you need them. - Miles of hiking and biking trails through mountainous hillsides and scenic valleys. - Some of the best stargazing in Northern California with frequent meteor showers. - Camping supplies delivered to your camp site (for an additional charge), including cooler rentals, ice. Mackenzie manages the campground with a team of incredible people. In a world increasingly connected in the digital sense, we invite you to come up and get back to your roots, and connect with people the old fashioned way. Come join us for stargazing, paintball, fishing & swimming, weddings & outdoor events, and camping!

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Briceland Vineyards Ranch

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents57 acres · Redway, CA

Briceland Vineyards Ranch is 57 acres of oak woodlands 5.5 miles west from Redway Ca. on Briceland Thorn Road. This is the one road in and out of the lost coast and leads to Shelter Cove, about 15 miles west. This is about 15 miles to Avenue of the Giants as well. The property is the home of Briceland Vineyards, the first winery in Humboldt based on Humboldt grown grape and the most awarded winery in the county.

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Waterfall Camp

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Mendocino, CA

Welcome to Waterfall Camp. Come enjoy your stay with us on our beautiful 5-acre property centrally located, its only 10 min to the village of Mendocino, 5 minute drive to Caspar beach and 10 min to the town of Fort Bragg. Nestled on the edge of the Redwoods and Pygmy Forest, adjacent to Russian Gulch State Park. The property has private access into park which consists of many miles of beautiful Redwood trails,the trail to the waterfall, biking trails along with a trail that leads straight to the ocean. Come and relax around your private campfire and cook over the open flames or treat yourself to fine dining in Mendocino or Fort Bragg, the experience is at your fingertips. From camping under the stars to hiking and biking through the redwoods or kayaking up Big River, come let the Mendocino coast show you what it’s all about. Our goal is to make you feel right at home. Each of our three sites has a redwood deck with a sink and food prep space, potable water, remote solar lighting, picnic table, smokeless fire pit and grill, firewood, level parking area and tent pad. One of the three sites can accommodate a 25’ trailer. There is a beautiful redwood bathhouse with two outdoor showers and two flushing toilets. All water onsite is potable so make sure to top off before your day of adventuring. There is a horseshoe pit, cornhole, and badminton set for fun under the sun. All sites are a two min walk to the State Park trails and 5 min ride to Jackson state forest bike trails. It's about a half hour walk to the beautiful waterfall from our property. Large Groups are welcome to book all three sites with two additional RV locations. Also we have a fully stocked westfalia camper van to glamp in if your wanting to pack light for the weekend. We hope to make your stay with us a memorable and fun experience. Shay & Liz

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Lost Coast Basecamp

5 sites · Lodging5 acres · Shelter Cove, CA

Blu Graham was born and raised on the Lost Coast. He is the owner and operator of Lost Coast Adventure Tours, a local guiding outfitter and shuttle service for the Lost Coast. He knows all the epic spots and history about the surrounding area. Nestled in the heart of the wilderness, Lost Coast Base Camp is more than just a place to prep, refuel or rest after a trip; it's a vibrant hub of adventure, camaraderie, and unforgettable experiences. Designed with the spirited explorer in mind, this unique retreat serves as the ultimate base for your wilderness adventures, offering a communal atmosphere that is both welcoming and energizing. At Lost Coast Base Camp, we believe that true adventure is found not only in the wild landscapes that surround us but also in the stories and friendships forged around a crackling campfire. This is a place where connections are made effortlessly, and shared experiences create bonds that last a lifetime. Our communal living spaces, open dining areas, and group-led expeditions are all crafted to encourage interaction, collaboration, and the sharing of tales from the trail. If solitude is what you seek, Lost Coast Base Camp may challenge your expectations. Here, the emphasis is on community and connection. Our ethos is built on the belief that together, we can experience more deeply, learn more profoundly, and celebrate the spirit of adventure more vibrantly. Whether you're sharing a meal with fellow adventurers, teaming up for an impromptu hike, or exchanging stories under the stars, you'll find that our base camp is a place where privacy gives way to shared joy and individual journeys merge into collective escapades. Forget about the tedious task of unpacking and pitching your tent. Our bell tent camps are pre-set, standing ready as your private retreat amidst the great outdoors. The inclusion of cots means that you’re elevated from the ground, ensuring a comfortable rest that rejuvenates you for the adventures that lie ahead. Enjoy big skies overlooking a vast mountain range. Our boat camp and bus camp will also be available soon! We are located just a few miles from Shelter Cove and both the Northern and Southern Lost Coast Trail segments. Making it a perfect place for hikers, dual sport enthusiasts and anyone wanting to get away from the everyday hustle bustle. At Lost Coast Base Camp, every detail is designed to enhance your wilderness experience, including access to shared amenities that cater to both comfort and convenience. Enjoy ourseasonal fire pit or cook up a feast at the BBQ pit. Our enclosed bathrooms and hot showers provide a touch of home, while the communal full kitchen is perfect for preparing meals and sharing stories of the day's adventures. Plus, with a dedicated camp host on hand to provide you with wood, sleeping pads, or answer any questions you may have about the area, you're assured a hassle-free and enriching stay.

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Foxfern Forest

1 site · Lodging8 acres · Mendocino, CA

A unique private home milled glamping cabin designed and built by the host. Tranquility on the edge of a whimsical forest full of Redwood trees, Pines, Oaks, Hemlocks, Rhododendrons, Ferns, wildflowers and mushrooms. The cabin is on our 8 acre property, only about 7 minutes to the historic village of Mendocino. Beaches and trails close by and waiting for you to explore! Hear the ocean waves crashing in the distance, if you listen closely you may even hear the seals chatting. In the spring see the tall brilliant pink rhododendrons bloom. Star gaze at night and listen to the trees talking through the costal breeze while keeping warm by the fire pit, and stay cozy inside the cabin by the mini wood burning stove. Use the tea kettle to brew up a delicious drink to sip. All while making memories to last!

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CAMPFIRE!

4 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Mendocino, CA

Come make yourself at home on our beautiful 10 acre property just up the road from the town of Mendocino. This site is only a 5 min drive to town, so it’s close to the beach, river access and local restaurants and shops.. Walk through the redwoods or enjoy the sunshine, the property offers a bit of it all! All we ask is that you make yourself at home!

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Red Wing Ranch

3 sites · Lodging, Tents40 acres · Laytonville, CA

This property is spectacular with views and great hiking! Learn more about this land: Imagine a place where the songs of red wing blackbirds fill the air. A place where you can see as far as the ocean to the west, the mountains of Humboldt County to the north, the Mendocino National Forest to the east, and the mountains of Sonoma County to the south. This is Red Wing Ranch. While staying at Red Wing Ranch you will have the opportunity to walk on a section of the original stagecoach road, canoe in our private pond, watch the sunset over the Pacific ocean, and star gaze from what feels like a private planetarium. This is perfect for artists, writers, yogis, and those seeking the tranquility of off grid living. We have 40 acres of land with beautiful hiking in every direction. Our campsites have a fire pit, picnic table, and access to an outdoor shower and outdoor kitchen! The accommodation includes staying in a 850 square foot wooden yurt with bamboo floors. The building has a wooden stove and propane wall heat. We also have a fridge, stove for cooking and propane wall heater inside the yurt. There is a futon that sleeps 2 plus a kids size bed, but please bring sleeping bags or bedding. You can also put up two tents next to the yurt for more sleeping. We have now added also an attached kitchen and bathroom to the yurt so we have an indoor shower and full kitchen! There is a detached bathroom with a maintenance free composting toilet and simple outdoor kitchen. You will have access to cooking utensils and cookware, camp stove, and fire pit. There is a solar system so you have access to electricity and wifi. The drive from Willits is 25 minutes, with only the last 5 minutes on a dirt road. You can do the drive in any car, unless the occasional snowy conditions. There is plenty of parking next to the yurt for easy unpacking.. To access the coast you do have to go back through Willits and use highway 20.

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Chemise Mountain Retreat

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents16 acres · CA

Chemise Mountain Retreat is an accessible yet remote wilderness destination. Located between the King Range Conservation Area and Sinkyone State Park on California’s Lost Coast, just 10 minutes from Shelter Cove and the Pacific Ocean. Situated on 16 acres, Bear Creek meanders through the property alongside meadows and fir groves. A flush toilet and running water make camping comfortable. Chemise Mountain Retreat is a place where families and or groups can create intimate, unique , accessible experiences with the wilderness and the ocean. Trailheads leading to 62 miles of the world-renowned hiking/biking trails of California’s Lost Coast are within walking distance. To the south are Sinkyone Wilderness trails where herds of Roosevelt Elk graze on the grasslands uplifted from the Pacific. To the north, the Lost Coast Trail follows spectacular black sand beaches and crosses creeks that tumble down to the ocean. Restaurants, beachcombing, fishing, kayaking and surfing are minutes away. Magnificent clear night skies are pierced by thousands of brightly twinkling stars. Full moons are so bright that you can read by their light. Abundant wildlife from birds to bears to salamanders all inhabit the forests surrounding Chemise Mountain Retreat. Enjoy the wilderness, the ocean, the quiet, and enjoy each other at Chemise Mountain Retreat. Minimum booking is 2 nights.

The best camping near Sinkyone Wilderness State Park guide

Overview

About

On the southern edge of the Lost Coast, the Sinkyone Wilderness State Park offers year-round recreational activities. Soak up the sun on the beach or try your hand at windsurfing. In the winter and early spring months, you can catch sight of gray whales from the rugged Sinkyone coastline. Explore the coves to catch sight of sea lions and harbor seals basking in the sunshine.

The landscape varies from arches to dark sand beaches. Bring sturdy shoes and experienced hikers to navigate the trails. The hiking trails can be steep in some places. Explore tidal pools on the beach and smell the wildflowers in the spring.

Camping options abound in this northern Michigan park. You can select one of the family campground sites. If you're looking for something with few frills, opt for a hiking or biking campsite. There isn't a lot of amenities in the family campground so plan to bring your own portable water.

Notable campgrounds

Environmental Campsites: Immerse yourself in nature at these minimal-impact sites, perfect for the eco-conscious traveler.
Family Campsites: Share the wilderness with loved ones at these sites that accommodate small groups seeking adventure.
Hike or Bike Campsites: Rewarding for those who venture on foot or two wheels, these sites offer a secluded retreat after a day of exploration.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Plan ahead and arrive early, as campsites are first-come, first-served and can fill up quickly during peak seasons.
Be prepared with cash or check for self-registration fees, as electronic payments are not accepted.
Check road conditions before your trip, especially in wet weather, to ensure access to the park's remote campsites.
Explore nearby camping options in case Sinkyone Wilderness State Park is full upon your arrival.

When to go

The best time to visit Sinkyone Wilderness State Park is during the drier months, from May to October, when trails are more accessible. Winter brings heavy rains, making roads potentially impassable. Always check local conditions before planning your trip to this remote paradise.

Know before you go

Prepare for primitive conditions; bring your own water, toilet paper, and pack out all trash.
Be aware of wildlife; store food securely and maintain a safe distance from animals.
Respect park rules; dogs are allowed in certain areas but not on trails, and vehicles must stay on designated roads.
Stay safe on steep trails and rugged terrain; wear appropriate footwear and carry a map.
Remember, the park's remote nature means cell service may be limited; plan accordingly.