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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)
99% (34 reviews)

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

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Community favorites near Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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

Top-rated campgrounds near Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

100%
(2)

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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$25
 / night
96%
(4748)

Jug Handle Creek Farm

20 sites ¡ Lodging, 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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$40
 / night
95%
(352)

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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$55
 / night
99%
(291)

Heartwood Mendocino

6 sites ¡ Lodging40 acres ¡ Mendocino, CA
Our property is just minutes from Mendocino's beaches, parks and sweet town, yet private and quiet as it is surrounded by 50,000 acre state forest with world class hiking and biking trails directly accessed from our place.  Around the giant redwoods and meadows we have sprinkled in the most amazing little cabins and deluxe bath house. We have a great outdoor camp kitchen available for your use. This is a very special experience for us to share with you.  We are a family of campers. We agree, there's nothing better than a rest in a hammock following a hike and a river swim and a night under the stars without the constant dinging of cell and internet!  Guests love staying here: "Such a lovely getaway! Our family of four and little dog thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Heartwood. The cabins are great, with comfortable (warm) beds, very clean and cozy. It’s well worth the visit even in the winter! Really appreciated being outdoors surrounded by Redwoods, hiking the trails around the property, the modern bathrooms with hot showers, and the indoor sitting area to make coffee in the mornings. Our stay was relaxing, memorable and special!"
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$165
 / night
100%
(143)

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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$60
 / night
97%
(113)

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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$70
 / night
99%
(65)

Lost Coast Basecamp

5 sites ¡ Tents5 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 guide outfitter and shuttle service for the Lost Coast. He knows all the epic spots and history about the surrounding area. Lost Coast Basecamp is the ideal spot to refuel mid-adventure, prep for an upcoming backpacking trip or host an event. Pitch your tent under big skies overlooking a vast mountain range. Just a few miles from Shelter Cove and both the Northern and Southern Lost Coast Trail segments. Access to shared fire pit (seasonal) BBQ pit, enclosed bathrooms and hot showers. Drive in sites available. Walk in sites and cabin will be available in the future along with a kitchen and washer & dryer. Adventure tour guide host on-site. Kings range wilderness maps and tide charts available with shuttle booking.. Perfect for all your Basecamp needs.
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$35
 / night
100%
(31)

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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$180
 / night
100%
(13)

Chemise Mountain Retreat

5 sites ¡ 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. Chemise Mountain Retreat is a place where families and or groups can create intimate, unique , accessible experiences with the wilderness and the ocean. Just a short walk out the door are trailheads leading to 62 miles of the world-renowned hiking/biking trails of California’s Lost Coast. 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. Chemise Mountain Retreat is situated on 16 acres, Bear Creek meanders through the property alongside meadows and fir groves. A flush toilet and running water make camping comfortable. Conservation is always practiced 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 Retre Enjoy the wilderness, the ocean, the quiet, and enjoy each other at Chemise Mountain Retreat. Minimum booking is 2 nights.
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$75
 / night
94%
(826)

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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$60
 / night
93%
(28)

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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$45
 / night
99%
(47)

House of Trees

1 site ¡ Lodging1 acre ¡ Albion, CA
The property is one acre of rural woods. One and a half miles down the ridge and across the Albion Bridge is a campground with canoeing, fishing, and small beach. Mendocino Village is 7 miles and Fort Bragg is 17 miles. At the bottom of Albion Ridge Road is a restaurant called the Ledford House. Beautiful sunsets can be seen from the restaurant. The surrounding area offers hiking, kayaking and fishing in the Noyo Harbor. House of Trees has NO cooking facilities inside or outside. Food to go can be warmed up in the toaster oven or toast made in the morning. I have provided a notebook with some of the restaurant menus in the area. The fire ban has been lifted so you can have a bonfire in the garden which is also not for cooking. 3/6/24 In late spring or early summer, I will have the sink I purchased installed with hot and cold running water. I will also provide a gas grill with a side burner for cooking outside only. Looking forward to being able to provide these amenities for my guests.
from 
$125
 / night

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.

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