River, stream, or creek camping near Ferndale

Victorian architecture, wild beaches, and California redwoods.

98% (868 reviews)
98% (868 reviews)

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Star Hosts in Ferndale

Under $50

12 top river, stream, or creek campgrounds near Ferndale

99%
(301)

Wendy & John Farm

6 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Ferndale, CA
For Ferndale, the village: check out https://www.visitferndale.com/souvenir-edition About our property: There is a gentle spirit throughout these beautiful 80 acres of evergreen forests and pastures. What can you expect? Quiet, beauty, birdsong, ocean roar, widely spaced campsites (only 5 on the 5 acres set aside for camping), extra stuff if you need or want it (fresh bread, soup, cobbler; quilts, free firewood, local tips on travel and where to hike or what to visit), etc. Or total solitude if you want it. Bring your (most breeds) dogs if you wish. Starlink internet means you can Zoom in the forest. Walk to the beach along a no-shoulder country road (or drive). Teach your toddler how to build a dam in the shallow creek. Read. There are no visible neighbors, no ambient light or sound. The air is clean and clear and the water is potable from an artesian spring on the property. No electricity at the sites, no generators allowed. (Charge your electronics at the farmhouse.) My aunt and uncle bought the p;roperty in 1947 from the first European settler, Paolo Gabrielli, who came to the U.S. in early 1914 from northern Italy with slips of his grapevine in the lining of his coat. Paolo's wife, Felicita, and their three children stayed behind; they were to follow within the year. In the country outside of Ferndale, California, he purchased the property, one mile from the ocean, and built a Tyrolean-style house, a chicken house (with a grappa still under the main floor), an outhouse, a corral, and a barn. He purchased 7 cows. And then, it was August 1914, and the War to End All Wars broke out in Europe. Felicita and the children, living in a village on the Austrian border, were interned in a prison camp in Austria with the rest of the village's residents. The Gabriellis' young daughter died there. Six years passed before Felicita, Virgil and Louis were able to join Paolo in America. In 1938, Virgil--Fr. Gino--became the first Ferndale boy to serve Mass in his hometown church. Felicita died in 1940, and Paolo closed the dairy and moved into Ferndale. In 2014, we invited the people who had been children in the 1920s and '30s who had come to this ranch after Sunday Mass to gather with other Italian families for polenta, wine, and music. They came with photographs and maps and Mass cards and diaries, and shared their memories of a childhood in this place that still loved them. What can you expect? Quiet, beauty, birdsong, ocean roar, widely spaced campsites (only 5 on the 5 acres set aside for camping), extra stuff if you need or want it (fresh bread, soup, cobbler; quilts, free firewood, local tips on travel and where to hike or what to visit), etc. Or total solitude if you want it. Bring your (most breeds) dogs if you wish. Starlink internet means you can Zoom in the forest. Walk to the beach along a no-shoulder country road (or drive). Teach your toddler how to build a dam in the shallow creek. Read. There are no visible neighbors, no ambient light or sound. The air is clean and clear and the water is potable from an artesian spring on the property. No electricity at the sites, no generators allowed. (Charge your electronics at the farmhouse.)
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$55
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98%
(72)

Camp Prairie

2 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Mc Kinleyville, CA
We have seven beautiful acres just outside of the small town of McKinleyville. Our wooded property is about a mile from Clam Beach and surrounded by idyllic horse ranches, sleepy country roads, and lazy cows grazing in the fog. The site is below towering fir trees draped with hanging lichen and full of bird song.
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$52
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97%
(15)

Whispering Redwood Creek

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Mc Kinleyville, CA
Nestled within the towering grandeur of California's Redwood Forest, Whispering Redwood Creek offers a serene and enchanting camping experience. This unique site, located at 451 Top Top Ridge Rd, McKinleyville, invites you to immerse yourself in the profound silence of the forest, where the majestic redwoods not only touch the sky but also absorb the sounds of the world, creating an atmosphere of deep tranquility. Adjacent to a gently percolating creek, the campsite is a harmonious blend of nature's calm and modern convenience. Designed for ease, it features a pull-through arrangement that welcomes all, from the casual weekend camper to the seasoned adventurer. The site is equipped with its own private bathroom, complete with a toilet and running water, ensuring comfort and privacy. As you settle in, you'll find a picnic table waiting, perfect for al fresco meals or evening conversations. The entire campsite is enveloped in a 100% shaded area, courtesy of the immense canopy overhead. This natural umbrella not only provides cool, refreshing shade but also creates a unique, dappled light ambiance that shifts and plays throughout the day. At Whispering Redwood Creek, you're invited to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and reconnect with the timeless rhythm of nature. Whether you're seeking a peaceful retreat to rejuvenate your spirit or a quiet base to explore the wonders of the Redwood Forest, this campsite promises an unforgettable stay, where the whispers of the ancient trees and the soft murmur of the creek become the soundtrack of your escape.
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$50
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99%
(149)

BIGFOOT FLAT on Willow Creek

10 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Willow Creek, CA
This historic lumber mill site is now a pristine Willow Creek frontage camping location conveniently located just 40 minutes from the coast and 4 miles from the town of Willow Creek and also the Trinity River.
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$40
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100%
(73)

Humboldt Experience Farmstay

6 sites · Lodging34 acres · Carlotta, CA
We offer off-grid and mostly offline farmstay retreats at our self-reliant, educational, permaculture farm. We are a digital detox environment and welcome guests who are looking to unplug and recharge. A farm tour on arrival is included. Guests are invited to help with gardening, animal chores, food preservation, and other farm activities Monday thru Friday from 9-noon. Information on self-reliance, living off the grid, and farming knowledge is shared while participating in morning farm activities. A farm meal prepared from our gardens is included in the booking and served at 1PM. There are options for a variety of dietary preferences. All accommodations have been custom build by Munro. Much of the lumber comes from trees on the the land and is hand milled and planed giving each cabin the warm beauty of natural wood. All guests are invited to enjoy the wood fired sauna, meditation grove, forest hikes and swimming on Van Duzen river. The property is gated. You must text the host before arriving to confirm plans a minimum of 2 days before arriving. Munro 707-572-8200. Limited cell service in the area, communicate ahead. Host generally meets guests at Swain's Flat Outpost and Garden Center, around mile marker 20, on highway 36.
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$65
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100%
(1)

The Garden Cabin

1 site · Lodging11 acres · Petrolia, CA
Welcome to the Garden Cabin, your peaceful retreat nestled just 4 miles from the pristine Lost Coast of California. Situated in the remote and unspoiled wilderness of the National King Range, this area boasts 35 miles of undeveloped coastline and the renowned Lost Coast Trail, perfect for hiking and enjoying the serene beachfront. Surrounded by abundant wildlife and breathtaking natural beauty, the Garden Cabin offers a tranquil escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're seeking solitude in nature or adventurous exploration along the rugged coastline, this remote area provides endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure. Nearby amenities include a quaint Sunday morning cafe, a small store, and a post office, ensuring that you have access to the essentials while still enjoying the wide-open spaces and pristine wilderness of this hidden gem. Come experience the tranquility and beauty of the Lost Coast at the Garden Cabin – it truly is heaven on earth.
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$75
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100%
(43)

Radio Ranch

6 sites · Lodging30 acres · Burnt Ranch, CA
  Welcome nature lovers, adventurers, foragers, outdoor-enthusiasts, rock hounds, bird watchers, and tree huggers. If you love to fish, hike, forage, raft, swim, kayak, camp, go tubing, or explore, Radio Ranch is a must-experience respite in the woods. ​ We are conveniently located between Portland, OR and San Francisco, CA, between Eureka, CA and Redding, CA. We are 15 minutes from Willow Creek, 1 hour from HWY 101 and 2.5 hours from I-5. Our one of a kind, 100% off-grid luxury campsites offer complete privacy and views you can't get anywhere else!   Each site is located creek-side. Take in the sights and sounds of our *two* large waterfalls on a hike through 30 beautiful acres. Our light show at dusk lasts approximately 3 hours each evening because we believe that nighttime should be just as beautiful as the day. Breathtaking views of Ironside Mountain make a gorgeous backdrop for weddings, events, and photoshoots. ​ Each site rental comes with shared access to gorgeous, modern off-grid showers, restrooms, and an outdoor kitchen with BBQs and a wood-fired pizza oven plus public space that is Instagram worthy. Free WIFI is also included, so it is perfect for remote workers.  ​ Check-in is contactless and simple. We only allow 2-10 guests on the property at once, so it's peaceful and quiet and feels like it's all yours! Don't wait to book because space is very limited. Treat yourself to a stay with us. Radio Ranch is the perfect place to get away from it all, while still having it all. Relax and rejuvenate at Radio Ranch. *Recommended for ages 21+. Children under 21 must be accompanied by a guardian. Pets are welcome for a small pet fee! This is an off-grid experience, meaning there are no electrical outlets. We recommend bringing a backup battery to charge devices. This experience may not be suitable for those who need electricity for medical equipment.
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$119
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95%
(353)

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
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92%
(6)

Lost Coast Tower

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Petrolia, CA
The Tower is hidden away on top of a hill in the Mattole Valley, a steep 500-foot switchback hike through Douglas firs on a trail built especially to reach it. It is set within its own hilltop meadow. The property is about 2 acres all in all, with the main house just down below at the bottom of the trail where I live. More about the trail up (as the Tower is not just about destination, it's about how you get there and turning everything into an adventure): A series of large ceramic sculptures punctuate the trail up. My father, whose idea the tower was, commissioned Jim Danisch, a great potter who lived in the Mattole, to build  a series of sculptures for the Millennium. That New Year, hundreds of people from around the area came to the Tower and climbed up the hill to celebrate with a fireworks display people still talk about. Greg Smith, one of the craftsmen who built the tower, tells the story of how his 95 year old ailing mother walked proudly to the top and died a week later after achieving her final ascent. A special booklet compiled by Dansich is in the Tower for perusal, so you can read about what each sculpture represents (they are symbolic of life in the valley thousands of years ago) and how you might contemplate their significance in your life. The property was designed in collaboration with local craftspeople by my late father, a radical journalist who wandered into the valley in 1990 and stayed. When he bought the house, the land it came with included a big hill behind the house. How he got up there in the first place to have the idea for the Tower, I don't know, but he did, and the result is a totally unique embodiment of a vision. My father thought that in general people were a bit timid and conservative about expressing themselves through their properties, and that a place could be an expression of your personality. He was a 'Why Not?' type of guy - why shouldn't the place you live in express your loves and interests, as far as possible? For example, his identity as a writer and as a writer from a family of writers is announced by his father's Remington typewriter atop a totem pole near the entrance to the Tower trail - you might miss it, but it's there, happily rusting for eternity. Reliefs on the Cider house, a square terracotta structure with a  gold-leafed domed roof, depict his life there. He championed originality, and you can feel his indelible spirit in every detail of the Tower and surrounding property.  Learn more about this land:Enjoy total seclusion and privacy in this unusual Lost Coast hideaway. Accessible only by a STEEP 500-ft trail, you must be fairly fit to appreciate this remote spot. The climb will take you to a two-storey 'tower' built around two water tanks. The Mattole River is just over the road below. Enjoy the spectacular bird life. The remote Mattole Beach is just six miles away and makes for great hiking and beachcombing. **Important Check-in info** The Tower is a property that preferably needs a guide to show you up there initially. It is hidden, and you’ll benefit from a quick orientation up there. Check-in before dark, please, due to the trail.The upper storey of the Tower has a small double Murphy bed which measures 4 ft wide. It is 6.5 ft long from headboard to footboard, and has a foam mattress on a wooden board. If you are quite tall it may not be comfortable due to the footboard. This room also has a long sofa, Deco chairs, redwood window seats and a long cherrywood table.  The Tower is on two floors, connected by an outside staircase. So *PLEASE NOTE* that as the bathroom is on the lower floor you will need to go down the *outside* stairs to the bathroom. Downstairs is the bathroom, shower and kitchen in one open plan room. The kitchen area includes a Wedgewood stove. There is also a sink upstairs for easy teeth brushing etc. The spring water is excellent for drinking. The lower storey also houses water tanks, wrapped in canvas painted by a local artist.Relax beneath the stars in the outdoor in-ground copper bath tub, with plenty of space for two and a small surrounding deck for glasses of wine, or take a shower outside, looking out onto the hills. Enjoy ceramicist Jim Danisch's sculptures punctuating the trail. In collaboration with Petrolia's craftspeople, the Tower was designed by my father, a writer and lover of art. For groceries, the local Petrolia store has most basics (including a gas pump) but its provisions are limited so please bring your own special groceries if you want more than basic. Please note there are ZERO bars and restaurants in Petrolia. Bear in mind that the Petrolia Store closes at 5.30pm, so be sure to bring groceries with you if you're arriving later than that, especially for that first night's dinner! At the bottom of the hill is the main house, where I will be on hand to help out as best I can with any queries and extra conveniences. Details and directions upon booking. To enable a real break and total relaxation, there is no WiFi! There is very limited cell service in Petrolia. There is a landline available for your private use in the Tower.  Petrolia is off the beaten track and lies at the end of a very winding, rugged road with potholes a-plenty. Ordinary cars can make it, but if you are hiring a car you will be better off hiring an all wheel car that is not too low off the ground. Be prepared for a real rural retreat. The tower is right in the wilderness atop a hill, so be prepared to hear and see animals around.Please note that I have been hosting on another platform for 7 years with many happy guests.  Please google The Lost Coast Tower to see those reviews, to get a sense of the place from a guest's perspective . Thank you!
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$175
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97%
(19)

Bayside chicken farm

1 site · TentBayside, CA
We have a long acre with a dozen chickens, greenhouses, a yurt, and a lot of plans for the future. We hope to one day renovate the old shed into rentals along with a bathroom/kitchen unit, but for now it's only camping.Learn more about this land:We are in the process of developing an area to host travelers, and currently we have a basic camping area and facilities just outside of the center of Arcata. We have a compost toilet, drinking water, and a number of chickens who may visit you (fresh eggs also available). Also provide a table to cook on and a seating area to catch the last sun of the day (if it's not overcast). We are not an option for people sleeping in their vehicles (2-3 minute walk from parking area to camping area). We only rent out one spot per night so you will have the area to yourselves.
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$49
 / night
100%
(15)

Seven Sister's Sanctuary

1 site · Lodging8 acres · Arcata, CA
This property is nestled in a little valley one ridge over from the Mad River which flows to the ocean 5 miles away as the crow flies. Warmer in the summer and just beyond the fog belt we can have 80 degrees in the summer while the coast is in the 60's. A bit colder in the winter than the coast, we have been known to have a dusting or a couple inches of snow (although it never sticks around). The beginnings of Warren creek form the eastern boundary to the property where salmonids have been tracked by Fish and Game. A year round spring feeds a pond which then feeds another creek on the west side of the property. Besides field and meadow there is lush forest with a variety of trees including: Cascara, Willow, Alder, Redwood, Cedar, Maple, Spruce and Fir. This land was the home of one of the richest race car drivers in the area who legend says had regular shoot outs with the police! Since then the land has been cleansed, blessed and used for many sacred gatherings, weddings and ceremonies and was home to a moonlodge-TreeWoman for several years. There we had regular new moon gatherings for local women. It is an honor and privilege to share this space with you. Learn more about this land: Enjoy your own private meadow cabin at the end of the lane, just a minute walk from the communal parking area. Rustic yet comfy, leave your TV behind and cozy up next to your campfire; savor morning coffee with the resident deer and towering Redwoods. Bike down scenic West End Road to Blue Lake and the Mad River. Make a stop at the local brewery after a stroll on the river trail. It is an easy 15 minute drive to the nearest beaches with hiking and biking trails nearby. In the winter, take a 40 minute drive to Horse mountain where you can cross country ski with a distant view of the ocean. This land is sacred to us and has been the site of multiple spiritual ceremonies, workshops and seasonal gatherings, including wedding celebrations. You may see us working around the land occasionally as we live in the main house also on the property. This is not a perfectly groomed lawn type of area. We do mow paths and sitting spaces but the ground can be uneven at times and much growth is kept natural for wildlife habitat. As stewards of this property, we value the wildlife safety and honor the presence of all creatures with minimal disruption. Wildlife that have visited include but not limited to: deer, fox, bear, skunk, opossum, mountain lion, owls and hawks. You may hear our ducks on occasion but fear not, they are trained not to attack! Our two cats may come to inspect visitors and may decide to join you for morning coffee in your covered outdoor lounging area. The Meadow cabin was originally built to house our extensive water filtration system, then expanded as a horse shelter and garden space as well as a honey processing house. We affectionately call it our "Honey House". On several occasions it was the site of regular African initiation medicine journeys. The fire pit in front of the cabin was created as a sacred fire spot. We strive for organic chemical free living as much as possible. Soaps, shampoos, and cleaning supplies are provided. If you bring your own please be conscientious. Please no highly scented perfumes or lotions. There is an infrared sauna on site as well, convenient to your shower and tub. Directions for use are in the informational binder. The indoor studio style living space is shoes off so bring some clean indoor shoes/slippers to wear if desired. Heating is by a small electric fireplace/stove. There is a queen size bed and a single overhead bunk (max 250lbs). Kitchen amenities include a hotplate, toaster/bake oven, electric tea kettle and skillet and a kitchen sink as well as a large refrigerator. This is a solar powered household with filtered well water. Hot water outdoor shower, tub and custom made pooper. Our home made compost toilet is simple to use. Preferably solids only (feel free to pee in the field) after which a scoop of cedar shavings is dumped on top. Cell phone service may be spotty. Just beyond the fire pit is often better reception. Please drive slow on the 1/3 mile long gravel drive to get to our sanctuary at the end of the lane. Our country lane is perfect for a stroll under the stars. At times you can even hear the roar of the ocean approximately 5 miles to the west as the crow flies. It is very dark at night with no street lights or bright porch lights so make sure you bring a flashlight. We do have neighbors and you may hear others doing yardwork, calling for their animals or the sound of chickens, occasionally dogs and ducks. This space is a peaceful retreat but please do not expect complete silence all the time. We have lived here for over 35 years and have experience on the rivers, oceans and trails and are happy to share information on where to go and what to see if so desired.
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$115
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100%
(13)

Humboldt Redwoods- Into the Woods

2 sites · Lodging500 acres · Redway, CA
Redwoods nearby? Forest Bathing? Dunks in the Deepwater Pond? Wood Fired Paella? Hiking on site? Have it all and relax at our forest glen located in Southern Humboldt 5 miles up private dirt road (2 wheel drive OK- but sports car height is not good ( IE not a BMW or Tesla)--higher clearance is best.) Our land is part of an old collectively owned by "back to the landers" group from the 70's. The parcel is over 500 acres, but our portion is about 40 acres. There is a large deepwater pond with a rowboat (and frogs) orchard, stream, and many hiking trails my husband created and dirt roads winding through the property. 420 friendly! Enjoy the birds in the morning and frogs on the pond at night from your well equipped tent with queen mattress and comfy comforters, sitting space, and wood counter for food prep. ( propane ok) No fires allowed at site but enjoy the large communal fire pit and terrace steps away. Our deep water pond (15 ft) is FULL and ready for warm summer swims. Wifi and electric for charging and an electric water kettle for coffee making is available at the communal space. EV charging is possible but slow off of our solar panels. Hiking trails on our 500 acre property and Lost Coast Trail at Shelter Cove Black Sands beach is 1 hour away. Ave of the Giants is 45 minutes away. We encourage 2 night stays as it is a bit of a trek to get here. Your hosts have everything you might need ( cooking wise) and can arrange for cooking equipment and utensils. Need Paella pans? Paella is our passion and we can offer a Paella Cookout customized to your dietary needs for an additional fee. We are 5 miles up a private dirt road ( 2 wheel drive is ok but caution to lower clearance vehicles) You will be deep in the relaxing forest. The 16 foot bell tent is quite large and can accommodate 2 more travelers. However they would need to provide sleeping bags and mats. Children under 10 not recommended The Chimes tent is slightly smaller 13 foot bell tent set on a platform 6 feet off the ground-- literally in the trees! We provide one citronella candle. Don't forget your headlamps. We are 35 miles (once on the pavement) to Lost Coast Trail and Shelter Cove. 20 miles to Ave of the Giants.
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$75
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River, stream, or creek camping near Ferndale guide

Overview

Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to resource for camping in the United States! If you're looking to camp near Ferndale, California and have a preference for rivers, you're in luck. We have over 443 options available in that area with beautiful rivers to explore. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the scene, we've got you covered. Check out some of our top campsites like Jug Handle Creek Farm (1479 reviews), Mendocino Magic (410 reviews), and Trinity Outpost Wilderness Resort (221 reviews) to see what other campers have loved about these spots. With amenities like trash disposal, campfires, and pet-friendly options, you'll have everything you need for a fantastic camping experience. So pack your gear and get ready for some paddling and wildlife watching along the scenic rivers near Ferndale, California!

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