The best pets off leash campgrounds near Shelter Cove, California

Situated in Humboldt County on the Pacific Ocean along California’s Lost Coast, Shelter Cove is bursting with remote natural beauty that draws campers to its world-class hiking, mountain biking, and iconic landmarks like Cape Mendocino Lighthouse. Besides the unspoiled coastline, many people know Shelter Cove as the endpoint of the iconic Lost Coast Trail. Backpackers and wilderness campers can find campgrounds within nearby parks like King Range National Conservation Area, Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, and Humboldt Redwoods State Park. The campsites are equipped with bare-bone amenities but stunning views right from the tent. Outside the park limits, there are more campgrounds that offer fancier accommodations as well as cabin rentals with wifi and RV campsites with full hookups.

95% (677) • 58 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Shelter Cove

Situated in Humboldt County on the Pacific Ocean along California’s Lost Coast, Shelter Cove is bursting with remote natural beauty that draws campers to its world-class hiking, mountain biking, and iconic landmarks like Cape Mendocino Lighthouse. Besides the unspoiled coastline, many people know Shelter Cove as the endpoint of the iconic Lost Coast Trail. Backpackers and wilderness campers can find campgrounds within nearby parks like King Range National Conservation Area, Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, and Humboldt Redwoods State Park. The campsites are equipped with bare-bone amenities but stunning views right from the tent. Outside the park limits, there are more campgrounds that offer fancier accommodations as well as cabin rentals with wifi and RV campsites with full hookups.

95% (677) • 58 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Shelter Cove

1. Red Wing Ranch

94%

(61)

44mi from Shelter Cove · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging

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.

2. The Hideaway at Hole In The Wall

85%

(93)

28mi from Shelter Cove · 9 sites · Tents, RVs

**PLEASE READ** Welcome to The Hideaway at The World Famous Hole in The Wall, a truly one-of-a-kind escape in rainforest like setting nestled in the heart of Northern California’s redwood country just up the road from the iconic Drive Through tree, The Grandfather Tree, and Confusion Hill. This is a working farm and there are permanent residents on site who are friendly and available if you need help! The property is under construction and there is some debris we are cleaning up. Please don't be discouraged when you pull in, the sites themselves are lovely. There are 2 off leash, and very friendly dogs. We do have a pen we can put them in when asked. The pen is by the driveway, and they will bark when someone pulls in or out. Within a 10 minute walk from the property is the namesake attraction—a stunning swimming hole carved into the rock wall by dynamite decades ago, ( Google hole in the wall Leggett) now transformed into a refreshing oasis complete with cascading waterfalls. Creek color, level, and clarity vary depending on season! The creek is visible from some sites, but not all. Lounge on redwood decks, picnic under the trees, play on the worlds biggest home made giant cylinder chimes in the sound garden or explore the surrounding fruit trees and lush forest paths, tire swings, or a game of horse shoes. Amenities include, invigorating outdoor hot showers, new picnic tables, and easy access right off the 101. Whether you're seeking solitude, a community vibe, or a bit of both, this is your chance to experience Northern California in a truly unique way. Come for the waterfall, stay for the magic. P.s. to get here type in "Hole in The Wall, Leggett, California." On Google maps or "Tan Oak Park" we're directly across the street from Tan Oak Park, there is a big blue water barrel by the mailbox. DO NOT TAKE BELL SPRINGS ROAD, JUST STAY ON THE 101 WE ARE LOCATED SO CONVENIENTLY ON THE 101 Follow blue arrows once you cross the big bridge.

3. swimming sanctuary

100%

(4)

19mi from Shelter Cove · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging

very private mountain getaway. This is a very remote 40 acres. 1 hour of gravel road from highway 101, accessing up the bell springs road, Alternatively you can access this place from garberville Ca, it takes about 1 hour 15 minutes and is 1/2 paved and 1/2 gravel. This is not for hip campers wanting a quick stop while traveling the highway 101. This is the type of property you want to camp at for a couple of nights and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature and enjoy the 2 and a 1/2 million gallon pond full of life. 3800 Hansen ranch road, Piercy, Ca Piercy Ca 95454 There are several camp sites to choose from. Campers have use of the deck area with chairs and a table. Campers also have access to an electrical plug, and outside water faucet with hot and cold water. The pond is a huge living thing full of birds and dragon flies, and if your lucky you may get to see an otter family with babies.

4. Big Family Cabin Eel River Redwood

13mi from Shelter Cove · 2 sites · Lodging

Beautiful redwood cabin 5 minute walk to beautiful Eel river to swim in the crystal clear pollution free mountain water, or fish from the beach. Great bike riding through redwoods for parents and kids alike! Nestled right in the state park! Huge ancient redwood groves surround it yet the house itself is in a sunny spot. The 1 acre property offers 16 mature fruit trees, grapes, 10 roses, all kinds of flowers wild and cultivated. The garden also can be enjoyed from a covered outdoor eating table that seats 8, close to the covered fire pit. Within walking distance or 3-10 minutes drive, you have everything: tubing and kayaking from Benbow back to the house on the river; Avenue of the Giants ; The road to shelter cove on the coast is gorgeous, full of pristine old mountain meadows and beaches; Hike among 1000 year old redwood forest. Marteel Community Center (music and performances); Shop Smart & Chautauqua Natural Foods (full grocery store); USPS; Garberville Farmer's Market (Friday 11am-3pm, May to Nov) Several nice restaurants in such a rural area: Lost French Man wood oven pizza, Bellini Cafe, Woodrose Cafe (fresh local), Benbow Inn Restaurant (historical building by Julia Morgan) The Benbow house was originally the summer "beach house" for Hollywood Regency John Barrymore but was later added onto a lot and turned into a hotel. The bones of the Cabin are old growth redwood, which you can see on the living room ceiling. It was recently lived in and is a clean nice special space that the owners decided to share during the summer. There is an ADU (1bed/kitchen/1 bath) above the adjacent garage that a caretaker stays in from time to time, but it can be vacated for parties who wish to also rent that studio apartment. It has its own entrance. Very quiet here. Almost no road noise. No light pollution. Milkly way...The size of some of the ancient trees... You will be amazing how this bend of Eel River feels like a world away yet has all the services within 5 minutes by car. Lower Redway is a special place.

5. Lost Coast, Oceanview Retreat

100%

(18)

0.9mi from Shelter Cove · 1 site · Lodging

Please, come enjoy our little slice of paradise with an uninterrupted view of the Pacific Ocean. Enjoy all aspects of nature but in the comforts of a clean, modern home and a steaming hot tub. Our house is located in the most secluded resort district in California, Shelter cove. With just one, full time resident across the street and the backyard adjacent to protected environmental ‘green space’ it’s extremely peaceful. The beach is conveniently located just five minutes away so you can really take advantage of the pristine coastline.

6. The cozy cabin

94%

(8)

45mi from Shelter Cove · 1 site · Lodging

Property is located in the woods, private parking space in-front of the cabin. Two bedrooms with queen beds, full kitchen detached private bathroom (about 5 steps away from the downstairs bedroom) with washer and dryer available. Back outdoor area with fire pit. There’s another building located about 120 feet away. Property owners have 2 friendly dogs (Raven and Muñeco). Can bring your own camping equipment and camp outside the cabin if you wish. Settings for 4ppl included, extras available upon request. Good wifi connection! Fire pit available!

7. Bigfoot’s Coastal Hideaway

80%

(109)

48mi from Shelter Cove · 115 sites · Tents, RVs

Retreat to the redwoods, and relax to the sounds of ravens and the babbling of a year round creek. We are located on the picturesque Mendocino coast just five minutes from highway one, and less than 10 minutes to Fort Bragg or the village of Mendocino. Enjoy 10 acres of family, pet and horse friendly land abundant with wildlife, huckleberries, rhododendrons, redwoods, and sunshine. Find a tire swing in the trees, or bring your chairs to the creek and splash around in the cool water with the kids and pups. We are surrounded by miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding and foraging, and a quick drive to multiple breathtaking secluded beaches, state parks, old-growth redwoods, rivers, walking and biking trails and amenities. Enjoy kayaking, fishing, standup paddle boarding, whale watching, rail bikes, art galleries, wine tasting, and a lot more Porta potties and hot shower WiFi , water, and electricity available in some areas and campfires allowed in fire pits. Nearby you’ll find countless miles of hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails, ancient redwoods and Pygmy forests, secluded beaches, gorgeous state parks, and quaint towns. Kayaking, SUP, fishing, surfing, whale watching, wine tasting and tours, shopping, dining, galleries, restaurants, breweries, and bars are all minutes away. Whether it’s just you and your dog, or the whole family and all the kids, we have the perfect hideaway for you to set up camp and make yourself at home.

8. Mendocino Magic

94%

(849)

38mi from Shelter Cove · 167 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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 propane fire dish run by staff. - Portapotty bathrooms with outdoor sinks. - Outdoor hot showers - Access to Holland Reservoir, our private lake, for swimming, boating, and catch and release fishing. Kayaks are available at the lake for no additional charge - first come, first served. No lifeguard on duty, 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!

9. Dark Fairy Farms

99%

(34)

14mi from Shelter Cove · 2 sites · Lodging

Experience the captivating allure of Salmon Creek, an invaluable watershed nestled in the picturesque Southern Humboldt region of California. Situated near the charming town of Miranda and conveniently close to Garberville and Redway, our location lies in the heart of the magnificent Humboldt National Forest. As you embark on a short journey down the hill, you will find yourself on the iconic Avenue of the Giants, surrounded by towering and awe-inspiring redwood trees. Prepare to be captivated by their grandeur and feel a sense of wonder as you explore this magical setting. Our off-grid apartment offers an idyllic retreat, boasting breathtaking views of the magnificent Humboldt County mountains. Awaken to mesmerizing sunrises and unwind while witnessing enchanting sunsets. Every moment spent here is a feast for the senses, rejuvenating your spirit and revitalizing your connection with nature. For a truly immersive experience, our glamping site is the perfect choice. Embrace the harmony of being one with the natural world as you explore our woodland trails. Let the serene atmosphere of the forest envelop you as you indulge in the ancient practice of forest bathing. Immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance, and discover the two inviting swimming holes nestled along the creek, as well as our picturesque orchard. In the evenings you can fully surrender to the gentle oceanic breeze, savoring the tranquility of our surroundings. Our 40-year-old off-grid homestead offers a haven of peace and serenity, allowing you to unwind and reconnect with your inner self. Prepare to be enchanted by Dark Fairy Farms, where the beauty of nature unfolds at every turn. Join us for an unforgettable experience where you can immerse yourself in the captivating embrace of the woodland and embark on a journey of relaxation, exploration, and rejuvenation.

10. Camp Westport Ocean View Meadow

100%

(2)

31mi from Shelter Cove · 1 site · Tent, RV

3 beautiful acres with beautiful ocean view. Reserve the entire piece of property for large parties. Easily fits 3 RV campers. No sewer hookups or electricity provided. We do have potable water available on the property and picnic table and fire rings in each site. Ocean view from each site. 5 minute walk to beach across the road. Don't settle for the busy campgrounds. Book this property for a private beautiful stay on the Mendocino Coast. Fort Bragg is just 25 minutes south.

11. Experience: Bell Springs

83%

(3)

28mi from Shelter Cove · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Experience true serenity and solace here on the mountain. When was the last time you couldn’t hear traffic or random gardening equipment? Sit back with a book and relish in absolute solitude. Immerse yourself in spectacular panoramic views and watch the wildlife or explore one of our many forest trails by foot, bike or even your atv! We are thrilled to be here and we want others to come experience all the amazing things Mendocino county has to offer! We are 4 miles off hwy 101 up a dirt road with a 10% grade. 2WD will make it, but AWD or 4WD may be easier. We may be far off the main road, but once you get here, it is definitely worth the drive! Don’t let us make that decision for you, though, come see it for yourself and let us know what you think!

12. Tiny house on Cliff

100%

(5)

23mi from Shelter Cove · 8 sites · Lodging

🏕️ Cozy Forest Tiny House | Cliff Views + Stargazing 🌲 AC now installed for summer heat for winter! Escape to our tiny house in the forest , a retreat perched above a peaceful river canyon. Minutes from the old growth Redwood, At just 80 sq ft, it’s a magical space ideal for 2. Need more room? Book our vintage Airstream next door or ask about our camp spot ✨ Highlights: Forest & river cliff views Epic stargazing (Dark Sky area!) Wildlife sightings Newly renovated, queen bed, desk & chair shower & separate toilet DOG friendly -Off-leash dog meadow next to Tiny House (fenced!) Great for digital detox & quiet getaways State parks &Eel River swimming nearby Gomde Buddhist Center just down the road, great swing holes minutes away 📶 Heads up: No TV No kitchen (coffee/tea + cereal station provided) Spotty Wi-Fi in tiny house; good signal closer to meadow/main house Not toddler-safe (cliff nearby!) Tiny space = 8x10 ft w/ high ceiling 🐻 Wildlife Safety: Don’t leave food/trash outside! Cooler provided Trash must go to shower house or tea house bin Bears are around but have not caused a problem yet in 30 years – help us keep it that way! 🐶 Dog rules: keep on leash - Unless in fenced meadow area thats set up for off-leash fun Ask us about the badminton set! 🔥 Winter Bonus: Campfire pit + first wood bundle on us (rainy season only) This is glamping with a soul – a peaceful, unplugged, wild-nature experience just minutes from Hwy 101. Sounds of the river below camp , valley views next to a historical bridge #TinyHouseGlamping #RedwoodsRetreat #OffGridEscape #DigitalDetox #NatureStay #PetFriendlyCabin #CliffsideCabin #DarkSkyCamping #AirstreamLife #ForestHideaway #EelRiver #PegHouseBurgers #RedwoodCountry #SoloTravelSpot #EcoTravel #WildlifeRetreat #oldgrowthredwoods #swimminghole #wildswimming #Redwoods

13. Sherwood Oasis

93%

(7)

45mi from Shelter Cove · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Sherwood Oasis is at 2,700 ft. elevation on a ridge with panoramic views of Redwood forests to the Pacific Ocean (15 miles away) from southwest (Ft. Bragg) to northwest (Westport), and mountain views of the Coast range from the Yolla Bolly wilderness and Anthony Peak to the Northeast and southeast to Snow Mountain, Mt. Konocti, and Cobb Mountain near Clear Lake. Rolling ridgetop meadows and forests include a two-acre lake suitable for swimming, boating, and fishing. A rustic clubhouse with a large concrete patio, barbecue, and restroom provide room for larger groups. Property is bounded on 2 sides by a sprawling 6,000 acre ranch. A wide variety of wildlife are found here including deer, elk, coyotes, bobcats, otters, raccoons, and more rarely black bear and mountain lion. For birders, wild turkey, Golden and Bald Eagles, Red Tail and Kite Hawks, Osprey, Egrets, Great Blue Heron, Quail, Meadowlarks, Redwing Blackbirds, Ravens and many more can be seen. Dark sky vistas are perfect for stargazing with no city, house, or street lights visible providing excellent viewing conditions for meteor showers, comets. planets, moons, stars, galaxies and general astronomy. Most of the time the silence is deafening!

14. Salt + Sol Hipcamp By Jughandle SP

100%

(1)

47mi from Shelter Cove · 1 site · Tent, RV

Salt + Sol Hipcamp by Jughandle SP Set between Fort Bragg and Mendocino, Salt + Sol is a wide-open coastal retreat where you can pitch your tent, car camp, or roll in with your trailer or RV — just note, there are no hookups (dry camping only). Whether you’re flying solo or camping with friends, this laidback spot gives you the best of both worlds: the freedom of the outdoors, plus some comfort perks to help you truly relax. What’s Included: • Pet-friendly coastal camping • Plenty of parking space for RVs, trailers, or boats (again, no hookups) • Access to potable water and electricity • High-speed Starlink internet • Shared kitchen, bathroom, shower, and washer/dryer • Campfire-friendly with fire pit available • Chill-out spaces like hammocks and shaded areas Expect deer neighbors, a peaceful farm setting, and easy access to Jughandle State Park, Caspar Beach, and other nearby trails. You’re close to surf spots, fishing charters, and just a short scenic drive from Anderson Valley wine country. Come for the nature, stay for the vibe. Salt + Sol is your easy, breezy coastal basecamp.

15. Amazing Grace 7

18mi from Shelter Cove · 1 site · RV

Escape to the heart of Redwood State Park, where towering trees and fresh mountain air surround you. Our property is perfectly located near the charming village of Myers Flat, a small town with a big nature experience. The majestic Eel River flows nearby, offering spots to swim, fish, or simply relax by the water. With camping grounds close at hand and endless opportunities for hiking, exploring, and outdoor adventure, this is the perfect base for your redwood getaway. Come immerse yourself in the beauty of the redwoods—where every path leads to discovery, and every day feels like an adventure. 🌲✨

16. The Payloader

41mi from Shelter Cove · 2 sites · Tents

Beautiful rolling hills , close to Ruth lake and mad river swimming ,food and recreation.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Alex

2 weeks ago

5 nights at Lost Coast, Oceanview Retreat

Stacy and Brett were wonderful hosts! Their house is charming and they were super helpful and responsive for us during our whole stay. Highly recommend this getaway.

E

Emily

December 2025

Weekend Trip to Lost Coast, Oceanview Retreat

A gorgeous place to land and settle in. Great access to Shelter Cove black sands beaches and town park. Hot tub was perfection, our dogs loved the fenced yard, and we had everything we needed!

A

Anthony

November 2025

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Camp Westport Ocean View Meadow

Our group brought our travel trailers and had a great stay. The area was clean, quiet, and easy to access. It also had a beautiful view of the ocean, and we enjoyed watching the sunset every night. It was the perfect base camp for all of our explorations.

N

Nick

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bigfoot’s Coastal Hideaway

Camped at ravens nest. Hike to the creek was beautiful. Loved the redwoods. Easy drive to Fort Bragg and fun beach day. Head east for more redwoods. Hosts were amazing. 5 stars would recommend.

G

Gina

October 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Lost Coast, Oceanview Retreat

Absolutely would come back to Stacy’s place again. Beautiful decor, well thought out amenities, and gorgeous ocean view really enhanced our stay.

The Overlook tent + deck and parking area

C

Cory

October 2025

Tent

1 night at The Hideaway at Hole In The Wall

Very attentive, very helpful and understanding. Thank you

B

Bridget

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Mendocino Magic

Such a beautiful and peaceful property. I was lucky enough to have the place to myself, but even with people there, I presume the large layout, reservoir and walking trails spread everything out nicely.

H

Honey

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bigfoot’s Coastal Hideaway

I'd love to keep this place a secret, but it is the perfect getaway. Beautiful property in the redwoods with a good mix of clearings and coverage. You can buy firewood on-site from a lovely and friendly family, which is a huge plus, and there's a big stinkin' water filter at the water spout. The place is well taken care of. Just don't leave your coffee unattended, the redwoods shed their needles year-round! Anyway, this spot is just what we were looking for. On our second day, we visited the Mendocino Botanical Gardens, just 10 minutes from the campsite. I highly recommend a visit if you stay here for more than one night.

N

Nickaan

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Hideaway at Hole In The Wall

I loved camping here with my friends and it was SO beautiful!

B

Biz

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Hideaway at Hole In The Wall

Absolutely had a blast, Lars is a great host and so accommodating. The campsite was clean and well put together. He made sure we had fresh clean warm water for our shower and let us borrow anything we needed! We’ll be back!

m

mark

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Dark Fairy Farms

Beautiful cabin and hosts. Away from all distractions, we really enjoyed this place. Hosts were top, amazing views and property, lots of wildlife, great get away. So relaxing. Wish we had a longer time there. Thanks Sara and Liam, and Stanley too.

M

Maritsa

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Bigfoot’s Coastal Hideaway

The host was incredibly kind and easy to get a hold of. Our site was a bit smaller than expected (we have a 100lbs dog) and she let us move to a larger site. Everything was clean, porta potties were spotless, and having firewood sold there definitely lightened our load when packing. As for the wood chips- they definitely aren’t flammable. Trust me, I tried using them as kindling and it wouldn’t lite so no worries on that. The wood chips actually gave the site a very clean feeling. The trails are short, and it’s definitely the type of site to hang out and relax. There were a TON of banana slugs which was awesome and the property was less than 10 mins from the town that has an outdoor store in case you forget a blanket like we did! Loved it here, will be coming back!

A

Antoine

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bigfoot’s Coastal Hideaway

A wonderful campsite with a creek nearby. Huckleberries/Blueberries were there for us to pick but we did agitate some yellow jackets and I was bitten (there was a yellow jacket nest in the trees behind the Ravens Nest). It was a nice site with neighbors a good distance away for privacy. We did encounter many spiders especially under the picnic table, but it was fitting for the season and completely understandable. Overall we had a peaceful time! Definitely recommend setting up camp and venturing to Fort Bragg at least once during your trip, there are many shops and wonderful restaurants to explore. It was a wonderful experience at Bigfoots Coastal Hideaway, we hope to be back soon!

R

Rachel

September 2025

2 nights at Lost Coast, Oceanview Retreat

A beautiful house with an incredible view. I didnt want to leave!

Nicholas

September 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Experience: Bell Springs

Corydon and Deanna were super nice and accommodating! Sunset view was epic!

Rachel

September 2025

Weekend Trip to The cozy cabin

Nice little spot. Cute decor, easy access to ft bragg attractions. Having the washer and dryer was really nice for going to the beach.

J

Jezzy

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to The Hideaway at Hole In The Wall

Great place. The owner was sweet. They have a sweet tire swing. A place to cook. A sink and well water. Portable potties. There are off leash dogs but theyre super cute and sweet a little shy. I brought my dogs with no issues. The rock and river is walking distance and easy to get to. We were very happy. The camping spots are all very close together but we went and no one else was there. When you get there and cross the bridge go straight and to the left. #6 is the nicest spot. With a already nice tent available. And a deck. We had the whole thing to ourselves and it was lovely. Right on the north side of the highway. A big space to pull off and right down there. I really enjoyed my time there.

Karl

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Bigfoot’s Coastal Hideaway

Fantastic location for some coastal camping in the forest. A peaceful creek to meditate by is just a short walk. And Heather is a great host with amazing communication on directions and suggestions. Will be back!

Kristiina

September 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Bigfoot’s Coastal Hideaway

Well, we actually got lucky and noone else was camping there besides the host’s family and we were allowed to choose any campground. It was dark when we arrived so we went with the recommendation of Emerald Triangle, which was nice and spacious, potable water was right next to the campsite which was convienient. Shower was pretty clean, good water pressure, took a while for it to get hot but it did. Wifi was available by the main house. And the best part my pups got to roam around freely. We stayed only a night. We walked down the creek in the morning as well which was so pretty. I’d stay again.

L

Lancelot

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Lost Coast, Oceanview Retreat

Beautiful house and amazing location! Shelter Cove is quiet and adventurous! We (dog too) loved every part of this place

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best pets off leash camping near Shelter Cove guide

Where to go

King Range National Conservation Area

Shelter Cove is nestled in King Range National Conservation Area, which covers 68,000 acres. Check out Black Sands Beach, and head to Deadman’s Beach for surfing in spring and fall. Or hike to King Peak, then go biking on the Paradise Royale Mountain Bike Trail System. For campers hiking the Lost Coast Trail, there are many wilderness campsites in King Range that sit along it and the coast—snag a backcountry permit for any overnight wilderness camping. RVers can also find campgrounds with parking at trailheads that have fire rings and vault toilets.

Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

Canyons, gray whales, dark sand beaches, tidal pools, sea stacks, and rolling hills—campers will find authentic untamed wilderness in Sinkyone Wilderness State Park. The park stretches along the coast and is home to the lesser-known southern section of the Lost Coast Trail. Backpacking and equestrian camping are the only options in this state park—some campsites have fire rings but most have no amenities and the terrain is too rugged for vehicles. Just outside the park, RVers can set up at pull-through campsites with full hookups and dump stations, as well as restrooms and shower facilities. There are also cabin rentals equipped with kitchenettes, full bathrooms, cable TV, and wifi.

Humboldt Redwoods State Park

Boasting over 100 miles of trails for hikers, cyclists, and horseback riders that range from easy to expert-level, Humboldt Redwoods State Park is alluring to any kind of camper. It’s situated an hour northeast from Shelter Cove and contains the South Fork Eel River—an excellent spot for fishing, boating, and swimming, as well as the renowned Avenue of the Giants. The area offers over 250 campsites to choose from—most feature picnic tables and fire rings as well as access to flush toilets and pay showers. Some campgrounds have corrals for equestrian campers and a few welcome RVs, but there are no hookups or dump stations within the park (the stunning redwood trees certainly make up for it, though).

When to go

The temperate climate of Shelter Cove means campers can enjoy its natural treasures year-round. The shoulder seasons bring cooler temperatures, less-crowded campgrounds, and unique wildlife sightings—migrating gray whales make an appearance in winter and early spring, followed by colorful wildflowers that last into summer. Rain is common from November through March which causes a lot of road and campground closures (especially in Sinkyone Wilderness State Park), so check ahead to ensure access.