The best waterside camping near Shelter Cove

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.

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).