- Headwaters Forest Reserve/
- Camping
The best camping in Headwaters Forest Reserve, CA
The best camping in Headwaters Forest Reserve, CA
Forest Farm Conservancy
1. Forest Farm Conservancy
100%
(16)
4.3mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
Very peaceful, private. and close to essentials like coffee, groceries, fuel, restaurants, and fabulous sights. Redwood National Park, Redwoods State Park, drive through trees, one log home, Avenue of the giants and many other historic sites, towns, and natural wonders are all within a 40 minute radius. The beach is just 25 minutes away. This is the best location for a surf and turf get away!
Onsite, you may see red fox, deer, turkeys, bear, possums, skunks, and a huge variety of birds. You'll also likely see our chickens and dogs: the beginning of our organic, sustainable, off grid farm.
We've been carefully tending and nurturing this forest for just over four years to mechanically remove invasives like scotch broom, himaylayan black berry, English ivy, Pampas grass, bull thistle, and non-native onions while reintroducing native species. Consider helping to support our efforts and get involved!
Reconnect with nature at this unforgettable escape. Lovely and peaceful private redwood forest and off-grid sustainable farm. You'll b surrounded by lush green ferns, towering redwoods, seasonal springs and streams, in a deep ravine with the sounds of nature to connect to creation.
Get away from the hustle, bustle and noise when you stay under the stars. Camping on private property often with no other campers around. Hiking and Mountain Bike trails on site and adjacent to miles of additional trails in Second Growth city park. Walk to old town Fortuna while feeling like you're hundreds of miles away from civilization.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$35
/ night
Eureka HipGlamp
2. Eureka HipGlamp
100%
(15)
11mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 1 site
Welcome to Eureka! The purpose of this tent is to provide a safe and quiet space to rest, refresh and recharge. It's got modern amenities right in the heart of town. Family and friends have loved it and have encouraged me to share it with other travelers. I hope you find what you are looking for in this healing environment called Humboldt✌🏽
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$80
/ night
Redwood Family Camp
3. Redwood Family Camp
93%
(22)
12mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 51 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Set into the beautiful and serene redwoods right at the entrance of the Ave. Of the Giants, exit 676 off Hwy. 101. We are located next to the Eel River with river access just yards down the road.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$39
/ night
Redwoods Rest Stop
4. Redwoods Rest Stop
100%
(38)
12mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 1 site · Tent, RV
1/2 mile off of the 101. The address is 494 Indianola Cutoff (see GPS instructions below). We used this location to build our new home. Incredible location between Eureka and Arcata. Redwoods on property. Old growth stumps as well near campsite. On a county road but very quiet at night. Power available. We have 50-30 amp adapter available to use. Very private setting.
Full size construction porta potty for your personal use will NOT be available November 1- May 1. We recently created a spot for a tent as well. The site is level, gravel and well drained. Hard to find in Humboldt!
🌲🌲IMPORTANT GPS DIRECTIONS🌲🌲 To find us using GPS please type in 500 Indianola Cutoff… we share a driveway. Pull in then immediately to your left you will see your campsite ⛺️⛺️🚐🚐
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$45
/ night
Little Haven Gardens
5. Little Haven Gardens
97%
(17)
14mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 3 sites
Country setting yet 5 minutes to Humboldt State University, Arcata square, or Eureka, 15 minutes to Trinidad, Su-Meg (Patrick's Point), Blue Lake, and Moonstone Beach, 45 minutes to Redwood National Park, and so much more!
Parking spots are on flat grassy field, near neighborhood road, typically very quiet and dark at night.
We have nice bay breezes most every summer afternoon, and summer daytime temperatures are usually around 65 degrees. Abundant organic fruit free for the picking includes blueberries, blackberries, thimbleberries, kiwis, plums, pears and apples depending on the time of year (typically June through November) and we usually have fresh duck and chicken eggs, veggies, and culinary herbs (rosemary, thyme, sage, lavender etc.) to share from our garden, which is a work in progress, like many things!
You're welcome to hang out by the very private creek for morning coffee or afternoon picnics and great bird and wildlife watching--if you're lucky you might even get to see river otters fishing and playing in the creek! You might want to bring water shoes or rain boots if you'd like to wade across the creek and explore the beautiful, serene 60 acre private nature preserve that borders our property.
We have a young son and you'll often find us working and playing in the garden, creek, or around the property during the days
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$55
/ night
Wendy & John Farm
6. Wendy & John Farm
100%
(576)
15mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 7 sites · Tents, RVs
My aunt and uncle bought the property in 1947 from its first European settler, Paolo Gabrielli, who immigrated in early 1914 from northern Italy with slips of his grapevine in the lining of his coat. (The grapevine still grows over the back deck.) What can you expect? Quiet, beauty, birdsong, ocean roar, widely spaced campsites (only 5 on the 5 acres set aside for camping). Free firewood, local tips on travel and where to hike or what to visit. Or total solitude. Bring your (most non-cattle-chasing breeds) dogs if you wish (males must be neutered). Starlink internet. Walk to the beach of our wild ocean along a no-shoulder country road. We have 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 and no generators allowed. (Charge your electronics at the farmhouse.) We offer homemade soup, cobbler, fresh bread, morning coffee as extras; you can order with the booking. The Victorian village of Ferndale is three miles east, as is a beautifully maintained 110-acre town wilderness with hiking trails called Russ Park. A 150-year-old cemetery slopes down a hillside & is filled with 19th century charm and history. Shops and restaurants welcome visitors. There are several bars/a wine bar/and a historic saloon that's as old boy as it was in 1890. A music venue in a restored 19th century church has amazing acoustics and attracts international talent as a top-notch venue (sessions are filmed for PBS) midway between Portland and San Francisco. So, it's a mix of town and country, village and farm, wilderness and bewilderedness. Safe, safe, safe, meaning: you can leave your belongings in your site and when you come back... they're still there :) We welcome the world. One caveat: please arrive before dark. There is no electricity in the campgrounds, and no generators are allowed. You will not be able to reach (or maybe even locate) your site without disturbing others.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$45
/ night
Bayside Cabin
7. Bayside Cabin
98%
(328)
15mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 1 site
Come stay in our cozy little cabin tucked in an alder forest. Only a few minutes drive from downtown Arcata, it’s like being in the middle of the woods, right in town. This is a quiet neighborhood and is bike-friendly for getting around town. Feel free to ask us for recommendations on places to eat, get a drink, or find an adventure in Arcata and surrounding areas.
We are located less than 40 minutes from Redwood National and State Parks where you can find incredible hiking trails!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$80
/ night
Drive Way Getta Away…
8. Drive Way Getta Away…
98%
(41)
16mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 1 site
Quiet, with minimal traffic, this site offers walking distance access to downtown Arcata and the Arcata Community Forest. A mere 30-minute drive will take you to the breathtaking Redwood National Park, while CAL POLY Humboldt is just a 10-minute stroll away. The driveway is flat but does starts to slant downward towards alley. Alley can difficult to maneuver larger rigs.
Our site comfortably accommodates a 20ft transit/van/small RV, as showcased by the pictured van. Located off-street, it provides a safe and tranquil parking spot. Access to the site is through an alleyway, ensuring privacy and convenience for guests.
Pets
from
$24
/ night
River Song Camp
9. River Song Camp
100%
(15)
17mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 2 sites
Escape to a peaceful, sun-soaked retreat just minutes from the Mad River! Nestled on 2.5 open and spacious acres, this serene campsite offers easy access to nature while being conveniently close to local attractions.
Prime Location: Just 1 mile from the fish hatchery and some of the best swimming holes in the area—perfect for cooling off in the summer.
Outdoor Adventures: Explore mountain biking and walking trails, all within a short distance.
Convenient Access: Just over the bridge from Blue Lake and a 15-minute drive to the coast and Arcata and McKinleyville making it easy to explore the local scene.
Several accommodations: Choose from a single occupancy tiny home or camping trailer with a king-sized bed or set up your own tent!
Relaxing Atmosphere: Enjoy wide-open skies, warm sunshine, and a tranquil setting perfect for unwinding.
Whether you're here for a quiet riverside escape or an adventure-packed getaway, this spot is an ideal base for your Northern California camping experience.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from
$56
/ night
Seven Sister's Sanctuary
10. Seven Sister's Sanctuary
100%
(20)
17mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 1 site
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.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$115
/ night
Fieldbrook Gnome Dome
11. Fieldbrook Gnome Dome
90%
(10)
21mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 1 site
Gnome Dome is nestled in the redwood forest of the charming community of Fieldbrook in Humboldt County.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$120
/ night
Tranquil Riverside Camping
12. Tranquil Riverside Camping
100%
(13)
22mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 2 sites
Welcome to our tranquil riverside tent camping spots on our serene 50-acre homestead. Nestled in a private, wooded area along a pristine river halfway between Willow Creek and Blue Lake, this primitive campsite offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Unplug, unwind, and reconnect with nature in this secluded haven.
Highlights
Swimming Hole: Cool off in the natural swimming hole just steps away from your tent.
Privacy: Enjoy complete privacy with no nearby neighbors.
Nature Trails: Explore the surrounding river and woods.
Wildlife: Spot deer, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Campfire: Gather around the campfire ring for an evening of stargazing and storytelling.
Amenities
Fire Ring: A designated fire ring for safe and enjoyable campfires.
Picnic Table: A picnic table and umbrella for your dining convenience.
Portable Toilet: A clean portable toilet with camping bag will be provided. (carry out bag)
Water Source: Fresh water available from a nearby well and spring (bring your own containers).
ACCESSIBILITY
Our property gate is off the main road by 4 miles on a dirt road. Our driveway is an additional 1 mile of steep dirt road. A 2wd vehicle will have no problem accessing our property. The road down to the campsite can be accessed partially or fully in 2wd, however 4wd is recommended. If you choose to park halfway down you can walk the rest or we can help transport gear in our vehicle.
What to Bring
Tent and sleeping gear (or rent from us)
Cooking equipment and utensils (or rent from us)
Firewood (or purchase from us)
Swimming gear
Insect repellent
Trash bags (carry in, carry out policy)
Activities
Swimming: Enjoy the refreshing swimming hole.
Hiking: Explore miles of private trails through diverse landscapes.
Birdwatching: Bring binoculars for a chance to see various bird species.
Stargazing: The clear, unpolluted skies are perfect for stargazing.
Campfires
Toilets
Potable water
from
$36
/ night
Humboldt Hideaway
13. Humboldt Hideaway
100%
(19)
23mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging
Humboldt hideaway is a small intimate SHARED space with residents. The outdoor kitchen, deck with a view, and campfire ring are all connected to the main resident house. There are places of seclusion, but much of it is shared outdoor space.
Humboldt Hideaway is a small off-the-grid LGBTQ+ queer land project in Northern California. It is set on 12 acres of hilly terrain in the mixed fir and oak woods of Humboldt County, a half-hour east of Arcata. Back in 2001, when it was established, it was undeveloped with nothing on it. It has since been built up with the scrappy efforts of amateur creative dreamers.
It is a home and resource to extended LGBTQ+ communities by being a small-scale rural resource for learning and sharing useful rural living skills and being a destination for visits, artist and activist retreats, and host to small groups and events.
Anyone is welcome at Humboldt Hideaway, but please understand that it is an intentional place committed to anti-oppression values. It is important that it remain a safer space for people identifying as queer and/or transgender, as well as a supportive space for women and people of color to freely be. Please make sure you do not anticipate any concerns/problems with this.
NEARBY ATTRACTIONS: The property is conveniently located midway between the coast/redwoods and the Trinity River/Trinity Alps backpacking. It is a 45 minute drive to the coast of Trinidad, which has some of the most lovely coves and beaches and Patrick's Point State Park. It is a half hour drive to the coastal Ma-le'l dunes. And it is a half hour drive inland to swimming holes on the Trinity River.
OFF-THE-GRID: The place is off-the-grid, no internet, only limited solar power, an on-demand propane water heater, and heated by woodstoves. Structures are a combination of natural building, salvaged, and new materials, with a mix of low-tech alternative technologies- all built with lots of love and help from friends.
BOOKING A GROUP: There is potentially both cabin space and camping spots. The property can accommodate a group of up to 10 people. If you wish to book a group, please get in touch and we'll have you book all of the spaces- including some that are not currently listed, as they are in the shared lodge space.
WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBILITY: There is a guest room in the shared lodge space if you want to have a wheelchair accessible room. The lodge has a ramp for accessible entrance. This room is not listed, but get in touch if you want to book it.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$23
/ night
Whispering Redwood Creek
14. Whispering Redwood Creek
96%
(124)
24mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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 Tip 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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$51
/ night
Lost Coast
15. Lost Coast
100%
(22)
24mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 3 sites
Welcome to The Lost Coast in Petrolia, CA- WE HAVE THREE SITES-The Garden Cabin, The Abalone RV, and just added The Milk Shed! Discover 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, mountain lion, black bear, coyote, raccoon, skunk, and natural beauty, The Lost Coast 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, volunteer fire department, no hospital, and a post office. There is WiFi, limited cell service, so this terrain is rugged, remote, and pristine. Due to the surroundings, there is a standard release form for our guests to sign. Come experience the tranquility and beauty of the Lost Coast at the Garden Cabin – it truly is heaven on earth.
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$80
/ night
Camp Prairie
16. Camp Prairie
97%
(192)
25mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from
$60
/ night
BIGFOOT FLAT on Willow Creek
17. BIGFOOT FLAT on Willow Creek
99%
(290)
27mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 10 sites · Tents, RVs
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
Sol Spirit Farm
18. Sol Spirit Farm
100%
(10)
30mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 6 sites
Learn more about this land:Come experience life on a cannabis farm in the Emerald Triangle! We are a working farm, so there is always something happening in the garden. Depending on when you visit, we might be planting, pruning, harvesting, cloning, trimming, or some combination of those activities. We designed this experience to share our love of regenerative farming with others. The six tents are all located within a central "glampground" surrounded by our cannabis farm and vegetable and livestock areas. We are in "Bigfoot Country" in the Emerald Triangle of Northern California. Due to severe fire danger in the summer, we don't allow personal fires, but instead include organic farm to table meals in the price of your stay, using eggs, meat and produce from our farm or other local farms (vegetarian and vegan options available.) Let us cook for you and make your vacation that much more relaxing. You can also schedule a river float or whitewater rafting trip with us for an additional fee. The area is home to world class river rafting, pristine swimming holes, extraordinary cannabis farms, vineyards, fishing and wildlife sightings. We can help you plan your days to take in all this beautiful area has to offer.
Toilets
Showers
Campfires
from
$420
/ night
Camp Miranda
19. Camp Miranda
99%
(73)
30mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled in a cozy neighborhood among towering redwoods, a base camp for the Avenue of the Giants. We offer secluded campsites located on our working homestead, adjacent to our orchard with dozens of established fruit and nut trees. Our farm stand is on site with in season food grown in our garden and fresh press cider daily in late summer/fall. Enjoy easy access to the nearby State Park Stephens Grove Trail Loop and the South Fork Eel River is a 3 minute drive down the Avenue of the Giants. Take a short stroll from camp into the charming town of Miranda. Discover a variety of delicious dining options and a cozy coffee shop with breakfast options, gas station with grocery items and Post Office. On-site amenities include 2 private completely remodeled restrooms for the 2025 season, with hot showers and flush toilets. Our campsites are spacious with roughly 30-50 feet between sites. Forest bathe amongst the Redwoods, Tanoaks, and Dogwood Trees, after exploring the near by State Park and river.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$32
/ night
The Fairy Forest
20. The Fairy Forest
95%
(301)
31mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 4 sites
The Fairy Forest is 4 acres of redwood trees one mile from the magical city of Trinidad, CA. People have been camping in our meadow since the 1950's, and I'm happy to carry on the tradition, by opening it up to you. There was a fire on the property in 1901 which left the burnt out hollow stumps which you'll see by the shower. There's one old growth redwood on the property, behind the glampy tent, but everything else in roughly 120 years old. Every year we try to make your glamping experience better and better. This year, we've added an artisan picnic table, built on site, and some solar lights leading to the shower. Outdoor sink and cook space is next on our list! There used to be two campsites on our property, but we closed down one of them to give guests in the glampy tent exclusive usage of the outdoor shower and porta potty. We are also renting out our cabin this year, which has been our home for the last 3 years.
There's 10 local beaches to explore in the area, great little restaurants and businesses, and countless trails- including Strawberry Rock, which is right down the street from us. We're 19 miles away from Orick, which is the gateway to Fern Canyon (make a reservation in advance) and all the trails with old growth redwoods. And we're 16 miles from Arcata, a vibrant, colorful and creative city that is home to the first farmer's market in California, which is quite the experience if you find yourself here on a Saturday.
Hope you come and stay with us if you find yourself on the Lost Coast.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$90
/ night
Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Headwaters Forest Reserve adventure.
Snag sold-out campsites.
Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.
See the best spots in one place.
Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.
Book with confidence.
Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
T
Taylor
1 week ago
16 ft car
With pets
Extremely peaceful, Wendy and John were wonderful and welcoming. Would recommend 100%
See more
G
Grace
2 weeks ago
Tent
This was such a cute spot. It had everything we needed for tent camping and Bo was a very generous host! Would definitely camp here again.
See more
A
Amber
2 weeks ago
Weekend Trip to The Fairy Forest
Cozy tent, I had great sleep here to the sound of rain!!! Cute garden and super gorgeous shower area. Sadly we didn’t get to use it but it looked so relaxing.
Not having a hand/dish washing place was inconvenient so beware. This isnt the best place to cook, but it’s a really great spot to wind down :)
The host was close by and showed up to help when needed. The town nearby is super cute and has bomb pizza!!!
See moreT
Tyler
2 weeks ago
Tent
What a beautiful property in an amazing little community! Wendy and John were friendly and accommodating. Cute dog too!
See more
A
Amber
2 weeks ago
Tent
Beautiful piece of land. The instructions to get there could probably be simpler. However I was still able to get there first try. The place is right off the road so it’s not so private but in the evening/early morning no one really comes by. Still, its peaceful. We really enjoyed the scenery and creek :) thanks!
See more
E
E
3 weeks ago
Tent
Group trip
Nice spot! Easy to find and convenient location. The outdoor string lights were nice in the evening and there was plenty of space for our tents. Nice, responsive host. My friend was in the shower when the propane ran out, we texted Bo and he came with a new propane tank even though it was after 10 pm already!
See more
John
3 weeks ago
With pets
I had an absolutely wonderful stay here and can’t say enough about how special this space feels. From the moment you walk down the pathway toward the cabin, something shifts — your nervous system immediately settles and you feel yourself slowing down in the best possible way. The setting is incredibly peaceful, surrounded by beautiful trees and nature, and the entire space invites you to return to a simpler, more grounded rhythm.
One of my favorite parts of the experience was the outdoor kitchen and shower. Preparing meals outside while looking out over the trees, hearing the wind move through the forest, and heating the cabin with wood in the evenings made the stay feel intentional and restorative. It’s a rare place where you naturally disconnect from noise and reconnect with the basics — good food, fresh air, and quiet.
The kitchen is thoughtfully equipped with all the essential supplies, along with a small fridge that made longer stays easy and comfortable. A cooler and barbecue are also available upon request, which adds to the flexibility of cooking and enjoying meals outdoors. Guests should plan to bring their own linens and toiletries, which is clearly communicated and fits well with the simple, back-to-basics nature of the stay. The mattress was also extremely comfortable — something that made restful sleep come easily after full days outside.
The environment itself is exceptionally calm and well cared for, and the owners were equally wonderful. They were kind, res
See more
A
Anne
3 weeks ago
33 ft travel trailer
With pets
This is a small family campground with lots of long term residents. The property was great for my pup, lots of room to roam. The bathrooms were old but very clean. Billie Jean was a very welcoming and friendly host. I would return to this location.
See more
P
Paul
February 2026
1 night at The Fairy Forest
Special spot. Outdoor shower was very nice and slept like a log in the tent
See more
S
Sharon
February 2026
Tent
Perfect to get away and relax. Even has a babbling brook. Highly recommend
See moreC
Charlotte
January 2026
3 nights at Bayside Cabin
We had a wonderful and cozy time staying at Ted and Emily‘s. Nothing better than falling asleep to the sound of frogs, enjoying the warmth of a woodfire stove, and waking up to natural light. The outdoor shower was also excellent.
See moreM
Margalit
January 2026
Tent
Wow! Exquisite, mostly flat, and very clear area. Silo toilet worked as expected, nice benefit to have so close to the site. Light was helpful for set up but a bit aggressive for camping ambiance. Road felt way longer than it was when we went up at night but was actually pretty chill. Didn’t try the fire but was intrigued and love the concept. Trees were great to wrap lights on. Jumping off the bathroom platform was fun but maybe a bit treacherous in the dark (there are stairs though). Trail and bench was very cute, the little stream burbled delightfully. Sunlight never really made it to us - time is an illusion. Would stay here again with more propane.
See more
R
Ron
January 2026
20 ft Class B
Comfortable and quiet and handy to the highway! Laurie was very kind!
See more
J
John
January 2026
20 ft campervan
This camp spot was safe and well-equipped. Friendly dog and responsive host. Running water, electricity, flat parking, a nice table, bench and chairs were setup. A little close to the road was my only complaint but good privacy. If I were in a tent, the road noise could be distracting but inside my van was perfectly fine. I would use this site again - not a lot of options in Arcata area - so I’m grateful this spot exists. Keep it clean and be respectful please so the host keeps hosting!
See moreM
Michael
January 2026
Tent
With kids
Super nice host. Nice private site with cool lights and good amount of space. Loved the kitchen and shower!
See more
P
Priya
January 2026
1 night at Bayside Cabin
we had the sweetest time here! the cabin is cozy, the bed is comfy, and the fire is warm. such a beautiful place! the three walls of windows were a highlight.
See more
Morgan
January 2026
1 night at Bayside Cabin
Great little spot! Very close to town and the wood fired stove made the whole cabin warm and cozy :)
See more
l
ly
January 2026
16 ft pop-up camper
With kids
This place was amazing. We spent 3 nights here in early January and it was everything we wanted. Sleeping in the rain forests while its raining was amazing. Having a toilet was very convenient with kids. The directions to this camp spot at first looks intimidating but its really easy. We havent slept that well in awhile and having a private camp spot made it feel very intimate. You can have spotty cell receptions. We were able to stream some youtube for the kids. We will return in the summer for a longer stay.
See more
M
Masa
January 2026
19 ft campervan
With pets
The driveway was flat, very private, quiet and close to downtown Arcata. Jeffrey was easy to communicate with.
See more
Elka
January 2026
With pets
We loved staying here!!! We went for New Year’s Eve and had 3 perfect rainy days. The cabin is so cute and cozy — the big windows, wood burning stove, and outdoor shower make it a dream. Would definitely recommend and come back!
See moreThe best camping in Headwaters Forest Reserve, CA guide
Overview
About
Start planning your Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument camping trip for a unique taste of Southern California's mountainous allure. The high peaks and deep canyons near your campsite provide opportunities for hiking and wildlife viewing. Not far away, Joshua Tree National Park offers another dimension of desert beauty and exploration. A camping trip near Santa Rosa and San Jacinto Mountains National Monument is a genuine highland adventure!
Nearby attractions
- Step back in time while camping at Fort Humboldt State Historic Park. This unique location combines the best of both worlds - enriching history and serene natural beauty for a captivating camping experience.
- Enveloped by the towering majesty of ancient redwoods, camping at Humboldt Redwoods State Park is truly a humbling experience. It's a magical sanctuary for campers seeking tranquility and awe-inspiring scenery.
- From the stunning coastline to the refreshing forested campsites, Fort Bragg offers a camping experience that's nothing short of spectacular. Don't miss the mesmerizing Glass Beach!
- Embark on a coastal camping journey in Eureka. The city's proximity to lush forests, beautiful beaches, and bustling marinas makes it an ideal base camp for diverse outdoor activities.
- Prepare to be mesmerized by the natural splendor of Six Rivers National Forest. This vast wonderland brims with vibrant wilderness, making it a splendid choice for camping, hiking, and wildlife spotting.
Be the first to review
Share your experience here to help other campers.