Mattole Campground

Open — Open year-round, first-come, first-served. No potable water available on-site. Limited to 14 days per calendar year within King Range National Conservation Area.

About

Mattole Campground provides one of the only low-cost coastal camping opportunities on California's North Coast, offering solitude and spectacular scenery at the mouth of the Mattole River. Located at the northern end of the King Range National Conservation Area, this rustic campground features 23 tent/trailer sites scattered among sand dunes with ocean views. The campground serves as both a destination for those seeking remote coastal camping and as the northern trailhead for the famous Lost Coast Trail. The setting is spectacular, with the Mattole River estuary meeting the Pacific Ocean and creating habitat for diverse fish and wildlife. A short 600-foot trail provides beach access through the dunes, while a 3.2-mile one-way hike leads to the historic Punta Gorda Lighthouse. The campground includes two equestrian sites for visitors exploring the backcountry on horseback. Swimming is not recommended due to rip currents, sneaker waves, and forceful surf. Facilities are minimal to preserve the remote, natural character of the area. The campground operates first-come, first-served with no reservations required. Visitors should be prepared for primitive conditions and bring all necessary supplies, including drinking water, as no potable water is available on-site.

Directions

From US-101: Take Garberville/South Fork/Honeydew exit (about 2 hours 20 minutes from Eureka) or Ferndale exit. Follow signs toward Petrolia. Turn onto Lighthouse Road toward the ocean. Campground located at 3750 Lighthouse Road, Petrolia.

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