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Headwaters Forest Reserve

The best camping in Headwaters Forest Reserve, CA

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Stories from the community

Campsite (farthest from bathrooms, by creek) most private

kelsey

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

With pets

Weekend Trip to Wendy & John Farm

Very sweet people, cute property dog, quiet and private campsites :) they supplied firewood/fire starter, toilets, and hot showers! Great deal and would definitely come back again

Miguel

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

With kids

Weekend Trip to Whispering Redwood Creek

Great spot, incredibly quiet! I wish I would've seen to bring our own propane for the fire pit, but I'll know for next time!

Mel

2 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at Camp Miranda

great location! bathrooms were very nice. a little closer to the road than we hoped for but totally worth it

Sara

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at BIGFOOT FLAT on Willow Creek

Beautiful property just off of 299. During the day you can hear cars, but it’s very quiet at night. No other campers were there during my stay, Shannon let me pick my spot. Site #3 on the end is more private and less rocky for tent camping.

The tent at night with a queen size bed inside, table for two, a mirror, clothing rack, dehumidifier and space heater.

Megan

3 weeks ago

2 nights at The Fairy Forest

The tent was nice and there was a heater. I liked having the comforts of a real bed (that was actually comfortable) and be in the middle of the redwoods and be still close to nature. I loved that it was so close to Trinidad and the freeway as-well. The shower was hard to get warm but it wasn't so bad.

Julian

3 weeks ago

12 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camp Miranda

The site was lovely - Casey & Bryon maintain a lovely farm beyond the fence of the campground, with ducks and vegetable plots. The camp area is slightly slopes to the river, but very open and with plenty of space to pull in. It was close enough to the little town nearby for us to walk, and also to a 1 mile trailhead of redwoods. The restrooms were clean and the showers quite warm which was very nice for our wintertime stay. 10/10 would book again for this area.

Jerrica

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Bayside Cabin

The cabin is so quaint and beautiful. It’s quite cold this time of year so starting a fire was imperative! The shower and outdoor space was lovely and the slugs were the sweetest visitors. Ted and Emily were responsive hosts — thanks for much for an unforgettable experience!

Drew

November 2025

4 nights at Bayside Cabin

My stay at Ted and Emily’s cabin was so peaceful, exactly what I was looking for! Directions were very clear, cabin was well cared for, and boy can that wood stove heat the room!! Emily and Ted were fantastic hosts, I definitely will be back next time I’m in the area.

Tzuni

November 2025

With pets

1 night at Bayside Cabin

So beautiful, romantic, and equipped! It really has everything you could need while remaining pretty minimalist. The steamy outdoor shower on a cold morning was healing, and the privacy of the toilet was ideal (totally worth it to walk outside the cabin for a moment, and you’re still totally protected from rain and dirt on the couple of steps it takes to reach it.) Can’t wait to come back.

Sarah

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Whispering Redwood Creek

We had a great time camping here! The site was beautiful tucked amongst the redwoods and it felt very protected and private. We had our dog with us and felt comfortable with her off leash since the campsite was so contained. It was really nice to have a bathroom and picnic table too. The short nature trail was cute and we found a few banana slugs! The written directions from the host were great and super easy to follow to find camp. Highly recommend staying on Chris’s land for your next weekend in the redwoods!

Fiona

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Bayside Cabin

We love Ted and Emily’s place! It’s so cozy and wonderfully located. It has everything you need and is the perfect little getaway for a relaxing trip.

WOW! Just 5 miles drive from The Garden Cabin, the Mattole river basin is an astonishing sight to see.

Donald

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Lost Coast

What a gem, hidden in the tiny hamlet of Petrolia! We stayed in the Garden Cabin which was a small cabin large enough only for a queen-sized bed, mini-fridge, and a couple of shelves for the tea kettle and some bowls. Very charming and perfect for a short stay especially when one has other activities to occupy the day. There is an outdoor shower and clawfoot bathtub with plenty of hot water, and an Adirondack loveseat with a propane fire (no wood fires allowed.)

Angela

November 2025

With pets

1 night at River Song Camp

This was our second stay and all went very well. Beautiful area. We stayed in the Tiny Home this time, partly I choose this because there were high winds predicted. Both the Tiny Home, the cute camper and their composting outhouse are very nice and all are very clean. There's room for a person and two dogs or two people if one wants the floor, such as a child. Great stay.

Alex

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Bayside Cabin

Cool place - was exactly as advertised! Wood fireplace kept me warm, fresh well water on tap, and an outdoor shower. Great for one or two people who plan on spending their time adventuring and not hunkering down until they have used all the daylight.

Vanessa

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Wendy & John Farm

Or 3rd time staying at Wendy & John’s! This will be our yearly tradition. Can’t wait to bring the rest of the family. Hosts are always amazing

Lisa

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Bayside Cabin

This glamping situation rocks! It is unassuming, super quiet, simple, with wood and windows. The bonus is there is running water, a toilet and a shower.

Linda

November 2025

19 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Wendy & John Farm

We had a fabulous experience at Wendy and John's. The campsite was perfect under a full moon. We really appreciated the sparkling clean bathroom and shower. The dinner was amazing- a 5 course meal that rivaled any fine dining restaurant we ever experienced! Wendy and John are fantastic hosts in every respect. We enjoyed celebrating the election results together 11/4/25. We look forward to returning again and again.

Abby

November 2025

With pets

2 nights at Bayside Cabin

Had a wonderful stay! Would definitely recommend to anyone looking for some glamping in the area.

Maya

November 2025

2 nights at The Fairy Forest

This place is so special and peaceful. The tent is comfortable and I was cozy and warm in it in a storm in November. Kimberly was incredibly kind and helpful, especially when I had a bereavement during my stay. The place is really thoughtfully and beautifully set up and I felt really well cared for.

Alissa

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Bayside Cabin

Cute cabin - really nice to have heat (wood stove), electricity, and a real sink, shower, toilet. This is my oversight but reiterating the alert to others: they do not provide bedding! The pics all show a made bed so I guess my brain just glazed over that part in the description. Glad they left dry wood, kindling and a throw blanket for the cool night. Slept with a strong fire going and my jacket as a pillow. Could be improved: Whole place smelled a little bit like cat pee. Looks dreamy in the warmer months. Under 10 mins to downtown arcata.

Top-rated campgrounds

Forest Farm Conservancy

100%

(16)

4.3mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 3 sites · Tents, Lodging · Fortuna, CA

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.

Eureka HipGlamp

100%

(15)

11mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 1 site · Lodging · Eureka, CA

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✌🏽

Redwood Family Camp

93%

(20)

12mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 51 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Scotia, CA

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.

Redwoods Rest Stop

100%

(35)

12mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 1 site · Tent, RV · Eureka, CA

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 ⛺️⛺️🚐🚐

Little Haven Gardens

97%

(16)

14mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 3 sites · RVs · Bayside, CA

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

Wendy & John Farm

100%

(571)

15mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Ferndale, CA

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.

Bayside Cabin

98%

(315)

15mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 1 site · Lodging · Arcata, CA

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!

Drive Way Getta Away…

97%

(38)

16mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 1 site · RV · Arcata, CA

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.

River Song Camp

100%

(15)

17mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 2 sites · Lodging · Arcata, CA

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.

Seven Sister's Sanctuary

100%

(20)

17mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 1 site · Lodging · 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.

Fieldbrook Gnome Dome

90%

(10)

21mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 1 site · Lodging · Mc Kinleyville, CA

Gnome Dome is nestled in the redwood forest of the charming community of Fieldbrook in Humboldt County.

Tranquil Riverside Camping

100%

(13)

22mi from Headwaters Forest Reserve · 2 sites · Tents · Willow Creek, CA

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.

The 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.

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