- Lake Earl Wildlife Area
The best camping near Lake Earl Wildlife Area, CA
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Top-rated campgrounds near Lake Earl Wildlife Area
Redwood Retreat
Redwood Retreat
97%
(374)
1.2mi from Lake Earl Wildlife Area · 3 sites · Lodging
We acquired the property in 2015, out-competing a logger who wanted to cut the grove for timber. We want the redwood grove to show the value of trees preserved in their natural state. You are helping us do that by staying in our woods!
Toilets
Showers
Wifi
from
$99
/ night
Coastal Forest Farm Camp
Coastal Forest Farm Camp
97%
(106)
2.2mi from Lake Earl Wildlife Area · 1 site · RV
Coastal Forest Farm is a 13-acre family farm. The farm is complete with a seasonal pond, open pastures, and a forest. The forest includes ferns, a variety of mushrooms (please don't touch them unless you are knowledgable about mushrooms), flowers, and mossy-covered old-growth Sitka trees. At night you can hear the sounds of the ocean nearby and the frogs in the forest.
Pets
from
$65
/ night
Smith River Surf Camp
Smith River Surf Camp
91%
(37)
2.3mi from Lake Earl Wildlife Area · 4 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
This is a beautiful 2.8 acre secluded group campsite with a geodesic dome, just minutes away from the ocean, giant redwood forests, and the beautiful Smith River. Surfing, paddling, hiking, biking, ocean or river activities abound. Surrounded by pastures, with frequent herds of elk roaming nearby and sometimes through the campsite itself.
This is a primitive campsite. It is a grassy area to park your campervan or set up your tent. While work is going into the site to improve it's functionality, it is not up and running yet. we have a toilet onsite and tables where you can set up your kitchen, however there are no showers and you wil need to pack it in and out.
You will certainly enjoy this nature getaway!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$40
/ night
Lower Lake Farm Camp
Lower Lake Farm Camp
96%
(163)
2.8mi from Lake Earl Wildlife Area · 5 sites · RVs
Our little farm has full hook-up sites with septic, great water, 30 amp electric, WiFi. We are located halfway between Brookings, OR and Crescent City, CA near the Wild and Scenic Smith River, Tolowa Dunes State Park, Lake Earl Wildlife Area, and Kellogg Beach (1.3 miles from camp) on the Pacific Ocean. The beautiful redwoods and Jedidiah Smith State Park are just minutes away. So many outdoor activities available nearby; Kayaking, swimming, surfing, fishing, hiking, biking, horse riding, bird watching, beach combing, and all the outdoor activities you can imagine. The farm animals are friendly, they love goodies and scratches (kitchen scraps, and Shiloh the horse loves carrots and apples!) Kids should be accompanied by an adult. Please close gates behind you!
Pets
Full hookups
from
$50
/ night
Ossia Village Farm
Ossia Village Farm
98%
(312)
2.8mi from Lake Earl Wildlife Area · 8 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Ossia Village Farm is a 5-acre collaborative and ever evolving farmstead with big visions, lots of passion and willingness to try the untried. Explore the emergent veggie and flower gardens, stroll through meadow pathways, pick abundant hydrangeas, feed the farm animals and search for turtles in the duck pool, or take a moment of quiet meditation in the patch of redwoods onsite.
Ossia is playful base camp for adventures to the river, redwoods and ocean beaches. Amenities include flushing toilets and shower in the bathhouse, drinking water, shared electric hot water kettle, mini fridge, charging ports and charcoal grill at the hospitality center (bring your own stove and dishes), and a communal fire pit.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$45
/ night
Redwood Meadows RV Resort
Redwood Meadows RV Resort
93%
(35)
5.9mi from Lake Earl Wildlife Area · 200 sites · Tents, RVs
Del Norte's Premier RV Park
Welcome to Redwood Meadows RV Resort, your gateway to the Northern California coast's stunning redwoods and scenic shorelines. We offer spacious RV sites, cozy tent spots, a yurt, and comfortable studio apartments, all perfectly situated near Northern California's amazing attractions, including Redwood National Park and the pristine Smith River Wilderness Area.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$35
/ night
Free Your Mind Camping
Free Your Mind Camping
90%
(101)
9.7mi from Lake Earl Wildlife Area · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to the Wild West Coast! Where the mountains meet the sea.
The campground is remotely located on private property and perfectly located for excursions to the Pacific Ocean, Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park, the Smith River National Recreation Area, and the Pacific Coast Ranges and mountain lakes such as the Devil's Punchbowl, Buck Lake, and Raspberry Lake.
Relax and free you mind while camping on 120+ acres of private property under starry skies with almost no light or noise pollution. You are not alone on the mountain as other people live here in the wild. You only have access to the campground and a nearby pond. A locked gate with code access. The road to get there is two and a half miles up the mountain, the first mile is paved and the other mile and a half is gravel. The road is maintained by the county and used daily by others that live and work here. In the surrounding area you can enjoy hiking, biking, kayaking, fishing, surfing, beachcombing, birdwatching, and countless other outdoor activities. French Hill Trail is a few more miles up the mountain road.
The campsites have picnic tables and fire rings, and campers are provided with 5 gallons of potable water. An outdoor, COLD-water Artesian shower, out in the open mountain air with the wild things and an outhouse with a compost toilet are also provided. Bundles of firewood are available for an extra charge when you book your campsite.
The campsites are set within a deciduous and pine forest at about 1913 feet in elevation. There is a pond on the property, but its purpose is for wildlife habitat ONLY, so water activities are NOT allowed. NO swimming, NO fishing, NO boating, NO trapping, etc. The wild things live here!
The property owner has a dog, three cats, and a menagerie of yard birds such as turkeys, peacocks, guinea hens, chickens, ducks, geese, etc. They do make noise! Kirk has lived off-grid for over twenty years and holds a wealth of information about the Gasquet/Del Norte County area.
Perhaps the most interesting feature of the property is that it has had documented Sasquatch encounters over the past twenty years that have been published in "Tribal Bigfoot" (D. Paulides 2009). Kirk can tell you about his experiences with this and other phenomena on the property.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$41
/ night
Smith River Retreat
Smith River Retreat
98%
(166)
11mi from Lake Earl Wildlife Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
This beautiful spot on the Smith River was once an old mining claim. The property boundaries actually go half way out into the river. The present house was built in 1957 and has been remodeled a few times since. The host retired from teaching 11 years ago and spends much of her time improving the landscaping and gardening, while playing with her giant Shiloh Shepherd.
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Campfires
from
$80
/ night
Azalea River
Azalea River
95%
(30)
12mi from Lake Earl Wildlife Area · 1 site · Lodging
When you think of clean water, what do you see ? Prepare to be spellbound by the otherworldly colors and lucidity of the wild and scenic Smith River. Enjoy peace and tranquility while swimming in your own exclusive, private swimming hole. You may see four point bucks crossing the river, otters playing along the rocky banks and black bear gorging berry bushes while birds, ducks and dragonflys abound. This quasi resort provides a quaint, off grid tiny house with everything you need to feel comfortable but it is not The Four Seasons Hotel. The 1.5 quiet, secluded acres is detached from a world of artifical stimulation and crowds and is ideal for a couples getaway or small families. Entertainment is provided by means of a covered porch to observe the true residents: the wildlife.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$165
/ night
Camp Jade River
Camp Jade River
96%
(284)
12mi from Lake Earl Wildlife Area · 1 site · Tent, RV
The rugged terrain of far northern California is one of the few mostly untouched places left to retreat to. Come dwarf yourself under the magnificent giant redwoods and be struck with awe by the mesmerizing jade colored Smith River. The property is a mere 20 minutes from some of the world's tallest trees. Come check out Stout Grove, a rarely crowded gem of the Redwood National and State Parks. The grove is a part of Jedediah Smith Redwood State Park which is the least developed and most impressive park of the four. From your campsite you will have a lovely view of a large bend of the Smith River. It boasts impressive runs of chinook and steelhead, and is host to many other native species. Keep an eye out for bear, mink, and otters! And secure any food or attractants at night. Our property gives you the chance to disconnect from daily life and recalibrate. Use our site as an extended getaway for some peace and quiet, or a launch point to the variety of local attractions.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$45
/ night
AtRivers Edge RV Resort
AtRivers Edge RV Resort
95%
(11)
17mi from Lake Earl Wildlife Area · 70 sites · RVs, Lodging
With Chetco River frontage, a picturesque setting, friendly atmosphere and great fishing, AtRivers Edge RV Resort is “The Southern Oregon Coast’s own Brigadoon.”
AtRivers Edge RV Resort can be a challenge to find, but we offer the peace and tranquility you seek at the end of a long day’s drive. Our riverside setting stretches ½ mile along the Chetco and is designed to sooth frayed nerves and rejuvenate the human spirit. Nestled in the Chetco River Valley, we are just out of the wind and fog belt and enjoy a temperate maritime climate all year.
We reside in southern Oregon’s renowned “Banana Belt” and invite you to vacation with us and enjoy the scenic beauty and soothing sounds of the Chetco River.
AtRivers Edge RV Resort takes pride in providing a serene environment that can accommodate our independent guests. Many of the great people who stay with us are very social and focused on having fun. Our clubhouse usually has activities such as potlucks, bingo, card playing, crafts, group functions and special events during our busy seasons. Many planned activities are available in the local area as well and schedules of these walking tours, exhibitions, festivals and events can be found in our local newspaper’s website www.currypilot.com.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$60
/ night
Mystic Forest Campground
Mystic Forest Campground
98%
(945)
18mi from Lake Earl Wildlife Area · 25 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Mystic Forest is a small, family-run campground between Klamath, CA, and Crescent City. We have 50 acres of beautiful forest sprinkled with redwood trees. We have restrooms, showers, a game room, a mini golf course, horseshoes, and a half-mile trail. We are pet-friendly. At the office you can find some grocery and redwoods souvenirs. Our laundry facility will be closed indefinitely for repairs starting on August 10th.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$29
/ night
Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
Manjera
3 weeks ago
Tent
Great stay. The people staying in the camp was great. I will be back once the weather gets warmer.
See moreD
Destiny
3 weeks ago
Tent
With pets
Wonderful place, sheltered by trees from the rain, clean public spaces, and great hosts! Can’t wait to visit in the summer.
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m
mallory
3 weeks ago
35 ft travel trailer
Beautiful campsite and very responsive/kind host. Close to a lot of activities and things to do. Our 35 ft trailer was a snug fit in turning around but we were able to make it work and had so much space for our dogs to run and explore within the safety on the fence. We even got to feed/pet the highland cattle and mini horses on our last day which just topped off the trip for my daughter and I. ❤️
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B
Bryn
December 2025
Tent
I car camped at the farm and had a wonderful night. I will definitely go back! The farm is beautiful, the animals are sweet, and it was very peaceful. Highly recommend.
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M
Marcel
November 2025
16 ft travel trailer
Accurately described by the host and easy to find. Accessible on public roads and pull onto a solid grass area. Electric hook up and water worked well. Also a serviceable picnic table. Bathrooms with showers had hot water, were clean and well maintained. Site was pretty quiet (just two visitors) and occasional dog barks from the residents. It worked well for four nights and I'd come back.
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A
Aimee
November 2025
Tent
This is the best hip camp I’ve ever stayed at. Beth was so incredibly kind to us and got us set up in the CUTEST cabin with the most beautiful decor and might I add the comfiest bed!! I look forward to staying here again if I’m ever back in the area!!
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a
alexa
November 2025
Tent
My boyfriend and I camped here with the intent to visit Brookings OR, the campground was so beautiful we didn't end up going lol! Dar, the campsite host, was super friendly and welcoming. The animals are really friendly and we loved staying here. Amenities included flush toilets, hot showers, kitchen area with power, shared firepit. We're already planning our next trip here!
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C
Christy
November 2025
4 nights at Azalea River
My husband and I enjoyed our stay at Jacob's Riverside Gem! It's rustic enough to feel adventurous and homey enough to feel warm and comfy in the winter. It's obvious that Jacob has put a lot of heart and soul into this little cabin because of all the artistic touches you will find throughout. The firewood was well stocked, the property was beautiful with many fresh fungi to observe, and the little kitchen was perfect for making delicious meals. The fridge is quite small with no freezer, so if you want to bring fresh food for cooking, I recommend bringing a cooler. The shower is not far from the cabin, so it's easy to get a hot shower in and run back inside to the warm cabin. Make sure to bring your own bath towel. The bathroom is farther from the cabin, but I enjoyed the walk there, especially at night when I could look at the stars.
We didn't get to enjoy the outdoor space very much, seeing as we visited in winter, but we definitely want to come back in the summer to enjoy all that this little cabin and the Smith River area has to offer. If you're looking for a quaint place to stay while adventuring in the area, you've found the right place!
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N
Nicolas
November 2025
Tent
Redwood Meadows is located in a beautiful spot. Not overly crowded, clean facilities, and accommodating staff that helped us with an after hours arrival. Delicious diner for breakfast across the street, walking distance. Would love to stay here again!
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M
Maddock
November 2025
Tent
Enjoyed the stay even if it was short and sweet. It rained on us but it was expected.
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K
Kia
November 2025
Tent
With pets
Large area to work with. Also, warm showers on the river have an absolutely gorgeous view of the river. However, it is outside and you can see the highway from the shower… meaning the highway can see you. There could be better paths and signage to follow, but once you get a gist of the area it’s very easy to find everything. The hosts are very accommodating. They had an employee drop of the firewood we purchased from the camp store. Also there was a full community kitchen that came in handy for things we forgot. We just washed them all and put them back when we were done.
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R
Robert
November 2025
Tent
Great place - I went in the off season so was pretty empty. But right next to boat launch area. Warm showers and bathrooms short walk from area. Great place even for tent camping. Host was super helpful when I didn’t follow the directions well in the rain.
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C
Christopher
November 2025
Tent
Great spot, flat campground with a nice bathroom. Just what I needed.
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A
Adiel
November 2025
Tent
With pets
Great location, surroundings, and amenities. So much to do and see all within an hour drive. Will definitely stay here again.
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S
Salem
November 2025
Tent
With pets
The campground was very secluded while still being in a very convenient location (laundry and trash very close by!). You’re right next to a trail and the nature views were gorgeous! Just remember to bring your bug spray, lol!
See moreA
Alyssa
November 2025
Tent
With pets
Patti is the best! So responsive, kind and welcoming. The space is beautiful too, with big trees and the river near by. It was about 20 to get to the Newton B scenic Road. Don’t miss it!
Traveled with our dog and 21’ travel trailer. No issues with access. Do note there are skunks around at night; they keep mole and voles populations down and are a part of the community too- just be aware. Also saw a few curios big neighbor dogs when we walked our pup up along the service road by the park in the morning. No trouble though.
Had a great experience and would certainly stay again if we return. Thanks again Patti 🙏
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C
Coco
November 2025
Tent
The campground was amazing! It was just as beautiful as the pictures and had great amenities. The showers and game room were perfect. We didn't spend much time at the campground itself because there were so many beautiful hikes and things to see around the area. I would definitely recommend staying here!
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Elizabeth
October 2025
Tent
With pets
Nice host. Large forested tent area. Clean bathroom.
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Kaitlynn
October 2025
2 nights at Mystic Forest Campground
Patrick and Maya are so great! Check in was super smooth and they even upgraded us to a better RV cause of some technical difficulties. The campground was private, cute, and nicely maintained. If we come back around to the area we would definitely camp there again. Also, the hiking trails are well kept and they had Starlink for speedy WiFi.
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Janice
October 2025
Tent
We loved our stay here!! The land is absolutely gorgeous, being right in the Redwoods and literally around the corner from the Trees of Mystery. The hosts, Patrick and Maya, were the sweetest humans and so much fun to chat with! They have a stocked camp store, a game room with tons of books, and ping pong and such, and a ton of cool Redwood trees and tree stumps scattered throughout the camp. Our tent site, #16, was just inside the forest but felt very private on the other side of the trees from the RVs. We are really looking forward to paying them another visit!
See moreThe best camping near Lake Earl Wildlife Area, CA guide
Overview
About
Just south of the Oregon border on the extreme northern California Coast, Lake Earl rests alongside grassy dunes and the crashing waters of the Pacific Ocean. Split by the borders of Tolowa Dunes State Park and Lake Earl Wildlife Area, the lake itself is one of the most essential locations for maintaining California's seabird population.
Technically a lagoon, Lake Earl will fill with fresh water from the surrounding areas and only occasionally breach through to the ocean. This unique ecosystem is home to several endangered and threatened species of bird, making it a necessary stop for birdwatching on any camping trip.
When to go
The best time to visit Lake Earl Wildlife Area is during the spring and fall, when the weather is mild and the migratory birds are in abundance. Summer offers warm days perfect for boating, while winter can be less ideal due to heavier rains and cooler temperatures.
Know before you go
- Check the local weather and prepare for changing conditions when planning your visit.
- Be aware of wildlife in the area; observe from a distance and do not feed the animals.
- Ensure you have the necessary permits for fishing or hunting, and familiarize yourself with the regulations.
- Restrooms and boat launching facilities are available, enhancing your day-use experience.
- For more information or assistance, contact the wildlife area at (707) 487-0541.
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