The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Bureau of Land Management is responsible for conserving over 245 million acres of public lands in the country for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy today and in the future. Developed Bureau of Land Management campgrounds are a budget-friendly way to camp near California's popular hiking, biking, and boating destinations. Though they don't usually have amenities, you can also stay for free in BLM-dispersed camping areas. Campers are encouraged to find previously used sites at these locations to reduce their impact on the natural habitat and avoid disturbing vegetation. In addition, you should be aware that campfire restrictions may be in effect from June to October in many areas of the Golden State. King Range National Conservation Area is adjacent to 35 miles of California's northern coast. It encompasses 68,000 acres of coastal wilderness and mountainous terrain. Hikers and bikers will find 80 miles of trails, while anglers can fish both the ocean and inland rivers. Humbolt Redwoods State Park is a popular nearby destination to experience majestic redwood groves. If you are traveling to Redwood National Park on your RV trip, it is less than 100 miles to the north.
Founders Grove Nature Loop Trail is in Humbolt Redwoods State Park near the northern outskirts of the conservation area and may be a good option to stretch your legs once you arrive. It is a popular stopping spot off Highway 101 to see massive redwood trees up close. Length: 0.5 miles Difficulty: Easy
This trail is in the northern part of the conservation area and takes you to the Punta Gorda Lighthouse. The lighthouse was completed in 1911 after several vessels were sunk by rocks hidden under the ocean's surface. Hikers will traverse sandy beaches and coastal scrubland to reach the historic building. Length: 7 miles Intensity: Moderate
The Lost Coast Trail meanders along the coastline of the conservation area. You can make it a day trip by hiking parts of it from the north or south end. If you decide to leave your RV behind to walk the entire length, there are camping shelters along the path. You should have a tide chart with you because some parts of the route are impassible during high tide. Length: 25.3 miles Intensity: Moderate
The conservation area's trail system has 24 miles of single track for mountain biking enthusiasts. The Paradise Royale Loop around the outside is best ridden in a clockwise direction to take advantage of a long, flowing, decent through forest terrain. This location also has a terrain park to refine your riding skills. Length: Multiple trails Intensity: Various difficulties
Little Black Sands Beach, south of the conservation area, is a popular destination for anglers to surf fish off the coast, and the Harbor District Boat Launch is nearby. It offers parking and restrooms. Sea kayakers can use the boat ramp or disembark from the beach.
Wildlife enthusiasts will have a chance to spot a diverse mix of mammals and reptiles in the King Range National Conservation Area. Near the Punta Gorda Lighthouse and other coastal areas, you may see elephant seals basking in the sun and grey whales in the ocean. Inland, hikers often glimpse bears, tule elk, and black-tailed deer. Bird-watchers can watch out for spotted owls, bald eagles, Cooper's hawks, and various songbirds and seabirds.
The visitor center at Humbolt Redwoods State Park has picnic tables in a large grassy area and restrooms. Three miles north, California Federation of Women's Clubs Grove has tables, barbecue grills, and river access with a swimming hole. While there, you will see the Hearthstone, which was constructed to honor the women who worked to conserve redwood groves in this area of the Golden State.
BLM RV camping available in King Range National Conservation Area is only suitable for smaller travel trailers, compact motorhomes, and campervans because the sites are small and hard to access for larger rigs. Mattole, Honeydew Creek, and most other campgrounds in the conservation area have picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. Shelter Cove RV Campground and Deli to the south of the conservation area has large campsites for RVs, hookups, and a bathhouse with hot showers and flush toilets.
Bureau of Land Management free camping is available at Humboldt Redwoods State Park in dispersed camping areas. To find other free camping opportunities, you can search "BLM camping near me" online once you have arrived in the area.
If you plan to hike the Lost Coast Trail or other routes along the coast, buy a map and a tide table for the region or print out the information you need before heading out on your trip. Additionally, bring rain gear with you even if you are not planning on hiking or camping near the coast because fog and mist rolling in from the ocean can make it necessary to stay dry. RVers who intend to stay overnight in the conservation area will need an Overnight Wilderness Permit, which you can get online. You cannot make reservations for the campgrounds at this BLM site, so having a backup plan for accommodations may be a good idea. Finally, you should have a plan to secure food properly no matter where you stay because there is a substantial bear population in this part of the state. BLM sites in this region of the Golden State offer you an exceptional way to experience California's coastline wilderness and redwood groves. However, it is crucial to plan carefully for staying overnight in camping areas that do not have many amenities. Before you head out, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
The BLM expects you to follow "Leave No Trace" principles when camping and visiting public lands. When you leave, ensure you clean up your site. This includes taking all garbage, food scraps, and camping equipment with you. When exploring, only use marked trails to reduce your impact on the environment and maintain your distance from wildlife.
From U.S. 101, take the Redway and Garberville exit. It will be a 22-mile drive to Shelter Cove, where you will find access to King Range National Conservation Area. Latitude/Longitude: 40.15694444, -124.1233333 Ready to visit King Range National Conservation Area? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night where you'll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here's a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
