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BLM Camping

Ma-le'l Dunes CMA

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

The Ma-le’l Dunes CMA is the northern portion of the Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge, which is itself located along both Humboldt Bay and Arcata Bay. The area is also close to Redwood National Park. Visitors to the area can enjoy the dunes and several beautiful beaches, nearby forests, and salt marshes, all of which are home to a range of wildlife. The dunes are ideal for hiking and provide adventurers with gorgeous views and spectacular photo opportunities.

The Bureau of Land Management works to protect important environmental and historical areas while educating the public regarding the importance of a connection to nature. BLM sites allow visitors to explore secluded natural areas away from congested or populated locations. Although the Ma-le’l Dunes CMA does not allow for overnight camping, many BLM sites do. To find BLM sites with these options, search for “BLM camping near me.”

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Sequoia Park Loop

A perfect option for anyone looking to view the area’s famous forests, this loop trail is also a great way to spot wildlife.

Length: 1.7 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Hikshari’ Trail

This trail in Eureka, one of the closest towns to the Ma-le’l Dunes, offers beautiful views and wonderful bird-watching opportunities.

Length: 2.7 miles

Intensity: Easy

Northridge Trail Loop

Located in the nearby McKay Community Forest, this trail is popular for both hiking and horseback riding.

Length: 2.1 miles

Intensity: Easy

Fort Humboldt Exhibits Trail

Although it’s short, this trail in Fort Humboldt State Historic Park is one of the area’s most interesting, and visitors will pass by exhibits regarding the area’s native peoples, their sacred sites, and the location’s importance to the logging industry.

Length: 0.5 miles

Intensity: Easy

Fay Slough Wildlife Area Trail

The trail is relatively secluded and is one of the best ways to spot native and migratory birds.

Length: 2.6 miles

Intensity: Easy

Fishing and Boating

The nearby Trinity River is a fantastic option for fishing, and anglers can either fish from the shore or use a drift boat. Trout and salmon are some of the most common catches. Which type of salmon is available depends on the season. Anglers can also fish in Humboldt or Arcata Bay. Salmon, lingcod, and perch are common catches.

Climbing

The area around the Ma-le’l Dunes is very popular with rock climbers, and climbing enthusiasts can find many routes in a variety of styles and difficulties. For example, Moonstone Beach offers 45 traditional, sport, top rope, and bouldering routes. The area known as the Hayfork Haven features 22 routes in those four styles, and Castle Rock offers 23 traditional, sport, and top rope routes.

Wildlife Viewing

The Ma-le’l Dunes and the surrounding Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge are both fantastic for spotting wildlife. Visitors can spot a range of animals, including shrews, sea lions, foxes, raccoons, and treefrogs. Birds are also common, and visitors might see burrowing owls, sparrows, blackbirds, woodpeckers, and hummingbirds.

Picnicking

Sequoia Park is a fantastic option for nearby picnicking. The park provides picnic tables, a gazebo, grills, and access to nearby hiking trails. Freshwater Park also provides picnic tables and grills, and a swimming hole is available during the summer months.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

BLM RV camping is available at Clam Beach. The beach does not accept reservations, and campsites are only available on a first-come, first-served basis. Shoreline RV Park is another great RV camping choice. The park, which is in Eureka, offers showers, restrooms, a laundry area, and RV repair services. The park is also pet-friendly.

Free Camping

Bureau of Land Management free camping is available at the Samoa Dunes. The dunes offer camping, picnicking, wildlife viewing, and OHV riding opportunities. Visitors to the area can also set up a primitive site at the Patrick Creek Dispersed Camping Area.

RV Rentals Near Ma-le'l Dunes CMA Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Ma-le'l Dunes CMA BLM trip

The Ma-Le’l Dunes CMA is open from sunrise to one hour after sunset, and the north entrance road is open to vehicles from Friday through Monday. On Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, visitors can walk or bike in, but the road and parking areas are closed to motor vehicles. This helps to provide visitors with a quieter, more natural experience.

The vegetation throughout the dunes is extremely fragile. Only ever walk on designated trails or sandy areas. Horseback riding and biking are allowed, but only on designated BLM trails. Motorized vehicles are not permitted past the parking areas, and boat launching and landing are also prohibited.

Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

All Bureau of Land Management campgrounds and wilderness areas require protection, but dune environments are particularly fragile and need special care. As you explore the dunes, remember to only ever hike along designated trails. Never cut through switchbacks, and be aware of the plants around you. Observe wildlife from a distance so as not to disturb the animals. Never start a fire if the fire danger rating is high, and only ever build fires in designated rings or pits so they remain under control. If you see any litter, pick it up and dispose of it properly. Always pack out anything you bring into the area. Never leave food waste behind, even if it’s biodegradable. Remember to share the area with other visitors.

Ma-le'l Dunes CMA Location

From Eureka, take CA-225 north for about five miles. Take a left onto Young Lane, and then make a quick right onto Vera Linda Lane. Continue straight onto North Ma-Le’l Dunes Road, until you reach the dune area.

Ready to visit Ma-le’l Dunes CMA? 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.