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 charged with preserving public lands for current and future generations. You are invited to enjoy outdoor recreation and camping in these forests, rangelands, and deserts. Developed Bureau of Land Management campgrounds have amenities like showers and picnic tables. These sites may require a reservation and usually charge a small fee to maintain the campground. You can also camp outside designated campsites in dispersed camping areas. In these locations, there are often level areas to park your RV. When taking advantage of these opportunities, the BLM asks that you use existing campsites and fire rings where these exist. While stay limits vary by region in California, you can usually stay for up to two weeks per month at the same camping site. Located within Humboldt County, the Samoa Dunes Recreation Area is a prime example of California's rich biodiversity and natural beauty. The area covers a wide range of ecosystems, from coastal forests to expansive beaches and dunes. The dunes, sculpted by the Pacific winds, provide a unique habitat for various plant and animal species, making it a fascinating location for nature observation. To the northeast of this site lies the town of Arcata, renowned for the Arcata Marsh and Wildlife Sanctuary, which is an excellent place for bird watching and nature walks. Less than 30 miles to the north, you'll discover the breathtaking Patrick's Point State Park, with its rugged coastline, dense forests, and dramatic ocean vistas. In addition, Redwood National Park is less than an hour's drive north from Samoa Dunes.
Samoa Beach Trail is at the Samoa Dunes BLM site and offers a hike along the ocean on a sandy trail. Besides spotting numerous sea birds, you can collect shells and sand dollars. Length: 3.5 miles Intensity: Easy
Hishari's Trail is about 20 minutes away, near Eureka. The trail follows an Elk River estuary and passes through the Elk River Wildlife Sanctuary. Parts of it are paved, and it is a popular way to get exercise among hikers and bikers. Length: 2.7 miles Intensity: Moderate
Samoa Boat Ramp County Park is adjacent to Samoa Dunes, and there is a parking lot with 30 spots for vehicles with trailers and restrooms. In addition, there is a boat ramp to access Humboldt Bay. Anglers can cast off the shore or the jetty to try their luck catching bluefish, sea bass, or redfish.
Samoa Dunes is a sanctuary for many wildlife species. It's particularly loved by birdwatchers, with the potential to spot coastal birds like the Western Gull, Great Blue Heron, and Brown Pelican. A recommended spot for wildlife viewing is Humboldt Bay National Wildlife Refuge, located about 20 miles from Samoa Dunes.
There are several scenic picnic spots throughout the Samoa Dunes area. One such location is Manila Community Park, a lovely place with picnic tables, playgrounds, and a disc golf course. It's located just 2 miles east of Samoa Dunes. Alternatively, at the nearby Peninsula picnic area, you can enjoy views of the bay while you eat.
Samoa Dunes may be most popular for its OHV trails. The staging area has an unloading ramp, restroom, tables, grills, and a scenic overlook. You can also access the trails from Samoa Boat Ramp County Park. Once unloaded, riders can explore 140 acres of open terrain, including a one-way track, a rock crawling course, and a beach area. Eureka Dunes is also open to OHV use, has an additional 75-acre riding area, and is located 1 mile north of the BLM site.
Samoa Boat Ramp County Park has 13 sites suitable for RVs. It has no hookups, but there are coin-operated showers available. If you're searching for more amenities than BLM RV camping offers in the area near Samoa Dunes, there are several excellent options. Redwood Acres RV Campground in Eureka provides a variety of amenities, such as full hookups, showers, laundry facilities, and Wi-Fi. In addition, this campground is next to the Redwood Acres Fairgrounds, a venue for many local events. Mad River Rapids RV Park is 13 miles from Samoa Dunes and features full hookups, a heated swimming pool, and a dog park.
Bureau of Land Management free camping is available at Redwood National Park, about 45 miles north of Samoa Dunes. In addition, once you have arrived at Samoa Dunes, search "BLM camping near me" on your smartphone or tablet to locate other dispersed camping options.
Planning your Samoa Dunes BLM trip involves preparing for various weather conditions, as the coastal climate can be unpredictable. It's recommended to bring along your hiking gear, binoculars for wildlife viewing, fishing equipment if you plan on angling, and of course, all the necessary camping equipment for your stay. If you are planning on taking advantage of the OHV riding areas, ensure you are aware of the regulations. For example, you must have protective helmets, and motorcycles must be equipped with a spark arrestor. BLM camping in the Samoa Dunes area of California offers an opportunity to enjoy the unique natural beauty of this region. It is also a budget-friendly way to enjoy your vacation. However, camping in areas with few or no amenities takes careful planning. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
Remember to practice "Leave No Trace" principles while enjoying the Samoa Dunes and the various camping spots in the area. Before leaving your campsite, clean up after yourself and pack out any trash if no garbage cans are available. In addition, vegetation is delicate in coastal areas, so watch out for signs and stay on designated trails when hiking, biking, or OHV riding.
Samoa Dunes Recreation Area is located along the North Spit of Humboldt Bay in Eureka, CA. From U.S. Hwy 101 at Eureka, take Hwy 255 across the Samoa Bridge. Turn south onto New Navy Base Road. Drive about four miles to the parking area. Address: Samoa, CA 95564; Latitude/Longitude: 40.7629, -124.226 Ready to visit Samoa Dunes? 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.
