Alder Trail Campground
01 reviewAlder Trail Campground
$15.00 - $15.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$15.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The campground charges a flat rate of $15.00 per night.
About this campground
Nestled alongside a babbling creek just inland from the Pacific coast, Alder Trail Campground offers adventurous souls a true wilderness escape. This rustic, hike-in sanctuary serves as the crown jewel for backpackers completing the legendary Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail, where weary hikers find solace in its primitive charm and the soothing sounds of flowing water. Here, the modern world fades away, replaced by the simple pleasures of campfire conversations and starlit nights.
Alder Trail Campground offers primitive camping, making it ideal for hikers and those seeking a minimalistic experience. It is accessed exclusively by hiking or biking in from nearby trails or parking areas.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsBlessed with remarkably mild conditions year-round, Alder Trail enjoys a gentle climate that welcomes outdoor enthusiasts in every season. Weekly rainfall rarely exceeds a whisper at just 0.125 inches, while winter brings only the lightest dustings of snow averaging less than half an inch per week. The consistently dry air and moderate breezes averaging 5.54 mph create perfect camping conditions, though occasional gusts up to 28.87 mph remind visitors of nature's playful spirit. This temperate microclimate makes for comfortable camping whether you're seeking summer adventure or winter solitude.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryThe heart of Alder Trail beats along its pristine creek, where crystal-clear waters dance over smooth stones and create a natural soundtrack for your camping experience. The campground's thoughtfully positioned clearing opens up to reveal a celestial theater overhead, transforming clear nights into unforgettable stargazing sessions. Easy creek access invites morning coffee rituals by the water's edge and afternoon cooling dips, while the surrounding forest canopy provides dappled shade and shelter. This harmonious blend of water, woods, and open sky creates an intimate connection with the natural world that defines the Alder Trail experience.
Geological Regionnull
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not discussed in any sources, leaving this information unavailable.
Sites SizeSites feature tent pads measuring approximately 15 feet by 15 feet, with slight variations depending on the specific site.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited as 'several of the spots are very close together,' according to user reviews.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended Campsitesnull
Best Campsites"Several of the spots are very close together and not very private."
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
02:00 pm
Check-out
12:00 pm
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
Group camping is not explicitly noted for Alder Trail Campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout"Several of the spots are very close together and not very private."
Open and Closed Seasonnull
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in Availability"You need a reservation and spots are first come first served."
Cancellation Policynull
Amenities available
Food storage lockers
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
While Alder Trail Campground emphasizes simplicity and primitive camping, its creekside location offers unique outdoor opportunities. 'The creek runs along the campground and is easily accessible,' making it a scenic highlight for campers. Stargazing is possible in the clearing on clear nights, but no structured activities or tours are mentioned.
HikingHiking is a key activity at Alder Trail Campground, as it serves as a stop on the Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail. Campers can also hike or bike in from Hwy 1 along nearby trails.
BikingBiking to the campground from Hwy 1 is a noted option for accessing Alder Trail Campground.
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- "Fires are not allowed."
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazards"Sites close to the pit toilet might have to deal with that smell." In dry weather, the ground is very dusty with deep dust in some areas.
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
56
°F
Aug 2
Saturday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 96%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are available at the campground, as noted in user reviews.
Proximity to water features"The creek runs along the campground and is easily accessible."
Common complaintsDusty conditions are prevalent during dry periods, and campsite privacy is limited compared to nearby campgrounds like Twin Redwoods.
Hostnull
Campground Map
Driving directionsnull
The campground is accessible from Highway 1 by parking in a lot near the coast and hiking or biking in. "You might have to open and close the gate at Hwy 1 to access the parking lot."Nearby places
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Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Alder Trail Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Alder Trail Campground emphasize its simplicity and proximity to both the Skyline-to-the-Sea Trail and the coast. While many appreciate its creekside location and potential for stargazing, criticisms often center around dusty conditions and lack of privacy.
Review Summaries
Positive aspects noted by users include the campground's accessibility via hiking or biking, beautiful creekside location, and potential for stargazing in clear weather.
Complaints include dusty ground conditions during dry weather, lack of privacy due to closely spaced sites, no potable water, and the absence of tables or fire rings.
Campers recommend bringing water due to lack of on-site drinking water and suggest stargazing in the clearing between campsites on clear nights. Staying away from pit toilet-adjacent sites is advised...
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During dry weather, the campground experiences 'deep dust,' making it less appealing for some users. Clear nights provide excellent stargazing opportunities, though seasonal changes in weather could...
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"Alder Camp is less than two miles from the coast. You need a reservation and spots are first come first served." "Trash cans and a pit toilet are the primary facilities provided." "The creek runs...
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Site-specific reviews suggest avoiding areas near the pit toilet due to unpleasant smells. Sites closer to the creek might offer better views and ambiance.
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features were found.
Pet policies and experiences are not mentioned in any available sources.
Last updated July 20, 2025