Stone Lagoon Boat-in Campground
4.1010 reviews15336 Highway 101, Trinidad, CA 95570
Stone Lagoon Boat-in Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Camping costs $20 per night for boat-in primitive sites at Stone Lagoon. Fees are paid via self-pay stations at the Stone Lagoon Visitor Center.
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Reserve CaliforniaProvider
(707) 488-2700StoneLagoonVisitorCenter@yuroktribe.nsn.us
About this campground
Accessible only by boat, Stone Lagoon Campground at Ryan's Cove offers an intimate escape into one of North America's most spectacular lagoon systems. Six secluded campsites nestle between ancient forests and shimmering waters, where the rhythms of tide and wind replace the sounds of civilization. Part of Humboldt Lagoons State Park, this primitive hideaway rewards adventurous paddlers with unparalleled solitude and natural beauty.
Stone Lagoon Boat-in Campground offers primitive environmental campsites accessible by boat or hike. It emphasizes minimal impact camping in a unique coastal lagoon setting.
Historical SignificanceFor countless generations, the Yurok people have called these waters home, with the ancient village of Chah-pekw standing as testament to their enduring presence. Today's visitors paddle across the same lagoon that sustained Yurok families for millennia, camping on ancestral lands where the connection between people and place runs deeper than memory. This sacred landscape continues to hold profound cultural significance for the Yurok Tribe, whose stewardship has helped preserve its pristine beauty.
Weather and SeasonsMorning fog drifts across the lagoon like a soft blanket, typically burning off by midday to reveal crystalline summer skies. The mild coastal climate keeps temperatures comfortable, though afternoon winds can stir the waters into choppy whitecaps—a reminder to plan your paddling adventures for calmer morning hours. Winter transforms the landscape with dramatic storms and cleansing rains, creating an ever-changing canvas of weather that coastal adventurers find exhilarating.
ElevationPerched at sea level where freshwater meets the Pacific's influence, the campground rests in the gentle embrace of California's coastal lowlands, where the subtle rise and fall of tides marks the passage of time.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering Douglas firs and wind-sculpted Sitka spruce create a emerald cathedral around Ryan's Cove, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the water below. Beyond the forest edge, coastal dunes roll like frozen waves toward the Pacific, while prairie balds offer unexpected openings where wildflowers paint seasonal masterpieces. The brackish lagoon itself serves as nature's mirror, reflecting sky and forest in its ever-changing surface.
Geological RegionThis remarkable landscape tells a story written in earth and water, shaped by the relentless forces of plate tectonics where the Gorda Plate plunges beneath North America. The resulting geological drama has created the continent's largest lagoon system—a rare ecosystem where freshwater streams mingle with ocean tides behind protective sand barriers. These brackish waters, cradled between ancient forests and shifting dunes, showcase millions of years of geological artistry in motion.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe Stone Lagoon Boat-in Campground is not wheelchair accessible. However, a beach wheelchair is available for use at the Stone Lagoon Visitor Center.
Sites SizeThe campsites cater to small groups, accommodating up to six occupants per site.
Sites PrivacySites offer a secluded experience, surrounded by natural vegetation and coastal views.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBoat-in access is strongly recommended due to overgrown trails and fallen trees.
Best CampsitesRyan’s Cove, with six primitive sites, offers seclusion and proximity to the lagoon.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Camping is permitted year-round with no specific maximum stay limit mentioned.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Six guests allowed per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSix primitive sites at Ryan’s Cove accessible via boat, all situated near the lagoon.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsNo online reservation platform; registration is at the self-pay station at Stone Lagoon Visitor Center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served basis for all six sites at Ryan’s Cove.
Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation policy explicitly stated; sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Amenities available
Potable water
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is part of a unique lagoon ecosystem offering opportunities for boating, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Visitors can enjoy the primitive nature of the area and experience the beauty of coastal environments.
Hiking
Hiking is available along the California Coastal Trail and paths leading to Ryan's Cove. Trails can be challenging and may feature obstacles like fallen trees and thick vegetation, as users have reported.Fishing
Fishing is permitted at Stone Lagoon using artificial lures with barbless hooks only. Anglers can target species like steelhead trout, which are catch-and-release only.Boating
Boating is a main activity at Stone Lagoon, with kayaks and paddleboards available for rent at the visitor center. The campground is accessible only by boat.Wildlife viewing
The lagoon's ecosystem supports diverse wildlife, including Roosevelt elk, river otters, migratory birds, and various fish species. The area offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching and spotting other fauna.Cultural and Educational Programs
The nearby Chah-pekw O’ Ket’-toh Visitor Center operated by the Yurok Tribe provides cultural insights, showcasing the Tribe’s longstanding connection to the lagoon.Winter Activities
Winter activities specific to Stone Lagoon are not mentioned but camping and wildlife viewing may occur during colder months.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are prominent activities supported at the lagoon, with rentals available from the visitor center.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire policies not explicitly stated. Site descriptions suggest no fire rings or grills are available.
Hazards
General hazardsAfternoon winds can create treacherous conditions, and tides may trap visitors on certain trails. Wildlife such as elk can be dangerous during mating and calving seasons.
Active alertsNo active alerts explicitly stated.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 98%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 3.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Partly cloudy
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
Closest hospital is in Eureka, 40 miles south. Police and emergency services can be contacted in Trinidad, approximately 19 miles south. Ranger station and visitor center staff are available for immediate assistance.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season could be presumed to align with warmer months but not explicitly stated.
Trash and recyclingTrash disposal and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned near the campground. Campers are encouraged to follow Leave No Trace principles.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly adjacent to Stone Lagoon, offering opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and wildlife observation.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention overgrown trails and fallen trees, making hiking challenging. Cold conditions in winter months are noted.
HostNo explicit campground host information stated. Visitor center staff may provide assistance.
Campground Map
15336 Highway 101, Trinidad, CA 95570
Driving directionsLocated on Highway 101, approximately 40 miles north of Eureka and 55 miles south of Crescent City. The campground is accessible via the main highway with signs indicating Humboldt Lagoons State Park and the Stone Lagoon Visitor Center. It is recommended to drive carefully due to severe curves along the route.
Main highway access (Highway 101) is paved and operational year-round. However, user reviews mention that the access points off the highway are in poor condition and require caution.Nearby places
Eureka (40 miles), Crescent City (55 miles), Arcata (45 miles)
Nearby supplies
Limited supplies available at the Stone Lagoon Visitor Center. Larger grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Trinidad, 19 miles south.
Camper Reviews
4.1
10 reviews
Stone Lagoon Boat-in Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground’s remote and rugged nature, with both positive and negative experiences related to accessibility and site conditions.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers appreciate the beautiful coastal environment and lagoon views, describing it as a unique and peaceful setting for camping. Activities like kayaking and fishing are frequently praised.
Based on 10 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints focus on the challenging hike to access the campsite, overgrown trails, and fallen trees making the trails difficult to navigate. Some users mention the need for better trail maintenance.
Based on 10 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend accessing the campground by kayak or boat rather than hiking due to the overgrown trails. Bringing sufficient bedding for colder months and being prepared for primitive camping...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter reviews mention colder temperatures and the need for adequate bedding. Summer reviews highlight the pleasant weather but warn about wind conditions affecting boating.
Based on 10 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Camped out at one of the sites. It was fun. The trail in was absolutely overgrown. Not recommended. Get a kayak or boat it week be more pleasant. Many trees down on the trail ( dozens)" - Brad...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific campsite reviews are unavailable, but general feedback identifies Ryan's Cove as the campground location.
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility is limited due to the boat-in or hike-in nature of the campground. The visitor center provides accessible features like a beach wheelchair.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed in campsites or trails, as per park regulations.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025