Gold Bluff Beach Campground
4.5775 reviewsGold Bluff Beach Campground
$35.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
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
$35 per night for campsites, free showers and WiFi available.
About this campground
Where the Pacific meets ancient redwoods, Gold Bluff Beach Campground offers an extraordinary escape into California's wild coast. This intimate, peaceful retreat places you steps from crashing waves and minutes from the otherworldly Fern Canyon, creating the perfect basecamp for those seeking solitude and natural wonder. Wake to the sound of surf and sea birds in this small, carefully preserved coastal sanctuary where tent camping feels like a return to simpler times.
Gold Bluffs Beach Campground primarily caters to tent and primitive camping. It is geared toward minimal facilities and beachfront access.
Historical SignificanceThis remarkable campground sits within the crown jewel of conservation efforts—the Redwood National and State Parks, honored as both a UNESCO World Heritage Site and International Biosphere Reserve. Here, centuries of natural history unfold before your eyes, from ancient groves that have stood since before European exploration to beaches that have witnessed millennia of Pacific storms and sunshine.
Weather and SeasonsSummer mornings arrive wrapped in mystical coastal fog, with temperatures dancing between 40-75°F as the marine layer lifts to reveal brilliant afternoons. Winter transforms the landscape into a moody masterpiece, with temperatures hovering between 35-55°F and Pacific storms bringing dramatic skies and refreshing rains. Year-round, campers should expect dewdrops on tent flies by dawn—nature's reminder that you're camping where ocean meets forest.
ElevationNestled at sea level where waves meet shore, the campground offers the rare experience of falling asleep to ocean rhythms just beyond your tent door.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to Roosevelt elk grazing through morning mist just beyond your campsite, or watching curious foxes trot along golden dunes at sunset. This dramatic coastline weaves together windswept beaches, sculpted sand dunes, and towering old-growth redwoods that seem to touch the sky. Playful sea lions bark from offshore rocks while skunks waddle through evening shadows, creating an ever-changing wildlife theater that makes each day unique.
Geological RegionPerched on the edge of the continent where tectonic forces shaped a landscape of extraordinary contrasts, Gold Bluff Beach showcases nature's architectural mastery. Here, the relentless Pacific has carved a kingdom of golden sand beaches and shifting dunes, while just inland, ancient redwood cathedrals stand as living monuments to deep time. This unique convergence of marine and forest ecosystems creates a geological wonderland found nowhere else on Earth.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAt Gold Bluffs Beach Campground, accessible campsites are made of hard-packed dirt and gravel, with accessible restroom and shower facilities. There is paved parking near these facilities, though routes to the restroom are on hard-packed dirt and gravel. "One of the toilets and showers was accessible," noted one reviewer.
Sites SizeLarge campsites capable of accommodating tents or small camper vans. "Campsites large enough for 3+ tents," said one user.
Sites PrivacyModerate privacy with shrubbery and foliage separating sites. "Shrubbery and foliage provide privacy between sites," according to camper feedback.
Total Campsites26 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose site 13 for direct beach access and privacy. Sites 25 and 26 offer wind protection from trees.
Best CampsitesSites 3, 4, 5, 7, 13, 19, 26 are considered the best for proximity to the beach and shelter from wind.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit is determined by state park regulations.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Sites can accommodate multiple tents
- exact capacity limit not mentioned.
Groups
There is no mention of designated group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are spread out with shrubbery providing privacy. No large RV parking is available.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsOnline reservations via www.reservecalifornia.com, or by phone at 1-800-444-PARK (7275).
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is limited; campground is popular and often fully booked during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled through ReserveCalifornia; cancellation details not explicitly provided.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
WiFi
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Gold Bluffs Beach Campground provides a variety of outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, wildlife viewing, and beach exploration. It is located near the Fern Canyon trail, which is highly recommended by visitors. "Close to both the Beach and Fern Canyon and miles of hiking," said one camper.
Hiking
The campground is a great starting point for hikes, including the Fern Canyon trail, which is 1.5 miles away. "Nearby Fern Canyon is a must-do hike," noted one reviewer. Hikes vary in difficulty from easy to strenuous.Fishing
Fishing opportunities include surf perch fishing, which has been positively mentioned by users. "Great surf perch fishing," according to one camper.Wildlife viewing
Roosevelt elk are frequently seen grazing near the campground. Other wildlife includes foxes, skunks, and sea lions. "We saw dolphins, seals, and pelicans diving for fish right in front of us!" said one user.Beach activities
Campers can enjoy sunsets, beach walking, and wildlife viewing along the shore. "Beautiful sunsets on the ocean," said one reviewer.Winter Activities
Camping is available year-round, but winter conditions include cold and windy nights. "Beware campsites are cold and windy during winter," said one reviewer.Water Sports
No specific mention of water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding in the reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed in designated fire rings. Firewood is sold onsite or available from nearby towns.
- Quiet hours are implicitly mentioned; the campground is described as peaceful with ocean sounds dominating.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include windy conditions, thorny ground vegetation in winter, and wildlife like skunks and elk.
Active alertsFern Canyon is currently closed. Newton B. Drury Parkway is closed on select days for Hike and Bike Day.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Foggy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 100%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Foggy
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
The nearest emergency services are in Orick, including a fire department and basic medical facilities.
Good to know
Peak season datesReservations recommended months in advance for peak season; specific dates not provided.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling bins are available within the campground, conveniently located near sites. "Close to the garbage and bathrooms," said one review.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is directly adjacent to the Pacific Ocean and 2 miles from Fern Canyon.
Common complaintsComplaints include thorny ground vegetation during winter, rough roads with deep potholes, and limited availability of firewood at times.
HostCamp hosts are described as friendly and helpful. Firewood is sold for $10 per bushel. Hosts may have occasional days off.
Campground Map
Driving directionsGold Bluff Beach Campground is accessed via Davison Road, which is located 3 miles north of Orick off of Highway 101. The road is narrow, unpaved, and presents challenges such as sharp turns and deep ruts.
Davison Road is unpaved, narrow, and includes sharp edges. Vehicles must meet a maximum width of 8 feet and length of 24 feet. Trailers are not allowed.Nearby places
50 miles north of Eureka (approximately 1 hour by car), 25 miles south of Crescent City (approximately 30 minutes by car).
Nearby supplies
Closest town for supplies, camping gear, and groceries is Orick. Firewood is available at the campground for $10 per bushel, or alternately in Klamath.
Camper Reviews
4.6
75 reviews
Gold Bluff Beach Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Gold Bluffs Beach Campground is highly rated for its scenic beachfront location, proximity to Fern Canyon, and clean facilities. Many campers called it their favorite campground on the California coast.
Review Summaries
Based on 75 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean facilities, breathtaking views, proximity to hiking trails, and abundant wildlife. "Clean bathrooms, free hot showers/water," and "Beautiful sunsets on the ocean," were...
Based on 75 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues include thorny ground in winter, windy conditions, rough access roads, and occasional lack of firewood availability. "Grass turns into thorny ground in winter," and "Road in is kind of...
Based on 75 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing a tarp for condensation, securing tents against wind, and reserving spots months in advance due to limited availability. "Bring a tarp to keep your items dry," said one...
Based on 75 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter camping experiences include cold, windy nights and thorny ground conditions. Summer visits highlight the beauty of sunsets and warmer temperatures, though fog is common in the mornings and...
Based on 75 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Simply the best tent campground on the ocean to be found on the west coast of the United States," said one reviewer. "Bathrooms were spotless with warm water," noted another.
Based on 75 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Sites 3, 4, 5, 7, 13, 19, and 26 are highlighted as the best for views and wind protection. "Site 13 is possibly the best site there," said one reviewer.
Based on 75 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible campsites and facilities are available, with hard-packed dirt and gravel surfaces. "Accessible combination restrooms with showers are available," said one user.
Based on 75 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. "Watch for thorns on the ground in the sites. My dog hated it," warned one camper.
Based on 75 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025