Wailaki Campground
3.8612 reviewsWailaki Campground
$8.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Rates are listed as $8 or $15 per campsite per night. First-come, first-served. Food storage locker fees not mentioned.
About this campground
Nestled among towering old-growth firs, Wailaki Campground offers an intimate escape with 13 thoughtfully positioned campsites. Each site comes equipped with everything you need for a comfortable wilderness stay: sturdy fire rings for evening gatherings, picnic tables for outdoor dining, and bear-proof storage to keep wildlife wild. Modern vault toilets ensure convenience without compromising the natural setting. Adventure beckons right from your tent flap, with direct access to two spectacular trails—the challenging Chemise Mountain Trail and the legendary Lost Coast Trail, where hikers can explore California's most remote and untouched coastline.
Wailaki Campground offers a range of camping accommodations, including tent and trailer campsites with no hookups. It is a first-come, first-served campground with no reservation system.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature keeps things interesting at Wailaki, where coastal weather patterns create a dynamic camping experience. Cool temperatures prevail year-round, making this an ideal summer retreat from inland heat. Pacific winds sweep through the forest canopy, bringing the fresh scent of ocean air and occasional dramatic weather. Rain can arrive unexpectedly, transforming the forest into a misty wonderland—so pack layers and waterproof gear to stay comfortable as conditions shift from crisp mornings to breezy afternoons.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a cathedral of ancient fir trees where shafts of sunlight filter through centuries-old branches, creating an enchanted atmosphere that changes with each passing hour. The campground's old-growth forest shelters a rich tapestry of native plants—from delicate ferns carpeting the forest floor to vibrant wildflowers that bloom in surprising corners. Bear Creek babbles nearby, its crystal-clear waters providing a soothing soundtrack to your stay and offering glimpses of the diverse ecosystem that thrives along its banks. This pristine wilderness setting feels worlds away from civilization, yet remains accessible to those seeking authentic connection with Northern California's raw natural beauty.
Geological RegionWailaki Campground sits within one of California's most precious ecological treasures—a rare pocket of old-growth forest that has stood sentinel for generations. These ancient firs, some reaching heights of over 200 feet, create a multi-layered canopy that supports an intricate web of native flora. The nearby Bear Creek has carved its path through this landscape over millennia, creating the gentle topography that makes this area perfect for camping. This remarkable ecosystem represents a living piece of California's natural heritage, where every moss-covered log and fern-lined trail tells the story of the Pacific Northwest's enduring wilderness.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground is wheelchair accessible, with accessible campsites and facilities.
Sites SizeThe 13 campsites are standard size, suitable for tents or trailers.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is described as quiet and secluded, surrounded by old-growth firs and native flora. Campsites offer a good degree of privacy.
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRemote. Carry water.
Reserving a campsite
Guests Allowed Per Site
Guests allowed per site unspecified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutLayout description not provided.
Open and Closed SeasonClosed until March 1, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsCampground is non-reservable.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability mentioned as first-come, first-served.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation and change rules outlined extensively in notices, including fees for late cancellation and refund policy.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Wailaki Campground offers opportunities for hiking, wildlife viewing, and nature exploration. It serves as a trailhead for the Bear Creek Nature Trail and provides access to the Chemise Mountain Trail, which connects to the Southern Lost Coast Trail and the Sinkyone Wilderness.
Hiking
The campground serves as a trailhead for the Chemise Mountain Trail and the Bear Creek Nature Trail. Trails offer access to the Southern Lost Coast Trail and Sinkyone Wilderness. Some trails feature steep elevation changes, so hikers should be prepared for challenging terrain.Wildlife viewing
The natural surroundings, including old-growth firs and native flora, offer opportunities for wildlife observation. Specific species are not mentioned.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned.Water Sports
No specific water sports are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed but may vary.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquito prevalence, steep and curvy roads, dead trees during high winds.
Active alertsClosed due to hazardous trees, pending reopening 2025
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 33%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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 emergency services are unspecified.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingBear-proof trash cans are available for waste disposal. There is no mention of recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresBear Creek runs through.
Common complaintsNo potable water, mosquito prevalence, steep road.
Campground Map
Driving directionsU.S. 101 to Redway, west 22 miles on Briceland/Shelter Cove Road, south 2 miles on Chemise Mountain Road.
Access is described as steep and winding, potentially challenging due to curvy and bumpy roads, with elevation changes from 700 to 2200 feet.Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are unavailable, but reviewers suggest stocking up on food and water prior to arrival due to the remote nature of the site.
Camper Reviews
3.9
12 reviews
Wailaki Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight Wailaki Campground's remote and peaceful setting, affordability, and access to hiking trails. However, the lack of potable water, the presence of mosquitoes, and steep access roads are commonly noted drawbacks.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users appreciate the campground's secluded and quiet atmosphere, affordability at $8 per night, and proximity to hiking trails. "Hidden gem close to the Lost Coast Trail," says one user. Another...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the lack of potable water, as one reviewer states, "They shut the water off about 5 years ago." Mosquitoes are highlighted as a significant issue: "A million mosquitoes,"...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring all necessary supplies, including water and food, as the campground is remote. A screened canopy is recommended to deal with mosquitoes. Check weather conditions before visiting due to...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that mosquitoes are particularly problematic during the summer months. Visitors often mention the beauty and solitude of the setting as consistent highlights across seasons.
Based on 12 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The hikes have steep elevation changes so be prepared." "Very few people, very isolated, very peaceful." "A screened canopy is a must!" "Worth the trip and definitely worth the money."
Based on 12 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers are mentioned in reviews, though the campground's overall cleanliness and peaceful atmosphere are praised.
Based on 12 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground is wheelchair accessible, though no specific feedback from users with disabilities is available.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews about pets or pet policies are available.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025