Gold Bluffs Beach Campground

For Californians dreaming of a truly unique and breathtaking camping adventure where the forest meets the sea, Gold Bluffs Beach Campground offers an unparalleled opportunity. Nestled within the iconic Redwood National and State Parks near Orick, this campground provides a rare chance to pitch your tent or park your small RV right alongside a stunning stretch of remote beach, backed by towering coastal redwoods and dramatic bluffs. It's a place where the roar of the Pacific Ocean is your lullaby and majestic Roosevelt elk roam freely, creating an immersive wilderness experience unlike any other.

Gold Bluffs Beach Campground is celebrated not just for its incredible location, but also for its surprisingly clean and well-maintained facilities, despite its rustic nature. Visitors consistently praise the efforts of the park rangers and staff who keep the toilets and cold showers spotless, ensuring a comfortable stay even without modern hookups. While the drive in can be rough, and the coastal weather often cold, windy, and damp, the rewards — stunning views, direct beach access, and early morning encounters with wildlife and famous trails like Fern Canyon — are profoundly worth it.

This campground is a testament to California's diverse natural beauty, offering a blend of beach, forest, and wildlife that creates an "unforgettable" experience. If you're a local seeking a truly special camping trip that requires a bit of planning and preparation but delivers immense natural splendor, Gold Bluffs Beach Campground is a highly recommended, must-book destination.

Gold Bluffs Beach Campground is located within the northern reaches of the Redwood National and State Parks system, just west of Orick, California, with its address noted as Gold Bluffs Beach Campground, Davison Rd, Orick, CA 95555, USA. This places it directly on the wild and scenic Pacific coastline of Humboldt County, in Northern California.

Access to Gold Bluffs Beach Campground is an experience in itself, adding to its secluded charm. The primary route is via Davison Road, a roughly 6-mile unpaved road that turns off Newton B. Drury Parkway. This road is known for being "rough" and can "bottom out your undercarriage," as noted in reviews. It is generally a narrow, gravel road with sections that may be washboarded, potholed, or have soft shoulders, requiring slow and careful driving. It is not recommended for large RVs or trailers (campground limits are generally 24 feet combined length for RV/trailer).

The scenic drive along Davison Road is often a highlight, passing through towering old-growth redwood forests before emerging onto the open beach. This road also provides direct access to the famous Fern Canyon. Due to its popularity and the nature of the road, a day-use permit or a reservation for the campground is often required, especially during peak seasons, to manage traffic and preserve the delicate environment. Check the Redwood National and State Parks website for current permit requirements for Davison Road access. The remote yet accessible nature of this location makes it a cherished spot for Californians willing to undertake the journey for unparalleled coastal wilderness.

Gold Bluffs Beach Campground offers a primitive camping experience, meaning it lacks the full hookups of modern RV parks. However, it distinguishes itself with a remarkable commitment to cleanliness and providing essential comforts amidst its rugged setting.

• Campsites with Tables and Fire Rings:

• Potable Water (Cold):

• Flush Toilets (Very Clean):

• Cold Showers:

• No Hookups:

• Firewood Sales:

• Reservations Highly Recommended:

• Trash Collection:

Gold Bluffs Beach Campground offers a truly unique combination of natural features and recreational opportunities that make it a standout destination:

• Direct Beach Access & Ocean Views:

• Proximity to Fern Canyon:

• Roosevelt Elk Viewing:

• Stunning Coastal Redwood Environment:

• Peaceful and Private Feel (Even When Full):

• Scenic Drive In:

• Hiking Opportunities:

• Stargazing (when clear):

Gold Bluffs Beach Campground is managed by the California State Parks in cooperation with the National Park Service as part of the Redwood National and State Parks. For reservations and general information, the national recreation reservation system is the primary contact. For more specific local information, you can contact the Redwood National and State Parks directly.

For Reservations (Highly Recommended):

Recreation.gov (Website): Visit Recreation.gov and search for "Gold Bluffs Beach Campground"

National Recreation Reservation Service Phone: (877) 444-6777

For General Information (Redwood National and State Parks):

Phone: (707) 465-7335

Mobile Phone: +1 707-465-7335 (This is the same primary contact number for the park)

Address: Gold Bluffs Beach Campground, Davison Rd, Orick, CA 95555, USA

It is

extremely important

• Davison Road conditions and any necessary day-use permits for its access.

• Current fire restrictions or bans.

• Weather conditions (it can be very damp and cold, even in summer).

• Elk presence and viewing guidelines.

• Any temporary closures or alerts impacting the campground or nearby trails like Fern Canyon.

For California locals, Gold Bluffs Beach Campground represents an iconic and truly "unforgettable" camping experience that perfectly embodies the diverse natural wonders of their home state. It's a destination that uniquely combines the grandeur of the ancient redwood forests with the raw, untamed beauty of the Pacific coastline, creating a tapestry of landscapes that is distinctly Californian.

The primary appeal for locals lies in its exclusive access to some of the park's most stunning features. The ability to be "already at the campground" and "hit the trails early, including Fern Canyon, before the crowds arrived" offers an intimate and privileged encounter with one of the state's most famous natural wonders. This early access, combined with the frequent sightings of majestic Roosevelt elk, transforms a camping trip into a truly magical wildlife and wilderness immersion.

While the drive in may be "rough" and the coastal weather "cold, windy, and damp," these challenges are viewed as part of the authentic experience. Locals appreciate the commitment to cleanliness and the diligence of the park rangers, ensuring that even a rustic campground offers a comfortable and respectful environment. The need to book "3 months in advance" speaks volumes about its popularity and desirability among Californians who recognize the value of this special place.

Gold Bluffs Beach Campground isn't just a place to sleep; it's a gateway to adventure, a photographic paradise, and a serene escape into a landscape where ancient trees meet the boundless ocean. For Californians seeking to truly connect with the wild heart of their state and create lasting memories, this highly sought-after coastal redwood gem is an essential addition to their camping bucket list.

Gold Bluffs Beach Campground

Gold Bluffs Beach Campground, Davison Rd, Orick, CA 95555, USA