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Map showing campground location near Whitethorn, California
Camper submitted image from Wailaki CampgroundView 2 Photos
NatureMap showing campground location near Whitethorn, California

Wailaki Campground

4 ReviewsAdd Review

Bureau of Land Management operates this $8-per-night campground along a creek in the forested hills outside Whitethorn. The rough access road requires about an hour of driving from the nearest town, but sites remain accessible to most vehicles. Campers find vault toilets and trash service, though no potable water is available.

Sites sit close to a small creek among thick trees that provide natural privacy between camping spots. The dense forest limits visibility, so campers often can't see neighboring sites even when the campground fills up on weekends. Mosquitoes congregate near the water, making bug spray essential during warmer months. Bears frequent the area, requiring proper food storage in vehicles or bear-proof containers.

The remote location means no cell phone service and complete darkness after sunset. "Off the beaten track but nice, safe, clean," reports Mary K., who notes the campground stays quiet during weekdays but fills by Saturday. A general store operates about 10 minutes away toward Shelter Cove for last-minute supplies.

First-come, first-served sites make arrival timing unpredictable, especially since the lack of cell service prevents advance scouting. Campers with an Interagency Pass pay half price at $4 per night.

Fee Info

$15.00 per campsite per night First-come, first-served

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Location

Public Campground

Wailaki Campground is located in California

Detail location of campground

Directions

Location: U.S. 101 to Redway West 22 miles on Briceland/Shelter Cove Road south 2 miles on Chemise Mountain Road.

Coordinates

40.01958 N
124.003487 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol

Drive Time

Reviews

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4.0

out of 5

4 Reviews

Guests frequently mentioned this remote forest campground's peaceful creek-side setting and affordable rates. Visitors should bring water and bug spray, as basic facilities include only vault toilets with no water access.

auggie W.The Dyrt PRO User
Reviewed Feb. 12, 2026

Looks nice and easy access

I was here 2/12/26 both Nadelos and Wailaki campgrounds are closed until 3/15/26 as the signs say - hiking trails are still open - very low lying campsites next to rivers and plenty more rain coming - probably flood issues / just a heads up -

Month of VisitFebruary
M
Reviewed Aug. 24, 2021

Great!

Off the beaten track but nice, safe, clean. $8 a night or $4 if you have an interagency pass. Large vault toilets. No water. There's a general store ~10 minutes away if you drive towards Shelter Cove. Bring your bug spray! Pretty quiet during the week but it filled up by Saturday.  Solo female traveler thumbs up for chill vibes.

Month of VisitAugust
Anton Y.
Reviewed Nov. 6, 2020

Beautiful, remote, cosy

My group and I stopped here while road tripping up to oregon from Los Angeles. There are no amenities like water or phone service but this spot really is special. Takes about an hour or so of driving from the nearest town, into the woods, to get here but it really is worth it. The site is very much so accessible and is nestled next to a small creek in the woods. Bears are common out there so lock up all your food well! No light or noise pollution in the slightest. There were no fires allowed but we cooked on our camping stove in the back of the jeep. All in all, for tent/hammock camping, this is a wonderful spot to drive in and cosy up for the night. While it's nice during the day, it gets pretty cold at night! Because it's so remote you're likely to find a spot regardless of the time of year but it's by no means a secret or hidden spot. Since it's first come first serve and outside of service, you have no way of knowing how full it is until you arrive. We believe we had neighbors but they were out of earshot so we weren't sure how many others there were, since the sites are pretty private and it's hard to see far through the thick trees.

Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Wailaki Campground by Anton Y., November 6, 2020
Stephanie S.
Reviewed Jun. 29, 2020

Little camp by a stream

This camp was where we stayed when we were trying to stay at Tolkan but it was full. Not yet knowing about the dispersed site at horse mountain just a bit further up the road from Tolkan we stayed here.
We arrived late and spent just one night but it had everything we needed. We found a spot easily and bathrooms were close.
Lots of little mosquitoes trying to suck our blood 😅 so bring bug spray as it’s by a lush stream!! $8 per night

  • Review photo of Wailaki Campground by Stephanie S., June 29, 2020
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Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Wailaki Campground?

Wailaki Campground offers basic amenities for a rustic camping experience. The campground features large vault toilets but does not provide water, so campers must bring their own supply. There's a $8 per night fee, reduced to $4 if you have an interagency pass. While limited in facilities, the campground is clean and well-maintained. A general store is located approximately 10 minutes away by car in the direction of Shelter Cove for additional supplies. Remember to pack bug spray, as insects can be prevalent in this wooded setting.

Where is Wailaki Campground located and how do I get there?

Wailaki Campground is nestled in a secluded forested area that requires approximately an hour of driving from the nearest town. The campground is situated near Shelter Cove in Northern California. To reach it, you'll need to navigate through wooded roads that take you deep into the forest. The somewhat remote location makes for a peaceful setting, though it does mean you'll be without phone service. Plan your route ahead of time and consider downloading offline maps, as navigation can be challenging in areas without cellular coverage.

How do I make reservations for Wailaki Campground?

Wailaki Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservation system. Simply arrive at the campground and select an available site. The campground can fill up quickly on weekends, especially Saturdays, while remaining quieter during weekdays. The fee is $8 per night, or $4 with an interagency pass. For the most current reservation policies or seasonal changes, contact the managing agency before your trip.

What recreational activities are available at or near Wailaki Campground?

Wailaki Campground offers a tranquil forest setting perfect for nature-based recreation. The natural surroundings provide opportunities for hiking, wildlife watching, and photography. While specific trails aren't detailed, the wooded environment is ideal for exploration. The campground's secluded location creates excellent stargazing conditions due to minimal light pollution. For more amenities, Shelter Cove is within driving distance. The peaceful atmosphere, especially on weekdays, makes this spot ideal for those seeking quiet reflection and a genuine wilderness experience away from busy tourist areas.

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