Ashley J.
Scout
ScoutBenbow KOA & Golf Course
Decent Camp Spot
Shared group showers, small dog park, ok park for kids to play on. Water spickets at group sites. Friendly people.. decently well kept
Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Carlotta, CA
Van Duzen County Park - Pamplin Grove permits pets throughout its quiet, redwood-shaded campground near Carlotta. The park features 30-amp electric hookups, picnic tables, and accommodations for tents, RVs, and glamping setups. Showers, potable water, and fire rings make this a comfortable base for pets and their owners. Dogs must remain leashed in camping areas, though the nearby river provides opportunities for supervised water access. Stafford RV Park allows pets but maintains breed restrictions for certain dog types as noted in visitor feedback. Bathrooms throughout the pet-friendly campgrounds are generally clean and well-maintained, with Riverwalk RV Park offering particularly nice shower facilities alongside their pet accommodation options.
The Van Duzen River provides excellent recreation for campers with dogs, with easy access from several campgrounds including Swimmers Delight, a section of Van Duzen County Park known for its pet-friendly atmosphere. Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park Campground offers year-round access with pets allowed, though they must remain on-leash on all trails. During summer months, dogs appreciate the cool shade of towering redwoods at these campgrounds, as temperatures remain moderate even when inland areas heat up. The area offers minimal cell service at most campgrounds, with Van Duzen having no coverage through Verizon. Local camping hosts often have information about nearby veterinary services in Eureka, approximately 35-45 minutes away. Visitors note the pet-friendly campsites rarely feel crowded, with many reporting they practically had the place to themselves, making it ideal for those with dogs who need space.
Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Carlotta, California (93)
1. Burlington Campground — Humboldt Redwoods State Park
30 ReviewsWeott, CA18 milesWebsite+1 (707) 946-2409"Camp site 12 backs up to a fence (houses or cabins occupied behind the fence) and had decent space from other sites. Large picnic table, bear locker and tall fire pit on site."
"You'll hear a tiny bit of highway traffic, but not much. It's really serene, especially if you can grab a site that's farther off the road.
Access to nearby trails is obviously exceptional."2. Van Duzen County Park - Pamplin Grove
9 ReviewsCarlotta, CA6 milesWebsite+1 (707) 445-7651$30 - $35 / night
"Incredible views, quiet, easy river access, pet and kid friendly, showers, on site friendly hosts, and the best trails through old growth that you rarely get in a campground."
"Walk to the river, stroll through the woods. There was a rednecky family that pulled in the last day with a large group of shitty kids and barking dogs."
3. Albee Creek Campground — Humboldt Redwoods State Park
15 ReviewsRedcrest, CA13 milesWebsite+1 (707) 946-2409$35 / night
"Like all state parks in California, dog are welcome in the campground but not on any trails. You can’t access any of the streams legally with a dog. Probably best enjoyed without the the fur babies."
"This park is gorgeous and the drive into the site rivals the avenue of the giants. The location is very remote. "
4. Burlington Campground — Humboldt Redwoods State Park
23 ReviewsWeott, CA18 milesWebsite+1 (707) 946-2409$35 / night
"Walking distance to the visitor center and other great hikes. Dog-friendly, clean restrooms/coin showers, and relatively private sites - some more than others. Beautiful surroundings!"
"The shade from the redwoods makes this a cool haven from the hot California summers. Campsites are mostly shaded. Campsites are large with good fire pits and picnic tables."
5. Hidden Springs Campground — Humboldt Redwoods State Park
29 ReviewsMyers Flat, CA20 milesWebsite+1 (707) 946-2409$35 / night
"Campsite was pleasant, though the neighbors were loudly coughing the whole time and we could hear dogs barking all night."
"There is a redwood grove hiking trail behind the campsites that takes you from one end of the campground to the other."
6. Humboldt County Fairgrounds
10 ReviewsFerndale, CA11 milesWebsite+1 (707) 786-9511$20 - $45 / night
"Because of recent rains and some soggy areas I had to overnight campers close to me. 30 amp and 50 amp power and water at each side."
"Close to Ferndale, which is Must See. Access from Fernbridge of of 101 as the other roads are very twisty for all but the smallest RVs. Camp host was great! Short drive into Eureka."
7. Stafford RV Park
6 ReviewsCarlotta, CA6 milesWebsite+1 (707) 764-3416"We almost didn’t stay here, as on the Passport America site they state that they do not allow certain breeds of dogs, and we generally try to not support places that discriminate against certain breeds"
8. Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park Campground
7 ReviewsBridgeville, CA9 milesWebsite+1 (707) 777-3683$35 - $90 / night
"Lots of shade throughout area but limited privacy due to proximity of sites and road noise. Bathhouse has water and basic shower amentities."
"earlier in the year before the water warms and it fills with algae. theres swimming and hiking on site as well as the ranger station to explore. the redwoods are beautiful but the campground is directly adjacent"
9. Riverwalk RV Park
3 ReviewsFortuna, CA5 milesWebsite"Close to highway so you get a little bit of traffic noise. The heated pool and hot tub were really nice to relax in."
"I stayed only 2 nights, but what a great location amd campground. Bathroom and shower facilities, and a laundromat. As well as a pool and hot tub!"
10. Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination
23 ReviewsMyers Flat, CA21 milesWebsite+1 (707) 943-9999$65 - $85 / night
"Driving and biking along Avenue of the Giants was the highlight of this area! There is a little dog park, volleyball court, playground, swimming area."
"We had a hilarious encounter with a cat that was in the cabin when we arrived which we wrote about in the Cabin #2 Guest Journal before we left (see picture uploaded)."
Recent Dog-Friendly Camping Photos near Carlotta, CA
74 Photos of 93 Carlotta Campgrounds
Annie M.
Van Duzen County Park - Pamplin Grove
Laura M.
Stafford RV Park
Frances L.
Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park Campground
Imerie T.
Bear River Casino
Bare Soul W.
Humboldt County Fairgrounds RV Park and Campground
Wendy and John L.
Beautiful Creekside
Dylan C.
Wuss Camp
Kathy B.
Burlington Campground — Humboldt Redwoods State Park
Jessica R.
Samoa Boat Ramp County Park
Colleen E.
Giant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination
Jeff B.
Dean Creek Resort
Laura M.
Clam Beach County Park
Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Carlotta, CA
656 Reviews of 93 Carlotta Campgrounds
- CCameron B.
GuideEmerald Forest Cabins & RV
Redwood Pleasantries
This is a very lovely campground clean of trash with quaint with cabins and campsites tucked between redwoods and Douglas fir trees. Campground looks lush and loved.
They offer cabins, RV and tent sites.
Additionally there is a Video Arcade, Horseshoe pit, dog park, celebration hall with board games/puzzles, a mini mart, playground, gazebo, and multiple bath/shower houses and laundry facilities.
They periodically have special events during the weekends. We lucked out with live music and wine tastings.
Incredibly close to town but still immersed in the woods.
Only negative is that it’s close to 101 and car traffic can be heard at times. However, there are many song birds around camp to make your stay pleasant.
Highly recommend!
- Colleen E.
TravelerGiant Redwoods RV & Cabin Destination
Quiet Redwoods Getaway
This is a beautiful campground in Meyer’s Flat, CA. The area of Myers Flat is a little “sketchy” but the campground is very well kept and they close the gates at night which is nice. There are nice little cabins on site as well as RV sites. We stayed for 3 nights and it was very enjoyable. Driving and biking along Avenue of the Giants was the highlight of this area! There is a little dog park, volleyball court, playground, swimming area. (we didn’t swim due to the algae warning for northern CA) It’s along Eel River. There’s also a great market and coffee shop nearby that we took advantage of! (pricey but the only place around) The staff is so kind and Vicki was a great help while we made our reservation over the phone. Overall, we would stay again!
Queeriam A.GuideVan Duzen County Park - Pamplin Grove
Best place to camp!
Incredible views, quiet, easy river access, pet and kid friendly, showers, on site friendly hosts, and the best trails through old growth that you rarely get in a campground. It’s a magical place, and affordable. Worth sacrificing the cell signal, there’s a pay phone in the entry lot. I’ve been twice now, and can’t wait to go back.
Scott M.ScoutBenbow KOA & Golf Course
Okay
It’s a ok place to stay. There are a lot of cats on property which got our dog riled up. Good location to see area attractions. Hookups we’re good. Seems like a lot of extended guests in cabins. If we stay again we’ll get a pull through site rather than back in. It didn’t help that we had a family with 2 ATVs staying in a cabin right by us and they’re kids (guessing ages 10-14) would drive around the camp for hours at a time. First time I’ve seen that at a koa.
- JJessica R.Guide
Samoa Boat Ramp County Park
Glorified parking lot with transients and rude neighbors
I stayed at this campsite twice two years ago. The first time was in the spring (April) with my daughters and the second time was in August that year. This is not a campsite per se, but rather a parking lot in which you chose a parking spot directly next to someone else and if you have a tent pitch it directly behind your car in the scraggly grass and sand sticker plants. There is zero privacy or distance between campers.
The fee is $20 per night. The bathrooms are disgusting. The best thing about them was a family of nesting birds above the door to the ladies restroom. We were able to watch the babies for a while which was fun, but there is also the chance that you’ll be pooped on while entering or leaving the bathroom.
The first time was just okay. We camped inside the back of my Toyota Highlander amongst mostly RVs, most of which left their loud generators and bright outside lights on long after quiet hours. I finally had to knock on our neighbors R.V. door to ask them to turn out the outside light which was shining directly into our car.
This wasn’t terrible and was completely outshone by a half day spent on the beach in the dune area. Locals surfed as families. The community seemed so tight knit and inviting. We left deciding that we’d definitely come back to spend a day on the beach later in the summer. Also, the local Samoa Cookhouse is nearby with family style breakfast, lunch and dinner served. It is a historic site and museum that used to serve the loggers in the area the food and service is awesome and has become a much looked forward to stop on our road trips to California.
When we came back we came with my husband, choosing to camp at the boat launch area again because of its proximity to the beach. The late summer campers were a very different crowd. Mostly they seemed transient. There was garbage everywhere. Beer bottles, wild pets - even an actual pig, run down RVs that were clearly full time housing for large, loud families filled the parking lot. There was loud partying far into the night.
I had my daughters car camp and locked them in while my husband and I slept in a tent behind the car. We kept being woken by a loud noise that I couldn’t identify. I thought it sounded like a bear, then maybe a plastic barrel being pulled across the concrete. Eventually - after very little sleep - we discovered it was our neighbor who had some sort of terrible sleep disorder. It was bizarre. After he woke in the morning he proceeded to urinate in from of my daughters onto the water spigot rather than in the restroom which was 50 feet away. My husband was horrified and asked what would ever possess me to bring him there. Lets just say that the beach was not reason enough.
I would not stay here again. I did not feel safe or that this was a sanitary. The price seems to attract people who are not camping so much as homeless. The bathrooms don’t get serviced often and even if they did I’m sure they’d be trashed in a matter of hours.
Katie S.GuideGrizzly Creek Redwoods State Park Campground
Camping amongst giants
Amazing campground nestled amongst the heart of the Redwood Trees. Lots of shade throughout area but limited privacy due to proximity of sites and road noise. Bathhouse has water and basic shower amentities. Nice hiking trails to explore the Redwoods within walking distance of campground. Great location to explore the forest and access the rugged California coastline.
Ross F.TravelerRichardson Grove State Park Campground
Clean
Pros: Clean campsites spaced apart reasonably with picnic tables and fire pits. Clean bathrooms. Beautiful redwoods.
Cons: no dogs allowed on the walking trails. $35 for a tent site is a lot but I’m coming to realize that’s pretty much what it costs in California. Firewood is $10.
- AAngelaScout
Redwood Coast Cabins & RV Resort
Shockingly horrible
I don't even know what to say, except pick somewhere else. Last summer we stayed for a few days. I reserved a few days for this summer. Got the reservation confirmed by email- didn't notice my name was misspelled by one single letter- and stopped in to the office to inquire about paying early. It turned out they gave me a reservation under the wrong name and that I was actually, in fact, banned from the park. What??? They revealed that in their system I was banned due to"pet damages". My service dog did not cause any property damage and the cabin was left clean. I asked if there was any detail about these supposed damages and no, there were not. I asked if there was someone I could speak to as no one had ever contacted me about this issue. The larger blond woman said,"I am the only one"(that I could speak with) and added that I was also banned from shoreline park- which I had never been to. The hold on my credit card is still there. It's only a few dollars but I'm going to cut my losses. Last time we stayed we were prohibited from flushing tp down the toilet and the bathrooms were not clean at all. The Wi-Fi never worked and the power went out preventing me from using my bipap. Also the pool and playground areas were so closely monitored it was a bit uncomfortable being on camera and confronted about a minor rule violation (within moments like I was being closely watched) that was quickly righted. I believe in second chances but this was just an insult to my sensibilities. Weird staff, pretty unfriendly. There are plenty of other friendlier and more accommodating beautiful cabins and resorts to choose from in Humboldt.
Guide to Carlotta
The Carlotta area sits at the junction of the Van Duzen River and Highway 36, approximately 25 miles inland from the Pacific coast at an elevation of 131 feet. This Humboldt County location features a transitional climate between coastal influence and inland valleys, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 50-80°F. Campgrounds in this region offer varying levels of shade and river access, with most sites experiencing limited or no cell phone coverage.
What to Do
Creek exploration: Albee Creek offers families excellent opportunities for wildlife spotting. According to Tony G., "Bull Creek that runs along Albee is wonderful for a shady hike in the cool water while looking for frogs, turtles, snakes and salamanders. My boys love doing this and hanging out here most of the time."
Swimming in Van Duzen River: The river provides refreshing swimming spots during summer months. Andi M. notes about Van Duzen County Park - Pamplin Grove: "The river is clean, and relaxing. Swimming here is so fun! Cold, but refreshing! Plenty of space for our two tents, grated on the fire pits and fire wood available."
Redwood hiking trails: Many campgrounds offer direct trail access. Patrick M. describes Burlington Campground: "Our first time camping among redwoods. The sites are generally well-spaced... And then, of course, there is hiking in the redwoods!"
Wildlife viewing: The meadow at Albee Creek Campground attracts various animals. Katherine D. reports: "We saw wild turkeys, a baby fox, deer, and our neighbors saw bears! A really cool spot to camp! Large campsites."
What Campers Like
Cooler temperatures: The dense tree canopy keeps campgrounds comfortable even during hot weather. Troy L. notes about Burlington Campground: "Tons of shade so don't expect your solar panels to keep your battery charged."
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain high standards. According to marcus K., "Awesome small campground. Great clean facilities. Coin operated showers. Clean. Quiet because its small. Close to great hiking and creek exploring."
Spacious campsites: Most reviewers appreciate the room to spread out. At Hidden Springs, Jeff B. shares: "Our spot felt secluded, but was only about 30 yards from one of the bathrooms. My wife told me to say that the bathrooms were very clean, something that doesn't matter to me. There were flush toilets, showers and sinks."
Pet-friendly atmosphere: Most dog-friendly campgrounds near Carlotta have designated pet areas. Queeriam A. says about Van Duzen County Park: "Incredible views, quiet, easy river access, pet and kid friendly, showers, on site friendly hosts, and the best trails through old growth that you rarely get in a campground."
What You Should Know
Limited cell service: Prepare for disconnection at most sites. Angela G. mentions about Van Duzen County Park: "These sites are nice and secluded with absolutely no cell coverage (Verizon), and about a 35-45 minute drive from Eureka and about 15 from the nearest gas station."
Variable road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds may be challenging. Jim M. notes about Albee Creek Camp: "Last time we were there the road in was all broken up but I hear that it has been re-paved in the summer of 2018."
Shower costs: Most campgrounds charge for showers. Rachel A. shares: "Coin operated showers and clean restrooms were very comfortable and the best of all campgrounds we enjoyed on this trip."
Water quality concerns: Some campgrounds have mineral-heavy water. Laura M. reports about Stafford RV Park: "The water jug we had filled with their water was full of rusty red residue at the bottom, ick. And that's with using a filter."
Tips for Camping with Families
Off-season visits: For quieter experiences, consider non-summer months. Kelsey M. advises: "The campground was almost full when I arrived without a reservation around dinner time mid-September."
River activities: Bring water shoes and flotation devices. William M. shares: "This place is locally known as swimmers delight. This is another one of my favorite campgrounds. It is open year round and only cost 25 dollars with clean bathrooms and showers. There are many great campgrounds, many right on the river."
Wildlife education: Prepare children for possible wildlife encounters. Tony G. explains about Albee Creek Campground: "The large meadow in front of the camp sites has tall grass that helps hide the deer and bears that like to come out and eat from the fruit trees that produce during the summer time. It's not uncommon to stroll the meadow early morning or in the evening and see the Black Bears up the fruit trees munching away on apples."
Pack extra layers: Temperature fluctuations can be significant. L&L mentions about Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park Campground: "Nice and cool/cold at night even in August. Cool in the shade all day."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many campgrounds cannot accommodate larger rigs. Stephanie notes about Grizzly Creek: "Not suited for most RVs and travel trailers, you need to be very small and fully self contained. Our 19' A-Line barely fit into our spot."
Water and electric hookups: Some parks offer partial hookups. Corey O. explains: "This a great campsite for a quiet night or two and can be used as a base for exploring the Groves in the area."
Accessibility information: Some campground roads present challenges. Leonard H. shares about Burlington: "Arrived after hours and selected unreserved level site for 24' RV. Paid using cash envelope. All sites are shaded under tall trees. A mix of tent and Sites suitable for smaller RVs. No hook-ups."
Road noise awareness: Proximity to highways affects some sites. Anthony C. warns: "The main issue is the noise. It's unbelievable loud as the camp site is right next to the road that appears to be supporting a logging operation. Logging and construction vehicles pass within 10-20 feet of the roadside campsites at all hours."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly
campsite near Carlotta, CA?
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Carlotta, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Carlotta, CA is Burlington Campground — Humboldt Redwoods State Park with a 4.7-star rating from 30 reviews.
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dog-friendly camping near
Carlotta, CA?
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Carlotta, CA?
TheDyrt.com has all 93 dog-friendly camping locations near Carlotta, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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