California's Lost Coast Offers Pristine Beach Camping & A Popular Scenic Hiking Trail

Ready for a backpacking or hiking adventure along a lesser-known stretch of coastline? Hidden along Northern California's rugged shoreline, the Lost Coast is one of the most pristine, remote, and must-visit destinations around the world for avid hikers. Unlike the more developed stretches of California's coast, this area is untouched, with beautiful beaches stretching for several miles. If you are an adventurer looking for solitude or beach camping underneath the star-filled skies, the Lost Coast is a bucket list destination.

The easiest way to get to Lost Coast is through Shelter Cove, a small seaside community in southern Humboldt County. You can drive in from Garberville, along Highway 101, about 24 miles to Shelter Cove. If you are flying in, the nearest airport is Arcata-Eureka Airport (ACV), located about 100 miles north of Shelter Cove. The area known as the Lost Coast earned its name when mid-20th-century planners decided that building State Route 1 along this stretch of rugged coastline would be difficult due to steep mountains and unstable terrain. Instead, the highway was constructed inland at Rockport, leaving the coastline wild and isolated. The King Range National Conservation Area was formed to protect the undeveloped area along the Lost Coast.

California's Lost Coast features some of the best West Coast spots for beach camping, each with its own appeal, from tranquil forest atmospheres to breathtaking Pacific vistas. A good example is the family-owned Shelter Cove Campground located in the foothills of the King Range. The site offers both dry camping and full hookups with access to coin-operated amenities, bathrooms, picnic tables, showers, and fire rings. Some of the activities you can enjoy at the site include whale watching, mountain biking in the King Range National Conservation Area, and various water sports. Another beach camping ground in the area is the Mattole River Campground, located in Petrolia, CA. The site, which also serves as the northern boundary of the Lost Coast Trail, features two wheelchair-accessible sites, over 20 trailer/tent sites, fire rings, and access to the Mattole River. There are also two hiking trails, the 3.2-mile hike that leads to the historic Punta Gorda Lighthouse and the 600-foot hike that leads to the beach.

If you prefer a more rugged wilderness experience, Usal Beach in Whitethorn, CA, along the Lost Coast won't disappoint. While you will find tiny outhouses and fire rings, there is no portable water, no reservations are required, and no entrance gates or booths at the primitive camping ground. You will only see different camping sites, some with great views of the Pacific, while others are dotted under trees. The Lost Coast Trail, on the other hand, starts at Mattole Beach in the north and stretches 25 miles to Black Sands Beach near Shelter Cove. While you hike along the beach, it doesn't mean it is easy; the boulders and creeks sometimes flood, making it hard to cross. You won't finish the entire hike in a day, so you can plan a 3-day backpacking trip and camp on campsites along the trail. This hike is filled with marine and coastal ecosystems; you will find footprints in the sand, sea otters, and seagulls.

Discovering the Lost Coast doesn't end with the trail. You can explore the Black Sands Beach, which is a beautiful stretch of coastline known for its volcanic sands and surf. This beach has black stones surrounding the ocean. If you are a beachcomber, you will find beautiful stones to add to your collection. Just remember to be a mindful beachcomber by being respectful, avoiding littering, and leaving only footprints. While it's not a great spot for wading, you can sunbathe along the beach. The rocks provide a great place to sit and enjoy stunning views of the King Mountain Range.

If you want a place to relax after a hike, stop by Mal Coombs Park. This small park has beautiful picnic areas with stunning ocean views. You can visit the tidepools near the park for glimpses into the marine life. Take a walk along the coastline and watch the marine life that emerges within the rocky crevices. When it is time to eat, your first stop should be Gyppo Ale Mill in Shelter Cove. This restaurant provides delicious meals such as fresh fish tacos and burgers with craft beers. Another exciting place to taste local delicacies is Mi Mochima, a Venezuelan restaurant with a beautiful ocean view. You will love the Venezuelan cuisine.