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List your RVCampgrounds and RV parks near Arcata, CA
47 campgrounds and RV Parks near Arcata, CA. Compare campsite amenities, photos, and site types to find the perfect stop for your rig on your route.
47 campgrounds
2817 campsites
14 RVs available for delivery
From $25/night
Own an RV? Earn up to $31,284/year.
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Best campgrounds near Arcata, CA
Mad River Rapids RV Park
Arcata, CA (2 miles away)
+4
Redwood Coast Cabins & RV Resort
Eureka, CA (3 miles away)
$$$$$
(110 sites)
+9
Shoreline RV Park
Eureka, CA (5 miles away)
$$$$$
(59 sites)
+5
Johnny's Marina & RV Park
Eureka, CA (11 miles away)
Emerald Forest Cabins and RV
California (15 miles away)
$$$$$
(78 sites)
+9
View Crest Lodge
California (18 miles away)
$$$$$
(15 sites)
Sounds Of The Sea RV Park and Spa
California (18 miles away)
$$$$$
(64 sites)
+4
Azalea Glen RV Park and Campgrounds
California (19 miles away)
$$$$$
(38 sites)
+5
Sue-meg State Park
California (19 miles away)
$$$$$
(124 sites)
+6
Riverwalk RV Park
Fortuna, CA (20 miles away)
$$$$$
(90 sites)
+14
Redwood National and State Parks
California (24 miles away)
Elk Country RV Resort and Campground
California (25 miles away)
$$$$$
(160 sites)
+11
Most common amenities
Pet friendly Showers Tables Toilets Laundry Internet Grills Trails Cable TV Dump station
Campgrounds near Arcata, California
Arcata sits on the north end of Humboldt Bay in California's redwood country, roughly 280 miles north of San Francisco on U.S. 101. The town works well as an RV base for trips into Redwood National and State Parks, which stretch north along the coast, with Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park about 50 miles north of Eureka. Private RV parks cluster along the 101 corridor between Arcata, McKinleyville, and Trinidad, giving travelers full hookups close to grocery stores, fuel, and the California Redwood Coast-Humboldt County Airport.
Five campgrounds within easy reach handle most RV trips through the area. Mad River Rapids RV Park and Emerald Forest Cabins and RV sit near Arcata and the U.S. 101 corridor. Redwood Coast Cabins & RV Resort serves travelers heading toward the redwoods farther north. Shoreline RV Park and Johnny's Marina & RV Park offer bay-adjacent options for visitors who want to combine RV camping with fishing, boating, and tidepool access along the Humboldt coast.
Things to do near Arcata
Drive about 25 minutes north to Sue-meg State Park (formerly Patrick's Point) for bluff-top trails, the reconstructed Sumêg Yurok village, and Agate Beach, where visitors hunt for polished stones at low tide. Continue another half hour up U.S. 101 to Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park to walk old-growth groves along the Newton B. Drury Scenic Parkway and watch Roosevelt elk graze the meadows near Elk Prairie. Fern Canyon, reached by the unpaved Davison Road, has fern-draped walls and requires a timed-entry permit from mid-May through mid-September. Closer in, families can paddle the Arcata Marsh, visit the Arcata Plaza farmers market on Saturdays, or drive to Trinidad Harbor for tidepool walks at Trinidad State Beach.
Camping spots and RV parks near Arcata, CA
When to visit Arcata
- spring
March - May
57° / 43°F 80 mmCool and mixed; Roosevelt elk active in Prairie Creek meadows.
- summer
June - August
64° / 50°F 10 mmPeak season; coastal fog common; book state parks early.
- fall
September - November
61° / 46°F 90 mmQuieter crowds; rains return by November.
- winter
December - February
54° / 41°F 200 mmWet season; storms can delay U.S. 101 travel.
The Humboldt coast runs cool, wet, and foggy compared with most of California. Summer, from June through early September, is the peak RV window: highs sit in the mid-60s Fahrenheit, rainfall drops to almost nothing, and state park campgrounds inside Prairie Creek and Sue-meg fill quickly. Marine fog is common on summer mornings and can hang along the coast all day, so visitors used to inland heat should pack layers and rain shells.
Spring and fall are quieter, with cooler nights and a mix of clear days and rain. Elk Prairie Campground stays open year-round, while Penn Creek and Agate campgrounds at Sue-meg are typically reservable from late May through early September, with Abalone open year-round. Winter is the rainy season; December averages well over nine inches of rain in town, U.S. 101 sees occasional storm-related delays, and several state park campgrounds shift to first-come, first-served or reduced services.
How to book a campsite near Arcata
Private RV parks in and around Arcata, including Mad River Rapids RV Park, Redwood Coast Cabins & RV Resort, Shoreline RV Park, Johnny's Marina & RV Park, and Emerald Forest Cabins and RV, take reservations directly through their own websites or by phone. For summer holidays and weekends, book several weeks ahead.
California State Park campgrounds in the area, including Elk Prairie and the Sue-meg loops at Abalone, Penn Creek, and Agate Beach, are booked through ReserveCalifornia at reservecalifornia.com or by calling 1-800-444-7275. The reservation window opens on a rolling basis six months to the day before the arrival date, at 8 a.m. Pacific time, and popular sites fill within minutes of release for summer weekends. Gold Bluffs Beach Campground operates first-come, first-served and does not take reservations.
What to expect
Most private RV parks near Arcata offer full hookups (water, sewer, 30/50-amp electric) plus Wi-Fi, laundry, and dump stations. State park campgrounds inside Prairie Creek and Sue-meg do not have RV hookups, though Sue-meg has a dump station near Abalone. Elk Prairie limits RVs to 27 feet, and Gold Bluffs Beach limits RVs to 24 feet with no trailers allowed on Davison Road. Coin-operated hot showers, flush toilets, fire rings, picnic tables, and bear-resistant food lockers are standard at the state park sites.
Expect damp ground, heavy dew, and cool nights even in July. Cell service is reliable in Arcata and along U.S. 101 but drops out inside redwood canyons and on coastal back roads.
Own an RV? Earn up to $31,284/year.
List your motorhome or travel trailer for free on RVezy.
Frequently asked questions about campgrounds near Arcata, CA
How much does it cost to rent an RV in Arcata?
RV rental in Arcata is refreshingly affordable compared to big city prices. Travel trailers and campervans typically start around $95 to $135 per night, while motorhome rental in Arcata generally ranges from $150 to $250 nightly. Prices tend to dip in winter and rise during summer and festival weekends. For a cheaper RV rental in Arcata, filter for smaller units or book in the shoulder seasons (March to May or late September to October). Splitting a larger RV with friends or family is a popular way to keep costs down for Redwoods adventures.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Arcata%2C%20CaliforniaDo I need a special license to rent an RV in Arcata?
For most RV rentals in Arcata, a regular driver's license is all you need, no special RV or commercial license required. Approved drivers must generally be at least 25 years old. International visitors should bring a valid driver's license from their home country, and an International Driving Permit is recommended. RVezy verifies your ID during booking, so your approval is confirmed before your California road trip begins.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039008774-Understanding-approved-driver-requirementsWhat kind of protection is included with my Arcata RV rental?
Every RV rental in Arcata booked through RVezy includes a renter protection plan, so you can focus on enjoying your Northern California RV trip. Coverage includes protection for accidental damage to the vehicle, and you choose your protection level at checkout. 24/7 roadside assistance is included with every protection plan, giving you peace of mind on the North Coast and throughout Humboldt County.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/34008759079835-RVezy-renter-protection-plans-in-detailWhat's the cancellation policy if my plans change?
RVezy's cancellation policy includes a grace period right after booking, so you can lock in your Arcata RV rental with confidence. Refund eligibility after the grace period depends on how far in advance you cancel relative to your trip start date. If a host cancels, RVezy refunds guests or provides credits, so you are not left without options for your redwoods trip.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360037736674-Understanding-the-cancellation-policy-for-guestsAre there pet-friendly RV rentals in Arcata?
Yes, bringing your dog along is easy. Many hosts offer pet-friendly RV rental in Arcata, just select the Pet-Friendly filter when you search RVezy. Some hosts charge a small pet cleaning fee, which is shown in the listing details. Arcata Community Forest and Mad River Beach are popular leashed-dog spots for a family RV trip with pups. Note that dogs are restricted on most trails in Redwood National and State Parks, so plan pet-friendly stops accordingly.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Arcata%2C%20CaliforniaCan the RV be delivered and set up in Arcata?
Yes. Many hosts on RVezy offer RV delivery in Arcata directly to your campground, vacation rental, or chosen location, including nearby Cal Poly Humboldt for family visits. Your host will handle setup and walk you through the systems on arrival, which is ideal if you're flying into the area or new to RVing. Delivery fees and distance limits vary by host and are listed on each RV's page.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360037821934-RV-DeliveryHow far can I drive with my Arcata RV rental? Are there any mileage limits?
Mileage allowances are set by each host and are shown on the listing page. Many RV rentals near Arcata include around 100 to 150 miles per night, which is great for exploring the Lost Coast, Redwood National and State Parks, or a coastal drive toward Mendocino or the Oregon border. If you're planning a longer route, look for an RV rental with unlimited mileage or ask your host about adding extra miles. A Pacific Coast RV road trip from Arcata is especially scenic in spring and fall.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Arcata%2C%20CaliforniaWhere can I park my RV or camp around Arcata?
There are excellent options nearby. Mad River Rapids RV Park in Arcata offers full hookups close to shops and restaurants. Patrick's Point State Park, now officially Sue-meg State Park, sits just north of Trinidad with forested sites and ocean views. Clam Beach County Park and the KOA Holiday in Trinidad are also strong choices. Avoid overnight street parking in downtown Arcata. Reserve well ahead for summer, since campgrounds near the Redwoods fill quickly.
parks.ca.gov/?page_id=417When's the best time for RV camping in Arcata?
Arcata is most pleasant from late spring through early fall, when daytime highs typically range from the upper 50s to upper 60s Fahrenheit and coastal fog often clears by midday. Winters are mild but wet, with highs in the low to mid 50s and frequent rain from November through March. Shoulder seasons offer fewer crowds and lower rates, while summer brings the most reliable weather for Redwoods adventures. Bring layers year-round, as the coast stays cool even in summer.
weather.gov/eka/Is Arcata a good place for first-time RV renters?
Yes. Arcata is a great place for first time renting an RV. Traffic is light, Highway 101 is RV-friendly, and many hosts offer delivery plus a full walkthrough before you head out. For your first trip, consider an RV park with hookups like Mad River Rapids RV Park, which simplifies learning the water, power, and waste systems. The relaxed coastal pace makes Arcata an approachable starting point for new RVers.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360038036054-First-time-renter-tipsWhat if something goes wrong or I break down during my RV trip?
Every RV rental in Arcata booked with an RVezy protection plan includes 24/7 roadside assistance, whether you're on Highway 101, exploring Redwood National and State Parks, or parked in town. Call the roadside number provided in your booking for help with flat tires, jump starts, lockouts, or towing. RVezy's support team is also available to help with any other booking issues during your trip.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360037821674-Roadside-assistanceCan I take my Arcata RV rental across state lines or into Canada?
Travel between U.S. states is generally allowed, and the drive from Arcata north into Oregon along Highway 101 is a popular route. For cross-border travel into Canada, confirm with your host before booking and review your protection plan, since not all bookings are approved for Canada. Travel into Mexico is not permitted. A classic RV road trip from Arcata includes the Pacific Coast Highway south toward San Francisco or north toward Crater Lake.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360039340074-Insurance-coverage-validityHow should I budget for gas and fuel stops on a North Coast RV trip?
Fueling up in Arcata is straightforward, with major stations along Highway 101 in Arcata, Eureka, and McKinleyville. Expect roughly 8 to 12 mpg for most motorhomes and 15 to 20 mpg for a campervan rental in Arcata. California fuel prices are typically higher than the national average, so check current rates when budgeting. Stock up on groceries at Wildberries Marketplace or the Arcata Co-op to keep food costs in check on longer trips.
energy.ca.gov/data-reports/energy-almanac/transportation-energy/gasoline-and-diesel-retail-pricesHow far ahead should I book a campground near Arcata?
For the best campgrounds near Arcata, including Sue-meg State Park (formerly Patrick's Point) and the KOA in Trinidad, reserve three to six months ahead for summer and holiday weekends. California State Parks bookings open six months in advance through ReserveCalifornia. For shorter notice trips, Mad River Rapids RV Park often has midweek availability. Humboldt Redwoods State Park campgrounds in the Avenue of the Giants are another excellent option about an hour south.
reservecalifornia.com/What local driving conditions should I expect around Arcata?
Driving around Arcata is generally easy, with light traffic and an RV-friendly stretch of Highway 101. Watch for thick coastal fog in summer mornings and steady rain from late fall through early spring. The Avenue of the Giants south of Arcata has narrow curves through old-growth redwoods, so take it slow in larger motorhomes. If you'd rather skip driving in unfamiliar areas, RV delivery from your host is a convenient option.
roads.dot.ca.gov/Where can I find water fill-ups, dump stations, and hookups in the Arcata area?
Mad River Rapids RV Park in Arcata offers full hookups, potable water, and a dump station for registered guests. The KOA Holiday in Trinidad provides similar services just north of town. Sue-meg State Park (formerly Patrick's Point) has potable water but no sewer hookups, so plan to dump on your way out. Most private RV parks near Arcata offer 30 and 50 amp electrical along with water connections, which is helpful for families or longer stays.
parks.ca.gov/?page_id=417What amenities are included in most Arcata RV rentals?
Most Arcata RV rentals come well-equipped for a comfortable trip. Typical amenities include real beds, a kitchen with fridge, stove, and sink, a bathroom with hot shower, and a furnace for chilly coastal mornings. Many listings also include a TV, awning, outdoor chairs, and a generator. Air conditioning is common in motorhomes but less common in campervans, since Arcata's mild coastal climate rarely requires it. Each RVezy listing has a full amenity list so you can match the rig to your trip.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Arcata%2C%20CaliforniaWhat features and add-ons can I choose with my Arcata RV rental?
You can tailor your trip with host add-ons. Popular extras for RV rental in Arcata include camping chairs, outdoor grills, bike racks, kayak or surfboard racks, linens, and kitchen kits. Some hosts offer extra mileage packages or local delivery for an additional fee. Pickup and drop-off times are coordinated directly with your host through the RVezy messaging system for a smooth start to your redwoods adventure.
rvezy.com/rv-search?SearchAddress=Arcata%2C%20CaliforniaHow does payment work, and what's the security deposit for an Arcata RV rental?
Payment is handled securely through RVezy when you book. A refundable security deposit is collected separately from your booking payment and held until after your trip ends. As long as the RV is returned clean, on time, and without damage or mileage overages, your deposit is released back to your original payment method. Reviewing the listing's cleaning and mileage expectations before pickup is the easiest way to ensure a fast refund.
help.rvezy.com/hc/en-us/articles/360038106214-How-the-security-deposit-worksCan I rent an RV in Arcata for a winter trip, and what do I need to know about cold-weather camping?
Winter RV camping in Arcata is very doable thanks to the mild coastal climate. Overnight lows typically range from the upper 30s to mid 40s Fahrenheit, with frequent rain from November through March rather than snow. Choose an RV with a working furnace, and look for insulated or heated holding tanks if you plan to travel inland or to higher elevations. Mad River Rapids RV Park stays open year-round with full hookups, so you can run heat on shore power without draining your battery.
weather.gov/eka/Nearby cities with campgrounds
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