Camp at Black Sands Beach on the Lost Coast
0.5 Miles
Chillin, Camping, Fishing, Photography, Hiking
Beginner
Year Round
Out-and-Back
Serenity and solitude on one of the last few unspoiled and remote coastlines in The United States.
Black Sands Beach and all of the Lost Coast is almost indescribable in its ruggedness and beauty. Black Sands Beach sits along the southern portion of of the famous Lost Coast Trail, and is accessible by one of the two roads that go across the King Range to the ocean. From 101 in Garberville, head into Redway and then take the Shelter Cove Road. Follow the signs to Black Sands Beach.
The other route is to start at the Mattole Trailhead in Petrolia and hike the Lost Coast Trail.
Note: there is no camping at the trailhead itself. Camping is allowed 700' away, north of Telegraph Creek.
Afterwards head into the tiny town of Shelter Cove and grab a beer at Mario's.
Be careful to check the tide charts and take note of your campsite as many sections of the Lost Coast are impassible at high tide. Also note the weather, as it can change abruptly and violently.
Always practice Leave No Trace ethics on your adventures and follow local regulations.
Reviews
Overall rating:
Awesome place to camp!
Watch out for the tide! Definitely one of my favorite places on the LCT, although hiking this southern section before Miller's Flat is honestly the worst section to hike (difficulty-wise!).
Makes you feel far from the world!
The Lost Coast is such a surreal sight - if you have a chance, do the whole beach trail. It changes scenery more often than you would expect and has several secluded campsites like this one. Black Sands beautiful.
