Usal Beach Campground

Can a campground only accessible by a winding, rugged dirt road offer a truly magical escape? Usal Beach Campground, located in the remote Sinkyone Wilderness State Park along California's Lost Coast, answers with a resounding yes. This primitive campground offers unparalleled seclusion, breathtaking natural beauty, and a rare opportunity to camp just steps from a mile-long dark sand beach framed by coastal bluffs and lush forests.

Set at the mouth of Usal Creek, the campground provides a mix of meadow, forest, and beachside campsites, complete with picnic tables, fire rings, and basic pit toilets. While amenities are minimal—there is no potable water or trash removal—this rugged simplicity enhances its wild charm. The area teems with wildlife, including Roosevelt elk and a variety of bird species, offering excellent opportunities for nature observation. Nearby, the Lost Coast Trail begins at the campground, inviting hikers to explore the pristine coastline.

Usal Beach is about a 6-mile drive from Highway 1, near mile marker 90.88, requiring a high-clearance vehicle, especially in wet conditions when roads can become impassable. Located approximately 15 miles from Leggett and an hour north of Fort Bragg, this campground is ideal for adventurous weekend escapes or extended stays for those seeking solitude. The surrounding Sinkyone Wilderness features majestic redwood groves, steep coastal ridges, and views of the crashing Pacific, showcasing some of Northern California's most pristine landscapes.