Van-tested notes
The southern gateway to the Lost Coast: black-sand beach camping at the end of a 6-mile dirt road most tourists won't attempt. First-come, ~$25/night, no check-in. Elk wander through camp.
Know before you go
- Steep, rutted access road — high clearance strongly advised, impassable when wet
- No trailers or RVs
- Pack in all water; pack out all trash
The facts
Cost
$25/night
Legal status
legal
Distance from LA
560 mi · ~9.5 hr drive
Elevation
50 ft
Season
may to oct
Van access
difficult
Safety score
7/10
Last verified
2026-07
Cell signal
Verizonnone
AT&Tnone
T-Mobilenone
Amenities
Pit toiletsFire ringsOcean swimmingHikingWhere it is
Get directions in Google Maps →Community reports · last 90 days
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