How much does camping cost at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground?

Camping fees at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground range from $25-$40/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground before I book?

Yes! Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground has 16 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground?

Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground is open Mid-May to mid-September for peak pricing.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground?

Yes, Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground have?

Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground has 160 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground?

Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground?

Popular activities at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground?

Fire policies at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground: Fires are allowed only in established metal fire rings or camp stoves. Firewood is available for purchase at the entrance station.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.10

76 reviews

69350 U.S. Hwy. 101, Box #2 Leggett, CA 95455

SwimmingSummer Destination

Featured in:Family-Friendly Campgrounds California

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

820 ft

Price

$25 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

160 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

820 ft

Price

$25 - $40/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

160 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground

$25.00 - $40.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping fees vary seasonally, with a single campsite costing $25-$40 depending on the time of year. There is an additional $8.25 reservation fee....

Standard Site Fee$35.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$35.00

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Reserve California

Provider

(707) 925-6482interp@parks.ca.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

69350 U.S. Hwy. 101, Box #2 Leggett, CA 95455

Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground

69350 U.S. Hwy. 101, Box #2 Leggett, CA 95455

Nearby places

Leggett (1.5 miles, approximately 5 minutes drive). Nearby larger population centers: Garberville (35 miles, approximately 40 minutes drive).

Nearby supplies

The Peg House directly across from the campground entrance offers basic groceries and camping supplies. Larger purchases can be made at Leggett Market, 1.5 miles south.

Weather at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground

Current alert: Seasonal bridge removal limits access to certain trails and campsites. Check for blue-green algae advisories in the river.

Best Time to Camp at Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground

Summer brings the best conditions. Daytime highs range from 70°F to 100°F, with nights cooling into the 50s and 60s. River flows drop, creating ideal swimming conditions and exposing sandy beaches. Morning and late afternoon offer the most comfortable hiking temperatures under the redwood canopy. Winter is wet. Around 70 inches of rain annually. With temperatures between 20°F and 75°F. Trails and river access become difficult off-season.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Best season for swimming and exposed sandy beaches; however peak crowding and noise reported.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Mid-May to mid-September for peak pricing.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round; seasonal access to certain areas depends on bridge installation and river conditions.

About Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground

Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area sits at 820 feet elevation in California's redwood belt, where the South Fork of the Eel River cuts through steep canyon walls and old-growth forests. The campground offers 160 tent, RV, and primitive sites spread across multiple loops, with fees ranging from $25 to $40 per night. Highway 101 runs close by, so expect road noise.

Standish-Hickey offers multiple types of camping, including tent, RV, and hiker/biker sites. The Redwood Campground is currently closed due to lack of bridge access.

Historical Significance

The park is named for Edward Ritter Hickey, who died in the 1918 flu pandemic, and Captain Miles Standish, a descendant of the Mayflower passenger. The Sinkyone people lived in these river valleys and redwood groves for generations before European contact.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the best conditions. Daytime highs range from 70°F to 100°F, with nights cooling into the 50s and 60s. River flows drop, creating ideal swimming conditions and exposing sandy beaches. Morning and late afternoon offer the most comfortable hiking temperatures under the redwood canopy. Winter is wet. Around 70 inches of rain annually. With temperatures between 20°F and 75°F. Trails and river access become difficult off-season.

ElevationThe campground nestles within the varied topography of the North Coast ranges, where river valleys meet rising hillsides in a landscape that invites exploration at every turn.

Natural Features and SceneryOld-growth redwoods and second-growth forests mix with Douglas-firs along the South Fork of the Eel River. The river has carved swimming holes, sandy beaches, and pools through ancient river terraces lifted by tectonic forces over millions of years. Steep canyon walls frame the waterway. The forest floor holds ferns and seasonal wildflowers beneath the canopy. This is one of the world's few temperate rainforest ecosystems where river and forest meet directly.

Geological RegionNestled within California's famed redwood belt, this North Coast gem showcases nature's architectural prowess through steep canyon walls and ancient river terraces. The landscape tells a geological story millions of years in the making, where tectonic forces lifted the land and the persistent Eel River carved its course through the rising terrain. Old-growth giants stand sentinel alongside vigorous second-growth forests, while Douglas-firs add their own majesty to the mix. This diverse ecosystem represents one of the world's most unique temperate rainforest environments, where river and forest merge in spectacular harmony.

Scenic ViewsScenic views of the Eel River and surrounding redwoods are accessible from trails and select campsites.

Lodging & AccommodationsLodging beyond traditional camping accommodations is not mentioned.

Programs & ActivitiesSummer interpretive programs are held at the park’s amphitheater, seating up to 140 people. Topics focus on local wildlife, history, and conservation.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 30 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Eight people maximum are allowed per campsite.

Groups

Group camping details are not explicitly provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground spreads across several loops: Hickey, Redwood, and Rock Creek. Sites sit close together with minimal privacy between them. Fire rings, picnic tables, and bear lockers are standard. Showers and flush toilets available.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via www.parks.ca.gov or by calling (800) 444-7275.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is limited, especially during summer months. Most sites are reservable.

Cancellation PolicyReservations must be canceled according to California Parks cancellation guidelines, available at www.parks.ca.gov.

AccessibilityThe park includes designated accessible campsites and trails. The Taber Nature Trail features compacted aggregate surfaces and gentle slopes, making it suitable for visitors with disabilities.

Site SizeSites accommodate various setups, with pad lengths generally around 27 feet. Some sites can hold up to 3 vehicles.

PrivacyPrivacy between campsites is minimal, making the campground better suited for social camping rather than seclusion.

Total Campsites160 campsites

Recommended SitesSites further from Highway 101 offer less noise and more privacy. Sites near the river provide easy access to swimming.

Best CampsitesSites 12, 16, 37, 43, and 47 get mentioned most often by campers. Choose sites farther from Highway 101 to reduce traffic noise. Sites generally have 27-foot pads, and some accommodate up to three vehicles.

Need help booking Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground?

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Amenities available

Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area's camping facilities include Hickey Campground, Rock Creek Campground, and Redwood Campground (currently inaccessible due to a missing bridge). Hickey and Rock Creek are conveniently located near Highway 101, providing running potable water, bear boxes, fire rings, and picnic tables. Flush toilets and coin-operated showers are available but are subject to cleanliness issues as noted in some user reviews. Firewood can be purchased on-site for $8. The park features accessible facilities such as the Taber Nature Trail and designated accessible campsites. Trash and recycling bins are abundant, ensuring waste disposal.

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Standish-Hickey offers a wide range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The South Fork of the Eel River provides scenic views, swimming holes, and seasonal fishing opportunities.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Cultural and Educational Programs

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPoison oak is prevalent. Steep bluffs and dangerous river currents require caution. Wildlife such as bears and mountain lions may be present.

Food Storage RequiredFood storage lockers are provided at each campsite to protect from wildlife, including bears.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyFires are allowed only in established metal fire rings or camp stoves. Firewood is available for purchase at the entrance station.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services are in Leggett, 1.5 miles south of the campground.

Trash & RecyclingAmple trash and recycling bins are available throughout the park, ensuring proper waste disposal. Some users noted the bins were kept clean and functional even during busy periods.

Water FeaturesLocated directly adjacent to the South Fork of the Eel River, featuring swimming holes and sandy beaches.

Camp HostHosts are present and described as friendly and helpful.

Cell CoverageCell phone reception varies depending on location in the park. Some users noted they had signal near the highway, while others reported no service for T-Mobile and Verizon.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.1

76 reviews

Satisfactory

Standish-Hickey State Recreation Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews of Standish-Hickey highlight its scenic location, convenient amenities, and access to outdoor activities. However, issues such as traffic noise, cleanliness, and overcrowding have been reported.

Review Summaries

Based on 76 reviews

What Campers Love

Users often praise the park’s friendly staff, abundant fire rings, bear boxes, potable water access, and scenic trails. The swimming hole on the Eel River is frequently described as one of the park's...

Based on 76 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include traffic noise from nearby Highway 101, minimal privacy between campsites, overcrowded facilities during peak times, and occasional hygiene issues with showers and restrooms.

Based on 76 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Best campsites identified by reviewers include 12, 16, 37, 43, 47, 55, 57, 60, 61, 62, 65, 80, and 82 due to their proximity to amenities and scenic views. Sites closer to the highway experience...

Based on 76 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend choosing campsites farther from the road for reduced noise, wearing shower sandals, and bringing extra toilet paper. Sites like 12, 16, 37, 43, and 47 are identified as some of the...

Based on 76 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews highlight the swimming hole and trails but note overcrowding and noise. Winter reviews focus on solitude and seasonal fishing opportunities but mention limited access due to high water...

Based on 76 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "Gorgeous area. Each campsite has a large fire ring, bear box, and picnic table." - Thomas Goeson 2. "Bathrooms are nice and there are ample trash receptacles." - Jess Monster 3. "Swimming hole is...

Based on 76 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible campsites and trails are available, though steep paths to the river may challenge individuals with mobility issues.

Based on 76 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs are allowed but must be leashed at all times. They are not permitted on trails, except for service animals.

Based on 76 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Families chasing that Eel River swimming hole will get their money's worth in summer. Grab sites 37, 43, or 47 early, they're the furthest from Highway 101 noise and closest to what makes this place worth the trip.

Skip if

Light sleepers will struggle: Highway 101 runs close enough that road noise reaches most loops all night. Sites pack tight with minimal buffer between neighbors, so solitude seekers should look elsewhere in the redwood belt.

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4.3

(223)

Usal Beach Campground

Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, Briceland Thorn Road, Whitethorn, CA 95589

Usal Beach Campground sits at the end of a rough access road in Sinkyone Wilderness State Park, offering primitive camping on California's Lost Coast. The 8 sites accommodate tents only and spread across meadows and beach-adjacent areas. This is the park's only drive-in campground, but don't expect much infrastructure: vault toilets and fire rings are it. You'll need to bring all your own water and supplies.