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Recreation AreaRecreation.gov

Lost Coast Headlands

Ferndale, California · Humboldt County

Notice: Hunting and target shooting are prohibited at the Lost Coast Headlands.OverviewThe Lost Coast Headlands are located along the coastal bluffs south of the mouth of the Eel River, approximately 280 miles north of San Francisco, 25 miles south of Eureka, and 6 miles west of Ferndale. The 463 acres of public land p…

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About Lost Coast Headlands

Notice: Hunting and target shooting are prohibited at the Lost Coast Headlands.OverviewThe Lost Coast Headlands are located along the coastal bluffs south of the mouth of the Eel River, approximately 280 miles north of San Francisco, 25 miles south of Eureka, and 6 miles west of Ferndale. The 463 acres of public land provide seasonal beach access and include grasslands with scattered patches of forest and portions of the Fleener Creek and Guthrie Creek watersheds. The northern point of California's Lost Coast is a place of rolling mountains and windswept coastal bluffs crumbling onto narrow beaches. The area is hard to beat if you are looking for quiet recreational pursuits. Lost Coast Headlands offers opportunities for hiking, bird watching, wildflower viewing, and beachcombing.

How to Get There

Exit Highway 101 at the Ferndale exit. Travel west towards Ferndale for five miles. From Main Street, turn right onto Ocean Avenue. Continue on Ocean Avenue for seven miles to the trailhead. The road will alternate between dirt and pavement. The parking lot and kiosk will be on your right. From the parking lot to the beach below is 1/2 mile.

Driving directions (Google Maps) →

Plan Your Visit to Lost Coast Headlands

Heading to Lost Coast Headlands? A few things to know before you go:

  • Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
  • Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
  • Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
  • Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
  • Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a reservation for Lost Coast Headlands?

No central reservation system listed for Lost Coast Headlands. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/recarea/15085) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Lost Coast Headlands?

Exit Highway 101 at the Ferndale exit. Travel west towards Ferndale for five miles. From Main Street, turn right onto Ocean Avenue. Continue on Ocean Avenue for seven miles to the trailhead. The road will alternate between dirt and pavement. The parking lot and kiosk will be on your right. From the parking lot to the beach below is 1/2 mile.

How do I contact Lost Coast Headlands?

You can reach the park at phone: 707-825-2300 or email: BLM_CA_WEB_AR@blm.gov.