Camping at Westport-Union Landing State Beach

Overview

Westport-Union Landing State Beach is a state park unit located on the Mendocino Coast in Northern California, near the town of Westport. It covers approximately three miles of rugged and scenic coastline and offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. It's a popular spot for camping, picnicking, fishing, and simply enjoying the ocean scenery.

Camping Information

Camping Facilities:

• The park offers environmental campsites located on a bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
• There are roughly 86 campsites, and many are first-come, first-served, but some can be reserved.
• The campsites are suitable for tents, vans, and trailers, though they may not have hookups for RVs.

Amenities:

• Pit toilets are available, but there are limited to no shower facilities.
• Each campsite typically has a table and a campfire ring.
• Water faucets are scattered throughout the camping area.

Reservations and Fees

• Reservations: They can be made through the California State Parks reservation system, generally known as ReserveCalifornia.
• Fees: There's a fee to camp at Westport-Union Landing State Beach. The cost can vary, so it's best to check the latest fees through the park's official channels or ReserveCalifornia.

Activities

• Beachcombing: As a beach site, it's a great place to walk along the sand and look for shells and driftwood.

• Fishing: Fishing is a common activity, although a California fishing license is required for anyone over the age of 16.

• Photography: The area offers ample opportunities for photographers with its dramatic coastline, wildlife, and sunsets.

• Wildlife Viewing: The area can be great for watching marine life, such as whales during migration seasons, seals, and a variety of bird species.

Rules and Regulations

• Fires: Campfires are allowed within the rings provided but check for seasonal fire restrictions due to wildfire risks.

• Pets: Dogs are usually allowed in the campground area but must be on a leash no longer than six feet. They are typically not allowed on trails or the beach to protect wildlife habitats.

• Alcohol and Smoking: Check current regulations, as some California state beaches and parks restrict alcohol and have smoking bans.

• Quiet Hours: Quiet hours are usually enforced between 10 p.m. and 6 a.m.

Environmental Concerns

Conservation: As with any natural habitat, it's important to follow principles of Leave No Trace to minimize impact on the environment.

Wildlife: Refrain from feeding or disturbing wildlife, and observe them from a respectable distance.

Vegetation: Stick to designated areas to avoid trampling native plants and contributing to erosion.

Local Services and Supplies

• Provisions: The nearby town of Westport and Fort Bragg provide opportunities to restock on supplies.

• Gas: Make sure to fill up on fuel before arriving, as remote coastal areas might not have gas stations nearby.

Contact Information

• To get the latest information, it's best to contact California State Parks or check the Westport-Union Landing State Beach official website.
• For emergencies, always have the local ranger station number and be aware that cell phone reception can be spotty in remote areas.

Remember: Conditions and policies can change, so it's essential to confirm all details before planning your trip.