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Van Duzen County Park
County Park

Van Duzen County Park

Scotia, California
4.6 (48 reviews)

Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.

About Van Duzen County Park

Campground in California.

Van Duzen County Park offers a peaceful riverside camping experience in the heart of Humboldt County, California. Nestled along the scenic Van Duzen River, this county park provides an ideal base for travelers seeking to explore the natural beauty of the North Coast region. The park's location along the river creates a serene atmosphere where the gentle sounds of flowing water become the soundtrack to your camping experience, making it a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

The Van Duzen River itself is one of the park's greatest assets. The river corridor supports diverse wildlife and creates stunning vistas throughout the seasons. Whether you're an early riser watching mist rise from the water at dawn or enjoying golden hour reflections in the evening, the natural beauty here is captivating. The area experiences a mild coastal climate, with cool mornings and comfortable afternoons that make for pleasant camping conditions most of the year.

This location appeals to a wide variety of travelers. Outdoor enthusiasts appreciate the river access for activities like fishing and swimming during warmer months. The park serves as an excellent jumping-off point for exploring nearby redwood forests and coastal attractions. Humboldt County is renowned for its majestic old-growth redwoods, and Van Duzen County Park positions you within reasonable driving distance of these natural wonders. Birdwatchers and nature photographers find plenty of opportunities to capture the region's wildlife and scenery.

The park's setting makes it particularly appealing for those seeking a slower pace of travel. Rather than rushing from one destination to another, you can settle in and use the park as a base for day trips or simply enjoy the peaceful riverside environment. The area around Van Duzen attracts visitors interested in California's natural heritage, small-town coastal culture, and outdoor recreation.

Families appreciate the park's accessible riverside location and the relatively quiet atmosphere compared to busier campground destinations. Those towing larger RVs or traveling in Class A motorhomes will find the park accessible, and the county park setting typically offers a more relaxed experience than commercial RV resorts.

With its strong 4.6-star rating from nearly 50 reviews, Van Duzen County Park has earned recognition as a quality destination where visitors consistently report positive experiences. The park represents the best of what California's North Coast has to offer: natural beauty, river access, and a true connection to the landscape.
4.6

Rating

48

Reviews

Park Details

Tips & Tricks

Book Early

Scotia is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.

Check-in Time

Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.

Local Weather

California weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for Scotia.

Explore the Area

Don't miss local attractions near Scotia. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.

Van Duzen County Park Reviews

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Mike Nadeau

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Mike Nadeau

This review is for the swimmers delight campground just down the road. This campsite is nestled in a stand of huge redwoods right along the river and has some truly spectacular camping. The campground is owned and run by the Humboldt County Parks department and was clean, quiet, and beautiful. It's $30 per night and has hot showers too. The river is slow moving and shallow but it has several deepe... This review is for the swimmers delight campground just down the road. This campsite is nestled in a stand of huge redwoods right along the river and has some truly spectacular camping. The campground is owned and run by the Humboldt County Parks department and was clean, quiet, and beautiful. It's $30 per night and has hot showers too. The river is slow moving and shallow but it has several deeper spots suitable for swimming. Dogs are okay as long as they stay on the leash. The campground hosts were friendly and helpful. They also have change for the showers. We spent some time playing with the stand-up paddle board and soaking up the scenery. I highly recommend stopping by here and spending the night.

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Emerald Triangle

Mar 18, 2026

1.0

Google Review by Emerald Triangle

This is NOT that other posted campground! That's FARTHER down!!Swimmers Delight. This one sucks! It's spread out widely, the first 3 campsites the worst due to the hike to even reach the bathroom. (Photo 1&2)The other sites below aren't much better. It's right off of Highway 36(photo 8) so you have logger trucks running from 6am till 8pm. (Photo 16 blue/orange truck) The noise is not ideal for rel... This is NOT that other posted campground! That's FARTHER down!!Swimmers Delight. This one sucks! It's spread out widely, the first 3 campsites the worst due to the hike to even reach the bathroom. (Photo 1&2)The other sites below aren't much better. It's right off of Highway 36(photo 8) so you have logger trucks running from 6am till 8pm. (Photo 16 blue/orange truck) The noise is not ideal for relaxing in the woods. There are no hiking trails or maintained trails, nor camp host (site is falling into the river), or firewood collecting. Moldy maps and decaying signs(photo 3&6). The river is nice (Photo 4&13). But trash and nudity at the river has caused the county to post an actual sign about it due to numerous complaints by locals.(photo 10) Pamplin Grove has NO showers, host, rangers, firewood, or even envelopes for payment of camping... With no cell service I was actually afriad to camp there after realizing there is NO ONE around.

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JM Photography

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by JM Photography

If you're looking for an outdoor wedding venue, where you and your family can have a low-key camping atmosphere, then look no more because I think you've found the perfect one! There's no cell phone reception so you'll be sure to have that unplugged ceremony that every couple hopes for. Instead of being on their phones your guests will be able to fully celebrate and spend time with each other.... If you're looking for an outdoor wedding venue, where you and your family can have a low-key camping atmosphere, then look no more because I think you've found the perfect one! There's no cell phone reception so you'll be sure to have that unplugged ceremony that every couple hopes for. Instead of being on their phones your guests will be able to fully celebrate and spend time with each other. This space is great and offers a lot of great spaces for camping, as well as wedding photo opportunities! We've enjoyed all the weddings we've photographed here, and look forward to more in the future!

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Wade van Buskirk

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by Wade van Buskirk

Next to Hwy 36 is a secluded group camp spot in old growth with a meadow and a river beach. Trees have see many humans come and go, but their spirit continues. Well managed and kept clean by friendly park staff and Ranger. Pit toilets cleaned daily, gas stove in large kitchen under cover, water from well and tower on site. Volleyball, two horseshoes games, and other games provided. String led ligh... Next to Hwy 36 is a secluded group camp spot in old growth with a meadow and a river beach. Trees have see many humans come and go, but their spirit continues. Well managed and kept clean by friendly park staff and Ranger. Pit toilets cleaned daily, gas stove in large kitchen under cover, water from well and tower on site. Volleyball, two horseshoes games, and other games provided. String led lights there and lit with generator or battery you provide.

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ja berg

Mar 18, 2026

5.0

Google Review by ja berg

Great county park to stay at on the fly. When we got there, three campsites we're available. First come first serve. $25.00 a night. Flush toilets with quarter showers. Close to Humboldt Redwood State Park.

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