Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

Whitethorn, CA  95489
(707) 986-7711

http://www.parks.ca.gov/

Description

Sinkyone Wilderness also described as part of the ‘Lost Coast’, covers 26 miles of undeveloped Mendocino coast, encompassing more than 7,367 acres.  The park is rich in history and gives the visitor a good look at what most of the early California coastline was like.  Access and travel within the park in moderate to high difficulty and is not recommended as a long –term outing for first time scouts.  The standard park publication provides a good introduction to the park; however Wilderness Press prints an excellent topographical map including history and in-depth descriptions of various camping areas within the park.  Both publications are available from the park office or by contacting staff at Richardson Grove State Park.  

Activities

• Camping
• Backpacking
• Swimming
• State Historical Landmark
• Horseback Riding
• Nature Study
• Hiking
• Fishing

Facilities

All camping is on a first-come, first-serve basis only, with the only car camping available at the Usal Campground.  Campers are asked to self-register at either the Usal Camp or Needle Rock Ranch House.  Please remember to practice low impact camping skills and to pack out everything you packed in.  All water must be treated within the park unless otherwise posted.

• Usal campground has fifteen campsites with pit toilets and piped drinking water nearby.  
• Jones Beach, Low Gap, Stream Side and Barn Primitive Campsites are all located within a 1.5-mile walking distance from Needle Rock Ranch Parking Area (northern section of the park).
• Bear Harbor, Railroad and Orchard Primitive Campsites are located in the northern section of the park at the Orchard Trailhead.
• Wheeler, Little Jackass Creek and Anderson Gulch are trail camps located in-between Bear Harbor and Usal.  No fires are allowed in Anderson Camp.

Limited group camping is also available and interest groups should contact the ark to obtain a Group Use Permit.  

Map