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Westhaven State Park adventures

Westhaven State Park Adventures

Westhaven State Park is a rugged coastal park in Northern California offering scenic coastal views, tide pools, and forested trails along the Pacific Ocean.

252
Acres Protected
3
Miles of Trails
Undocumented, relatively low due to remote location
Annual Visitors
1977
Year Established

About Westhaven State Park

 

Westhaven State Park is located on the Lost Coast of Northern California, in Humboldt County. This 252-acre coastal park features dramatic cliffs, expansive sandy beaches, and a section of the pristine shoreline along the Pacific Ocean. The park's geography includes steep coastal bluffs, dense Sitka spruce and Douglas fir forests, and tidal zones rich with marine life. Westhaven is popular for beachcombing, tidepool exploration, picnicking, and hiking on relatively undeveloped trails. Its remote setting means visitors often enjoy solitude and close encounters with nature. Due to its rugged and undeveloped character, the park remains a quieter alternative to more crowded coastal destinations. Historically, the area was inhabited by the Mattole people and later drew homesteaders. Westhaven is part of a larger region known for its commitment to preserving natural coastal ecosystems, including the nearby King Range National Conservation Area. Key recreation includes exploring tide pools, fishing, and hiking along informal trails. Wildlife common to the area includes shorebirds, sea stars, and occasional seals. Visitors are drawn to the combination of forest and ocean environments, ideal for photography, wildlife observation, and peaceful coastal walks. The park does not have developed campgrounds but offers opportunities for primitive camping with the proper permits.

Highlights

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Expansive undeveloped sandy beaches ideal for tidepool exploration

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Coastal bluffs offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean

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Old-growth Sitka spruce and Douglas fir forest sections along trails

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Remote location providing peaceful solitude and wildlife watching

Notable Natural Features

Westhaven Beach

A wide, undeveloped beach with tide pools and sand dunes stretching along the Pacific coast.

Coastal Forests

Sections of old-growth Sitka spruce and Douglas fir forest providing shaded trails and rich biodiversity.

Tide Pools

Rock formations near the shoreline create tide pools teeming with sea stars, anemones, and other marine life.