Punta Gorda Lighthouse

Punta Gorda Lighthouse along the Humboldt County Coast is nearly a four mile walk on the beach from the Mattole River Beach parking area. The beach trail is part of The Lost Coast Trail backpacking route in King Range National Conservation Area. Parts of this route can be under water at high tide so consult tide tables if you plan to walk the beach to the lighthouse. The lighthouse is no longer active but the light structure and nearby oil house building is a unique site in such a remote place. The lighthouse is open for people to enter and get some cover from the weather which can be severe at times. The sandy beach at the lighthouse is covered in driftwood. Seals congregate on shore where rocks in the surf give them some protection from waves crashing onshore.

If you have a 4WD high-clearance vehicle it’s possible to drive the Prosper Ridge Road to a location just north of the lighthouse. This road begins about a half-mile from the Mattole Campground. If you take this road you must turn right toward the coast at about 2.3 miles from the beginning. The road eventually deteriorates so just park where you can and hike toward the ocean. The lighthouse will be to your left. Camping on the Lost Coast requires a backcountry permit and a bear canister. Free permits are available at the trailheads and Bureau of Land Mangement offices. See the BLM website for trail maps and information.

Address

3750 Lighthouse Rd
Petrolia, CA 95558

Park Name

King Range National Conservation Area

Owner

BLM

Pet Details

No dogs allowed on the beach

Fees

Free parking, free backcountry permits issued at trailhead

Activities

Hiking, Backpacking, Beachcombing, Wildlife Watching

Amenities

Lighthouse, Driftwood

Links

Surfing Info & Web Cams
Water Temps
Tide Chart