Big Lagoon County Park, just 7 miles north of Trinidad, blends a classic coastal campground with a wide gravel and sand beach, a 3-mile-long lagoon, and views of the redwood-covered hills.

A unique feature of Big Lagoon is its long sand spit separating the calm lagoon from the crashing Pacific Ocean. I love walking that spit, searching for agates, and enjoying the views. If you like peace and quiet, you can find your own private stretch of beach. Sometimes, it feels like you have the whole place to yourself.

This spot is perfect for anyone who loves rockhounding Northern California, beachcombing, kayaking, and California beach camping.

Rockhounding at Big Lagoon County Park

Big Lagoon County Park is a hidden gem for rockhounding on the California coast. Every time I visit, I end up with a pocketful of cool pebbles. Here's what you might spot as you walk the beach:

Agate is the most common gemstone here. I've found agates in shades of white, orange, red, and even blue. Most are pebble-sized, about as big as a marble. But you can find larger ones if you search after winter storms or at low tide.

Jade and jasper are also found here, though less often than agate. You might pick up a piece of California nephrite jade if you're lucky. Jade is smooth, green, and heavier than it looks. It's hard (6–6.5 on the Mohs scale) and perfect for jewelry or just showing off to friends.

You'll also spot quartz, chert, and serpentinite, but in smaller quantities. I like to look for agate's glassy shine and jade's waxy green.

The beach is productive for rock hunting year-round, but the very best time to visit is at low tide after a storm. That's when the waves uncover new treasures!

Tip: No special tools are needed here, but a sand dipper can help if you check stuff out and pick it up easier.

Be sure to check rockhounding rules and regulations for Humboldt County and State Parks before you collect.

Big Lagoon County Park is more than just a place to look for rocks. It’s a top spot for a wide range of outdoor activities.

Kayaking: You can rent kayaks and paddleboards right from the day-use area. Every trip on the water feels a little different—sometimes the wind picks up and gives you a workout, while other times it’s calm and peaceful, with elk grazing along the shore and otters surfacing nearby.

Boating and fishing: The lagoon is approximately three miles long, making it ideal for sailing or windsurfing. Fishing for cutthroat trout is productive here, especially near the mouth.

Swimming: The lagoon water is usually warmer and safer than the ocean, especially near the boat ramp. The Pacific surf here is rough and dangerous, so the lagoon is a great place to splash around.

Wildlife watching: I've spotted elk, river otters, raptors, herons, and all kinds of shorebirds. Bring your binoculars!

Picnicking: Enjoy a simple meal with a lagoon view from one of the picnic tables or fire rings.