Press release from the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office:

On March 31, 2021, at about 11:26 a.m., the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Emergency Communications Center was contacted regarding two individuals who were overdue returning from a camping trip in the King’s Peak Area.

The campers, a male and female in their 20s, were reported missing by a roommate after they failed to return home as scheduled on Monday. The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office Special Services Division was deployed to begin a search and rescue for the individuals.

During their search, deputies located the missing campers’ vehicle parked at the Mattole Beach Trailhead in Petrolia. Upon searching the beach, deputies located the two alive and well.

As the weather gets warmer and summer approaches, more people will be taking to our local trails and parks for camping and hiking. The Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind the public to use caution when camping or hiking, and always be prepared.

• Inform a friend of where you are going and when you plan to return. Stick to that schedule and if extending your stay, be sure to update that friend.
• If planning a day hike, set a turnaround time to ensure you finish hiking before the sun goes down. 
• Always carry a flashlight, even on short hikes. 
• Bring extra water and high energy foods. 
• Bring a small first aid kit. 
• Stay on an established trail. 
• Dress properly for a hike and prepare for changes in the weather, bring rain gear and warm clothes.
• If unfamiliar with the area, bring a map. If on the coast, consider bringing a tide chart. 
• Consider bringing a whistle to help emergency responders find your location in a search and rescue situation. 
• Ensure that your cell phone is charged and consider bringing a small power bank should you need to charge your cell phone.
• If hiking with a partner or a group, never leave someone behind.