Camping in Mendocino, CA, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2024

United States
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California
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Mendocino

94% (7609 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Mendocino

Available this weekend

Top camping destinations

Samuel P. Taylor State Park

759 campgrounds

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Sonoma Coast State Park

Under $50

99%

(43)

Butterfly Landing🦋🦋🦋

3 sites · Lodging, Tents40 acres · Philo, CA

Butterfly Landing A Place to Land. Breathe. Slow way down. Enjoy. Please read this Description in entirety. We are so delighted to share this spot with you. This is a shared campground with 3 separate spots that are relatively private. Host will NOT be there when you arrive unless prior arrangement made. This campground is yours to enjoy. The expectation is 'leave it better than before so the next guests may enjoy! This is camping. BRING YOUR OWN GEAR. Put your own linens and bedding on top of what is already on bed. I can provide linens and bedding for an extra $25 for glamping spots. Beds have pillows on them. There is wildlife. This includes bears and mountain lions in the area. You will not see either but good to be aware they exist. This is a safe 'neighborhood'. We do not have problems with thievery. However, always keep your valuables safe IN YOUR CAR. There is no Power. No WiFi. Cell phone coverage not guaranteed. Depends on your carrier. DOWNLOAD DIRECTIONS AND INFO BEFORE ARRIVING TO SITE. There is Poison Oak. Stay in the designated areas. If you are susceptible, bring and wash with Tecnu. Or use dish soap and wash. Poison oak is an oil. Most importantly: Don't Touch. No Fires allowed during Summer months. Be super careful. No candles. Smoke in fire pit area. Grass is a tinderbox. 1 spark can ignite all. There is a hose connected to kitchen. There is a Pet Fee of $25 per stay. 1 pet per site allowed unless prior arrangement made. You are responsible to clean up after your pet and to make sure pet is safe and respectful to neighbors. This means you DO NOT leave your pet unattended, and is leashed at all times. If your pet is barking continuously, we ask that you leave. It is not respectful for all other neighbors. Please bring your own bed for your dogs and clean up after a shedding dog if you are indoors. We ask that guests clean up your camping spot upon departure to 'make the place better than before' for the next guests. Butterfly Landing is a sweet landing spot! Birds, butterflies and small wildlife love this spot. The habitat includes many native species of plant life. A pretty knoll that is on the top of a 40 acre property. Views of vineyards, redwood trees, valley floor, and expansive sky. Private, Quiet and beautiful. A central sunny meadow ties together 3 distinct private areas with a communal kitchen, bath-house, picnic-table sitting area and parking on the side. There is 1 outhouse that has a mailbox system to ensure privacy. (Please read manual on picnic table for instructions) Kitchen. 2 burner propane stove, and sink with running water (cold). (Good for drinking. Pressure is low) There is basic cooking and dishware. Cleaning supplies. A Trash and Recycle Bin. And a Compost bucket where all food scraps should be disposed of and then covered with wood-chips. Kitchen should stay clean at all times. Please put dishes away in the tote to keep clean and critter free. Bath-house. Shower with hot water. 1 shared Outhouse. Please use the path that goes to the outhouse (unless you are in the Greenroom) and make sure you put the mailbox red flag up so that others know it is occupied. ((Then don't forget to put it back down!!) Common sitting area. There are 2 picnic tables, Lots of umbrellas that can be moved wherever, a fire pit/table and lots of seating. Parking. There are room for 3 vehicles. Parking is to be in designated parking area please. Vineyard View tent area: You can park, unload right below site. Please do not drive down to Bluebell Tent. There is a cart and wheelbarrow to bring gear down. Sunny meadow and forest shade make this a lovely landing spot to relax and enjoy nature, and a great opportunity to turn off those cell phones!! Butterfly Landing is about 1/2 mile from HWY 128 that runs through Anderson Valley. This location is the perfect location for it all. Wine tasting in the Valley, Navarro River swimming during the summer months, and the Mendocino coast is nearby. We offer 3 Unique Glamping/Camping choices. Bluebell is a Glamping Tent that sits on a beautiful deck with a unique porch with a built in dining 'table'. It's on the lower part of the Meadow. This is the most sunny spot, and the larger of the 2 spaces. Also the most private. Queen-sized bed. And a futon bed. Views of the valley through the trees and a magnificent Bay tree nearby. The Green Room is a small sunny Room with a lovely outdoor semi-enclosed porch with a bar counter that can be used for dining. Custom built using recycled materials. The Green room sits at the top of the meadow, and is close to all of the facilities, but is relatively private. It's best for 2 people. But a tent could be set up next to cabin. The Vineyard View Tent Spot is a perfect area for setting up tents. Good for a family or group of friends. There is a sitting spot, a cot, and the view of the neighboring vineyard is beautiful. Up to 3 tents. Max 6 people. This is an Honor system camping spot. We ask that you leave your spot 'better than before', as in 'Leaver no Trace'. I rely on everyone to do their part in the communal kitchen to keep clean and free of critters. SUPER IMPORTANT to put all food scraps in the compost bin. NO food anything in the trash. This is how the bears show up. Please do your part. Thank you so much. It is my honor to share this land with you.

97%

(493)

South Facing Ridge With Views

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Comptche, CA

Surrounded by cooperate timberland, it feels like there are no neighbors! There is not a house in sight but the the ridge views seem to go on forever! - There is a simple latrine at each site. A full bath house with a flush toilet and hot shower is available next to the main house. A water spigot is attached to the main house. - Spare camping supplies are available by the bath house if you forget something! Ask ahead if you need to borrow a specific item. More about the property: I built my home high upon a southern ridge. Watching the river of coastal fog flow in and out below me is one of the most wonderful views to behold! I have 30 acres of land to explore and camp upon in the surrounding redwood forest. 10 miles east are Montgomery Woods redwood preserve with GIANT trees, and a little farther, perhaps a mile is the famous Orr Hot Springs Resort. If you drive a half hour west from my land you will be in the coastal Mendocino village. We are marijuana friendly!! Thus, we have created more of an adult oriented atmosphere. one last note: We recently made separate listings for different sites. See campsite #1 for reviews.Guests love staying here "What a fantastic experience. I arrived to Cosmo’s super late after a long day going up the coast. It was a last minute book that morning, if I remember right - my campsite had fallen through. His directions were spot on, and very kindly he stayed up to take me to my site and help me get set up, even going so far as to light me a fire. His property was easily navigable in the dark, and my two wheel drive made it fine. We talked for a while - what a cool guy. He was able to give me recommendations from a friend of what to do during the next legs of my trip, which was great and really did make a difference for the rest of my week. I cooked my dinner and sat stunned looking at some of the best stargazing I’ve had in a long time.When I woke up I realized that I had been sleeping next to a mountainside view - this was site 3. Talk about the best surprise I’ve gotten in a while unzipping a tent. The clouds were gathered in the valley and as I ate breakfast I got to watch the sun slowly clear then out. It was unbelievable.Before I left, Cosmo let me use his indoor solar-heated shower and told me all about his projects to build his own home and roads and move towards a more sustainable future. Overall this is really the best of what I imagine hipcamp has to offer - kind property owners & unique individuals who care about their guests while also allowing them to have their own experience. If I’m ever near Mendocino I will gladly make the trip inland to stay at his property again."

Jug Handle Creek Farm

20 sites · RVs, Tents33 acres · Caspar, CA

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ **PLEASE NOTE** Construction of our new bathrooms will be taking place during the months of October and November 2024. Construction will take place between the hours of 7:30am and 5:30pm, Monday through Thursday, and it will be noisy. We apologize for the disruption, but look forward to being able to offer this amenity to our campers in the future! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Jug Handle Creek Farm and Nature Center is a nonprofit with a five minute walk to Jug Handle State Reserve, Jug Handle beach and the Ecological Staircase trail. We offer 11 unique campsites with plenty of space and privacy. Each site has two picnic tables, a fire ring, parking for two cars and plenty of space for your tents. Our 33 acres include a native plant nursery, community gardens, forests, meadows, and nature trails. Our site has lots of nature trails, is peaceful and beautiful and just a 5-minute walk to Jug Handle Beach and the Jug Handle Preserve. Our Mission: We offer a welcoming and supportive environment for people of all backgrounds to explore nature and connect with the natural word. Nature stewardship is central to our non-profit mission and as an organization we are engaged in many nature restoration projects throughout Mendocino County. We also provide a supportive learning environment for nature education for disadvantaged youth during the school year. If you teach k-12 and would like to bring your classroom to Jug Handle contact us about special rates and our immersive nature education programs.

Forest Ocean Retreat

3 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · CA

Tree studded campsites with large view of the ocean. Not far off Hwy 1. Many beaches to choose from a few miles away. Close to Anchor Bay, Gualala and Point Arena. Large secluded sites with picnic tables and plenty of room to pitch a tent. Porta potty and potable water available. Great place to get away. Please note ticks are always prevalent on the coast and Spring time there are more of them please make sure you and your dog are protected.

100%

(48)

Locus Solus

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Point Arena, CA

Tired of the scorching heat? Come chill out on the coast where it's always 20 degrees cooler than everywhere else. Located in the coastal prairie minutes from the Pacific Ocean and the town of Point Arena. Plenty of privacy to launch into day trips and other adventures in this special corner of the world. The Octagon and the campsite offer solitude, stunning views, bird watching, and walking trails on the property. We're 5 mins from town, the cove, various beaches, tide pools, the historic lighthouse, fishing spots, and the B Bryan Animal Preserve where you can view African animals and hand feed giraffes. Come find what you've been missing!

12 top campgrounds near Mendocino

96%

(5022)

Jug Handle Creek Farm

20 sites · RVs, Tents33 acres · Caspar, CA

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ **PLEASE NOTE** Construction of our new bathrooms will be taking place during the months of October and November 2024. Construction will take place between the hours of 7:30am and 5:30pm, Monday through Thursday, and it will be noisy. We apologize for the disruption, but look forward to being able to offer this amenity to our campers in the future! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Jug Handle Creek Farm and Nature Center is a nonprofit with a five minute walk to Jug Handle State Reserve, Jug Handle beach and the Ecological Staircase trail. We offer 11 unique campsites with plenty of space and privacy. Each site has two picnic tables, a fire ring, parking for two cars and plenty of space for your tents. Our 33 acres include a native plant nursery, community gardens, forests, meadows, and nature trails. Our site has lots of nature trails, is peaceful and beautiful and just a 5-minute walk to Jug Handle Beach and the Jug Handle Preserve. Our Mission: We offer a welcoming and supportive environment for people of all backgrounds to explore nature and connect with the natural word. Nature stewardship is central to our non-profit mission and as an organization we are engaged in many nature restoration projects throughout Mendocino County. We also provide a supportive learning environment for nature education for disadvantaged youth during the school year. If you teach k-12 and would like to bring your classroom to Jug Handle contact us about special rates and our immersive nature education programs.

Forest Ocean Retreat

3 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · CA

Tree studded campsites with large view of the ocean. Not far off Hwy 1. Many beaches to choose from a few miles away. Close to Anchor Bay, Gualala and Point Arena. Large secluded sites with picnic tables and plenty of room to pitch a tent. Porta potty and potable water available. Great place to get away. Please note ticks are always prevalent on the coast and Spring time there are more of them please make sure you and your dog are protected.

Baby Banana Slug Farm

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Albion, CA

Once an ancient Redwood grove full of mature redwood trees towering 250 feet in the air, This is a beautiful piece of property, very private, with an old growth Redwood snag still remaining and 30 foot diameter re-sprouted Redwood fairy rings. it has its own private entrance.In the redwood forest, lots of trees and other vegetation. Good wildlife watching area. 4 miles from the ocean. Campsites have own access point. Pack it in, pack it out. Please be respectful of neighbors and land around you.2 sites available - both with potable water, and area for campfires (outside of any burn ban), and toilet access. Firewood available for fee. Pets allowed.Guests love staying here: "This was such a treat. Nathan was a responsive, present host--made sure we had all of the wood we wanted. We were tucked away in the woods with great amenities... bathroom included. There is a beautiful tree on the campsite that made the whole experience magical. And my pup was free to run and around and bring me sticks. I will definitely come back again!"

Heartwood Mendocino

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Mendocino, CA

Our property is just minutes from Mendocino's beaches, parks and sweet town, yet private and quiet as it is surrounded by 50,000 acre state forest with world class hiking and biking trails directly accessed from our place. Around the giant redwoods and meadows we have sprinkled in the most amazing little cabins, camp sites and deluxe bath house. We have a great outdoor camp kitchen available for your use. The redwood tree shower must not be missed! This is a very special experience for us to share with you. We are a family of campers. We agree, there's nothing better than a rest in a hammock following a hike or a beach day and a night under the stars without the constant dinging of cell and internet! Guests love staying here: "Such a lovely getaway! Our family of four and little dog thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Heartwood. The cabins are great, with comfortable (warm) beds, very clean and cozy. It’s well worth the visit even in the winter! Really appreciated being outdoors surrounded by Redwoods, hiking the trails around the property, the modern bathrooms with hot showers, and the indoor sitting area to make coffee in the mornings. Our stay was relaxing, memorable and special!"

Waterfall Camp

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Mendocino, CA

Welcome to Waterfall Camp. Come enjoy your stay with us on our beautiful 5-acre property centrally located, its only 10 min to the village of Mendocino, 5 minute drive to Caspar beach and 10 min to the town of Fort Bragg. Nestled on the edge of the Redwoods and Pygmy Forest, adjacent to Russian Gulch State Park. The property has private access into park which consists of many miles of beautiful Redwood trails,the trail to the waterfall, biking trails along with a trail that leads straight to the ocean. Come and relax around your private campfire and cook over the open flames or treat yourself to fine dining in Mendocino or Fort Bragg, the experience is at your fingertips. From camping under the stars to hiking and biking through the redwoods or kayaking up Big River, come let the Mendocino coast show you what it’s all about. Our goal is to make you feel right at home. Each of our three sites has a redwood deck with a sink and food prep space, potable water, remote solar lighting, picnic table, smokeless fire pit and grill, firewood, level parking area and tent pad. One of the three sites can accommodate a 25’ trailer. There is a beautiful redwood bathhouse with two outdoor showers and two flushing toilets. All water onsite is potable so make sure to top off before your day of adventuring. There is a horseshoe pit, cornhole, and badminton set for fun under the sun. All sites are a two min walk to the State Park trails and 5 min ride to Jackson state forest bike trails. It's about a half hour walk to the beautiful waterfall from our property. Large Groups are welcome to book all three sites with two additional RV locations. Also we have a fully stocked westfalia camper van to glamp in if your wanting to pack light for the weekend. We hope to make your stay with us a memorable and fun experience. Shay & Liz

98%

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Root's End

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Mendocino, CA

Nearly four acres close to town and amenities, yet quiet and secluded. Away from any major roads and on quiet nights, the fog horn from the Big River buoy can be heard. Wildlife on the property include piliated woodpeckers, deer, raccoons, jack rabbits, bears (keep your trash and food inside!), mountain lions, foxes, and of course, our resident ravens. Wild huckleberries and rhododendrons are abundant among the redwoods and fir. A beautiful spot to spend the night!

Locus Solus

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Point Arena, CA

Tired of the scorching heat? Come chill out on the coast where it's always 20 degrees cooler than everywhere else. Located in the coastal prairie minutes from the Pacific Ocean and the town of Point Arena. Plenty of privacy to launch into day trips and other adventures in this special corner of the world. The Octagon and the campsite offer solitude, stunning views, bird watching, and walking trails on the property. We're 5 mins from town, the cove, various beaches, tide pools, the historic lighthouse, fishing spots, and the B Bryan Animal Preserve where you can view African animals and hand feed giraffes. Come find what you've been missing!

99%

(95)

Pickle Barrel Cabin and Camp

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Anchor Bay, CA

This 10 acre property is located on the coastal ridge, often above the fog. You will be on the Pacific plate looking across to the North American plate, looking down on the San Andreas fault! Near artsy, coastal towns. Wonderful location for relaxing after a day of hiking and exploring beaches and forests.. In the winter months, it can provide a peaceful retreat and often dramatic storm watching. Peaceful, security-gated property with a campsite for RV's/tent camping for maximum of 6, and the charming Pickle Barrel cabin for 2 is available. You can book either one or both. Either way, you will have the entire site for your stay. Outside wood campfires are allowed seasonally, but unless there is a fire ban, propane fire pits are allowed year round. Hot showers are available 15 minutes away with purchase of a day pass and quarters. The owners and their dog live on site about 50 yards away. You may see us doing our walks. Centrally located. 10 minutes from beaches, rivers, state parks, Stornetta Lands National Monument, and towns, i.e., Gualala, Point Arena, or Anchor Bay.

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Foxfern Forest

1 site · Lodging8 acres · Mendocino, CA

A unique private home milled camping cabin designed and built by the host. Tranquility on the edge of a whimsical forest full of Redwood trees, Pines, Oaks, Hemlocks, Rhododendrons, Ferns, wildflowers and mushrooms. The cabin is on our 8 acre property, only about 7 minutes to the historic village of Mendocino. Beaches and trails close by and waiting for you to explore! Hear the ocean waves crashing in the distance, if you listen closely you may even hear the seals chatting. In the spring see the tall brilliant pink rhododendrons bloom. Star gaze at night and listen to the trees talking through the costal breeze while keeping warm by the fire pit, and stay cozy inside the cabin by the mini wood burning stove. Use the tea kettle to brew up a delicious drink to sip. All while making memories to last!

Butterfly Landing🦋🦋🦋

3 sites · Lodging, Tents40 acres · Philo, CA

Butterfly Landing A Place to Land. Breathe. Slow way down. Enjoy. Please read this Description in entirety. We are so delighted to share this spot with you. This is a shared campground with 3 separate spots that are relatively private. Host will NOT be there when you arrive unless prior arrangement made. This campground is yours to enjoy. The expectation is 'leave it better than before so the next guests may enjoy! This is camping. BRING YOUR OWN GEAR. Put your own linens and bedding on top of what is already on bed. I can provide linens and bedding for an extra $25 for glamping spots. Beds have pillows on them. There is wildlife. This includes bears and mountain lions in the area. You will not see either but good to be aware they exist. This is a safe 'neighborhood'. We do not have problems with thievery. However, always keep your valuables safe IN YOUR CAR. There is no Power. No WiFi. Cell phone coverage not guaranteed. Depends on your carrier. DOWNLOAD DIRECTIONS AND INFO BEFORE ARRIVING TO SITE. There is Poison Oak. Stay in the designated areas. If you are susceptible, bring and wash with Tecnu. Or use dish soap and wash. Poison oak is an oil. Most importantly: Don't Touch. No Fires allowed during Summer months. Be super careful. No candles. Smoke in fire pit area. Grass is a tinderbox. 1 spark can ignite all. There is a hose connected to kitchen. There is a Pet Fee of $25 per stay. 1 pet per site allowed unless prior arrangement made. You are responsible to clean up after your pet and to make sure pet is safe and respectful to neighbors. This means you DO NOT leave your pet unattended, and is leashed at all times. If your pet is barking continuously, we ask that you leave. It is not respectful for all other neighbors. Please bring your own bed for your dogs and clean up after a shedding dog if you are indoors. We ask that guests clean up your camping spot upon departure to 'make the place better than before' for the next guests. Butterfly Landing is a sweet landing spot! Birds, butterflies and small wildlife love this spot. The habitat includes many native species of plant life. A pretty knoll that is on the top of a 40 acre property. Views of vineyards, redwood trees, valley floor, and expansive sky. Private, Quiet and beautiful. A central sunny meadow ties together 3 distinct private areas with a communal kitchen, bath-house, picnic-table sitting area and parking on the side. There is 1 outhouse that has a mailbox system to ensure privacy. (Please read manual on picnic table for instructions) Kitchen. 2 burner propane stove, and sink with running water (cold). (Good for drinking. Pressure is low) There is basic cooking and dishware. Cleaning supplies. A Trash and Recycle Bin. And a Compost bucket where all food scraps should be disposed of and then covered with wood-chips. Kitchen should stay clean at all times. Please put dishes away in the tote to keep clean and critter free. Bath-house. Shower with hot water. 1 shared Outhouse. Please use the path that goes to the outhouse (unless you are in the Greenroom) and make sure you put the mailbox red flag up so that others know it is occupied. ((Then don't forget to put it back down!!) Common sitting area. There are 2 picnic tables, Lots of umbrellas that can be moved wherever, a fire pit/table and lots of seating. Parking. There are room for 3 vehicles. Parking is to be in designated parking area please. Vineyard View tent area: You can park, unload right below site. Please do not drive down to Bluebell Tent. There is a cart and wheelbarrow to bring gear down. Sunny meadow and forest shade make this a lovely landing spot to relax and enjoy nature, and a great opportunity to turn off those cell phones!! Butterfly Landing is about 1/2 mile from HWY 128 that runs through Anderson Valley. This location is the perfect location for it all. Wine tasting in the Valley, Navarro River swimming during the summer months, and the Mendocino coast is nearby. We offer 3 Unique Glamping/Camping choices. Bluebell is a Glamping Tent that sits on a beautiful deck with a unique porch with a built in dining 'table'. It's on the lower part of the Meadow. This is the most sunny spot, and the larger of the 2 spaces. Also the most private. Queen-sized bed. And a futon bed. Views of the valley through the trees and a magnificent Bay tree nearby. The Green Room is a small sunny Room with a lovely outdoor semi-enclosed porch with a bar counter that can be used for dining. Custom built using recycled materials. The Green room sits at the top of the meadow, and is close to all of the facilities, but is relatively private. It's best for 2 people. But a tent could be set up next to cabin. The Vineyard View Tent Spot is a perfect area for setting up tents. Good for a family or group of friends. There is a sitting spot, a cot, and the view of the neighboring vineyard is beautiful. Up to 3 tents. Max 6 people. This is an Honor system camping spot. We ask that you leave your spot 'better than before', as in 'Leaver no Trace'. I rely on everyone to do their part in the communal kitchen to keep clean and free of critters. SUPER IMPORTANT to put all food scraps in the compost bin. NO food anything in the trash. This is how the bears show up. Please do your part. Thank you so much. It is my honor to share this land with you.

97%

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Shangri-La

8 sites · Lodging, Tents100 acres · Upper Lake, CA

For 21 years, we have worked on keeping this property as a Sacred Space. There's a meadow with an Indian artifact and amazing views. We are a team, husband and wife, this is off-the-grid and we raise our children here. At the same time, we grow organic food and work on our crafts and spiritual practice, never using chemical fertilizers, and keeping all of the groundwater clear and clean with an abundance of spring water for drinking. This is a magical forest retreat and we love to share it with others who are like-minded. Right out of the Mendocino National Forest, 100-Acre Forest and Meadow Retreat is just minutes to the Eel River out of the small town of Potter Valley and 15 minutes to Lake Pillsbury. Private views, fresh spring water and endless possibilities. *******We also recommend that you have AWD or 4x4 vehicle, as the road is dirt coming in and the campsite are up the mountain off of a dirt road*******We have 2 campsites currently with fresh spring water, and fire pits. Private and in the woods. Lots of hiking on the land, with stunning views. Bring your own tent, hammock, food whatever you need to be a happy camper!! In the spring of 2019 we added in 2 new yurt sites, with soaking tubs, filled with hot spring water. We have 2 campsites to book for regular camping tents and we just added a community bathroom . Nestled away in the forest very private queen size bed natural spring water for soaking in the tub on your porch. In addition for comfort and convenience we have a nice bathroom with hand-washing station. Each yurt can come with propane heat in winter time you need to request it, in the Extras. making it cozy all year long. *******We also recommend that you have AWD or 4x4 vehicle, as the road is dirt coming in and the campsite are up the mountain off of a dirt road*******.

South Facing Ridge With Views

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Comptche, CA

Surrounded by cooperate timberland, it feels like there are no neighbors! There is not a house in sight but the the ridge views seem to go on forever! - There is a simple latrine at each site. A full bath house with a flush toilet and hot shower is available next to the main house. A water spigot is attached to the main house. - Spare camping supplies are available by the bath house if you forget something! Ask ahead if you need to borrow a specific item. More about the property: I built my home high upon a southern ridge. Watching the river of coastal fog flow in and out below me is one of the most wonderful views to behold! I have 30 acres of land to explore and camp upon in the surrounding redwood forest. 10 miles east are Montgomery Woods redwood preserve with GIANT trees, and a little farther, perhaps a mile is the famous Orr Hot Springs Resort. If you drive a half hour west from my land you will be in the coastal Mendocino village. We are marijuana friendly!! Thus, we have created more of an adult oriented atmosphere. one last note: We recently made separate listings for different sites. See campsite #1 for reviews.Guests love staying here "What a fantastic experience. I arrived to Cosmo’s super late after a long day going up the coast. It was a last minute book that morning, if I remember right - my campsite had fallen through. His directions were spot on, and very kindly he stayed up to take me to my site and help me get set up, even going so far as to light me a fire. His property was easily navigable in the dark, and my two wheel drive made it fine. We talked for a while - what a cool guy. He was able to give me recommendations from a friend of what to do during the next legs of my trip, which was great and really did make a difference for the rest of my week. I cooked my dinner and sat stunned looking at some of the best stargazing I’ve had in a long time.When I woke up I realized that I had been sleeping next to a mountainside view - this was site 3. Talk about the best surprise I’ve gotten in a while unzipping a tent. The clouds were gathered in the valley and as I ate breakfast I got to watch the sun slowly clear then out. It was unbelievable.Before I left, Cosmo let me use his indoor solar-heated shower and told me all about his projects to build his own home and roads and move towards a more sustainable future. Overall this is really the best of what I imagine hipcamp has to offer - kind property owners & unique individuals who care about their guests while also allowing them to have their own experience. If I’m ever near Mendocino I will gladly make the trip inland to stay at his property again."

Star Hosts in Mendocino

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Locus Solus

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Point Arena, CA

Tired of the scorching heat? Come chill out on the coast where it's always 20 degrees cooler than everywhere else. Located in the coastal prairie minutes from the Pacific Ocean and the town of Point Arena. Plenty of privacy to launch into day trips and other adventures in this special corner of the world. The Octagon and the campsite offer solitude, stunning views, bird watching, and walking trails on the property. We're 5 mins from town, the cove, various beaches, tide pools, the historic lighthouse, fishing spots, and the B Bryan Animal Preserve where you can view African animals and hand feed giraffes. Come find what you've been missing!

Root's End

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Mendocino, CA

Nearly four acres close to town and amenities, yet quiet and secluded. Away from any major roads and on quiet nights, the fog horn from the Big River buoy can be heard. Wildlife on the property include piliated woodpeckers, deer, raccoons, jack rabbits, bears (keep your trash and food inside!), mountain lions, foxes, and of course, our resident ravens. Wild huckleberries and rhododendrons are abundant among the redwoods and fir. A beautiful spot to spend the night!

Heartwood Mendocino

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Mendocino, CA

Our property is just minutes from Mendocino's beaches, parks and sweet town, yet private and quiet as it is surrounded by 50,000 acre state forest with world class hiking and biking trails directly accessed from our place. Around the giant redwoods and meadows we have sprinkled in the most amazing little cabins, camp sites and deluxe bath house. We have a great outdoor camp kitchen available for your use. The redwood tree shower must not be missed! This is a very special experience for us to share with you. We are a family of campers. We agree, there's nothing better than a rest in a hammock following a hike or a beach day and a night under the stars without the constant dinging of cell and internet! Guests love staying here: "Such a lovely getaway! Our family of four and little dog thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Heartwood. The cabins are great, with comfortable (warm) beds, very clean and cozy. It’s well worth the visit even in the winter! Really appreciated being outdoors surrounded by Redwoods, hiking the trails around the property, the modern bathrooms with hot showers, and the indoor sitting area to make coffee in the mornings. Our stay was relaxing, memorable and special!"

Baby Banana Slug Farm

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Albion, CA

Once an ancient Redwood grove full of mature redwood trees towering 250 feet in the air, This is a beautiful piece of property, very private, with an old growth Redwood snag still remaining and 30 foot diameter re-sprouted Redwood fairy rings. it has its own private entrance.In the redwood forest, lots of trees and other vegetation. Good wildlife watching area. 4 miles from the ocean. Campsites have own access point. Pack it in, pack it out. Please be respectful of neighbors and land around you.2 sites available - both with potable water, and area for campfires (outside of any burn ban), and toilet access. Firewood available for fee. Pets allowed.Guests love staying here: "This was such a treat. Nathan was a responsive, present host--made sure we had all of the wood we wanted. We were tucked away in the woods with great amenities... bathroom included. There is a beautiful tree on the campsite that made the whole experience magical. And my pup was free to run and around and bring me sticks. I will definitely come back again!"

Jug Handle Creek Farm

20 sites · RVs, Tents33 acres · Caspar, CA

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ **PLEASE NOTE** Construction of our new bathrooms will be taking place during the months of October and November 2024. Construction will take place between the hours of 7:30am and 5:30pm, Monday through Thursday, and it will be noisy. We apologize for the disruption, but look forward to being able to offer this amenity to our campers in the future! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Jug Handle Creek Farm and Nature Center is a nonprofit with a five minute walk to Jug Handle State Reserve, Jug Handle beach and the Ecological Staircase trail. We offer 11 unique campsites with plenty of space and privacy. Each site has two picnic tables, a fire ring, parking for two cars and plenty of space for your tents. Our 33 acres include a native plant nursery, community gardens, forests, meadows, and nature trails. Our site has lots of nature trails, is peaceful and beautiful and just a 5-minute walk to Jug Handle Beach and the Jug Handle Preserve. Our Mission: We offer a welcoming and supportive environment for people of all backgrounds to explore nature and connect with the natural word. Nature stewardship is central to our non-profit mission and as an organization we are engaged in many nature restoration projects throughout Mendocino County. We also provide a supportive learning environment for nature education for disadvantaged youth during the school year. If you teach k-12 and would like to bring your classroom to Jug Handle contact us about special rates and our immersive nature education programs.

Dog-friendly getaways

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Baby Banana Slug Farm

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Albion, CA

Once an ancient Redwood grove full of mature redwood trees towering 250 feet in the air, This is a beautiful piece of property, very private, with an old growth Redwood snag still remaining and 30 foot diameter re-sprouted Redwood fairy rings. it has its own private entrance.In the redwood forest, lots of trees and other vegetation. Good wildlife watching area. 4 miles from the ocean. Campsites have own access point. Pack it in, pack it out. Please be respectful of neighbors and land around you.2 sites available - both with potable water, and area for campfires (outside of any burn ban), and toilet access. Firewood available for fee. Pets allowed.Guests love staying here: "This was such a treat. Nathan was a responsive, present host--made sure we had all of the wood we wanted. We were tucked away in the woods with great amenities... bathroom included. There is a beautiful tree on the campsite that made the whole experience magical. And my pup was free to run and around and bring me sticks. I will definitely come back again!"

Jug Handle Creek Farm

20 sites · RVs, Tents33 acres · Caspar, CA

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ **PLEASE NOTE** Construction of our new bathrooms will be taking place during the months of October and November 2024. Construction will take place between the hours of 7:30am and 5:30pm, Monday through Thursday, and it will be noisy. We apologize for the disruption, but look forward to being able to offer this amenity to our campers in the future! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Jug Handle Creek Farm and Nature Center is a nonprofit with a five minute walk to Jug Handle State Reserve, Jug Handle beach and the Ecological Staircase trail. We offer 11 unique campsites with plenty of space and privacy. Each site has two picnic tables, a fire ring, parking for two cars and plenty of space for your tents. Our 33 acres include a native plant nursery, community gardens, forests, meadows, and nature trails. Our site has lots of nature trails, is peaceful and beautiful and just a 5-minute walk to Jug Handle Beach and the Jug Handle Preserve. Our Mission: We offer a welcoming and supportive environment for people of all backgrounds to explore nature and connect with the natural word. Nature stewardship is central to our non-profit mission and as an organization we are engaged in many nature restoration projects throughout Mendocino County. We also provide a supportive learning environment for nature education for disadvantaged youth during the school year. If you teach k-12 and would like to bring your classroom to Jug Handle contact us about special rates and our immersive nature education programs.

Forest Ocean Retreat

3 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · CA

Tree studded campsites with large view of the ocean. Not far off Hwy 1. Many beaches to choose from a few miles away. Close to Anchor Bay, Gualala and Point Arena. Large secluded sites with picnic tables and plenty of room to pitch a tent. Porta potty and potable water available. Great place to get away. Please note ticks are always prevalent on the coast and Spring time there are more of them please make sure you and your dog are protected.

Heartwood Mendocino

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Mendocino, CA

Our property is just minutes from Mendocino's beaches, parks and sweet town, yet private and quiet as it is surrounded by 50,000 acre state forest with world class hiking and biking trails directly accessed from our place. Around the giant redwoods and meadows we have sprinkled in the most amazing little cabins, camp sites and deluxe bath house. We have a great outdoor camp kitchen available for your use. The redwood tree shower must not be missed! This is a very special experience for us to share with you. We are a family of campers. We agree, there's nothing better than a rest in a hammock following a hike or a beach day and a night under the stars without the constant dinging of cell and internet! Guests love staying here: "Such a lovely getaway! Our family of four and little dog thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Heartwood. The cabins are great, with comfortable (warm) beds, very clean and cozy. It’s well worth the visit even in the winter! Really appreciated being outdoors surrounded by Redwoods, hiking the trails around the property, the modern bathrooms with hot showers, and the indoor sitting area to make coffee in the mornings. Our stay was relaxing, memorable and special!"

Waterfall Camp

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Mendocino, CA

Welcome to Waterfall Camp. Come enjoy your stay with us on our beautiful 5-acre property centrally located, its only 10 min to the village of Mendocino, 5 minute drive to Caspar beach and 10 min to the town of Fort Bragg. Nestled on the edge of the Redwoods and Pygmy Forest, adjacent to Russian Gulch State Park. The property has private access into park which consists of many miles of beautiful Redwood trails,the trail to the waterfall, biking trails along with a trail that leads straight to the ocean. Come and relax around your private campfire and cook over the open flames or treat yourself to fine dining in Mendocino or Fort Bragg, the experience is at your fingertips. From camping under the stars to hiking and biking through the redwoods or kayaking up Big River, come let the Mendocino coast show you what it’s all about. Our goal is to make you feel right at home. Each of our three sites has a redwood deck with a sink and food prep space, potable water, remote solar lighting, picnic table, smokeless fire pit and grill, firewood, level parking area and tent pad. One of the three sites can accommodate a 25’ trailer. There is a beautiful redwood bathhouse with two outdoor showers and two flushing toilets. All water onsite is potable so make sure to top off before your day of adventuring. There is a horseshoe pit, cornhole, and badminton set for fun under the sun. All sites are a two min walk to the State Park trails and 5 min ride to Jackson state forest bike trails. It's about a half hour walk to the beautiful waterfall from our property. Large Groups are welcome to book all three sites with two additional RV locations. Also we have a fully stocked westfalia camper van to glamp in if your wanting to pack light for the weekend. We hope to make your stay with us a memorable and fun experience. Shay & Liz

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Explore the area’s public lands.

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Mendocino National Forest

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Mendocino guide

Overview

Set on a rugged bluff overlooking the Pacific Ocean, Mendocino offers an easy seaside getaway on the Northern California coast. The charming town offers fine dining, quaint shops, a vibrant art scene, and plenty of stunning vistas. Don’t miss hiking around the Mendocino Headlands State Park, or a visit to the many beaches and redwoods nearby. Campers are spoiled for choice here, with a wealth of scenic state parks along the coast and inland forests, and camping options that span tent and RV sites near a river, lake, or the ocean, or a cabin in the woods.

Where to go

Near Mendocino

The campground at Russian Gulch State Park offers easy access to a waterfall, redwoods, and beach, and also has space for equestrians. At Van Damme State Park, explore the Pygmy Forest or Kayak the Little River, then choose a campsite near a beach or meadow, or better yet, hike to a primitive site along Fern Canyon. For a lux experience, campers can choose from platform tents and retro Airstreams at a private campground just outside of town.

North Mendocino Coast

Just north of Fort Bragg, MacKerricher State Park offers beaches, a lake, amenities, and campsites set in a beautiful coastal forest. Explore miles of rugged coastline at Westport-Union Landing State Beach and camp on the bluffs overlooking the ocean. At the Standish-Hickey State Recreation Area, choose from three campgrounds in the forest or along the Eel River. To escape the crowds, head to a remote stretch of the rugged Lost Coast, and tent camp directly on the beach at USAL Beach in the Sinkyone Wilderness.

South Mendocino Coast

Head south along the coast to Navarro River Redwoods State Park, where you can explore a redwood tunnel to the sea. Camp overnight at the mouth of the Navarro River near the ocean, or further inland in a redwood grove. At Manchester State Park, campers can stay near the ocean, wetlands, and coastal dunes. Further south, stay in a forested campground near the river and ocean at Gualala Point Regional Park. Salt Point State Park offers excellent abalone diving, a rhododendron reserve, and two campgrounds.

Inland

Head inland to Mendocino Woodlands State Park, where groups can stay in well equipped camping cabins. For more primitive or equestrian options, head to Jackson Demonstration State Forest and its two separate campgrounds. Further south, enjoy a cool dip in the Navarro River, then set up camp in the forest at Hendy Woods State Park. At Lake Mendocino, campers can choose from regular, hike-in, boat-in campsites, along with great fishing and water recreation.

When to go

Summer is the busiest time in Mendocino and campgrounds fill up early, especially over the weekends. Fall is a good time for pleasant weather, fall foliage, and smaller crowds. Several festivals are also held during this time, including the abalone festival and the mushroom, wine, and beer festivals. Look for whales between November and April and wildflowers in the spring.

Know before you go

Bring layers, even over the summer, when coastal fog is common in the mornings.
Some areas along the coast are not safe for swimming, and do not have lifeguards on duty. The water here is very cold. Also exercise caution near bluffs.
Anglers 16 and over must have a valid fishing license.
Dogs are not allowed on certain beaches, including at MacKerricher State Park and Manchester State Park. Some parks also prohibit dogs on certain trails.