Best Campgrounds near Gualala, CA

Camping near Gualala, California, offers a mix of stunning coastal views and serene redwood forests. Whether you're looking for a family-friendly spot or a peaceful getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

• Explore the trails: Many campgrounds, like Hendy Woods State Park Campground, have beautiful trails. One camper mentioned, "Nice trails down to the river," making it a great spot for hiking and enjoying nature.
• Visit local wineries: The area is known for its wineries. A family who stayed at Hendy Woods State Park Campground enjoyed the nearby towns, saying, "The nearby towns of Philo and Boonville are super cute."
• Beach activities: Campgrounds like Wright's Beach Campground are right by the ocean. One visitor noted, "The location of this campground can’t be beat," highlighting the easy access to beach fun.

What campers like

• Scenic views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One reviewer at Ocean Cove Store and Campground said, "Views are unbeatable," which is a common sentiment among those who camp near Gualala.
• Clean facilities: Many campgrounds, such as Gualala Point Regional Park, are praised for their cleanliness. A camper mentioned, "Bathrooms were clean, park ranger was super nice," which adds to the overall experience.
• Friendly staff: Campers appreciate the helpfulness of campground hosts. At Anchor Bay Campground, one visitor said, "People are very friendly and staff go out of their way to help."

What you should know

• Crowded sites: Some campgrounds can feel a bit cramped. A reviewer at Gualala River Redwood Park noted, "The sites are so closely packed that there are cars and RVs everywhere you look."
• Limited amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Woodside Campground — Salt Point State Park has no showers, which some campers found inconvenient.
• Wildlife encounters: Campers should be aware of local wildlife. One camper at Gualala Point Regional Park mentioned, "Several other campers experienced over-eager raccoons while eating dinner."

Tips for camping with families

• Choose spacious sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites. A family at Hendy Woods State Park Campground found that "the best sites were large with separate table and fire pit areas."
• Plan for activities: Many campgrounds offer activities for kids. One reviewer at Manchester Beach / Mendocino Coast KOA said, "The site has 2 parks, trails, pool/hot tub, and so much more."
• Pack for the beach: If you're near the coast, bring beach gear. A camper at Wright's Beach Campground enjoyed the beach access, saying, "A very short drive to the water."

Tips from RVers

• Check site sizes: Some campgrounds have size restrictions. A visitor at Casini Ranch Family Campground warned, "Not all beach spots have full hookups, and only 1 has a sewer connection."
• Be prepared for tight roads: The roads can be narrow and winding. One camper at Gualala River Redwood Park mentioned, "The winding, narrow, bumpy roads were very uncomfortable and anxiety-inducing."
• Bring extra supplies: Some campgrounds may not have firewood or other essentials. A camper at Ocean Cove Store and Campground noted, "Bring firewood; there’s none available on site."

Camping near Gualala, California, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, with plenty of options for families and RVers alike.