Camping sites near Albion, California span coastal beaches to dense redwood forests with temperatures ranging 50-65°F year-round. The Navarro River meets the Pacific Ocean at Navarro Beach Campground, creating a unique environment where campers can experience both river and ocean environments within walking distance. Most campgrounds in this region close facilities during winter months due to flooding, with peak season running May through September.
What to do
Tide pool exploration: At Mackerricher State Park Campground, visitors can experience some of the coast's best marine life. "Campground is adjacent to the beach. You can hear the ocean and sometimes catch peeks of the ocean from the campground," notes Mea H. The beach area features "some of the best tide pools" where visitors can observe marine life during low tide.
Kayaking the Navarro River: The calm waters where the Navarro River meets the ocean create ideal conditions for paddlers. "The river follows the road to the campsite and connects to the ocean right on the beach," explains Kealan B. about Navarro Beach Campground. Many campers bring kayaks to explore both environments in one trip.
Hiking under redwoods: The region offers trails through ancient forests. "Great hiking trails, a small protected beach, helpful camp host, and well-maintained showers and flush toilets," writes Marcia M. about Russian Gulch State Park Campground. Many trails are accessible directly from campgrounds, with guided ranger hikes available during summer months.
What campers like
Private campsites: Privacy ranks high among camper preferences. "The sites have privacy in the fact that there are hedges grown between each one, unless you book a group site," explains Hannah S. about Pomo RV Park & Campground. This feature allows campers to enjoy seclusion even in busier campgrounds.
Beach-forest combinations: The unique geography allows campers to experience multiple ecosystems. "Short walk to a beach that's under a bridge. Short drive to coastal towns," notes Tim about Russian Gulch State Park. The proximity of forests to beaches creates diverse camping experiences within short distances.
Swimming opportunities: Despite cool coastal temperatures, swimming spots are highly valued. "The swimming hole is nice but can get packed at times. There is a rope under the bridge. The water hole is also deep enough in where you could jump from the bridge!" reports David G. about Hendy Woods State Park Campground.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly by location and carrier. "Internet. Verizon via iPhone 12: 5 mbps down and 0.16 mbps up with 56 ms ping. T-Mobile via Nighthawk MR-1100 - 3 mbps down and 0.05 up with 106 ms ping. Our booster marginally improved the speeds," reports Mea H. about Mackerricher State Park.
Shower token systems: Many state parks require payment for showers. "Showers require tokens. This seems pretty standard in California State Parks but it's successful at deterring us from showering every night. One token gives 4 minutes of showering. Each token is $1," notes one Mackerricher camper.
First-come sites fill quickly: Non-reservable campgrounds require early arrival. "This campground doesn't take reservations, it's on a first come basis," explains Allison about Navarro River Redwoods State Park. Most first-come sites fill by noon on summer weekends and holidays.
Tips for camping with families
Junior ranger programs: State parks offer educational activities. "The junior ranger program and nightly events for families helped keep the kids engaged in the camping experience. Park rangers hosted guided hikes, nighttime stargazing (with telescopes), and nightly campfires," shares a visitor to Hendy Woods State Park.
Beach safety awareness: Ocean beaches have strong currents. "Beach is dangerous surf with a pretty strong under current so not for kids to be playing too much deeper than ankles," warns Danielle F. about Navarro Beach. Parents should supervise children closely at all coastal beaches.
Kid-friendly accommodations: Some campgrounds offer specialized facilities. "It's dog friendly, with pool, hot tub, hot showers, full bathrooms, and also extensive Camp Kitchen facilities with sho-nuff gas grills," reports Kade H. about Manchester Beach KOA. The campground also features movie nights specifically for children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for size: Many campgrounds have tight access roads. "Very narrow spaces, especially if you have slide outs which means that your neighbor's sewer hose is next to your door. A lot of very short spaces also which makes it worse," cautions Theo A. about Caspar Beach RV Park.
Dump station fees: Additional charges may apply for services. "The dump station has a mandatory fee of $10. You pay with a credit card. When payment is approved, the cap to the dump hole unlocks," explains a Mackerricher camper, noting this expense should be factored into camping budgets.
Power hookup considerations: Amperage limitations affect equipment use. "Very nice spot. Enjoyed our one night stay on a hold over as we travelled. Friends tell us all the time to check it out and that it's the nicest place in Ft. Bragg," reports Wes about Pomo RV Park, which offers full hookups for RVs with electric service.
