Glamping options near Boonville, California spread across the Mendocino Coast and inland regions, with elevation changes from sea level to over 2,500 feet creating distinct climate zones. The area typically experiences cool, foggy mornings along the coast and warmer inland temperatures during summer months, with nighttime temperatures often dropping significantly even during peak season.
What to do
Beach exploration: 1-mile hike from Manchester State Park Campground leads to driftwood-strewn beaches with natural dunes. "The campground is just above the driftwood beach offering walks in solitude with the breaking waves in the background," notes Cindi B.
Lighthouse visits: 15-minute drive from Manchester State Park Campground to Point Arena lighthouse. "Point Arena lighthouse is a close drive away," shares Rosina A., who stayed at a nearby KOA.
Disc golf: Free course access through the forested sections. "We enjoyed the disc golf course that had just been built back when we visited. Its isolated and a little distance from the beach," explains Paul H.
Kayaking: Complimentary equipment at Narrows Lodge Resort allows water exploration. "We rented a motor boat for a few hours to explore the beautiful lake," Jessica R. mentions about her family's experience.
What campers like
Community kitchen access: Some campgrounds provide full cooking facilities. "This KOA has large tent sites and a HUGE kitchen with 3 electric stoves and several sinks and microwaves for camper use," explains Kristen M.
Private hot tubs: Premium sites at Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort offer personal relaxation options. "We stayed in one of the premium hot tub sites, where you get your very own hot tub. Highly recommend, my kids absolutely loved it and so did I!" shares Erika L.
Secluded tent sites: Jackson Demonstration Forest offers quieter camping away from busier locations. "Beautiful, clean and peaceful. Plenty of trails to explore and Noyo River meanders through the center," reports Danielle F., adding that "cal fire was seen a few times through our stay so it's out there but doesn't feel far away."
Stargazing opportunities: Limited light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. "No sprint cell signal but good WiFi," notes Kristen M., highlighting the remote nature that makes for excellent stargazing conditions.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Some glamping sites require navigating narrow roads. "To get to clear lake from the west the road is very windy and only allows 34 feet and I think that is pushing it," warns Ann D. about The Aurora RV Park & Marina.
Limited cellular service: Many campgrounds have spotty reception. "The cell service sucks and the Wi-Fi is very spotty…which makes it a perfect spot to get away!" Rob F. explains about Westport Beach RV Park.
Reservation timing: Most popular glamping sites require advance booking. "Nearly all the other campgrounds on the CA coast require a reservation 6 months in advance for weekends, with weekday availability not much better," advises Adam about Manchester State Park.
Variable shower conditions: Facilities range widely between campgrounds. "I could not for the life of me get the shower to spray warm water at all so I had a week of cold showers," reports Jeremy F.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-focused activities: Westport Beach RV Park and Campground offers direct beach access for children. "They have movies each night and have lots of trees for shade," explains Kristen M.
Noise considerations: Some glamping sites enforce strict quiet hours. "This was nice for our family. This was our kids first camping trip and it was indeed a low stress environment," shares Tamika I., though she notes bathrooms might not meet expectations.
Entertainment options: Examine onsite amenities for rainy days. "One site had a NINJA setup for their kids. Pretty cool," reports Outdoordude D., highlighting creative setups some families bring.
Campsite selection: For tents with children, seek wind protection. "I would recommend the sites in the high 30's as they are more secluded," advises Kenneth L. about Manchester State Park.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing awareness: Bodega Bay RV Park has organized but compact sites. "Sites are all gravel with a picnic table and divided by a fence. It's a packed place with no real views," notes Msmetoo48 S.
Hookup variations: Check for specific electrical connections. "We had a site with full hook ups, including sewage (no need for dumping station!!)," shares Jessicca about her experience at Westport Beach RV Park.
Arrival timing: Some RV parks have specific maintenance schedules. "Do not go in early least you pay a $10 fee. They do maintain the grounds so an early arrival is not good," advises Linda A.
Satellite connectivity: Signal access varies by location. "We had some shade, and we were able to get a good Starlink signal. WiFi cost extra, so we didn't bother with the campground's WiFi access," explains James W.
