Tent camping near Boonville, California ranges from coastal redwood sites to inland recreation areas with summer temperatures typically 10-15 degrees warmer at inland locations. The Mendocino County region includes several first-come, first-served campgrounds that don't require reservations, making them accessible for last-minute camping trips. Many campsites in the area close seasonally between September and May due to rainfall patterns and maintenance schedules.
What to do
River activities: At Jackson Demonstration Forest, the Noyo River runs through the center of the campground, providing opportunities for wading and exploration. As one camper noted, "Plenty of trails to explore and Noyo River meanders through the center. Nice day use area with tables and creek for playing in."
Mountain biking: The South Cow Mountain Recreation Area offers challenging terrain for mountain bikers of varying skill levels. Red Mountain Campground serves as an ideal base for exploring these trails, with one visitor commenting it's "Paradise if you have ATVs etc. Cool spot off the beaten path."
Wine tasting: The Russian River Valley wineries are accessible from several campgrounds in the area. Korbel Winery is located just down the road from Schoolhouse Canyon Campground, with a camper mentioning its "amazing deli!!!" and noting the campground is "about 1/2 mile down the road from the Korbel Winery."
What campers like
Private beach access: Some campgrounds offer exclusive river access points. A camper at Schoolhouse Canyon Campground appreciated that "there is a private beach just for guests of the campsite right across river road. Wood for sale and tubes available for rent."
Redwood environments: The tall trees create natural canopies over many campsites. At Paul M. Demmick Campground, a visitor described it as "a nice little campground in the redwoods. Although Hwy 128 runs parallel to it (and not far away), there isn't much traffic going by so road noise isn't a bother."
Mid-week availability: Even during peak season, weekday camping offers more solitude. One camper at Paul Demmick observed that "the campground doesn't have a lot of sites, which I prefer, and is first come, first served so get there early if you're going for the weekend (mid-week is wide open)."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Campfire policies vary significantly between campgrounds. At Bullfrog Pond Campground, campfires are permitted in designated rings, but several other campgrounds implement seasonal fire bans during dry periods.
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require navigating narrow, winding roads. A Bullfrog Pond camper warned about "one lane road access that would be intimidating at night."
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have minimal or no connectivity. A Paul Demmick visitor mentioned "No cell service with Verizon, you'll have to drive into Mendocino for that."
Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds operate only during specific months. One camper noted that Paul Demmick "Closes sept 2 until May," which affects planning for fall or winter camping trips.
Tips for camping with families
Beach-friendly campgrounds: COE Mendocino Lake Bu-Shay Campground includes family-friendly amenities. A visitor with children appreciated that "The sites are spacious and there are a mix of shady and sunny sites. The flush bathrooms are fine, and there are free showers. Our young kids had a great time playing on the playground which was an unexpected bonus."
Dedicated family sections: Some campgrounds separate family camping from adult-only areas. At Schoolhouse Canyon, "Lower half is family section and the upper section is adults only. This is a family run campground."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer chances to observe local animals. A camper at Dunlap Campground mentioned "Tons of wildlife. Fox, deer, raccoon, etc. keep your food locked up at all times."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most campgrounds near Boonville offer primitive RV camping without full hookups. Red Mountain Campground provides basic sites for smaller RVs, with a visitor noting you should "bring a solar shower and water to drink and cook with, as there is none."
Size restrictions: Larger RVs won't fit in many of the campgrounds. Bullfrog Pond Campground has a "rugged drive up the woods" that isn't suitable for big rigs, while Paul Demmick can accommodate "a small RV" according to a recent camper.
Dump station locations: For extended stays, RVers should note the locations of dump stations. Schoolhouse Canyon Campground and Bu-Shay Campground both offer sanitary dump facilities, which aren't available at most of the primitive campgrounds in the region.
