Dispersed camping opportunities near Branscomb, California provide access to the rugged Mendocino County landscape at elevations ranging from 700 to 2,000 feet. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing at night while summer days reach the high 80s. Camping regulations vary significantly between private campgrounds and public lands in the region, with most sites requiring advance reservations during peak season from May through September.
What to do
River activities: Noyo River offers wading and swimming spots throughout Jackson Demonstration Forest. "Plenty of trails to explore and Noyo River meanders through the center. It was self pay upon arrival and the whole place was welcoming. Nice day use area with tables and creek for playing in," notes one Jackson Demonstration Forest visitor.
Beach exploration: 20-minute drive to coastal access points from inland glamping sites. "We were lucky to get a site right next to the beach for our class B RV. This is a beautiful site along Highway 1," shares a reviewer at Westport Beach RV Park and Campground.
Disc golf: Challenging forest course available at Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort. "The disc golf course offers beautiful views when on top of the course, but watch out for poison oak!" warns a camper who visited Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort.
What campers like
Private beach access: Westport Beach RV Park provides exclusive shoreline without public crowds. "The beach is private so it's just you and the other campers," explains a Westport Beach visitor. "The waves are loud, the cell service sucks and the Wi-Fi is very spotty…which makes it a perfect spot to get away!"
Water recreation at reservoirs: Canoes and kayaks available for guest use at several glamping sites. "Beautiful secret. Cannonball camp! Hiking, canoeing, swimming! Friendly staff with magnificent host!" writes a visitor to Mendocino Magic.
Heated pool access: Available year-round at some luxury glamping locations. "We had a great nights stay here. The Pub is fantastic! Great staff, store, heated pool. There is a moderate trail down to the river," notes a camper at Redwoods River Resort & Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal restrictions: Many campgrounds limit operations from October through April. "Quiet in the off season. Fires on the beach are great. Rediscovered this place in February and have reservations for November," shares one Westport Beach visitor.
Fire regulations vary significantly: Some properties maintain strict fire bans year-round. "The campground is nice and quiet. Plenty of space without being noisy. But I'm not sure how they've justified charging $58 per night for no basic trash disposal (you have to take all trash with you) and only portable toilets on site," comments a camper at Jug Handle Farm.
Pack-in, pack-out requirements: Several glamping sites require guests to remove all waste. "First, there is no place to put garbage. You have to take it with you. Bathrooms are just blue porta-potties," explains a Mendocino Magic visitor.
Limited cell service: Most forest and coastal sites have minimal connectivity. "Cell service only on the beach and no working Wi-Fi which worked for me cuz I needed a break," shares a Westport Beach camper.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Splash pads and swimming holes provide cooling options in summer heat. "We also went to the playground several times, which is super fun. The splash pad was a family favorite. The petting zoo, was also super cute and the animals seemed like they were well taken care of," reports a visitor to Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort.
Evening entertainment options: Some glamping sites organize movie nights and events. "We were there for movie night. They had a big screen and showed a film for the kiddos," shares a Mendocino Redwoods visitor.
Age-appropriate campground selection: Sites vary widely in child-friendliness. "This is a great family campground. Bring your kids, plenty to do for them. No kids? Want to be at a quiet campground? Enjoy nature? Not here!" advises a camper at Mendocino Redwoods.
Tips from RVers
Premium waterfront sites: Book early for prime locations, especially for summer weekends. "We were lucky to get a site right next to the beach for our class B RV. This is a beautiful site along Highway 1. PS if this site is full, there is a dry camp about a mile north on Highway one," suggests an RV camper at Richardson Grove RV and Campground.
Dump station access: Limited facilities available in remote areas require planning. "We spent 4 nights here with our travel trailer. We had a site with full hook ups, including sewage (no need for dumping station!!). This is a great campground that is right on the beach!" shares a Westport Beach RV camper.
Spacing considerations: Some RV areas place units close together during peak season. "Lots of pics of the beach which is wonderful. Here is the campground when it's full up. Very close rigs," warns a Westport Beach visitor about summer congestion.
