Tent camping near Caspar, California provides access to both coastal and inland redwood experiences along the Mendocino Coast. Located at around 82 feet above sea level, this area experiences mild temperatures year-round with summer highs rarely exceeding 65°F, making it cooler than inland campgrounds. Winter camping requires preparation for frequent rainfall, with December averaging 6.5 inches of precipitation.
What to do
Fishing access: At Jackson Demonstration Forest, campers can enjoy the Noyo River that "meanders through the center" of the campground. One visitor noted, "Plenty of trails to explore and Noyo River meanders through the center."
Hiking to Pygmy Forest: Near Jughandle Creek Farm, visitors can explore unique ecological areas. "There is a hiking path that takes you down to Jughandle Beach where you will find all kinds of tourists, animals, and great sand to play in or up to the pygmy redwood forest."
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds in the area offer wildlife spotting opportunities. At Dunlap Campground, one camper reported, "Tons of wildlife. Fox, deer, raccoon, etc. keep your food locked up at all times."
Beach exploration: The Lost Coast offers unique coastal terrain for adventurous campers. A visitor to King Range Conservation Area described it as having "Black sand beaches, cliffside camping, pristine wilderness and you have it all to yourself!"
What campers like
Secluded sites: Jughandle Creek Farm offers privacy despite proximity to other campers. "We were able to score a site that was very secluded at the end of the road before the private property line. It was the perfect spot to set up two(or more) tents."
River access: Many visitors appreciate water features at area campgrounds. A camper at Jackson Demonstration Forest shared, "Beautiful, clean and peaceful. Plenty of trails to explore and Noyo River meanders through the center."
Shaded redwood settings: Tent camping near Caspar often means sleeping under towering trees. A visitor to Nadelos Campground noted, "Campsite had access to a few different foot paths which we didn't explore too far down but certainly seemed nice."
Clean facilities: Despite rustic settings, many campgrounds maintain good standards. At Dunlap Campground, a camper observed, "Self-pay station $15 when I went. Expect a LOT of road noise. Access to the river. Went mid week and was the only one there."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to Usal Beach Campground requires preparation. A visitor warned, "The road coming into Usal is a pretty messed up mountain road thanks to the fact that it's also used by logging trucks. I would really only recommend this road if you have AWD or 4WD."
Seasonal closures: Check operating dates before planning trips. One camper noted about Paul M. Demmick Campground, "They were closed!" while another shared, "Closes sept 2 until May."
Limited amenities: Most tent sites offer basic facilities. At Jackson Demonstration Forest, a reviewer reported, "No water but fire pits and grills, and picnic tables in campsites."
Wildlife precautions: Secure food properly at all sites. One camper at Paul M. Demmick Campground advised, "Don't leave your food out overnight on the picnic table or that ground squirrel will spirit it away."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds: Some campgrounds offer child-friendly features. A visitor to COE Mendocino Lake Bu-Shay Campground mentioned, "Our young kids had a great time playing on the playground which was an unexpected bonus."
River play areas: Several sites offer safe water access for children. At Jackson Demonstration Forest, a camper noted, "Nice day use area with tables and creek for playing in."
Spacing between sites: Families appreciate room for activities. A visitor to COE Mendocino Lake Bu-Shay Campground reported, "The sites are spacious and there are a mix of shady and sunny sites."
Weekday visits: For quieter family experiences, avoid peak times. One camper suggested, "We stayed on a Saturday night and there weren't that many other people in the campground. I'm not sure why it's not busier."
Tips from RVers
Small RV access: Most tent campgrounds can accommodate modest-sized RVs. At Red Mountain, one visitor advised, "This location was 6 miles from civilization down a windy road, then up a mountain side. If you like driving off road then the trip would be worth it."
Dump stations: Limited facilities exist for RVers. COE Mendocino Lake Bu-Shay Campground provides sanitary dump options, with one camper noting, "The camp facilities are fine. The flush bathrooms are fine, and there are free showers."
Road challenges: Larger vehicles face access issues at most sites. About Usal Beach, a camper reported, "Drove my volvo xc70 to the sand. You'll at least need awd to go the whole way. Takes about 30 mins."
Seasonal consideration: RVers should check weather conditions. A visitor to Red Mountain advised, "You should bring a solar shower and water to drink and cook with, as there is none."
