The coastal region surrounding Gualala, California sits at the northern edge of Sonoma County, where redwood forests meet the Pacific at an elevation of around 100 feet. Summer fog often persists until midday, with temperatures remaining cool even during July and August, rarely exceeding 70°F. The area's campgrounds feature varying terrain from forested inland sites to bluff-top ocean views, with wildlife encounters common throughout the region.
What to do
River adventures: Kayaking and swimming in the Gualala River can be accessed directly from Gualala River Redwood Park. The river flows all the way to the ocean and remains calm enough for family swimming. "The river is great for kids it is not fast moving currents," notes one camper who found the area perfect for paddling.
Tide pool exploration: Check low tide tables at ranger stations for the best times to view marine life at Salt Point State Park Campground. The ecological area features numerous inlets and coves for discovery. "The rocky beach area is great for wildlife viewing, we saw sea lions, seals, and even the occasional spout from migrating gray whales," according to a visitor.
Mushroom hunting: Permitted in certain areas during fall and winter when conditions are right. The damp coastal forest provides ideal growing conditions. "Salt point state park is a very relaxing place for me salt air cool breeze very quiet with just the sounds of surrounding forest and the ocean in the distance... We gathered all day. The booty for me was 5 lbs roughly of black boletes and 2 lbs of chatrelles," shares one enthusiast.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate the natural separation at Woodside Campground. "Only 23 spots, but forested and lots of space," reports one visitor who found availability even on a holiday weekend. "Sites are small, but private. Nice hiking and close to ocean preserve," notes another camper.
Oceanside camping options: Some locations offer direct views and sounds of waves. "We camped right on an ocean cliff in October of 2019 and it was the most beautiful campsite we've ever stayed at," writes a reviewer at Ocean Cove Store and Campground. Many sites sit on bluffs with panoramic ocean views, though these spots fill quickly.
Coin-operated shower facilities: Available at several campgrounds despite remote locations. "Clean bathrooms. Coin operated showers. Friendly staff," reports an Anchor Bay visitor. Most campgrounds maintain basic bathroom facilities despite their isolated coastal positioning.
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Raccoons can be aggressive at some campgrounds, particularly at night. "Raccoons were extremely aggressive and even ate its way into a tent at 2AM," warns one camper at Gualala Point Regional Park. Proper food storage in provided boxes is essential.
Fog and wind conditions: The area experiences consistent fog, especially morning hours, with afternoon wind common at exposed sites. "Always windy. Great scenery, and many of the tent sites are tucked away in little nooks and crannies for privacy if you don't want the more open outer ring sites," notes one visitor about coastal exposure.
Cell service limitations: Coverage varies dramatically throughout the area, with some campgrounds offering no service. At Hendy Woods State Park Campground, a camper noted: "I managed to get enough cell signal to work from my trailer. Even a video Zoom conference on at&t hotspot!" Signal generally improves at higher elevations.
Water availability concerns: Some campgrounds occasionally issue water quality warnings. "When we arrived all of the water faucets were placarded with E. Coli warnings! I only brought up about 1/3 of a tank of water along with 6 gallons of drinking water," reports a Stillwater Cove visitor who recommends bringing extra water.
Tips for camping with families
Junior Ranger programs: Available at state park locations during summer months with guided activities and evening events. "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.
Protected swimming areas: The Gualala River offers safer water recreation than ocean beaches. "There is a nice trail to the beach but expect a longer walk. Your camp fees cover parking at the beach access across the road," explains a Gualala Point camper. Ocean beaches often have dangerous conditions not suitable for swimming.
Evening entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer organized activities after dark. "We enjoyed having a full kitchen available and the community entertainment like s'mores around the campfire," notes a visitor at Manchester Beach / Mendocino Coast KOA where movie nights are regularly scheduled.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Many coastal sites require careful positioning. "Numerous dips and slopes made leveling difficult. Electric hookups and water spigots were at odd locations, and if you plan to use these, have long hoses/cables," advises an RV camper about Gualala River Redwood Park.
Limited dump station access: Plan ahead for sanitation needs. "The sewer dump was also there, and no provision was made to easily return to your campsite if you needed to dump mid-stay. You had to drive out of the campground and find a spot to turn around," reports one RVer who recommends planning carefully.
Power considerations: Electrical hookups vary in quality and availability. "Electric power was low - our microwave typically took 25-50% longer to heat, and water pressure was very low," notes a camper, suggesting bringing surge protectors and being prepared for variable utility quality.
