Joshcfi 
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GuideDoran Regional Park
Close to nice beach
Hard to get reservations but worth it. Super close to beach. Some spots have trees with shade.
Camping near Gualala, CA
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Camping near Gualala, California ranges from oceanfront RV sites with full hookups to tent sites under old-growth redwoods along the Pacific coastline. Gualala Point Regional Park and Gualala River Redwood Park provide developed campgrounds with tent and RV sites within a mile of downtown Gualala. Anchor Bay Campground offers oceanfront camping with full hookups for RVs. These campgrounds provide varying levels of amenities, from basic tent sites to those with electric, water, and sewer connections. Most campgrounds in this region accommodate both tent and RV camping, with some offering cabin options farther inland at places like Manchester Beach/Mendocino Coast KOA.
Seasonal considerations shape the camping experience along this stretch of Northern California coast. The region experiences cool, foggy mornings even in summer months, with wind conditions that can vary significantly. Most campgrounds require reservations, particularly during peak summer and fall weekends when the moderate coastal climate attracts visitors seeking relief from inland heat. Gualala Point Regional Park and other coastal campgrounds feature coin-operated showers, flush toilets, and designated fire rings with firewood available for purchase. Cell service can be limited in areas surrounded by dense redwood groves. According to one camper, "We came for two nights in late November. The days are short and the canopy of the redwoods created a pitch black surrounding. I can imagine on a hot day the trees would create a desired coolness."
Campers consistently highlight the natural beauty of the area, particularly the unique combination of redwood forests, river access, and Pacific Ocean views. Sites along the Gualala River receive positive reviews for their proximity to both freshwater recreation and beaches. Gualala River Redwood Park features spacious campsites under redwoods with river view options and trails leading to the water. A visitor noted, "Beautiful, large sites under the redwoods and along the Gualala River. The campground offers partial hook-ups with a dump service for a fee." The campgrounds nearest to town provide convenient access to Gualala's shops and restaurants while still maintaining a natural setting. Proximity to hiking trails and beach access are frequently mentioned as highlights in user reviews, with many campgrounds offering direct trail connections to the shoreline.
Best Campgrounds near Gualala (124)
1. Gualala Point Regional Park
"Gualala Point Regional Park Campground is the most beautiful place I've ever been. It's towering redwoods, the Gualala river and the Pacific ocean all in one place."
"Great walk to the ocean from the campsite. Downtown Gualala was cute too."
from $35 - $45 / night
Check Availability2. Anchor Bay Campground
"We found this campsite tucked away near Gualala during the lockdown in January. Almost every campground was closed after CA hospitalizations peaked, so this private campground saved our trip!"
"Beautiful scenery around the campground as it lays right in the edge of the ocean, instant walk to the beach."
from $66 - $83 / night
Check Availability3. Gualala River Redwood Park
"My husband and I loved this Redwood forest campground in the town of Gualala. There’s so much to do near by and the general vibe of the campers there was mellow and artistic."
"There's a volley ball area, ping pong tables and lots of great trails to venture out on."
4. Woodside Campground — Salt Point State Park
"I've taken my 3 kids a couple of times now, and it's such a great location along the Sonoma Coast."
"The sites are tucked on the hillside amongst mixed evergreen forests, redwoods, ferns, and oaks. The sites all have picnics tables with food lockers, large fire pits, and privacy."
5. Salt Point State Park Campground
"This area has fascinating California history and this special campground is right in the middle of it."
"Along the forgotten coast of Central California along Hwy 1, this small state park offers a great way to explore the area. "
from $35 - $200 / night
Check Availability6. Manchester Beach / Mendocino Coast KOA
"We've spent most of our twenty years of camping together off the beaten path, avoiding the likes of anything KOA, but for our RV's maiden voyage we thought we'd start with the Machester Beach KOA, and"
"The location is surrounded by a lot of fun things to do. The site has 2 parks, trails, pool/hot tub, and so much more."
7. Ocean Cove Store and Campground
"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."
"Ocean Cove is a private campground right off Highway one. The owners are very friendly and helpful and they also own the grocery store across from the campsites."
from $28 - $280 / night
Check Availability8. Hendy Woods State Park Campground
"This California State Park is located in the Anderson Valley, a historic agricultural area located in the Navarro river watershed. While only 120-ish miles from San Francisco, this area is remote. "
"The sites are situated among towering redwoods. Which blocks the amazing clear night skies, but offer there own beauty.
It was great! The nearby towns or phill and boonville are super cute."from $45 - $70 / night
Check Availability9. Stillwater Cove Regional Park
"Short walk to a rocky beach across highway 1. Beach is not for swimming since the rip tides are dangerous. Abalone diving for experienced folks."
"There is a boil notice for the whole campground to not consume unboiled water due to testing positive for E. Coli."
from $32 - $35 / night
Check Availability10. Manchester State Park Campground
"Next to koa. Just a power plant between you and the ocean via a long walk."
"The campground is just above the driftwood beach offering walks in solitude with the breaking waves in the background."
from $35 / night
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Drive Time
- 1 hr 37 min from Santa Rosa, CA
- 2 hrs 10 min from Vallejo, CA
- 2 hrs 16 min from Napa, CA
- 2 hrs 23 min from San Francisco, CA
Recent Camping Photos near Gualala, CA
289 Photos of 124 Gualala Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Gualala Point Regional ParkR
Gualala River Redwood Park
Anchor Bay Campground
Manchester Beach / Mendocino Coast KOAE
Salt Point State Park Campground
Manchester State Park Campground
Woodside Campground — Salt Point State ParkE
Ocean Cove Store and Campground
Stillwater Cove Regional Park
Madera Encantada
Hendy Woods State Park Campground
Liberty Glen Campground - Temporarily Closed for Maintenance
Recent Reviews near Gualala, CA
763 Reviews of 124 Gualala Campgrounds
- EEdgar V.
TravelerDoran Regional Park
Cool spot but low privacy and constant horn
I stayed here for one night and overall had a good experience. The location is beautiful and very convenient, with the beach right across the road and the water nearby. It was calm, scenic, and there were lots of birds around. The bathrooms and showers were clean, and the shower had warm water.
The sites are very close together, though, so there is essentially no privacy between campsites. The shower was also a little expensive at around $2 for only a few minutes of water.
The biggest issue for me was the foghorn. I actually timed it, and it went off roughly every 10 seconds, apparently 24/7. It was extremely loud and continued day and night, whether there was fog or not. Some people may find it soothing, but I found it impossible to ignore, especially at night. Honestly, this is the main reason I wouldn't stay here again.
Overall, it's a nice campground in a great location, but the lack of privacy and especially the constant foghorn are significant drawbacks.
- EEdgar V.Traveler
Russian Gulch State Park Campground
Amazing
I had such a great experience at Russian Gulch Campground! I stayed at Site 12, and it was quiet, clean, and surrounded by beautiful scenery. There was a spring nearby, and the bathrooms and showers were very clean. The showers even had warm water, and at just $1 for five minutes, the price was very reasonable.
The campground staff were also incredibly helpful and friendly—always happy to answer questions. There is no cell reception at the campsites, but if you need to connect, the recreation center near the entrance has Wi-Fi, which was a really nice option.
Overall, this was honestly one of my favorite camping experiences. I had a very pleasant stay and will definitely be returning!
- GGlen B.
LegendNavarro Beach Campground — Navarro River Redwoods State Park
Last dose of vitamin sea.
I convinced myself to stay on the coast one more night and gambled I'd get a spot here, and it paid off gangbusters. Cramped sites were a bummer, but cool neighbors and an awesome sunset made it a minor detail.
- GGabriel A.Traveler
Camp Russian River
Riverfront on the Russian River
Great campground on the Russian River. Big grassy area for single or group camping. Friendly staff. Walking distance to downtown Guerneville.
Jasmin W.TravelerCOE Mendocino Lake Bu-Shay Campground
Peaceful and Empty
Upside: almost no one here, including security and onsite host (private and undisturbed), no road noise, great playground, bathrooms, showers and water views.
Downside: no onsite host, book online (reserveca.com). Some spots are VERY OPEN no privacy and all overgrown meadow. Campsite is above lake, no access feom campground. Not all water faucets have hose attachment.
See attached map for most private $35 spots ( not waterfront) and the blue dot has a water spiket with hose attachment.
Stuart K.LegendSalt Point State Park Campground
The First Campground I Ever Shared With My Daughters
Some campgrounds stay with you because of the scenery, while others become part of your family history ... and Salt Point will forever be both for me. Perched along one of the wildest stretches of the Sonoma Coast, this coastal park combines six miles of rugged Pacific shoreline with grasslands and forest, and its two primary campgrounds offer very different experiences: Gerstle Cove sits on the ocean side of Highway 1, while Woodside is tucked into the trees inland. Together they have 109 developed campsites, most with level paved pads, picnic tables, food lockers and fire rings, but no hookups or showers.
What makes Salt Point truly special is everything waiting beyond the campsite. Trails lead along rocky bluffs, through forests and down toward Gerstle Cove, while tide pools, extraordinary sandstone formations and the pounding Pacific make this feel wonderfully removed from civilization. There are more than 20 miles of trails and Stump Beach provides the park's only sandy beach.
But none of that is why I remember this place so vividly. Salt Point was the very first place I ever took my daughters camping. I can still remember that wonderful mixture of excitement and uncertainty that comes with introducing your children to something you love: setting up camp together, watching them explore this enormous new outdoor world and realizing that what felt like a simple weekend away was quietly becoming one of those family memories you carry forever. At least for me, that is true.
This is real camping rather than resort camping: no electricity, no showers and no dump station, while the nearest gas stations are roughly 18 miles away. Tent campers should feel particularly at home here and I’d favor Woodside, which is where we stayed, for its more sheltered, forested camping experience; however, choose Gerstle Cove if quicker access to the rugged coastline is what brought you here. Either way, come prepared for changing coastal weather and embrace the simplicity as that's part of Salt Point's magic.
Insider’s Tip: If this is your first visit, don't spend the entire trip at the campsite. Walk the Salt Point Trail around Gerstle Cove and give the kids time simply to explore the shoreline. Years later, they probably won't remember whether the campsite was perfectly level, but you may be surprised by what they do remember.
Happy Camping!
- EEmma B.Traveler
Porto Bodega Marina & RV Park
Nice RV Park
I enjoyed my two night stay here, the location is great right on the water.
Campsites are very close together and the Bodega Bay foghorn goes off every 10 seconds 24/7 and that got annoying.
Great for Starlink
- TTtowleGuide
ocean cove campground
Million dollar views
Paved interior roads, dirt and grass campsites with table and fire pit. Porta-potties. No hookups. Campground is on a cliff overlooking the ocean.
Guide to Gualala
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.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping sites are available directly in Gualala, California?
What camping sites are available directly in Gualala, California?
For camping directly in Gualala, Gualala River Redwood Park is the premier option. This large private campground offers spacious, private sites under towering redwoods along the Gualala River. The park provides partial hookups for RVs with both an onsite dump station and fee-based dump service. Amenities include a camp store for essentials, clean showers, and flush toilets. Many sites offer river views, and the campground is popular with families - kids enjoy riding bikes throughout the property. Located within the town boundaries, it's just a short distance from local attractions including the Gualala Arts Center, which hosts events like the Art in the Redwoods Festival. The campground's location combines forest serenity with convenient access to town services.
Where are the best campgrounds near Gualala, CA?
Where are the best campgrounds near Gualala, CA?
The Gualala area offers several excellent camping options. Gualala Point Regional Park is a standout choice with 19 general and 6 walk-in sites nestled among redwoods and bay laurel trees along the Gualala River. It features level sites with bear boxes, picnic tables, and fire rings, plus trails to the ocean. Another great option is Anchor Bay Campground, a hidden gem tucked away near Gualala with private sites. For those willing to drive a bit further, Salt Point State Park's Woodside Campground and Bodega Dunes Campground offer beautiful coastal camping experiences. Most campgrounds in the area provide access to stunning forest and ocean landscapes, making them perfect for nature lovers looking to experience the magic of the Sonoma/Mendocino coast.
Are there cabins available for camping in Gualala?
Are there cabins available for camping in Gualala?
While traditional campgrounds in Gualala primarily offer tent and RV sites, cabin accommodations are limited in the immediate area. For those seeking cabin-style accommodations near Gualala, your best options are vacation rentals through local property management companies rather than traditional campgrounds. Ocean Cove Store and Campground south of Gualala sometimes offers basic shelter options, though these are not full cabins. For proper cabin accommodations, consider Manchester Beach / Mendocino Coast KOA which offers cabin rentals about 20 miles north of Gualala. These provide a comfortable alternative to tent camping while still allowing you to enjoy the coastal experience and easy access to Gualala's attractions.
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