Mendocino and Sonoma counties offer distinct camping terrain between 0-800 feet elevation, with coastal fog influencing temperatures year-round. Gualala sits at the southern edge of Mendocino County along Highway 1, with camping options ranging from established campgrounds to dispersed sites. While horse-friendly camping can be limited, several alternatives exist within driving distance.
What to do
Hiking to waterfalls: Russian Gulch State Park Campground offers the Fern Canyon trail leading to a 36-foot waterfall. "Great Fern Canyon trail and waterfall trail back in the gorge," notes MarinMaverick, who adds you can "explore all the Mendociono Coast from here."
Beach exploration: Access coastal areas from multiple campgrounds. At Bodega Dunes Campground, Michael I. shares: "The campground itself is pretty nice. Walkable to the Pacific Coast, very walkable to Bodega Harbor, and direct access to the trails of Bodega Head."
Fishing and crabbing: Several coastal campgrounds provide fishing access. Justin B. recommends: "Go to the wharf near by to pick up some live crab to boil over the fire. Overall a great campground for adults and kids."
Wildlife viewing: The forests and coastal areas host diverse wildlife. At Russian Gulch State Park Campground, campers report seeing "giant yellow banana slugs all over, which was pretty neat to see," according to Carly E.
What campers like
Private campsites: Many campers value privacy between sites. Christina H. describes Russian Gulch: "The campsites are so beautiful and surrounded by trees. We couldn't even see our neighbor, it was private and secluded."
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives positive mentions. At Middle Creek Campground, Justin W. notes: "It's very clean. It's in a beautiful location and if you're into four-wheeling or dirt bikes, you're going to have a blast."
Creek access: Water features enhance many camping experiences. Danielle F. describes Jackson Demonstration Forest: "Beautiful, clean and peaceful. Plenty of trails to explore and Noyo River meanders through the center... Nice day use area with tables and creek for playing in."
Group accommodations: For equestrian groups seeking camping near Gualala, some campgrounds offer group sites. Brian K. reports that at Russian Gulch: "The group site was large enough with multiple picnic tables and a large square fire ring/bbq."
What you should know
Horse restrictions: While horseback riding options exist near Gualala, dedicated horse corrals aren't commonly available at campgrounds. Most facilities permit pets but lack equestrian-specific amenities.
Reservation systems: Campgrounds have different reservation policies. At Liberty Glen, April H. explains: "If you talk to the ranger at the gate, most of the time they will let you drive around the grounds and pick any open site."
Coastal conditions: Coastal camping means preparing for weather changes. Leonard H. at Bodega Dunes Campground mentions: "Quiet at night except for non-annoying fog horn and soothing ocean waves over hill."
Sand management: Several coastal sites have sandy terrain. Michael I. warns: "I have to confess that I feel pretty silly for not being as prepared for the sand as I should have been from the name of the campground... Come prepared to deal with sand."
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: Some campgrounds offer child-friendly facilities. Joshua H. at Bu-Shay Campground reports: "Our young kids had a great time playing on the playground which was an unexpected bonus."
Beach access for kids: Family-friendly beaches enhance the camping experience. Ulalume E. describes Bodega Dunes as having "cozy campsites, family vibes. Nice brisk walk to the beach. This is the kind of beach for you if you like long walks and poetry. Doggies love it too."
Bike-friendly areas: Some campgrounds are conducive to children's activities. Emily W. notes about Bodega Dunes: "This is a great place for family, kids rode bikes all weekend. Nobody was too loud or partying late."
Nearby towns: Access to supplies and activities can be important for families. Shari G. mentions: "Bodega Bay has a couple of small grocery stores, gas stations, and more than a few restaurants to meet nearly any craving."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV campers should research site specifications. Emily W. recommends at Bodega Dunes: "If you want a sunny site, go for the center of the loop in the 60s/70s. We prefer shade and some space."
Limited hookups: Many campgrounds near Gualala offer minimal RV amenities. Leonard H. notes about Bodega Dunes: "Selected non-reserved level paved site in 54-89 loop (close to bay)... Good hot water pressure... NOTE: Wright's Beach State Park campground 5-miles north has Overflow camping next to entrance station (no hook-ups)."
RV size limitations: For horse trailers and larger RVs near Gualala, size restrictions apply. Shari G. warns: "They are generally smaller pull-in sites geared more toward tents, vans, and small travel trailers. There are just a handful of sites that can accommodate bigger RVs."
Water access: Water availability varies by campground. Justin W. cautions at Middle Creek: "The spigots don't have any hose fittings, so you can't hook up, which I think is a good thing to keep people from taking over water for an extended period of time."
