Mendocino Lake sits at approximately 750 feet elevation in California's northern coastal range. The lake covers 1,922 acres and features several recreation areas with varying amenities and access points. Camping options around the lake range from state parks with full facilities to more rustic Corps of Engineers campgrounds, with most sites becoming significantly less crowded on weekdays in early fall.
What to do
Explore coastal trails: At Mackerricher State Park Campground, visitors can access hiking trails that lead to secluded beaches and tide pools. "The campground is adjacent to the beach. You can hear the ocean and sometimes catch peeks of the ocean from the campground," notes reviewer Mea H., who added that "There's a trail to the beach and Laguna Point isn't far."
Fish from designated docks: Narrows Lodge Resort offers a dock specifically for fishing access. "We received a key to our own bathroom and shower! They had a sink to wash dishes in and a place to clean our fish. We rented a motor boat for a few hours to explore the beautiful lake," shares Jessica R.
Visit local wineries: The Anderson Valley wine region surrounds Hendy Woods State Park Campground, making it an excellent base for wine tasting. "Great campground in the Anderson Valley. Anderson Valley is a Pinot Noir region so wineries surround the campground. Booneville is a cute nearby town with kid friendly Anderson Valley Brewery and Pennyroyal Cheese Farm," says Beth K.
What campers like
Spacious, grassy sites: The COE Mendocino Lake Bu-Shay Campground features large sites with natural cushioning. "The camp facilities are fine. The sites are spacious and there are a mix of shady and sunny sites. The flush bathrooms are fine, and there are free showers," according to Joshua H., who also mentioned good cell coverage with Verizon.
Free amenities: Unlike other regional campgrounds, some locations offer complimentary services. At Bu-Shay Campground, "There are bathrooms with showers. Water spickets everywhere and I think there are also dumping stations for people with RVs," notes Israel M.
Less crowded fall weekdays: Most Mendocino Lake campgrounds see dramatic reductions in visitors after summer. "We stayed Sat-Mon and it was pretty much empty by Sun (workweek + predicted rain). Everyone else staying the weekend was very friendly and helpful," writes Maddy S. about her experience at Bushay Recreation Area.
What you should know
Narrow access roads: Some resorts have challenging approach roads. At Narrows Lodge Resort, "The road is a little tight to get into this resort (1 lane road with traffic going both ways with few pull offs) but the views are absolutely amazing!" warns Raven P.
Variable shower conditions: Shower facilities vary widely between campgrounds. At Mackerricher State Park, "The shower water temperature is finicky in the women's bathroom. When it's just one person showering, it's nice and hot. When two showers are going, the water temperature drops a bit," explains reviewer Mea H.
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds require advance booking, especially in summer. Maddy S. notes at Middle Creek Campground: "Heads up! Advanced reservation is required."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Bu-Shay Campground offers play equipment for children. "Our young kids had a great time playing on the playground which was an unexpected bonus," mentions Joshua H.
Junior ranger programs: Structured activities keep children engaged at certain parks. At Hendy Woods, "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," explains one camper.
Dog-friendly beaches: For families camping with pets, Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort offers dog-friendly recreation areas. "This is a great family campground. Bring your kids, plenty to do for them," states Theo A. The resort maintains designated areas where dogs can access water safely under supervision.
Tips from RVers
Dump station fees: Be prepared for additional charges at some locations. Mea H. notes about Mackerricher State Park: "The dump station has a mandatory fee of $10. You pay with a credit card. When payment is approved, the cap to the dump hole unlocks."
Site leveling: Some campgrounds offer better RV parking than others. At Mackerricher, one RVer reported: "Campsites are level and have enough space between them for adequate privacy. Our site along the beach side allowed for an easy walk to to the ocean."
Internet connectivity: Reception varies widely around Mendocino Lake. Joshua H. reports about Bu-Shay Campground: "We had OK cell coverage with Verizon- we could usually browse the internet but streaming videos were difficult (you could download and watch them pretty quickly, but just streaming was hit and miss)."
