Mendocino County RV parks offer diverse camping options from coastal bluffs to inland forests. The region spans elevations from sea level to over 2,000 feet, creating varied camping conditions throughout the year. Winter temperatures average 45-55°F with significant rainfall, while summer temperatures range from 60-80°F with foggy coastal mornings.
What to Do
Petting zoo visits: Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort maintains a small animal area where children can interact with farm animals. "The petting zoo was a family favorite. The animals seemed like they were well taken care of," notes a visitor to Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort.
Beach exploration: The coastline offers numerous access points for tide pool exploration and beachcombing. "You can camp right on the beach or just steps away. You can walk to the beach from your campsite and watch the sun set," according to a camper at Westport Union Landing State Beach.
Water recreation: Clear Lake provides opportunities for boating and fishing directly from some campgrounds. "Aurora has two sites that are across the road from each other. One is on the water with back up sites. The RV park has a few boats to rent. Fishing allowed but may require a permit," reports a visitor to The Aurora RV Park & Marina.
What Campers Like
Family-oriented activities: Several RV parks Mendocino Lake area feature dedicated children's facilities. "Designed for families, this KOA a lot. A petting zoo, water play, pool, arcade and events. We were there for movie night. They had a big screen and showed a film for the kiddos," reports a guest at Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort.
Ocean views: Coastal campgrounds provide direct views of the Pacific. "You are perched out in the open on a bluff above the ocean. So the view and sunsets are epic," writes a camper at Westport Union Landing State Beach.
Proximity to attractions: Many campgrounds serve as convenient bases for regional exploration. "Good location near City bike path and walking distance to several stores and restaurants," notes a visitor to Harbor RV Park in Fort Bragg.
What You Should Know
Seasonal considerations: Winter camping requires preparation for wet conditions. "It is inside a gully that gets very little sun. I stayed the end of December through New Years. Not a bad place to hang out. But damp," warns a camper at Caspar Beach RV Park & Campground.
Site privacy varies: Campground layouts differ significantly throughout the region. "This is a rustic park with no sewer hookups, so you need to bring a sewer caddy. They are remodeling and repairing and it is coming along very nicely," reports a camper at Thousand Trails Russian River.
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds require careful navigation. "Minamalist site - table and fire ring with primitive toilets," notes a camper about certain coastal sites, while others mention "the road to get into" some campgrounds can be challenging.
Tips for Camping with Families
Water activities: Several parks feature water recreation specifically for children. "We stayed in one of the premium hot tub sites, where you get your very own hot tub. Highly recommend, my kids absolutely loved it! We were just a few steps from the pool, which was clean, but pretty cold," reports a visitor to Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort.
Recreational facilities: Look for campgrounds with dedicated play areas. "Has a western themed town that hold little dances and ice cream parlor parties for kids. This KOA also has a mini waterpark as well," notes a camper about Mendocino Redwoods.
Age-appropriate campgrounds: Consider campground atmosphere based on children's ages. "We stopped here overnight on our way up the coast. Definitely wouldn't come back for long term camping as we have older teenagers. The facility is definitely geared toward families with smaller kids," advises a visitor to Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort.
Tips from RVers
Space considerations: Site dimensions vary significantly between parks. "Spaces are tight but safe. Trees give an air of privacy. Located on fairgrounds so expect drag racing and lots of events on weekends," notes a visitor to Redwood Empire Fair RV Park.
Utility connections: Available hookups differ by location. "Nice little rv park. They have hookups and sewer. It is more or less an rv Park for people working in the area or staying for longer periods of time," reports a camper at Redwood Empire Fair RV Park.
Seasonal availability: Popular RV parks Mendocino Lake area fill quickly during summer months. "We were lucky to get a site right next to the beach for our class B RV. This is a beautiful site along Highway 1," shares a visitor at Westport Beach RV Park.
