Glamping close to Mendocino National Forest offers diverse accommodation options across the 913,000-acre forest spanning six counties in Northern California. The forest's terrain varies significantly with elevations ranging from 750 to over 7,000 feet, creating distinct camping microclimates throughout the region. Most glamping facilities remain accessible year-round, though winter road conditions can limit access to higher elevation sites.
What to do
Water recreation at Lake Pillsbury: Fuller Grove Group Campground provides excellent lake access with spacious campsites leading directly to the water. "The campground beach is beautiful, definitely recommend some late-night stargazing," notes Marc A., highlighting the prime shoreline position.
Fishing opportunities: The Aurora RV Park & Marina offers fishing right from waterfront campsites. "You can fish right from your camp spot if you get a spot right on the water," explains Tamera J., who appreciated the convenient access to Clear Lake.
Wildlife viewing: Middle Creek Campground offers opportunities to observe local birds and wildlife. "You can hear the creek running along the camp, as well as the wild turkeys. There must be over 15 different species of birds as well," according to Donna M., who visited during spring.
Explore nearby towns: When staying at upscale glamping accommodations near Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort, visitors can venture into Willits (just 5 minutes away). "Cool little camping spot outside of Willits. Has a western themed town that hold little dances and ice cream parlor parties for kids," shares Amaya L.
What campers like
Private beach access: Westport Beach RV Park provides exclusive beach frontage without public crowds. "The beach is private so it's just you and the other campers," writes steven T., emphasizing the secluded coastal experience not found at state parks.
Spacious sites: Fuller Grove Group Campground offers generously sized camping areas ideal for multiple tents. "The sites are BIG, and the ones that lead to the water give you best access to the lake," reports Erin O., highlighting the ample space for families.
On-site boat rentals: The Aurora RV Park & Marina provides complimentary watercraft for guests. "They offer FREE canoe/paddle boating," notes Melissa C., adding that the owner is "amazing" and "very helpful" with getting visitors on the water.
Clean facilities: Middle Creek Campground maintains well-kept common areas despite its rustic setting. "Each campsite has a picnic table, fire pit as well as a bbq grill. They do have vault toilets and running water," shares Donna M., who found it to be "heaven of peaceful tranquility."
What you should know
Road access challenges: Several Mendocino glamping sites involve difficult access roads. Justin W. warns about Middle Creek Campground: "Elk mountain road, especially the part leading up to the top of the mountain right as you leave the campground is an absolutely terrible road, it needs a lot of maintenance."
Seasonal variations: Westport Beach RV Park and Campground experiences different crowd levels throughout the year. "Quiet in the off season. Fires on the beach are great. Rediscovered this place in February and have reservations for November," shares Outdoordude D.
Wildlife precautions: Forest campgrounds require food storage discipline. At North Fork Campground, one camper noted "Tons of wildlife. Fox, deer, raccoon, etc. keep your food locked up at all times," emphasizing the importance of secure storage.
Reservation requirements: Most premium glamping sites need advance booking. For Narrows Lodge Resort, visitors should secure reservations weeks ahead during summer, while shoulder seasons offer more flexibility.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort provides extensive children's activities. "We were there for movie night. They had a big screen and showed a film for the kiddos," Donna D. explains, highlighting the family-friendly programming.
Beach accessibility: When glamping with children, consider sites with sandy shores. "They bring in sand for the beach which makes it a really nice experience," says Erika L. about The Narrows Lodge Resort, noting the added comfort for families with small children.
Animal interactions: Some resorts feature petting zoos that entertain younger campers. "The petting zoo was also super cute and the animals seemed like they were well taken care of," reports Erika L. about her family's experience at Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort.
Space for multiple tents: For larger family groups, Fuller Grove offers ideal accommodations. "It's a small loop with great options for multi-tent camping. Some of the sites far from the entrance and along the water are very nice with multiple pads and tables," notes Marc A.
Tips from RVers
Premium sites with extras: The Narrows Lodge Resort offers luxury glamping near Mendocino National Forest with waterfront positions. "We stayed in the Lakeview spot and had the entire place to ourselves during the week," shares Raven P., adding that "the views are absolutely amazing!"
Seasonal crowds: RVers should consider timing when planning glamping trips. Zach P. notes about The Narrows Lodge Resort, "It's a family RV & cabin campground with a lot of great amenities," but recommends weekday visits during summer to avoid crowds.
Road width limitations: The narrow access road to Narrows Lodge Resort requires planning arrival and departure times carefully. "The road is a little tight to get into this resort (1 lane road with traffic going both ways with few pull offs)," warns Raven P., suggesting adhering to the staggered check-in/check-out schedule.
Hot tub options: Luxury glamping sites sometimes include private hot tubs. "We stayed in one of the premium hot tub sites, where you get your very own hot tub," shares Erika L. about Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort, recommending these premium sites for families.
