Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Mendocino, CA has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that California camping has to offer. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.
"It was easy to find the access road by the mile marker on Hwy. 1."
"It was our first time dispersed camping. We fell in LOVE!! The 45 min dirt road was filled with amazing views early morning. Will definitely be coming back here more often."
"The trail in is basically an old mountain pass logging road that isn't maintained the best. It's narrow in spots and steep grade. I towed my offroad camper up without issue but its only 13ft long."
"Only drawback is proximity to the access road and a bit exposed."
"Love going to the tech course with our off road buggy. Crawled all over that hill."
GuideIt was easy to find the access road by the mile marker on Hwy. 1.
The road itself is rough and could be very unsettling for anyone trying to do this trip in a vehicle without good off-road clearance. The ruts can be big and cause bottoming out of street cars. For the most part, the road is easy, but challenging in some spots and skinny. You may have to make way or room for oncoming vehicles.
The area has plenty of campsites and fires are allowed. You can choose to shelter in the wooded areas or setup right on the beach. Beware of the deep sand. Lots of folks get stuck here, so drive carefully.
I loved this place, but so many people know about it. Prepare for neighbors sharing the area. Still it was secluded enough to really enjoy.
What do I have to say about it further? Dude! It's Northern CA. It's the Pacific Ocean. It's a dream combo you can only experience by being there. Love this place and keep it clean!
RangerThe trail in is basically an old mountain pass logging road that isn't maintained the best. It's narrow in spots and steep grade. I towed my offroad camper up without issue but its only 13ft long. I wouldn't advise anything much larger then 18ft. I did have to use 4x4 on some of the grades due to the trailer but if just in a vehicle it would be pretty easy. It would definitely present a challenge if it has just rained or was raining. It's true dispersed camping of pack in and pack it out. There's no facilities or trash. Plenty of space to spread out. Don't forget to air down those tires when going out on the beach. I would definitely come back to this one. Also the internet test was based on my Starlink not cell service. I have Verizion and had no service here.
GuideGreat views — and often less soggy than down below on the water and beach. Only drawback is proximity to the access road and a bit exposed.
TravelerIt was our first time dispersed camping. We fell in LOVE!! The 45 min dirt road was filled with amazing views early morning. Will definitely be coming back here more often.
ScoutPicked this campsite on a whim during a trip up the coast. I was looking for an out of the way coastal campground that was still drivable, and boy, this campground did not disappoint. The road coming into Usal is a pretty messed up mountain road thanks to the fact that it's also used by logging trucks. I would really only recommend this road if you have AWD or 4WD, but we did see a Scion TC come into the campground at one point, so do whatever you feel comfortable with. Once you're down in the campground you'll be rewarded with a fairly secluded beach view and have your choice of either camping on the beach itself or camping in the wooded area a bit further back from the shore. We chose the latter, and even with the number of other parties near us, we were still able to find a fairly secluded spot. The only facility on-site is a single pit toilet that's sort of hidden by the entrance road. As far the fee is concerned, I've seen elsewhere that the camping fee is $25 but if there was a place to even pay that we couldn't find it. All in all, a wonderful campsite with some killer views, just be cautious and prepared for the drive in
GuideThe ride up was rough. The views made it all worth it. The camp site was not an option for me. I need something semi level to navigate.
GuideI’ve heard that this place can get crowded during the summer months I’m glad we waited until fall Definitely off the beaten path We were here on a Thursday night on our way to shelter cove via Usal rd
ScoutWe drove our awe small hatchback car - almost didn’t make it over one of the first huge road breakups - but we pushed through & found the beach at the end - I would fo back if I felt more confident in my car/ was driving a vehicle with better tires and higher clearance - it was glorious
ScoutYou will need at least a quarter of a foot of clearance to make it up the road, it is IMPASSABLE if the road is wet. We saw people getting rescued by firefighters. BE VERY CAREFUL
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Mendocino, California, where nature's tranquility meets adventure. This region offers unique spots for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the great outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Mendocino, CA is Usal Beach Campground with a 4.9-star rating from 9 reviews.
TheDyrt.com has all 4 dispersed camping locations near Mendocino, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
