Mendocino's coastal campgrounds sit at elevations between 100-400 feet above sea level, with average summer temperatures ranging from 60-75°F during peak camping season. Fall brings slightly cooler temperatures and reduced campground occupancy. Winter rainfall averages 40 inches annually, concentrated between November and March, creating seasonal creek access points and affecting trail conditions.
What to do
Beach exploration at dawn/dusk: Mackerricher State Park Campground offers direct beach access with multiple 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 camper Mea H., who appreciates the protected coastal location.
Hiking the Fern Canyon trail: Russian Gulch State Park Campground features several hiking trails. As camper MarinMaverick describes, "Great Fern Canyon trail and waterfall trail back in the gorge. You can explore all the Mendociono Coast from here." Trails range from 1-5 miles in length with moderate difficulty ratings.
Wildlife observation opportunities: Jackson Demonstration Forest provides inland habitat for diverse wildlife. Camper Danielle F. explains the experience as "Beautiful, clean and peaceful. Plenty of trails to explore and Noyo River meanders through the center." The forest's location 6 miles from Fort Bragg offers convenient access to extensive trail networks.
What campers like
Protected camping areas: Mackerricher State Park Campground offers wind-sheltered sites. "This campground is protected by a buffer of coastal trees. It's not nearly as windy at the campground as it is on the beach," notes Mea H., highlighting the practical advantage for tent campers and evening campfires.
River access at campsites: Russian Gulch State Park Campground features water features within the camping area. Camper Sara S. found "Site 15 was a gem! We felt it was quite secluded compared to others sites at CA state parks we have encountered and there was a nice creek running near the site as well."
Secluded forest settings: Usal Beach Campsites provide both beach and forest camping options. "Some people in our group camped on the sand (got a bit windy at night), some in the meadow a bit more inland and even one guy set up his hammock tent in the trees- lots of great options!" shares Rachel O., highlighting the diverse terrain options.
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access to Usal Beach Campsites requires preparation. "The road to reach the beach is only about 5 miles long, but It will take you around 45 minutes! We felt like we were driving through Jurassic park to get there. Speaking of Jurassic park, you will need a decent clearance vehicle," advises Stephanie S.
Shower availability and costs: State parks typically require tokens for showers. At Mackerricher State Park Campground, "Showers require tokens. This seems pretty standard in California State Parks but it's successful at deterring us from showering every night. One token gives 4 minutes of showering. Each token is $1," explains Mea H.
Limited equestrian facilities: While researching horse campgrounds near Mendocino, California reveals minimal options with dedicated equestrian amenities, COE Mendocino Lake Bu-Shay Campground allows pets and has spacious sites. Joshua H. notes, "The sites are spacious and there are a mix of shady and sunny sites," though specific horse facilities aren't mentioned.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: COE Mendocino Lake Bu-Shay Campground offers playground facilities. "Our young kids had a great time playing on the playground which was an unexpected bonus," shares Joshua H., noting this unexpected family-friendly feature near Ukiah.
Beach day trips with children: Mackerricher State Park Campground provides convenient coastal access. "This campground was so much fun, very dog friendly! Campgrounds were nice and well kept, and just a short walk to the beach!" reports Jessica N., highlighting the family-friendly amenities.
Food storage considerations: Russian Gulch State Park Campground provides bear lockers at campsites. Marcia M. notes, "This is a lovely, peaceful campsite with so many positives. Great hiking trails, a small protected beach, helpful camp host, and well-maintained showers and flush toilets." The bear lockers ensure food safety for family camping trips.
Tips from RVers
Dumping station costs: Mackerricher State Park Campground has a mandatory dump station fee. "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," explains Mea H., noting this important consideration for RV travelers.
Water fill locations: Dump and water services vary by campground. Middle Creek Campground provides only basic water access. Justin W. explains, "It's got dropped toilets and it has potable water. Problem is that 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."
Off-grid capabilities needed: Equestrian-friendly camping near Mendocino generally requires self-sufficiency. Oak Flat Campground provides basic amenities but requires preparation. "The campground has vaulted toilets non-flushable of course. There is water at the campground except during the winter as they shut it off to keep the pipes from bursting," advises Keith B.
