The Mendocino coastline maintains year-round cool temperatures, typically between 50-60°F, with frequent fog and mist creating distinctive camping conditions. Many campgrounds along this stretch sit within sight or sound of the Pacific Ocean, with some positioned at river mouths where freshwater meets saltwater. Several tent camping areas feature minimal protection from coastal winds, requiring proper gear and setup techniques.
What to do
Explore glass beach: Head to Pomo RV Park & Campground for easy access to Fort Bragg's famous glass beach. "Close to glass beach. Helpful staff. Within walking distance of the beach and a short drive to coastal towns," notes Tim J.
Kayak the river mouth: At Navarro Beach Campground, where the Navarro River meets the Pacific. "The river follows the road to the campsite and connects to the ocean right on the beach," explains Kealan B. "A great spot to watch seals in the ocean and otters in the river," adds Norma Y.
Hike fern canyon trails: Russian Gulch State Park Campground offers several hiking routes through dense vegetation. "Great Fern Canyon trail and waterfall trail back in the gorge," notes MarinMaverick. Marcia M. adds, "Great hiking trails, a small protected beach, helpful camp host, and well-maintained showers and flush toilets."
What campers like
Secluded tent camping sites: The back loop at Pomo RV Park & Campground offers exceptional tent sites. Michael C. explains, "There is a loop at the back of the campground that has at least 10 grassy tent sites under a thick cover of pine trees. It's isolated by a path from the other RV sites, and I was really impressed by the area!"
Protection from coastal winds: Many campers appreciate Mackerricher State Park Campground's natural wind barriers. "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," explains Mea H.
Private site layouts: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Mendocino feature natural dividers between sites. At Van Damme State Park Campground, Sarah B. notes, "In my opinion, the upper loop is a more legit campout setting. We loved the space and the trees." Some sites use hedges for privacy, as Nick R. explains, "Nice, quite, clean campground."
What you should know
Shower tokens required: At Mackerricher State Park Campground, "Showers require tokens. One token gives 4 minutes of showering. Each token is $1," explains Mea H. Van Damme has similar pay showers, while Russian Gulch offers free shower facilities.
Limited cell service: Most pet-friendly campgrounds around Mendocino have spotty coverage. At Navarro Beach, Jack R. advises, "It's in a dead zone for cell service other than SMS." Plan communications accordingly.
First-come availability varies: When looking for dog-friendly campsites near Mendocino, timing matters. Autumn J. notes about Navarro Beach, "The only reason for 4 stars is because the campsites cannot be reserved ahead of time, so it is a first come first serve situation." For holiday weekends, arrive by Thursday for best site selection.
Tips for camping with families
Check tide pool timing: At Mackerricher State Park, Jennifer M. notes, "This campground is a short walk to the beach and hiking trails." Plan tide pool visits around low tide schedules posted at ranger stations.
Consider site location carefully: At Russian Gulch, Marcia M. explains, "The sites on that side of the creek get almost no sun during the day, so everything was a little damp all the time." Choose sunnier sites when camping with children to keep gear dry.
Bring driftwood activities: Navarro Beach Campground offers unique driftwood play opportunities. "People build incredible driftwood structures on the beach," notes Norma Y. Danielle F. adds, "So much driftwood huge old whole driftwood redwood trees. Fun for making makeshift forts and there are plenty of crafted playful driftwood structures to explore."
Tips from RVers
Dump station fees vary: At 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," explains Mea H.
Tighter RV spacing at private parks: When seeking dog-friendly RV camping near Mendocino, note that commercial campgrounds typically have closer sites. At Caspar Beach RV Park, Theo A. reports, "It's a super cramped campground for big rigs. Much nicer and more privacy if tenting."
Upper loops recommended: For larger rigs, Theo A. recommends certain areas at Hidden Pines: "The upper loop is definitely the best. Book spot #10 which is the largest and has a good view. Other spots on the outside of the upper loop are good too."
