Best Campgrounds near Navarro, CA
Camping areas near Navarro, California include several state parks and established campgrounds nestled among redwood forests and along the Navarro River. Hendy Woods State Park Campground provides tent, RV, and cabin camping opportunities surrounded by ancient redwoods, while Paul M. Demmick Campground in Navarro River Redwoods State Park offers a more rustic experience. Mixed-use campgrounds like Navarro Beach Campground provide coastal access at the mouth of the Navarro River. The region features a blend of inland forest camping with coastal options just 20 minutes west, creating diverse camping environments within a relatively small geographic area.
Access to many campgrounds varies seasonally, with Paul M. Demmick occasionally closing due to flooding during winter months. Most developed campgrounds in the area maintain year-round operations, though reservations are strongly recommended during summer and fall weekends. First-come, first-served sites fill quickly, particularly at Paul M. Demmick, which doesn't accept reservations. Cell service is limited throughout the region, with spotty coverage reported at Hendy Woods and virtually none along the Navarro River corridor. Campgrounds along Highway 128 provide convenient access to both Anderson Valley wineries and coastal attractions. As one camper noted, "Paul Dimmick is a nice little campground in the redwoods. Although Hwy 128 runs parallel to it, there isn't much traffic going by so road noise isn't a bother."
Campers consistently praise the redwood forest settings, particularly at Hendy Woods State Park, where ancient trees create a serene atmosphere. The park features hiking trails through old-growth redwood groves and access to the Navarro River for swimming in summer months. Mixed-use campgrounds cater to different preferences, with some sites offering more privacy than others. Several visitors mentioned that despite being family-friendly destinations that can become crowded during peak season, most campgrounds maintain quiet hours effectively. A visitor described Hendy Woods as "a sacred place I will always come back to. The old growth redwoods and rich diversity of plants and fungi really make this place stand out." Poison oak is prevalent throughout the area, requiring caution when exploring off established paths, especially with children or pets.