8 campgrounds with availability this weekend
Campgrounds near Navarro, California range from developed tent, RV, and cabin sites among ancient redwoods to rustic first-come, first-served spots 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.
"centrally located in within Anderson valley,so one can go for a hike and (cool off in the Navarro river), go next door and eat organic apple, and Saunders down 128 (<1/4 mile) and sip some wine at the"
"It is a short drive to Fort Bragg and other coastal attractions as well as a multitude of wineries."
Available this weekend
from $45 - $70 / night
"The trail for the Bog Trail is right next to the site and the bathroom is around the corner. Campground: The park ranger was super nice and showed us the areas where we could take our pup."
"The campground is dog friendly, although only the Bog Trail allows dogs (or you can walk along the paved road). Dogs are also allowed at the beach across Highway 1."
Available this weekend
from $45 - $160 / night
"We've spent most of our twenty years of camping together off the beaten path, avoiding the likes of anything KOA, but for our RV's maiden voyage we thought we'd start with the Machester Beach KOA, and"
"The location is surrounded by a lot of fun things to do. The site has 2 parks, trails, pool/hot tub, and so much more."
"Wether just for the day or a few overnights Navarro beach never disappoints. It is right off of the highway, yet it feels so secluded. The beach is beautiful and the campsites are roomy."
"BUT you are on this great beach where the Navarro River reaches the sea. Lots of wildlife. Lots of beach walking and great sunsets. Worth the cold and wind."
"The camp is right next to the road, but traffic was minimal. There is some hiking in the area, but no trails from the campground, you will need to drive to a trailhead."
"Nice campsite with around 27 ish spots. First come first serve at $35 as of 2025. I went tent camping but you can probably bring in a small RV."
from $10 - $35 / night
"There are many sites next to the ocean."
"PROS Campground is adjacent to the beach. You can hear the ocean and sometimes catch peeks of the ocean from the campground.
→ Campsites have bear lockers."
from $45 - $260 / night
"Next to koa. Just a power plant between you and the ocean via a long walk."
"The campground is just above the driftwood beach offering walks in solitude with the breaking waves in the background."
from $35 / night
"Clean bathrooms, drinking water was right next to our site."
"While this campground is set off from the highway it is very busy on weekends from tourists out for the day. Lush setting with the hike and bike area located near showers and restrooms."
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $45 - $140 / night
"The walk in sites are secluded and this park has all the amenities including free showers. Dog friendly. I hear it gets very busy in the summertime."
"Our spot was nice and clean and next to the creek. Large enough for our three cars three tents and extra table and plenty of room to set up chairs around the fire for us."
from $47 - $72 / night
"This campground is at the end of the Navarro River, where hiway 128 meets 1 just north of Point Arena. The only real "service" available here is port-a-potties. There are no hookups of any kind."
GuideRough getting here but worth the struggle! Had it to ourselves during the week left Friday. Very windy at night but great sunny in the day. No cell service (Verizon) for me but starlink was fine. Headed out now because we heard it might rain but and that one way dirt road will be a nightmare!
ScoutBeautiful. Not too many people. I would only take a 4x4x
RangerTired from the drive over the mountains rolled in here for a secure night of sleep. Plenty of spots. Electric water, flushers, but bring your quarters for the shower.
RangerHeck of a drive getting here, but worth the trek. I absolutely would not recommend hauling a camper up here. One way, winding road off of highway 1 that was actually pretty well marked. No service or amentities. Pack in and pack out! Both wide open spots near the beach or you can tuck your vehicle in by the trees with about a 1/4 mile walk to the beach. There was some group event going on and individuals who brought dirt bikes, so it was not quiet/peaceful, but the scenery made up for that. No marked sites, but plenty of fire pits to show where others have camped in the past. Lots of beautiful birds.
TravelerThese camp spots have the most epic view of the ocean and a massive rock arch. The spots are close to each other (I’d recommend grabbing spot #1 as it’s the most private). The porta potties were clean and the beach was nice.
This spot reminds me more of dispersed camping than a traditional campground. No fee tube and people saw some people camping on the beach in tents. Great spot, would definitely come back.
ScoutThere’s no campground sign at the turnoff, no envelopes to pay, and no ranger. So beach front camping for free. Nothing fancy, no running water, but clean portos. 8 sites
TravelerThe road in can be tricky, but doable. A few rv sites are available for up to 30 days, and cabins are available via Airbnb. It's a back in spot that leaves no extra room with my bullet premier ultralight 24' trailer, but there are water/sewer/power hookups, nice views, wifi, and it's quiet and friendly as far as I can tell.
RangerClean bathrooms. First come first serve. Fire pits. Water available. Was full when we woke up in the morning. Ranger going around fixing the reserved signs. Loved this place.
GuideI was hesitant about booking this campground because the reviews said it was overgrown, unkempt, and dirty in spots. However, I had been driving all day and saw other reviews of the gorgeous lakeside campsites and did it. I stayed at 93 right next to the restrooms and a weird overgrown amphitheater. I'll add the photo 😀 When it says lake side- I am sure at one point it was when the water could fill the lake to the top! But it was still amazing. You can walk down to the beach below. And enjoy the lake. I was on a deadline and had to head out early the next morning. Many sites were overgrown so they should state that when booking- or have them unavailable.
Campgrounds near Navarro, California include rustic sites nestled within the Navarro River corridor as well as coastal options where the river meets the ocean. Situated at approximately 300 feet elevation in Anderson Valley, inland campgrounds remain relatively protected from coastal fog while offering easy water access. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F, with coastal sites experiencing cooler conditions than inland locations.
River recreation access points: The Navarro River provides excellent kayaking opportunities, particularly at Navarro Beach Campground where "the river follows the road to the campsite and connects to the ocean right on the beach." The river mouth creates a natural protected area for paddling, and "you can take kayak up that" at the point where the Navarro meets the ocean.
Tide pool exploration: Several campgrounds offer access to marine ecosystems. One visitor at Van Damme State Park Campground notes it's "very close to the beach where ocean kayaking is common." At Navarro Beach, you can find "climbable rocks towards the left" of the beach area with shallow tide pools visible during low tide.
Hiking through various ecosystems: Many campgrounds feature trail networks through diverse terrain. At Russian Gulch State Park, one camper highlights the "Fern Canyon trail and waterfall trail back in the gorge." Another visitor mentions that Hendy Woods offers "great hiking trails and river access for swimming."
Private sites with natural buffers: Many campers value privacy between sites. At Russian Gulch State Park Campground, campers appreciate that "sites are on the small side, and most don't have two trees large enough to string a hammock or a run line for a dog." Another visitor notes that "the sites are well spaced and protected."
Beach access with fewer crowds: Access to less-trafficked beaches stands out in reviews. At Navarro River Redwoods State Park, one visitor appreciates that "the beach was very quiet with few other visitors" and another notes you can "relax by the Sea" without the typical coastal crowds.
Evening campground programs: Organized activities enhance the camping experience. At Manchester Beach / Mendocino Coast KOA, they offer "movie night for the kids and 'no kids' hot tub hours for the adults." Another camper described "setting up to the soundtrack of Beetlejuice showing nearby" during their stay.
Variable weather conditions: Coastal fog and temperature fluctuations affect campsite comfort. At Manchester State Park, one visitor cautions: "Being so close to the beach though, it gets COLD at night." At Russian Gulch, a camper notes "the sites on that side of the creek get almost no sun during the day, so everything was a little damp all the time."
Limited services and utilities: Many campgrounds have minimal facilities. At Paul M. Demmick Campground, be prepared for "self check in first come first serve campground" with only "vaulted toilets available." As one camper summarizes: "this campgrounds is excellent if you like quiet beautiful scenery with no amenities."
Seasonal availability: Campground operations vary throughout the year. One visitor attempted to visit Paul M. Demmick only to find it "Closes sept 2 until May." Navarro Beach sometimes closes after heavy rainfall when the access road floods, as one camper mentioned: "it was closed for a time when heavy rains inundated the road in."
Safety considerations for beach areas: Beaches in the region require careful supervision. At Navarro Beach, a camper warns the "beach is dangerous surf with a pretty strong under current so not for kids to be playing too much deeper than ankles." Parents should remain vigilant near water.
Family-focused programs: Some campgrounds offer specialized programming for children. At Hendy Woods State Park Campground, "the junior ranger program and nightly events for families helped keep the kids engaged in the camping experience. Park rangers hosted guided hikes, nighttime stargazing (with telescopes), and nightly campfires."
Bicycle-friendly campgrounds: Several campgrounds provide safe cycling opportunities. At Manchester State Park, one camper appreciated that it was "a decent space for wetsuits, kayaks, and abalone cleaning" while another mentioned it was "nice for our family" with "low stress environment" and good for "kids to ride their bikes around" with minimal vehicle traffic.
Dump station fees: Several campgrounds charge for waste disposal. 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."
Site approach planning: Loop road configuration affects parking ease. At Hendy Woods, "the campground loop roads are not one way. Make sure to figure which direction to approach for the easiest backup."
Wind protection considerations: Coastal sites often experience strong winds. One RVer at Manchester KOA appreciated that their campground "is protected by a buffer of coastal trees. It's not nearly as windy at the campground as it is on the beach."
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need permits for camping in Navarro?
For camping in Navarro, permits are generally required but the process varies by location. At Paul M. Demmick Campground — Navarro River Redwoods State Park, you'll need to obtain a camping permit through California State Parks, either online or at the entrance station. This system helps manage visitor numbers in this beautiful redwood setting. In contrast, Navarro Beach - Navarro River Redwoods State Park operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations, so you simply pay the camping fee upon arrival. Always check current regulations before your trip as permit requirements and fees can change seasonally.
What amenities are available at Navarro camping areas?
Amenities at Navarro camping areas vary significantly by location. Manchester Beach / Mendocino Coast KOA offers full services including water, toilets, and big-rig-friendly spaces for those seeking more comfort. In contrast, Navarro Beach Campground provides more basic facilities with portable toilets (sometimes lacking maintenance), no fresh drinking water, picnic tables, and fire rings. The campground has approximately 10 small sites with limited privacy between them. While amenities are minimal, the beautiful beach setting with driftwood and river access for kayaking compensates for the rustic conditions. Be prepared to bring your own drinking water and supplies when camping at Navarro Beach.
Where are the best camping spots in Navarro?
Navarro offers stunning camping locations with Hendy Woods State Park Campground being one of the most popular. This campground features beautiful old-growth redwoods, well-maintained sites, and is centrally located in Anderson Valley with easy access to wineries and the Navarro River. It's family-friendly with hiking trails and organized activities. Another excellent option is Navarro Beach Campground — Navarro River Redwoods State Park, located where the Navarro River meets the ocean. This secluded beach camping spot offers a unique coastal experience with beautiful views, though it can be windy. Sites here are first-come, first-served and fill up by evening on busy days.
Keep Exploring
