Kylee R.
Ranger
RangerSalt Point State Park Campground
Right off US101
Clean 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.
Camping near Point Arena, CA
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Camping options along the Mendocino Coast near Point Arena include both developed state parks and private facilities, with most sites concentrated within a 30-mile coastal corridor. Manchester State Park Campground provides spacious tent and RV sites near the shore, while Manchester Beach/Mendocino Coast KOA offers more amenities including cabins and glamping options. Several campgrounds in the area feature coastal forest settings with varying levels of access to beach areas, though most require a short drive or walk to reach the actual shoreline.
The coastal climate creates cool conditions year-round, with fog common during summer mornings that typically burns off by afternoon. "This is a rustic but charming campground in a beautiful location," noted one camper about Manchester State Park, highlighting its clean facilities and friendly camp hosts. Many campgrounds in the region operate year-round, though winter storms can impact site conditions from November through March. Most established campgrounds require reservations during peak summer season, while some like Manchester State Park operate on a first-come, first-served basis with self-registration. Cell service varies significantly throughout the area, with better coverage at KOA facilities than at more remote state park locations.
Visitors consistently mention the peaceful atmosphere and coastal scenery as highlights of camping in this area. The Manchester KOA receives positive reviews for its amenities, including a heated pool and community activities. "The pool was so clean and warm... the sites are all decent sizes," reported one camper. State park campgrounds tend to offer more space and privacy, with sites described as "clean and spacious" with "big spaces, clean area and ocean sounds abound." Several campgrounds provide access to hiking trails and beaches, though some reviewers note the beach is often farther than expected from camping areas. While most developed campgrounds have basic amenities like pit toilets and water spigots, shower facilities are primarily available at private campgrounds like KOA.
Best Campgrounds near Point Arena (107)
1. Manchester Beach / Mendocino Coast KOA
"The beach is about a mile hike, you can ride your bike though on the road outside the KOA or drive and the beach is closer. Point Arena lighthouse is a close drive away."
"We loved the quiet, laidback campground, with lovely old pines giving a sense of being in the forest -- even while being walking distance from the water."
2. Gualala Point Regional Park
"Water spigot right next to the site. You can park near the campsite to unload, but need to go and park at the front of the entrance to the campground."
"Surrounded by thick redwoods, trails run off every campsite."
from $35 - $45 / night
Check Availability3. Anchor Bay Campground
"Beautiful scenery around the campground as it lays right in the edge of the ocean, instant walk to the beach."
"We found this campsite tucked away near Gualala during the lockdown in January. Almost every campground was closed after CA hospitalizations peaked, so this private campground saved our trip!"
from $66 - $83 / night
Check Availability4. Hendy Woods State Park Campground
"This California State Park is located in the Anderson Valley, a historic agricultural area located in the Navarro river watershed. While only 120-ish miles from San Francisco, this area is remote. "
"The sites are situated among towering redwoods. Which blocks the amazing clear night skies, but offer there own beauty.
It was great! The nearby towns or phill and boonville are super cute."from $45 - $70 / night
Check Availability5. Manchester State Park Campground
"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
Check Availability6. Gualala River Redwood Park
"Surrounded by thick redwoods, trails run off every campsite."
"Nice campsite situated amongst beautiful trees with a great kids play area. River was running low but was very pretty - fun for the kids to paddle in. Our site was spacious and pretty."
7. Van Damme State Park Campground
"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."
from $45 - $160 / night
Check Availability8. Navarro Beach Campground — Navarro River Redwoods State Park
"It is right off of the highway, yet it feels so secluded. The beach is beautiful and the campsites are roomy."
"We got there at around 2pm and there were only 2 other campers. By the end of the night most of the spots had filled up. The beach was very quiet with few other visitors."
9. Paul M. Dimmick Campground — Navarro River Redwoods State Park
"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
10. Woodside Campground — Salt Point State Park
"I've taken my 3 kids a couple of times now, and it's such a great location along the Sonoma Coast."
"The sites are tucked on the hillside amongst mixed evergreen forests, redwoods, ferns, and oaks. The sites all have picnics tables with food lockers, large fire pits, and privacy."
Drive Time
- 1 hr 54 min from Santa Rosa, CA
- 2 hrs 28 min from Vallejo, CA
- 2 hrs 33 min from Napa, CA
- 2 hrs 41 min from San Francisco, CA
Recent Camping Photos near Point Arena, CA
268 Photos of 107 Point Arena Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Manchester Beach / Mendocino Coast KOAE
Manchester State Park Campground
Anchor Bay Campground
Gualala River Redwood Park
Gualala Point Regional ParkR
Hendy Woods State Park CampgroundD
Paul M. Dimmick Campground — Navarro River Redwoods State Park
Camp Navarro
Navarro Beach - Navarro River Redwoods State Park
Albion River CampgroundE
Van Damme State Park Campground
Russian Gulch State Park Campground
Recent Reviews near Point Arena, CA
625 Reviews of 107 Point Arena Campgrounds
Whitney R.
GuideBushay Recreation Area
Needs TLC but Perfect Spot!
I 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.
- EEdgar V.
TravelerRussian Gulch State Park Campground
Amazing
I had such a great experience at Russian Gulch Campground! I stayed at Site 12, and it was quiet, clean, and surrounded by beautiful scenery. There was a spring nearby, and the bathrooms and showers were very clean. The showers even had warm water, and at just $1 for five minutes, the price was very reasonable.
The campground staff were also incredibly helpful and friendly—always happy to answer questions. There is no cell reception at the campsites, but if you need to connect, the recreation center near the entrance has Wi-Fi, which was a really nice option.
Overall, this was honestly one of my favorite camping experiences. I had a very pleasant stay and will definitely be returning!
- GGlen B.
LegendNavarro Beach Campground — Navarro River Redwoods State Park
Last dose of vitamin sea.
I convinced myself to stay on the coast one more night and gambled I'd get a spot here, and it paid off gangbusters. Cramped sites were a bummer, but cool neighbors and an awesome sunset made it a minor detail.
- GGabriel A.Traveler
Camp Russian River
Riverfront on the Russian River
Great campground on the Russian River. Big grassy area for single or group camping. Friendly staff. Walking distance to downtown Guerneville.
Jasmin W.TravelerCOE Mendocino Lake Bu-Shay Campground
Peaceful and Empty
Upside: almost no one here, including security and onsite host (private and undisturbed), no road noise, great playground, bathrooms, showers and water views.
Downside: no onsite host, book online (reserveca.com). Some spots are VERY OPEN no privacy and all overgrown meadow. Campsite is above lake, no access feom campground. Not all water faucets have hose attachment.
See attached map for most private $35 spots ( not waterfront) and the blue dot has a water spiket with hose attachment.
Stuart K.LegendSalt Point State Park Campground
The First Campground I Ever Shared With My Daughters
Some campgrounds stay with you because of the scenery, while others become part of your family history ... and Salt Point will forever be both for me. Perched along one of the wildest stretches of the Sonoma Coast, this coastal park combines six miles of rugged Pacific shoreline with grasslands and forest, and its two primary campgrounds offer very different experiences: Gerstle Cove sits on the ocean side of Highway 1, while Woodside is tucked into the trees inland. Together they have 109 developed campsites, most with level paved pads, picnic tables, food lockers and fire rings, but no hookups or showers.
What makes Salt Point truly special is everything waiting beyond the campsite. Trails lead along rocky bluffs, through forests and down toward Gerstle Cove, while tide pools, extraordinary sandstone formations and the pounding Pacific make this feel wonderfully removed from civilization. There are more than 20 miles of trails and Stump Beach provides the park's only sandy beach.
But none of that is why I remember this place so vividly. Salt Point was the very first place I ever took my daughters camping. I can still remember that wonderful mixture of excitement and uncertainty that comes with introducing your children to something you love: setting up camp together, watching them explore this enormous new outdoor world and realizing that what felt like a simple weekend away was quietly becoming one of those family memories you carry forever. At least for me, that is true.
This is real camping rather than resort camping: no electricity, no showers and no dump station, while the nearest gas stations are roughly 18 miles away. Tent campers should feel particularly at home here and I’d favor Woodside, which is where we stayed, for its more sheltered, forested camping experience; however, choose Gerstle Cove if quicker access to the rugged coastline is what brought you here. Either way, come prepared for changing coastal weather and embrace the simplicity as that's part of Salt Point's magic.
Insider’s Tip: If this is your first visit, don't spend the entire trip at the campsite. Walk the Salt Point Trail around Gerstle Cove and give the kids time simply to explore the shoreline. Years later, they probably won't remember whether the campsite was perfectly level, but you may be surprised by what they do remember.
Happy Camping!
- GGlen B.Legend
Mackerricher State Park Campground
Salt Air
Needed a hot shower and some chill time. And some saltwater. All the superlatives apply; just wish the spaces were more private. And paying for showers after the $45 camping fee was a bummer.
- TTtowleGuide
ocean cove campground
Million dollar views
Paved interior roads, dirt and grass campsites with table and fire pit. Porta-potties. No hookups. Campground is on a cliff overlooking the ocean.
Guide to Point Arena
Camping near Point Arena, California centers around the forested inland areas and wind-protected coastal enclaves. Most campgrounds sit within a 20-mile radius of Point Arena, with elevation ranging from sea level to 300 feet in the redwood groves. Winter camping requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can dip into the 30s, while summer brings fog that typically burns off by midday but returns in late afternoon.
What to do
Beach exploration: Walk the mile-long trail from Gualala Point Regional Park to access both river and ocean recreation areas. "There is a trail from the campground to the park and beach area which is nice for a stroll. The campground is amongst the trees along the river," explains camper Alixandra S. The beach offers a natural corridor where the Navarro River meets the Pacific.
Abalone/fishing: Visit during minus tides for optimal conditions at Anchor Bay Campground. "Fish cleaning station. Coin operated showers. Friendly staff," notes Tim S. who stayed in one of the beachfront sites. The campground provides direct beach access for fishing opportunities.
Redwood hiking: Explore ancient trees in Hendy Woods State Park Campground just 30 minutes inland from the coast. "The two redwood groves are easily accessible from the campsite, and the campsite itself is pretty nice," writes Sophia B. The park features old-growth trees with well-marked trails suitable for all experience levels.
What campers like
Protected beach areas: The cove at Anchor Bay Campground receives consistent praise for its wind-sheltered position. "It's in an incredibly beautiful location has one of the best beaches I've ever seen and everybody is incredibly friendly," reports camper Gabriel F. The protected cove makes this beach accessible even during windier coastal conditions.
Quiet weekday camping: Mid-week visitors to Paul M. Demmick Campground find peaceful redwood settings without crowds. "We arrived early afternoon in August on a Saturday and found a nice empty spot no problem. The remaining spots mostly filled up by Saturday evening," reports Cary A. Sites near the river offer the most privacy and natural sounds.
Riverside locations: Many campers value sites along the Navarro River. "Sites near the river are best. We stayed in #21 and had plenty of privacy," shares one camper at Paul M. Demmick Campground. River access provides swimming opportunities during summer when water levels permit.
What you should know
First-come camping options: For those without reservations, Manchester State Park Campground offers first-come, first-served sites through self-registration. "Plenty of sites to pick from on a Tuesday in June, about 5% occupancy. I would recommend the sites in the high 30's as they are more secluded," advises Kenneth L.
Beach access timing: Beach access often requires walking distances of 0.5-1 mile from actual campsites. "The beach is about a mile hike, you can ride your bike though on the road outside the KOA or drive and the beach is closer," explains Rosina A. about Manchester Beach/Mendocino Coast KOA.
Limited cell service: Most inland campgrounds have minimal connectivity. "No cell service with Verizon, you'll have to drive into Mendocino for that," reports a camper at Paul M. Demmick Campground. Prepare offline maps and entertainment options for your stay.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water play: The Navarro River at Navarro Beach Campground provides safer water options than the rough ocean. "Navarro River flows right into the ocean so you can take kayak up that. Beach is dangerous surf with a pretty strong under current so not for kids to be playing too much deeper than ankles," warns Danielle F.
Driftwood exploration: Children enjoy the natural playground at Navarro Beach. "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," shares the same camper.
Organized activities: Hendy Woods State Park offers structured programs. "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," explains one visitor.
Tips from RVers
Beach parking options: Self-contained RVs can sometimes use alternative parking. "Since there's a temporary bridge in place, they are allowing self-contained vehicles (potty in your vehicle) to stay at the beach parking lot instead of a camp site. That means you can wake up to a view of the beach," advises Heather G. about Van Damme State Park Campground.
Site selection advice: Choose RV sites carefully at Gualala River Redwood Park. "The campsites are dirt and gravel, and it was very dry and dusty. Numerous dips and slopes made leveling difficult. Electric hookups and water spigots were at odd locations, and if you plan to use these, have long hoses/cables," cautions Dave T.
Power considerations: Some campgrounds have limited electrical capacity. "Electric power was low - our microwave typically took 25-50% longer to heat, and water pressure was very low," notes the same camper at Gualala River Redwood Park, suggesting minimizing electrical demands.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Point Arena, CA?
What camping is available near Point Arena, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Point Arena, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 107 campgrounds and RV parks near Point Arena, CA and 3 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Point Arena, CA?
Which is the most popular campground near Point Arena, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Point Arena, CA is Manchester Beach / Mendocino Coast KOA with a 4.2-star rating from 19 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Point Arena, CA?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Point Arena, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 3 free dispersed camping spots near Point Arena, CA.
What parks are near Point Arena, CA?
What parks are near Point Arena, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks near Point Arena, CA that allow camping, notably Mendocino Lake and Lake Sonoma.
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