The coastal area around Point Arena offers a mix of private and public camping options. Located on the Mendocino Coast at 39°N latitude, this region experiences cool maritime conditions year-round with average summer temperatures ranging from 50-70°F. Fog frequently rolls in during summer mornings, while winter brings significant rainfall averaging 40 inches annually. Campgrounds in the area range from basic sites with minimal facilities to full-service options with amenities for extended stays.
What to do
Beach exploration: 1-mile hike to Manchester Beach from Manchester State Park Campground. "It is so wonderful. The campground is just above the driftwood beach offering walks in solitude with the breaking waves in the background," reports camper Cindi B.
Lighthouse visit: 15-minute drive to Point Arena Lighthouse from most area campgrounds. "You're literally close enough to hear the surf, and see the Point Arena lighthouse," notes a visitor to the area.
Internet history walk: At Manchester Beach, find the historical cable station. "One little-known secret about this site is that the beach is the home of the Manchester Cable Station, built by AT&T in 1954 on the United States' closest point to the Hawaiian Islands, where the internet backbone starts its journey across the Pacific," explains Eric Y.
Stargazing sessions: Clear coastal nights provide excellent viewing conditions. "No city lights to speak of = incredible stargazing," writes Adam about Manchester State Park, adding that campers can "fall asleep to the sound of crashing waves."
What campers like
Clean facilities: regularly maintained bathrooms at Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort. "Nice facility and friendly staff. Definitely wouldn't come back for long term camping as we have older teenagers. The facility is definitely geared toward families with smaller kids," explains Melanie R.
Community kitchen access: Some campgrounds offer cooking facilities. "This KOA has large tent sites and a HUGE kitchen with 3 electric stoves and several sinks and microwaves for camper use," reports Kristen M.
Yurt camping options: For those seeking Point Arena yurt accommodations, several campgrounds offer these structures. At Narrows Lodge Resort, "We rented a camping yurt and we were so surprised how big it is! We received a key to our own bathroom and shower!" shares Jessica R.
Proximity to towns: Easy access to supplies. "There is an Ace Hardware about a 2 mile drive so that's convenient," notes Rosina A. about Manchester Beach area.
What you should know
Wind protection considerations: Sites vary in exposure to coastal winds. "Some spots are more exposed to the wind so if you have a tent or tent trailer you may want to check in with the host to find a spot that is more sheltered," advises Erik M. from Manchester State Park Campground.
Limited water access: Not all campgrounds have full facilities. At Jackson Demonstration Forest, facilities are minimal. "No water but fire pits and grills, and picnic tables in campsites," reports Danielle F.
Off-season advantages: Quieter experience with easier site selection. "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," says Kenneth L.
Self-registration systems: Many campgrounds use honor systems for payment. "Self-pay station $15 when I went. Expect a LOT of road noise. Access to the river. Went mid week and was the only one there," explains Carter B.
Tips for camping with families
Water play areas: heated pools available at several campgrounds. "The pool is so clean and warm, we were told it was 85°, and I believe it," shares Erika L. about Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort.
Entertainment options: Look for campgrounds with scheduled activities. "They had movie night for the kids and 'no kids' hot tub hours for the adults," mentions James W.
Beach access considerations: Not all beaches are easily accessible with children. "You will need a vehicle or bikes to get you to the beach," warns Tamika I., noting that pictures can be misleading about proximity.
Pet policies vary: Check rules before arriving with animals. At Johnson's Beach, "if you have a dog, they don't allow the dog on the beach or in the boat with you and they're not allowed to stay behind in the tent, so you're kind of stuck if you have a dog," cautions Leafe Z.
Tips from RVers
Road access challenges: Some routes have restrictions. "To get to clear lake from the west the road is very windy and only allows 34 feet and I think that is pushing it," warns Ann D. at The Aurora RV Park & Marina.
Site layout considerations: Check for space between sites. "The sites are all decent sizes. With walkways between so that people hopefully don't walk through your site," explains Erika L.
Utility connections: Availability varies by campground. "Each site has its own water sipget and two electrical outlets that work well," notes a visitor to the region.
Seasonal pricing fluctuations: Expect higher rates during peak season. "The prices are a little bit high, but that is to be expected with a KOA," explains one camper about regional pricing patterns.
