Camping sites near Redwood Valley, California sit at an average elevation of 750 feet in Mendocino County's diverse inland terrain. The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F while winter brings significant rainfall averaging 40 inches annually. Most campgrounds remain open year-round with seasonal closures typically affecting higher elevation sites from November through April due to access limitations.
What to do
Explore coastal tide pools: At Mackerricher State Park Campground, campers can observe marine wildlife in their natural habitat. "The beach is gorgeous and all black sand with some of the best tide pools," notes one visitor who recommends the short walk from campsite to shoreline for optimal tide pool exploration.
Swim in freshwater locations: During summer months when inland temperatures climb, the swimming hole at Hendy Woods State Park Campground offers relief. A camper describes it as "nice but can get packed at times. There is a rope under the bridge. The water hole is also deep enough in where you could jump from the bridge!"
Bird watching opportunities: Pine Mountain Lookout provides excellent bird watching with one visitor noting the "dawn chorus of an amazing number of birds: warblers, woodpeckers, quail, juncos, grosbeaks, cowbirds, even robins" visible from this elevated vantage point. The cabin's height creates optimal viewing conditions for spotting diverse bird species.
What campers like
Coastal climate advantages: Mackerricher State Park Campground offers relief from summer heat. "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," notes one camper, highlighting the microclimate that makes the location comfortable even during breezy coastal conditions.
Unique accommodation experiences: At Pine Mountain Lookout, visitors appreciate the rare opportunity to stay in a former fire observation tower. "It was such a unique experience staying at Pine Mountain Lookout. The tower is unique in that it only gives a 180º view rather than 360º which allows you stunning sunsets," one camper shares about this distinctive lodging option.
Proximity to local attractions: Hendy Woods State Park Campground serves as a convenient base for exploring regional activities. A visitor mentions, "Great campground in the Anderson Valley. Anderson Valley is a Pinot Noir region so wineries surround the campground. Booneville is a cute nearby town with kid friendly Anderson Valley Brewery and Pennyroyal Cheese Farm."
What you should know
Water temperature variations: Shower facilities at coastal campgrounds can have inconsistent water temperatures. At Mackerricher State Park Campground, one camper reports, "The shower water temperature is finicky in the women's bathroom. When it's just one person showering, it's nice and hot. When two showers are going, the water temperature drops a bit."
Seasonal availability challenges: Many Bu-Shay Campground sites remain open and available even during peak season. "We had a great time when we stayed a night here in October. The campground is nice and has a lot of availability—even on weekends!" reports one visitor, contrasting with the reservation difficulties common at other regional campgrounds.
Wildlife considerations: Rodents can be problematic in certain camping areas. A Pine Mountain Lookout visitor advises, "Keep your food up on the table at night—the mice are nocturnal visitors and will help themselves if you leave food on the counter," indicating proper food storage is essential throughout the region.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort offers numerous recreational facilities for children. "A paradise for kids... We were just a few steps from the pool, which was clean, but pretty cold. The splash pad was a family favorite. The petting zoo was also super cute and the animals seemed like they were well taken care of," reports one family.
Junior ranger programs: Hendy Woods State Park Campground provides educational opportunities for children. A visitor notes, "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."
Playground access: Facilities at Bu-Shay Campground include play areas for younger visitors. "The camp facilities are fine. The sites are spacious and there are a mix of shady and sunny sites. Our young kids had a great time playing on the playground which was an unexpected bonus," shares a camper about amenities not commonly found at all campgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Approach directions matter when navigating to specific sites at Hendy Woods State Park Campground. "One tip for those towing trailers... the campground loop roads are not one way. Make sure to figure which direction to approach for the easiest backup," advises an experienced RV camper.
Dump station fees: At Mackerricher State Park Campground, waste disposal incurs additional costs. "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 one RVer who suggests factoring these expenses into trip budgets.
Long-term stay options: Narrows Lodge Resort accommodates extended visits with appropriate facilities. "My wife's family has been going here for over 30 years. It's a family RV & cabin campground with a lot of great amenities," reports a regular visitor who appreciates the consistency and reliability for seasonal RV camping.
