The Mendocino National Forest area near Redwood Valley, California sits at elevations ranging from 750 to 8,000 feet, creating diverse camping environments across its one million acres. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F during the day, dropping to 50-60°F at night. The region receives about 70 inches of annual rainfall primarily between November and April, making late spring through early fall the optimal camping season.
What to do
Coastal exploration: MacKerricher State Park Campground offers beach access within minutes of your campsite. "The campground is adjacent to the beach. You can hear the ocean and sometimes catch peeks of the ocean from the campground," notes camper Mea H., who adds that "there's a trail to the beach and Laguna Point isn't far."
Waterfall hiking: Russian Gulch State Park Campground provides excellent access to waterfall trails. One camper described "Great hiking trails, a small protected beach, helpful camp host, and well-maintained showers and flush toilets," while another mentioned the "Fern Canyon trail and waterfall trail back in the gorge."
Bird and wildlife watching: At Liberty Glen Campground, wildlife viewing opportunities abound. Hikers should "be aware of the local wild boar problem. Due to overpopulation, bow hunting of wild boars in the Lake Sonoma area is legal most of the year," according to April H.
What campers like
Secluded sites: Jackson Demonstration Forest campsites offer privacy and natural settings. "Beautiful, clean and peaceful. Plenty of trails to explore and Noyo River meanders through the center," reports Danielle F., who appreciated that "there was a massive group site that would be gorgeous for a family gathering too!"
Creek access: Middle Creek Campground features running water through the grounds. Visitors can "hear the creek running along the camp, as well as the wild turkeys. There must be over 15 different species of birds as well," according to Donna M.
Group accommodations: Russian Gulch State Park Campground offers excellent group facilities. A camper who attended a wedding there noted, "the group site (D) was LOVELY- there was a roofed area with picnic table seating for ~50- and another roofed area for the dance party. All infrastructure at that site looked fresh and new."
What you should know
Limited equestrian options: While equestrian camping is restricted near Redwood Valley, Cowboy Camp does accommodate horses without specialized facilities. "It's open, grassy level and quiet. Next to a stream and surrounded by hills. The only tough part is getting across the stream to some of the hikes. It's a hot spot for horses," notes Jorg F., though he warns about flies being an issue sometimes.
Weather considerations: Pack for temperature swings at COE Mendocino Lake Bu-Shay Campground where nights can be cool. The sites are described as "spacious and there are a mix of shady and sunny sites" according to Joshua H.
Cell service variability: Cell coverage fluctuates throughout the region. At COE Mendocino Lake Bu-Shay Campground, one camper reported "OK cell coverage with Verizon- we could usually browse the internet but streaming videos were difficult."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: COE Mendocino Lake Bu-Shay Campground offers unexpected play facilities. As Joshua H. notes, "Our young kids had a great time playing on the playground which was an unexpected bonus."
Beach play opportunities: MacKerricher State Park Campground provides family-friendly beach access. "Short walk to the beach. Beautiful camp sites. Trees are beautiful all around the sites," reports Jeanette C., while another visitor mentioned their family has "been camping here for the past 30+ years and it is always a memorable experience."
Wildlife education: Jackson Demonstration Forest creates opportunities for nature lessons. While camping there, families can explore the "beautiful, clean and peaceful" surroundings with "plenty of trails to explore and Noyo River meanders through the center."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Middle Creek Campground, RVers should arrive early for the best spots. "Each campsite has a picnic table, fire pit as well as a bbq grill. They do have vault toilets and running water," notes Donna M.
Leveling considerations: Some sites require adjustment. At Cowboy Camp, one RVer noted "We always manage to level out in our 23" Winnebago View. There is lots of open space so no crowding."
Limited hookups: Most campgrounds near Redwood Valley lack full hookups. MacKerricher State Park Campground offers some amenities: "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 Mea H., adding that water fill is free.
Traveler
