Redwood Valley camping areas sit at approximately 750 feet elevation in California's Mendocino County, offering milder temperatures than coastal sites despite being just 30 miles inland. The region features a mix of oak woodlands and conifer forests surrounding several lakes and rivers. Summer daytime temperatures typically reach 85-95°F with cool evenings dropping to the 50s, while winter camping requires preparation for occasional frost and temperatures ranging from 35-55°F.
What to do
Paddle sports on Clear Lake: Visitors at The Aurora RV Park & Marina can borrow kayaks and canoes at no extra cost. "They offer FREE canoe/paddle boating. Bathrooms are kept clean and Mike, the owner is amazing," reports Melissa C. The marina provides direct water access for fishing and boating activities.
Explore disc golf courses: Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort offers an on-site disc golf course with elevation changes. "The disc golf course offers beautiful views when on top of the course, but watch out for poison oak!" advises Paul H., noting the recreational opportunities beyond standard camping amenities.
Beach activities year-round: Westport Beach RV Park provides direct beach access with fire pits available on the sand. "Fires on the beach are great. Rediscovered this place in February and have reservations for November," shares a visitor, highlighting the year-round appeal despite seasonal changes in occupancy levels.
What campers like
Family-friendly facilities: The former KOA at Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort earns praise for its child-oriented amenities. "A paradise for kids. We stayed in one of the premium hot tub sites, where you get your very own hot tub. Highly recommend, my kids absolutely loved it!" writes Erika L., who also mentioned the "pool, playground, splash pad, petting zoo, mini golf course, and RC track."
Spacious oceanfront sites: At Westport-Union Landing State Beach, campers appreciate the coastal location. "You are perched out in the open on a bluff above the ocean. So the view and sunsets are epic," notes one visitor, though they caution about wind exposure for tent campers. Sites include tables and fire rings with primitive toilets available.
Quieter camping in shoulder seasons: Many RV parks in the region offer more secluded experiences outside peak summer months. "Quiet in the off season. Only down side is if you make reservations in person, they don't guarantee you that spot," mentions a camper about Westport Beach RV Park, with another noting, "If you hit it just right in the shoulder season you might get the whole place to yourselves."
What you should know
RV park layouts and privacy considerations: Caspar Beach RV Park & Campground has distinct areas for different camping styles. "It's a super cramped campground for big rigs. Much nicer and more privacy if tenting," advises Marcus K., adding that "the front half is narrow RV slots, but further back, it's lush, shaded and pretty quiet for tent or car camping."
Road access limitations: Several campgrounds have restricted access for larger vehicles. The road to Aurora RV Park & Marina "is very windy and only allows 34 feet and I think that is pushing it," according to Ann D. Similar restrictions affect other parks in the region, particularly on coastal routes and mountain roads.
Reservation policies vary: Campground reservation requirements differ across the region. Westport-Union Landing State Beach operates on a self-registration system where "you pay your fee into the box with your filled out slip, and you have a front row view to the ocean," explains Chani K., while most RV sites near Redwood Valley, California require advance booking.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Thousand Trails Russian River offers designated recreation areas. "Nice sites. Older campground so facilities are old but clean and full functional," notes Margot S., while another camper mentioned the "nice play ground for kids" that provides entertainment options beyond water activities.
Consider campground noise levels: Some parks specifically note their atmosphere regarding quiet camping. "This is a great family campground. Bring your kids, plenty to do for them. No kids? Want to be at a quiet campground? Enjoy nature? Not here!" advises Theo A. about Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort, helping families set appropriate expectations.
Age-appropriate site selection: Match campground features to your children's ages. "We stopped here overnight on our way up the coast. Well maintained, 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," shares Melanie R.
Tips from RVers
Hookup variations between parks: Redwood Empire Fair RV Park offers specific electrical options. "Level camping site. Each site has 30 amp service, water, sewer hookups. Gravel sites with small patches of grass," notes a reviewer, giving practical details about what to expect when setting up.
Site positioning considerations: RV sites near Redwood Valley vary in their layout and privacy. "Our space had a great view of the ocean," mentions a visitor at Harbor RV Park, while another explains that at Caspar Beach "spaces are very narrow, especially if you have slide outs which means that your neighbor's sewer hose is next to your door."
Weather preparation essential: Coastal RV sites experience significant temperature changes. "This is a tight and wet park. It is inside a gully that gets very little sun. I stayed the end of December through New Years. Not a bad place to hang out. But damp," reports JMark H., emphasizing the importance of moisture management for RVs in certain locations.
