Best Campgrounds near Sea Ranch, CA

The coastal area around Sea Ranch, California features numerous established campgrounds offering both tent and RV accommodations. Salt Point State Park, located just south of Sea Ranch, includes multiple campgrounds with both Woodside Campground and Gerstle Cove providing access to coastal hiking trails and beach areas. Gualala Point Regional Park and Anchor Bay Campground offer additional options within 10 miles of Sea Ranch, with amenities ranging from basic tent sites to full-hookup RV spots. Most campgrounds in this region maintain proximity to Highway 1 while still providing natural settings among coastal forests and dunes.

Camping conditions along this stretch of the Northern California coast feature cool, foggy mornings throughout much of the year, with summer temperatures remaining mild. "This campground is in the perfect location. The beach is amazing and you feel like you have it all to yourself and your fellow campers," noted one visitor about Wright's Beach in nearby Sonoma Coast State Park. The coastal influence creates consistent weather patterns even during peak summer months when inland areas experience significant heat. Most campgrounds require reservations, especially during summer weekends and holidays. Cell service can be limited throughout the region, particularly in forested or canyon areas away from Highway 1. Winter camping remains available at most established sites, though coastal storms can bring significant rainfall and wind.

Campgrounds in this region receive consistently high ratings for their natural settings and ocean proximity. Several visitors highlighted the unique position of coastal campgrounds that provide access to both forested hiking areas and beach exploration. The overflow parking area at Salt Point State Park earned particular praise for its unobstructed ocean views, with one camper noting it offers "the most stunning place to camp in this park" with "a 180 degree view of the ocean and the rolling hills leading to the beach." Campers should come prepared with supplies as services are limited, with the nearest significant grocery stores and fuel stations located in Gualala or inland communities. Many campgrounds feature both open sites near beach access points and more sheltered sites tucked among coastal forests, allowing visitors to choose between ocean views or wind protection.

Best Camping Sites Near Sea Ranch, California (111)

    1. Gualala Point Regional Park

    22 Reviews
    Gualala, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 785-2377

    $35 - $45 / night

    "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."

    2. Woodside Campground — Salt Point State Park

    24 Reviews
    Annapolis, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 847-3221

    "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."

    3. Gualala River Redwood Park

    12 Reviews
    Gualala, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 884-3533

    "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."

    4. Ocean Cove Store and Campground

    22 Reviews
    Cazadero, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 847-3422

    $28 - $280 / night

    "Great scenery, and many of the tent sites are tucked away in little nooks and crannies for privacy if you don’t want the more open outer ring sites."

    "Ocean Cove is a private campground right off Highway one. The owners are very friendly and helpful and they also own the grocery store across from the campsites."

    5. Anchor Bay Campground

    15 Reviews
    Gualala, CA
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 884-4222

    $45 - $60 / night

    "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!"

    6. Salt Point State Park Campground

    11 Reviews
    Annapolis, CA
    12 miles
    Website

    $35 - $200 / night

    "This area has fascinating California history and this special campground is right in the middle of it."

    "Along the forgotten coast of Central California along Hwy 1, this small state park offers a great way to explore the area. "

    7. Stillwater Cove Regional Park

    12 Reviews
    Cazadero, CA
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 847-3245

    $32 - $35 / night

    "Short walk to a rocky beach across highway 1. Beach is not for swimming since the rip tides are dangerous. Abalone diving for experienced folks."

    "There is a boil notice for the whole campground to not consume unboiled water due to testing positive for E. Coli."

    8. Hendy Woods State Park Campground

    27 Reviews
    Philo, CA
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 895-3141

    $45 - $70 / night

    "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."

    9. Manchester Beach / Mendocino Coast KOA

    17 Reviews
    Manchester, CA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 882-2375

    "We've spent most of our twenty years of camping together off the beaten path, avoiding the likes of anything KOA, but for our RV's maiden voyage we thought we'd start with the Machester Beach KOA, and"

    "The location is surrounded by a lot of fun things to do. The site has 2 parks, trails, pool/hot tub, and so much more."

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Recent Reviews near Sea Ranch, CA

668 Reviews of 111 Sea Ranch Campgrounds



Guide to Sea Ranch

Camping near Sea Ranch, California, offers a unique blend of stunning coastal views and lush forests. Whether you're a family looking for a fun getaway or an RV enthusiast seeking adventure, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the beautiful trails around the area. Many campers rave about the local hikes, with one reviewer from Samuel P. Taylor State Park Campground saying, "Hiking through the forest felt like you were walking through a scene from Fern Gully."
  • Beach Access: Enjoy the nearby beaches. A visitor at Bodega Dunes Campground mentioned, "The beach itself was quiet and only a few folks were out there after the storm."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. Campers at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground noted, "There’s plenty of wildlife to see; however, the Navarro River is dried in many places at this time."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. One reviewer at Hendy Woods State Park Campground said, "This is a beautiful campground! Cozy campsites with plenty of privacy."
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Van Damme State Park Campground mentioned, "Toilets and showers well-maintained; campground itself is beautiful."
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Families enjoy the variety of activities available. A reviewer at San Francisco North-Petaluma KOA noted, "Great playground, jumping pillow, petting farm and mining fun."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds lack certain amenities. A camper at Lawson's Landing pointed out, "Porta potties were very dirty and TP less."
  • Wildlife Precautions: Be cautious of wildlife. A visitor at Gualala Point Regional Park warned, "Several campers experienced over-eager raccoons while eating dinner."
  • Weather Variability: The weather can change quickly. A camper at Woodside Campground — Salt Point State Park mentioned, "Coastal fog rolled in at night and cleared by mid-morning."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys. A family at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground enjoyed the large meadow, saying, "Great for frisbee or other games."
  • Check Shower Availability: Some showers require quarters. A visitor at Bodega Dunes Campground noted, "You had to pay for hot water, but $20 got 3 of us enough hot water for 3 days."
  • Bring Snacks: Stock up on snacks for the kids. A camper at Hendy Woods State Park Campground mentioned, "The camp host sells firewood, but none was available."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Van Damme State Park Campground advised, "If you are in a tent you may have a challenge finding a flat enough spot."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Hookups: Many sites don’t have hookups. A visitor at Lawson's Landing said, "They also will typically let you get creative with your layout if you're with a group."
  • Bring Extra Water: Some campgrounds have limited water access. A camper at Ritchey Creek Campground — Bothe-Napa Valley State Park noted, "No dump station, but water is available nearby."

Camping near Sea Ranch, California, is a fantastic way to enjoy nature, relax, and create lasting memories. Whether you're hiking, enjoying the beach, or just soaking in the scenery, there's something for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find camping areas near Sea Ranch, California?

Several excellent camping options are located near Sea Ranch along the Sonoma Coast. Salt Point State Park offers a forested camping experience with easy access to dramatic coastal cliffs and hiking trails. Just south, Ocean Cove Store and Campground provides a more rustic coastal camping experience. Other nearby options include Gualala River Redwood Park, Anchor Bay Campground, and Stillwater Cove Regional Park. For those willing to drive a bit further, Wright's Beach and Bodega Dunes in Sonoma Coast State Park offer beautiful beachfront camping opportunities about 45 minutes south of Sea Ranch.

Are there RV-friendly campgrounds available in Sea Ranch?

While Sea Ranch itself doesn't have dedicated RV parks, there are several RV-friendly options in the surrounding area. Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort offers full hookups in a wooded setting about an hour north. Closer to Sea Ranch, Anchor Bay Campground accommodates RVs with some sites offering water hookups. For those willing to drive south, Westside Regional Park in Bodega Bay provides dry camping for RVs with beautiful harbor views. Most coastal state parks have limited sites for smaller RVs but typically don't offer hookups, so be prepared for dry camping at these locations.

What amenities are available at Sea Ranch camping facilities?

While Sea Ranch itself doesn't have dedicated campgrounds, nearby camping facilities offer various amenities. Bodega Dunes Campground provides clean bathrooms, coin-operated showers, flat and semi-private sites, and is within walking distance to beaches. Wright's Beach Campground offers beachfront sites with direct sand access. Most coastal campgrounds in the area provide basic amenities like drinking water, fire rings, picnic tables, and vault or flush toilets. Cell service can be spotty, and many sites don't offer electrical hookups, so plan accordingly. Showers are available at some locations but not all.