Camping in the Mendocino coastal region near Soda Springs, California offers year-round options within a maritime climate zone that moderates temperature extremes. The region sits at lower elevations compared to Soda Springs proper, with most campgrounds located between sea level and 500 feet elevation. Winter temperatures along this stretch of coastline typically remain above freezing, though seasonal flooding affects some facilities from November through early spring.
What to do
Beach activities: Access to private shorelines at Westport Beach RV Park and Campground allows for uninterrupted coastal recreation. "The beach is right there. You can see and or hear the waves crashing," notes camper Randy J., who appreciated how close camping spots were to the water.
Water sports: Launch directly from camp for paddleboarding and kayaking at several locations. Westport Beach offers "a stone's throw" access to the Pacific according to camper Brenda M., who noted "the beach was vast" directly from her motorhome site.
Family activities: Specialized facilities for children make certain campgrounds ideal for family outings. At Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort, Paul H. mentioned "there is a lot to do for small kids" including "a petting zoo, water play, pool, arcade and events," making it a structured alternative to beach camping.
What campers like
Private beach access: Limited public entry creates a more secluded experience at certain coastal sites. "The beach is private so it's just you and the other campers," observed Steven T. at Westport Beach RV Park, highlighting the exclusivity not found at state beaches.
Wildlife viewing: Harbor and coastal sites offer opportunities to observe marine mammals. At Dolphin Isle Marina & RV Park, one camper noted the riverside location provides views of "seals, sea lions and other wildlife," mentioning that "a 6 point deer walked past our site" during their stay.
Natural settings: Combination of forest and beach environments at several locations. Caspar Beach camper Rosemary A. described it as "a forest of trees right across the street from the crashing surf," adding that the tent camping area is "back away from RV's in the Redwoods."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access challenges exist for certain dispersed camping areas. At Usal Beach Campground, camper Ryan T. warned "the road coming into Usal is a pretty messed up mountain road" and recommended "AWD or 4WD," though noted they "did see a Scion TC come into the campground."
Campground layout variations: Significant differences in site arrangements and privacy between RV and tent areas. At Caspar Beach, Jessi P. observed that "the front half is narrow RV slots, but further back, it's lush, shaded and pretty quiet for tent or car camping."
Seasonal closures: Winter flooding risk affects operational schedules. While some facilities remain open year-round, others like Dolphin Isle Marina close to short-term visitors during winter months, accepting only long-term residents due to coastal flooding concerns.
Tips for camping with families
Dedicated children's activities: Structured options for younger campers at select locations. Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort offers a "mini waterpark" according to Amaya L., who also mentioned the "western themed town that hold little dances and ice cream parlor parties for kids."
Age-appropriate campground selection: Match facilities to your children's developmental stage. Melanie R. advised that Mendocino Redwoods is "definitely geared toward families with smaller kids" and "wouldn't come back for long term camping" with older teenagers.
Private amenities: On-site hot tubs available at premium sites. Erika L. stayed at "one of the premium hot tub sites" at Mendocino Redwoods where "you get your very own hot tub," noting her "kids absolutely loved it" and they were "just a few steps from the pool."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: Proximity to neighbors varies significantly between campgrounds. At Harbor RV Park, one visitor mentioned "tight sites" despite clean facilities, while another noted having "a great view of the ocean" despite the compact spacing.
Seasonal pricing fluctuations: Rate increases during peak periods. Paul H. noted his "chief complaint was the raising of prices a few years ago to an absurd amount for camping" at Mendocino Redwoods, suggesting budget-conscious RVers consider off-peak visits.
Bathroom access: Variable facilities depending on specific location within campgrounds. At Caspar Beach, Cyndie D. had sites "in the back by the restrooms, which were not working," though noted "there were plenty of port a potty's on the property and clean." She recommended going "back but only in RV or camper so I had my own bathroom."
