Van Damme State Park Campground: The Perfect Base for Your Mendocino Adventure
If you’re planning a camping trip along the stunning Mendocino coastline, Van Damme State Park Campground should be at the top of your list. Located just a few miles south of the quaint town of Mendocino, this campground offers an ideal spot to set up camp, explore the area, and soak in the coastal beauty. With 68 campsites spread along the Little River and up in the Highland Meadow, it’s a fantastic destination whether you’re looking for a family-friendly spot, a romantic retreat, or an adventure-packed weekend.
📝 Gearlist from our last trip here:
🗺️ Map & Reservations
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🏕️✨ Best Campsites
Sites 18, 30, 31, and the Group campsite are perfect for privacy, especially in the busy summer months. Site 30, on the edge of Fern Canyon Trailhead, remains surprisingly quiet with minimal foot traffic, while Site 31 is the most isolated, offering total peace and quiet.
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🐕🦺 Pet-Friendly Guidelines
(📋 Always check with park, campground, and local authorities for the most up-to-date pet guidelines.)
- ⛺ Dogs are allowed in the campground
- 🏖️ Dogs are allowed on the beach
- 🌿 Dogs are allowed at Spring Ranch
- 🚫 Dogs are not allowed on Fern Canyon Trail
- 🚫 Dogs are not allowed on Old Logging Road Trail
- 🚫 Dogs are not allowed on Pygmy Forest Trail
What Makes Van Damme State Park Campground Unique?
The real charm of Van Damme State Park Campground is how it offers something for everyone. This isn’t just your average campsite tucked away in the woods. It’s the kind of place where you can wake up to the sound of birds chirping, spend the morning hiking through shaded fern-covered trails, and then wander down to the beach for an afternoon of kayaking or relaxing in the sun. It’s all about having the freedom to choose your adventure, whether that’s exploring hidden trails, beachcombing, or simply enjoying the peace and quiet of your site.
With many campsites spread throughout the park, Van Damme gives you plenty of options to find your perfect spot. You’ve got the tent-only sites tucked along the Little River for that quintessential camping vibe, where the trickling stream and towering redwoods set the scene. Or, if you’re up for something a bit more secluded, the environmental campsites provide a peaceful escape up in Highland Meadow, where you can set up camp with sweeping views of the lush forest canopy. It’s the best of both worlds, offering sites for those who want to be near the action and for those who crave a more tranquil, elevated perch.
One of the campground’s biggest perks? Its proximity to Van Damme Beach. We’re talking just a short walk from your tent to the sand, making it super easy to switch gears from forest hiking to beach lounging in a matter of minutes. There’s something special about spending the morning exploring the park’s wooded trails, only to end up soaking your feet in the cool, gentle waves of the Pacific Ocean by midday. And if you’re into water activities, Van Damme Beach has you covered with options for kayaking, tide pooling, and even scuba diving in the calm, protected waters of the cove. It’s the kind of place where you can pack a whole day with different adventures without ever having to drive anywhere.
The mix of forest and beach is what makes Van Damme such a unique camping destination. You can start your day under the dense cover of towering trees, listening to the rustle of leaves and the distant call of birds, and then, just a short walk later, you’re standing on the sandy shore, watching the waves roll in. That kind of variety is hard to find, and it’s what draws so many campers back year after year.
And let’s not forget about the nearby attractions. If you’re up for a quick drive, you can explore the charming town of Mendocino, with its quaint shops, art galleries, and oceanfront trails. Or take a trip up the coast to see the famous Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, where the shore is covered in colorful sea glass. There’s no shortage of things to see and do, making Van Damme State Park Campground the perfect basecamp for your Mendocino adventures.
So, whether you’re looking to hike through fern-filled canyons, paddle along a quiet beach, or just kick back at your campsite with a good book, Van Damme has a little bit of everything. It’s the ultimate spot for campers who want variety, beauty, and a chance to experience both the forest and the coast—all without having to choose one over the other.
Tips for Booking and Choosing Your Campsite
- Prime Campsites: If you want to be close to the beach, look for campsites numbered 1-13. These spots fill up fast during peak season, so make sure to book in advance.
- Highland Meadow Sites: For those seeking more seclusion and stunning scenery, the ridge campsites up in Highland Meadow offer a quieter experience with incredible views of the surrounding forest.
- Pet Considerations: Dogs are welcome but must be leashed and kept in your vehicle or tent from 10 PM to 6 AM. Make sure to plan for their comfort and safety.
What to Do Around Van Damme State Park Campground
One of the best parts of camping at Van Damme is the easy access to so many activities. You can spend your mornings hiking the Fern Canyon Scenic Trail, which leads through lush greenery and past historical landmarks, and then cool off with an afternoon at the beach. In the evening, settle in by the campfire and listen to the waves roll in as you relax under the stars.
- Kayaking and Scuba Diving: The calm waters of Van Damme Beach are perfect for kayaking, and if you’re certified, scuba diving is a must-try experience.
- Visit Mendocino: The charming town of Mendocino is just a short drive away. Stroll through its streets filled with Victorian-style homes, art galleries, and local eateries. Don’t miss the iconic Mendocino Headlands State Park for breathtaking ocean views.
- Explore Glass Beach: Head north to Fort Bragg and visit the unique Glass Beach, where the shore is dotted with smooth, colorful sea glass pebbles—remnants of an old coastal landfill transformed by nature over time.
Gear Recommendations for Your Trip
To make the most of your stay at Van Damme State Park Campground, consider packing the following essentials:
- Layered Clothing: The Mendocino coast can get chilly in the evenings and early mornings. Bring layers so you’re comfortable throughout the day.
- Reliable Lighting: The forested campsites can get dark quickly, so make sure to pack reliable LED lanterns or headlamps.
- Beach Gear: Don’t forget your beach chairs, towels, and sunscreen if you plan to spend time at Van Damme Beach.
- Camping Cookware: The campground provides fire rings, but having a compact camping stove can make meal prep easier. Check out our Gearlist recommendations for more details on the best camp cooking setups.
Planning the Perfect Camping Season
The best time to visit Van Damme State Park Campground is between late March and early September, when the weather is most favorable. During this period, you’re more likely to snag your preferred campsite and enjoy clear skies for stargazing. If you’re planning a weekend trip, try to book several months in advance, as these campsites are a popular choice for both locals and out-of-state visitors.
Embrace the Wonders of Mendocino:
Van Damme State Park Campground is the perfect spot to end a day of exploring the Mendocino coast and surrounding attractions. Whether you’ve spent the day hiking through lush forests, kayaking on the calm waters of the cove, or taking in the charm of nearby Mendocino, coming back to your campsite at Van Damme feels like returning to your own little retreat in nature. This campground isn’t just about its proximity to stunning beaches or its easy access to adventure—it’s about the peaceful moments you get to enjoy when the sun goes down and the stars come out.
As you settle in around the campfire, with the smell of the ocean mingling with the scent of your roasting marshmallows, you’ll appreciate the simplicity and beauty that Van Damme offers. It’s a place where you can truly unwind and let the world slow down. Whether you’re watching the mist roll over the Highland Meadow or listening to the gentle rush of the Little River, Van Damme State Park Campground offers the kind of experience that keeps campers coming back year after year.
This is a campground that perfectly balances convenience and natural beauty. You’re close enough to explore the town of Mendocino and its unique attractions, like the Mendocino Headlands State Park, or even take a quick drive up the coast to see the iconic Point Arena Lighthouse. Yet, at the same time, you’re tucked away in your own slice of nature, surrounded by towering trees and the quiet hum of the coastal forest. It’s a great reminder that sometimes the best camping trips are the ones that offer a bit of everything—beach, forest, and plenty of room to explore.
If you’re still planning your trip, remember to secure your reservations early, especially during the peak season. The most sought-after sites, particularly those close to Van Damme Beach, fill up quickly. And once you’re there, be sure to explore all the hidden gems that make Van Damme unique, from the scenic Fern Canyon Trail to the tidal pools teeming with marine life.
Van Damme State Park Campground is also a great base camp for day trips. If you’re up for a bit of a drive, head north to Fort Bragg’s Glass Beach or take a short hike to Bowling Ball Beach for a look at the strange, rounded rock formations that dot the shore. These side trips add even more value to your camping experience, making it easy to fill your days with a mix of activities, each one offering a different view of this incredible coastline.
When it’s time to pack up, it’s hard not to feel a twinge of nostalgia. Maybe it’s the quiet mornings when the campground is still, and you’re sipping your coffee while looking out over the forest. Or maybe it’s the laughter you shared around the campfire with friends and family. Either way, Van Damme State Park Campground has a way of leaving a lasting impression. It’s a place that doesn’t just provide a spot to camp—it provides memories that will make you want to come back again and again.
So, whether you’re a seasoned camper or planning your first trip to the Mendocino coast, Van Damme State Park Campground is the spot to put on your list. Pack your gear, plan your days, and get ready to discover why this campground is one of the best spots for camping in Northern California.
