How much does camping cost at Manchester State Park Campground?

Camping fees at Manchester State Park Campground range from $35/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Manchester State Park Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Manchester State Park Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Manchester State Park Campground before I book?

Yes! Manchester State Park Campground has 3 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Manchester State Park Campground?

Manchester State Park Campground is open Peak season is from May 24 to September 2, and camping is on a first-come, first-served basis.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Manchester State Park Campground?

Manchester State Park Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Manchester State Park Campground have?

Manchester State Park Campground has 40 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Manchester State Park Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Manchester State Park Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Manchester State Park Campground?

Manchester State Park Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Manchester State Park Campground?

Popular activities at Manchester State Park Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Manchester State Park Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Manchester State Park Campground?

Fire policies at Manchester State Park Campground: Fires are prohibited on beaches and dunes. Campfire rules within sites are not specified.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

3.29

7 reviews

44500 Kinney Road (Off Highway 1), Manchester, CA 95459

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

49 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

40 campsites

Season

Manchester campgroun...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

49 ft

Price

$35/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

40 campsites

Season

Manchester campgroun...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Manchester State Park Campground

$35.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping costs $35 per night during the operating season. Environmental campsites are permanently closed, and group campsite fees vary depending on...

Standard Site Fee$35.00

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Reserve California

Provider

707-937-5804interp@parks.ca.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

44500 Kinney Road (Off Highway 1), Manchester, CA 95459

Manchester State Park Campground

44500 Kinney Road (Off Highway 1), Manchester, CA 95459

Nearby places

Manchester (0.5 miles north, less than 5 minutes), Point Arena (7 miles south, approximately 15 minutes), Elk (15 miles north, approximately 25 minutes).

Nearby supplies

Groceries and camping supplies can be found in the town of Manchester, less than one mile away. Larger stores are available in Point Arena (7 miles).

Weather at Manchester State Park Campground

Current alert: Environmental campsites are permanently closed due to visitor abuse. The main campground is closed from September 2 until May 24 yearly.

Best Time to Camp at Manchester State Park Campground

Summer brings the most reliable weather. June through August see daytime highs in the mid-60s to low 70s°F, with mornings and evenings dropping to the 40s–50s°F. Morning fog often clears by afternoon. Wind is constant. Reviewers note it as both a challenge and part of the area's character. The campground closes Sept 3–May 23, so summer is the only season to visit. Holiday weekends bring moderate crowds. Pack windbreakers.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Campground open May 24–Sept 2; summer offers most reliable weather and is peak season.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season is from May 24 to September 2, and camping is on a first-come, first-served basis.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Manchester campground will be open for the season May 22, 2026 through September 2, 2026.

About Manchester State Park Campground

Manchester State Park Campground occupies flat grasslands between coastal bluffs and sand dunes on California's northern coast. The 40-site campground runs May 24–Sept 2 and charges $35 per night. Sites accommodate tents, RVs up to 30 feet, and trailers up to 22 feet. Reviews split between campers who value the isolation and ocean noise, and those frustrated by vault toilets, no hookups, and relentless wind.

Manchester State Park offers a variety of camping settings including family sites and a group campsite. Environmental sites have been permanently closed.

Historical Significance

The Bokeya Pomo people harvested resources from this coast before European contact. Later, dairy ranchers worked the grasslands, leaving weathered fence posts and old ranch roads visible in the park. The waters off Arena Rock have wrecked numerous ships. Artifacts from these maritime disasters are displayed at the Point Arena Lighthouse museum.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the most reliable weather. June through August see daytime highs in the mid-60s to low 70s°F, with mornings and evenings dropping to the 40s–50s°F. Morning fog often clears by afternoon. Wind is constant. Reviewers note it as both a challenge and part of the area's character. The campground closes Sept 3–May 23, so summer is the only season to visit. Holiday weekends bring moderate crowds. Pack windbreakers.

ElevationThe campground rests at sea level, where the continent gently slopes to meet the Pacific's edge.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground sits at 49 feet elevation where ancient coastal terraces meet a complex mosaic of sand dunes, seasonal wetlands, and coastal bluffs. Wind-sculpted dunes harbor nesting sites for threatened snowy plovers. Wetlands provide habitat for endangered red-legged frogs. Coastal bluffs overlook the Pacific, and in spring, sea pinks and California poppies bloom across the grasslands. The San Andreas Fault runs nearby, a reminder of the tectonic forces that built these terraces over millions of years.

Geological RegionPerched along California's dramatic northern coastline, Manchester State Park sits at a fascinating geological crossroads. Here, ancient coastal terraces tell the story of rising and falling seas, while nearby, the infamous San Andreas Fault reminds visitors of the powerful forces still shaping this landscape. The campground spreads across flat grasslands that gradually give way to a complex mosaic of sand dunes, seasonal wetlands, and imposing coastal bluffs—each formation revealing millions of years of Earth's restless creativity carved by wind, water, and time.

Scenic ViewsCampground sites feature views of the Pacific Ocean, dunes, and coastal bluffs. "You can hear the ocean even in the campground," as one reviewer noted.

Lodging & AccommodationsInformation on lodging and accommodations within Manchester State Park Campground is not provided.

Programs & ActivitiesThere is no mention of cultural or educational programs specific to the campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in times are not explicitly mentioned.

Check-out

Check-out times are not explicitly mentioned.

Stay Limit

The campground operates seasonally from May 24 to September 2. Group sites require reservations.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum occupancy depends on site type. Group sites accommodate up to 40 guests.

Groups

The group campsite accommodates up to 40 people and 12 vehicles. Reservations are recommended for weekends or summer months.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutFamily sites spread across the grassland with brush growing between them for privacy. The layout accommodates group sites and RV parking.

Reservation PlatformsReservations are available through Reserve California at www.parks.ca.gov or by calling 800-444-7275.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up camping is available during the operating season. The campground tends to fill quickly during weekends and holidays.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are managed through Reserve California. Specific terms are not provided.

AccessibilityThe campground and day-use areas include accessible vault toilets. For further assistance, visitors with disabilities are advised to contact the park directly.

Site SizeFamily campsites can accommodate tents, trailers up to 22 feet, or RVs up to 30 feet.

PrivacyUser reviews describe the campsites as fairly spread apart with brush growing in between for privacy. One review notes, 'It was a nice campground with campsites spread fairly far apart for a state campground, and brush growing in between them for privacy.

Total Campsites40 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites under the cypress grove for isolation and views of the lagoon. Sites near the lagoon allow ocean sounds to lull you to sleep.

Best CampsitesSites 3, 4, 6, 17, 26, 34, 36, 38, and 40 offer the best combination of privacy and proximity to the lagoon. Brush between sites helps buffer neighbors.

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ReserveCalifornia Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Manchester State Park Campground offers a mix of basic and scenic amenities primarily targeted at outdoor enthusiasts. The campground is famous for its quiet and secluded campsites under the cypress grove and proximity to the beach, providing a balance between natural beauty and minimal facilities.

Potable water

Vault toilets

Group Sites

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Guests at Manchester State Park Campground can enjoy a range of outdoor activities, such as hiking along the trails, viewing wildlife, and experiencing the beautiful coastline. Fishing, beachcombing, and geocaching are also popular options.

Hiking

Fishing

Wildlife viewing

Beach activities

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsStrong winds and fog are common, posing challenges for tent camping. The presence of threatened wildlife requires compliance with park regulations.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not mentioned as available; vault toilets are explicitly referenced as the main restroom facilities.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyFires are prohibited on beaches and dunes. Campfire rules within sites are not specified.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are not explicitly stated.

Emergency ServicesNearest hospital and emergency services are in Mendocino or Fort Bragg, accessible within approximately 30-45 minutes.

Trash & RecyclingInformation on trash and recycling facilities is not provided in the sources.

Water FeaturesThe campground is close to Brush Creek, Alder Creek, and a lagoon, providing opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing.

Camp HostCampground hosts are described as friendly in reviews, though on-site services may vary during operational periods.

Cell CoverageCell phone service coverage is not mentioned in the provided sources. Reviewers have not commented on its availability.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

3.3

7 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Manchester State Park Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews of Manchester State Park Campground are polarized, with some campers praising its solitude and proximity to nature while others criticize the lack of amenities and poor maintenance.

Review Summaries

Based on 7 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers appreciated the peaceful atmosphere, scenic views, and privacy between campsites. Quotes include: 'Quiet and isolation save for the distant crashing of the surf,' and 'It's close enough to...

Based on 7 reviews

Common Concerns

Criticisms include the lack of amenities such as electric hookups, dump stations, and camp hosts, as well as unclean vault toilets. One user stated, 'Campground was pretty neat in its prime but now...

Based on 7 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Best campsites are noted as 3, 4, 6, 17, 26, 34, 36, 38, and 40. These are highlighted for their favorable locations and features.

Based on 7 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend visiting during calm weather to avoid high winds and taking advantage of the peaceful beach and scenic trails. Some suggest re-opening the campground as it provides a much-needed...

Based on 7 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Weather and seasonal trends are mentioned in reviews, with fog, wind, and cool temperatures being common. Reviewers highlight the charm of the site during calmer weather conditions.

Based on 7 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'Mysterious and holy place where the Spirit hovers and dispenses sacred dreams.' - 'Very pleasant beach if you want to get some ocean on you and do as we did, take a nap with the background of...

Based on 7 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible vault toilets are present, but no reviews specifically address their usability.

Based on 7 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Dogs are allowed in the campground but not on the beach or trails. User reviews note, 'We saw lots of people walking their dogs.'

Based on 7 reviews

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Go if

Beach walkers, wildlife watchers, and steelhead anglers will get the most out of this place. Sites 3, 4, 6, and 38 get good marks from reviewers, and being less than a mile from Manchester town means a quick supply run is always possible.

Skip if

No electric hookups, no dump station, and vault toilets that reviewers describe as unclean are real barriers. RVs longer than 30 feet can't fit, and the wind is relentless enough to make tent camping genuinely miserable if you pack light.

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Paul M. Dimmick Campground

Highway 128, six miles east of Highway 1 and Highway 128 junction, Albion, CA 95410

Paul M. Dimmick Campground sits at 118 feet elevation in Navarro River Redwoods State Park, where 26 tent and RV sites spread beneath second-growth redwoods along the river. It's a small, primitive loop near Albion with vault toilets, fire rings, and no drinking water. Cell service doesn't exist here. First-come, first-served sites suit spontaneous trips, though summer weekends fill up.