Enroute Campsites

4.49

98 reviews

Three miles south of Mendocino on Highway 1, Van Damme State Park, Little River, CA

Featured in:Spring Camping California

Quick Facts

89 ft

Price

$45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

65 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens California State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

89 ft

Price

$45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

65 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Opens California State Parks site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Enroute Campsites

$45.00 - $45.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The nightly fee for campsites is $45. Showers cost $1 for 5 minutes, and firewood is $10 per box. Dump station usage incurs an additional $10 fee.

Standard Site Fee$45.00

Hookup Site Fee$0.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Reserve California

Provider

707-937-5804null

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What Campers Say

4.49

Recommended

Based on 98 reviews

71 Google reviews

Most mentioned

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Some mention

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"Users generally describe the campground as clean, well-maintained, and peaceful. The location near the beach and access to trails are frequently praised. Camp hosts are noted for their friendliness and helpfulness."

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Campground Map

Three miles south of Mendocino on Highway 1, Van Damme State Park, Little River, CA

Enroute Campsites

Three miles south of Mendocino on Highway 1, Van Damme State Park, Little River, CA

Driving directionsThe park is located three miles south of Mendocino on Highway 1. The highway runs through the park, separating the campground and the Fern Canyon trailhead to the east and the beach and parking lot to the west.

The park is accessible via Highway 1, which runs directly through the park. A temporary single-lane bridge measuring 10 feet in width and 53 feet in length allows access to campsites on the east side of Little River. This bridge requires maneuvering, including a right turn off the bridge followed by a U-turn in the designated area. Signage is available to guide motorists, and trailers above 24 to 27 feet are not recommended.

Nearby places

Mendocino (3 miles, approximately 5-10 minutes drive), Fort Bragg (15-18 miles, approximately 20 minutes drive)

Nearby supplies

Firewood can be purchased onsite for $10 per box or at a deli/gas station 0.5 miles south for $7.50 per bundle. Safeway and additional camping supplies are available in Fort Bragg, approximately 15 minutes away.

Best Time to Camp at Enroute Campsites

Experience the gentle rhythms of California's coastal climate, where mild temperatures grace the campground throughout the year. Winter transforms the landscape with refreshing Pacific storms that nourish the ancient redwoods, while summer mornings arrive wrapped in mysterious coastal fog that gradually unveils stunning blue skies by afternoon. Even during the warmest months, the ocean's influence brings crisp evenings perfect for campfire gatherings—so pack those extra layers and prepare for nature's daily temperature dance.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Peak season; summer interpretive programs popular; trails and beach experiences active.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall is part of peak season with mild coastal weather and good trail/beach access.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 7% in CA

Spring is peak season; lush redwoods and trails in prime condition and good wildlife viewing.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round; mild coastal winters and Pacific storms occur; some trail closures noted.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Spring through fall is considered peak season.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round. Fern Canyon Trail from Bridge 4 to Bridge 7 is temporarily closed.
Current Alerts: Fern Canyon Trail is partially closed from Bridge 4 to Bridge 7. Temporary bridge access requires caution.

About Enroute Campsites

Discover the magic of Van Damme State Park's Enroute Campsites, where 65 thoughtfully designed drive-in sites welcome adventurers seeking the perfect blend of forest and sea. Whether you're pitching a tent beneath towering coastal redwoods, parking your smaller trailer among ancient Douglas firs, or settling in with your RV, you'll find yourself immersed in one of California's most enchanting coastal landscapes. Just moments from the rugged Mendocino shoreline, these campsites serve as your gateway to both misty beaches and cathedral-like forest groves.

Enroute Campsites at Van Damme State Park support a range of camping styles, from tent camping to RV camping, as well as group sites.

Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape rich with stories spanning millennia. Long before the thunderous sawmills of the redwood lumber era echoed through these valleys, the Pomo people called this coastal paradise home, carefully stewarding its resources for countless generations. Today's visitors can sense the layers of history—from ancient indigenous pathways to the remnants of logging operations that once harvested these mighty giants, each telling a chapter in California's complex environmental and cultural narrative.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythms of California's coastal climate, where mild temperatures grace the campground throughout the year. Winter transforms the landscape with refreshing Pacific storms that nourish the ancient redwoods, while summer mornings arrive wrapped in mysterious coastal fog that gradually unveils stunning blue skies by afternoon. Even during the warmest months, the ocean's influence brings crisp evenings perfect for campfire gatherings—so pack those extra layers and prepare for nature's daily temperature dance.

ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery on your visit, the campground's unique position creates a remarkable microclimate where ocean breezes meet forest air, producing the perfect conditions for both coastal redwoods and the rare pygmy forest ecosystem nearby.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living postcard where majestic coastal redwoods and stately Douglas firs create a verdant canopy overhead, their ancient branches filtering sunlight into ethereal beams. The melodic Little River winds through the landscape, offering tranquil spots for reflection and wildlife watching. But the true marvel lies in the park's extraordinary pygmy forest—a botanical wonderland where full-grown trees stand no taller than a person, creating an otherworldly landscape that challenges everything you thought you knew about forest ecosystems.

Geological RegionPerched along the dramatic Mendocino Coast, Van Damme State Park showcases nature's geological artistry. Here, the relentless Pacific has carved a spectacular meeting place of land and sea, while inland, ancient marine terraces tell the story of prehistoric ocean levels. The park's famous pygmy forest grows atop these old sea beds, where highly acidic, nutrient-poor soils have created one of the world's most unique ecological phenomena—a testament to nature's ability to adapt and thrive in the most challenging conditions.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2PM

Check-out

12 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 7 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Eight guests are allowed per site.

Groups

The group campsite accommodates multiple trailers or vehicles, with a recommended trailer length of 24-27 feet due to the tight bridge. The site is spacious and hidden from wind, providing a quieter experience.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are spread out among wooded areas, open clearings, and Highland Meadows. Loops and sections are not explicitly labeled.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling 1-800-444-7275.

Walk-in AvailabilityA limited number of sites are available for first-come, first-served campers.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled up to 48 hours in advance. Policies for late cancellations are not provided.

AccessibilityWheelchair-accessible campsites (7 and 10) are available, featuring paved surfaces and accessible tables. An accessible combination toilet/shower facility is located near campsite 11.

Site SizeSites vary in size; some are suitable for multiple tents and vehicles, while others are smaller and compact near the park entrance.

PrivacyLower sites near the entrance are described as small and clustered, offering less privacy. Inner sites in Highland Meadows are more spaced out, ideal for larger families.

Total Campsites65 campsites

Recommended SitesAvoid sites 66-69 if you prefer shaded areas as they are in a clearing. Consider Highland Meadows for larger groups or families.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Activities you can enjoy

Van Damme State Park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, kayaking, bird watching, fishing, biking, and exploring the nearby beach. The Fern Canyon Trail is a popular spot for hiking, offering lush scenery and well-maintained bridges.

HikingThe Fern Canyon Trail is a highlight, featuring a 5-mile round trip with minimal elevation changes. The trail passes through second-growth redwood forests and provides opportunities for birdwatching. Other trails include the Pygmy Forest Boardwalk and Old Logging Road Trail.

FishingFishing is permitted with a valid license at Van Damme Beach and adjacent areas. Coho salmon and other species populate the Little River.

BikingBiking is allowed on designated trails, including the 2.5-mile Fern Canyon Scenic Trail and the Old Logging Road Trail. Bikes are prohibited in certain areas, such as the pygmy forest.

BoatingKayaking is popular at Van Damme Beach, with rentals available seasonally. The cove features tide pools and sea caves that are ideal for exploration.

Wildlife viewingCampers reported seeing pileated woodpeckers, Coho salmon, and other wildlife along the trails. The pygmy forest is also a good spot for observing unique plant species.

Beach activitiesVan Damme Beach offers kayaking, birdwatching, and scenic views. The proximity to the campground makes it convenient for campers.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWildfire risks during summer months. Wildlife such as raccoons can invade campsites. Poison oak is present on trails.

Active AlertsFern Canyon Trail is partially closed from Bridge 4 to Bridge 7. Temporary bridge access requires caution.

Food Storage RequiredBear lockers are available at most sites to secure food from wildlife.

Fire PolicyFires are permitted only in established fire rings or camp stoves. Gathering firewood is prohibited.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM

Emergency ServicesEmergency medical services and police are accessible by calling 911. The closest hospital is in Fort Bragg, approximately 20 minutes north. Ranger stations are available within the park for immediate assistance.

Trash & RecyclingTrash dumpsters are available throughout the campground, and campers are encouraged to dispose of garbage promptly to deter wildlife.

Water FeaturesLocated across Highway 1 from the Little River beach and Van Damme Marine Conservation Area.

Camp HostCampground hosts are available onsite, selling firewood and providing assistance.

Weather at Enroute Campsites

Reviews

4.5

98 reviews

Recommended

Enroute Campsites is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Users generally describe the campground as clean, well-maintained, and peaceful. The location near the beach and access to trails are frequently praised. Camp hosts are noted for their friendliness and helpfulness.

Review Summaries

Based on 98 reviews

What Campers Love

Common highlights include clean restrooms and showers, close proximity to the beach, friendly camp hosts, and scenic hiking trails. Many campers appreciate the availability of hot showers and...

Based on 98 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users noted the lack of privacy for campsites near the entrance, absence of hand soap and paper towels in bathrooms, and the additional cost for showers.

Based on 98 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring quarters for showers, hand soap, and towels. Reserve in advance during peak seasons. Sites in Highland Meadows are more spacious and private.

Based on 98 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Weekdays see fewer reservations and quieter stays compared to weekends, which are often packed. Summer interpretive programs are popular with families.

Based on 98 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The bathrooms are probably the nicest I've ever used while camping." - Vanessa Naranjo; "Showers are huge, private and had endless hot water with great water pressure." - Casey Arents-Gonzalez;...

Based on 98 reviews