How much does camping cost at Van Damme State Park Campground?

Camping fees at Van Damme State Park Campground range from $45/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Van Damme State Park Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Van Damme 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 Van Damme State Park Campground before I book?

Yes! Van Damme State Park Campground has 24 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 Van Damme State Park Campground?

Van Damme State Park Campground is open Spring through Fall (reservations strongly recommended during these periods).. 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 Van Damme State Park Campground?

Yes, Van Damme State Park Campground has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Van Damme State Park Campground?

Fire policies at Van Damme State Park Campground: Fires allowed only in designated fire rings; firewood must be purchased on-site.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Van Damme State Park Campground have?

Van Damme State Park Campground has 65 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Van Damme State Park Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Van Damme 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 Van Damme State Park Campground?

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

What activities can I do at Van Damme State Park Campground?

Popular activities at Van Damme State Park Campground include Hiking, Swimming, Biking, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Van Damme State Park Campground

4.43

98 reviews

Van Damme State Park, Highway 1, Mendocino, CA

Top 10% in CASpring

Scenic Views

Featured in:Beach Camping California Forest Camping California

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

220 ft

Price

$45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

65 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

220 ft

Price

$45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

65 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Van Damme State Park Campground

$45.00 - $45.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Standard campsite fee is $45 per night. Additional costs include $10 for firewood and $10 for RV dumping.

Standard Site Fee$45.00

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Reserve California

Provider

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

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Van Damme State Park, Highway 1, Mendocino, CA

Van Damme State Park Campground

Van Damme State Park, Highway 1, Mendocino, CA

Nearby places

Mendocino (3 miles, ~8 minutes), Fort Bragg (~15 miles, ~18 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Closest supplies are available at a deli/gas station 0.5 miles south, and Safeway in Fort Bragg (~15 miles north). Firewood can also be purchased at the campground or nearby stores.

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

Access is via Highway 1, with a temporary single-lane bridge installed for access to certain campsites east of Little River. The bridge is 10 feet wide and 53 feet long, requiring right turns and U-turns to access group camps and upper sites.

Weather at Van Damme State Park Campground

Current alerts(2)

There has been a temporary single lane bridge installed to allow for access to campsites on the east side of Little River. The temporary bridge is much narrower than the original bridge and measuring 10 feet in width and 53 feet in length.
Additionally, it will be necessary for all trailers entering the camp sites east of Little River to make a right turn off of the bridge followed by a U-turn in the des

Best Time to Camp at Van Damme State Park Campground

Spring delivers the best conditions. Daytime highs hover in the low 50s to mid-60s°F, and the redwood groves turn bright green with wildflowers filling the understory. Trails along Little River and through the pygmy forest are at their most vibrant before summer fog thickens. Whale migration picks up in late winter and spring. Bring warm layers regardless of season. Coastal breezes cut through even mild days. Winter brings steady Pacific rains that soak the forest and fill the air with the smell of wet redwood bark.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 10% in CA

Spring noted as best: mild temps, bright green redwoods and abundant wildflowers.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Spring through Fall (reservations strongly recommended during these periods).. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round.

About Van Damme State Park Campground

Van Damme State Park Campground sits beneath coastal redwoods at 220 feet elevation near Mendocino, offering 65 sites ranging from tent-only to RV spots. The campground charges $45 per night and fills quickly on weekends. Sites near the entrance are small and closely spaced, while Highland Meadows and inner loop areas provide better privacy.

Van Damme State Park Campground offers standard, tent-only, group, and hike-in primitive camping options. Sites are suitable for families, small groups, and RVs under 35 feet.

Historical Significance

The Pomo people lived in this region for thousands of years before California's lumber boom reshaped the forest. The campground's visitor center occupies a 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps recreation hall, one of the few Depression-era structures still standing in the area.

Weather and SeasonsSpring delivers the best conditions. Daytime highs hover in the low 50s to mid-60s°F, and the redwood groves turn bright green with wildflowers filling the understory. Trails along Little River and through the pygmy forest are at their most vibrant before summer fog thickens. Whale migration picks up in late winter and spring. Bring warm layers regardless of season. Coastal breezes cut through even mild days. Winter brings steady Pacific rains that soak the forest and fill the air with the smell of wet redwood bark.

ElevationPerched at the edge of the continent where forest meets sea, the campground enjoys a coastal elevation blessed by the moderating influence of Pacific Ocean currents. This unique position creates a microclimate where morning mists dance through the trees and afternoon sunshine filters through the canopy, offering campers the perfect balance of mountain freshness and ocean air.

Natural Features and SceneryAncient redwood groves line the Little River, creating riparian corridors thick with ferns and Douglas firs. The real draw is the nearby pygmy forest, where centuries of heavy rainfall have leached nutrients from acidic soil, stunting century-old trees to waist height. It's one of the rarest forest types on Earth. The campground sits close enough to the coast to hear waves, with trails connecting to Van Damme Beach and tidepool areas.

Geological RegionExplore a fascinating geological tapestry where ancient redwood groves thrive alongside the winding Little River, creating rich riparian corridors teeming with life. The nearby pygmy forest reveals nature's chemistry experiment in action, where centuries of heavy rainfall have leached nutrients from the soil, creating highly acidic conditions that stunt tree growth and produce one of the rarest forest types on Earth. This unique coastal region tells a million-year story written in stone, soil, and living wood.

Scenic ViewsViews range from lush ferns and redwood canopies in the campground to the coastal beach across Highway 1.

Lodging & AccommodationsWhile there is no lodge, the campground offers group campsites that are large enough for multiple trailers or cars. Users suggest sticking to trailer sizes of 24 to 27 feet for safer passage over the bridge.

Programs & ActivitiesSummer interpretive programs include hikes, campfire events, and Junior Ranger activities for ages 7-12. The park also offers guided and self-guided educational field trips.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2PM

Check-out

12 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 7 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 8 guests per family campsite and 3 vehicles permitted.

Groups

The group campsite can accommodate up to 3-4 trailers or multiple cars. The bridge leading to the group site is narrow, requiring careful navigation for trailers between 24-27 feet.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground is organized in loops, with sites near the entrance packed tightly together. Highland Meadows and inner loop areas offer more breathing room. Environmental hike-in sites branch off along Fern Canyon. Site size varies dramatically. Some fit full group setups, others barely hold a two-person tent.

Reservation PlatformsReservations are available on ReserveCalifornia.com or via phone at 1-800-444-7275.

Walk-in AvailabilityLimited walk-in availability; recommended to check during off-peak weekdays for better chances.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies follow the guidelines on ReserveCalifornia.com; cancellations must be made 48 hours before arrival.

AccessibilityCampsites 7 and 10 are paved and feature wheelchair-accessible tables. Site 11 has a generally accessible combination toilet room/shower. The pygmy forest includes a wheelchair-accessible self-guided boardwalk with interpretive exhibits.

Site SizeSites vary in size; campsite 60 accommodates up to 7 tents and 3 trucks, while site 64 is suited for a small tent.

PrivacyPrivacy levels differ across sites. Sites near the entrance are small and closely spaced, while Highland Meadows and inner sites offer better spacing and privacy. Site 30 is noted as being very private and at the edge of the campground.

Total Campsites65 campsites

Recommended SitesAvoid campsites 66-69 for lack of shade; choose inner sites in Highland Meadows for more privacy.

Best CampsitesSite 30 sits at the edge of the campground and offers the most privacy. Sites 66-69 lack shade. Site 60 accommodates up to seven tents and three trucks, while site 64 fits a small tent. Highland Meadows sites and the inner loops have better spacing than the entrance area. Environmental hike-in sites along Fern Canyon are available for those willing to haul gear.

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Amenities available

Van Damme State Park Campground offers a range of amenities aimed at providing a comfortable experience for campers. Reviews frequently highlight clean facilities, well-maintained showers, and ample water spigots. Shower facilities are noted as being hot and affordable, costing $1 for 5 minutes. Flush toilets are readily available and kept clean, although some reviews point out the absence of hand soap and paper towels/air dryers in bathrooms. Water spigots are spaced about every 4-5 sites, ensuring convenient access to potable water. Firewood is sold by camp hosts for $10 a box, and cheaper options are available nearby. Each campsite is fitted with fire rings, picnic tables, and bear lockers to store food safely.

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers activities such as hiking, biking, kayaking, wildlife viewing, and beach exploration. Trails range in difficulty and include accessible options like the pygmy forest boardwalk. Fern Canyon Trail is particularly highlighted for its stunning scenery with redwoods and ferns. Kayak rentals are available at Van Damme Beach.

Hiking

Swimming

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Beach activities

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsRogue waves and cold ocean water near the coast; wildlife including raccoons and birds that may forage at campsites.

Food Storage RequiredBear lockers available at campsites to store food securely.

Fire PolicyFires allowed only in designated fire rings; firewood must be purchased on-site.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesNearest emergency services include a hospital in Fort Bragg (~18 minutes away), ranger station on-site at Van Damme State Park.

Trash & RecyclingTrash dumpsters are provided, and users are encouraged to dispose of garbage promptly to deter wildlife. No recycling facilities are mentioned.

Water FeaturesLocated across from the beach; Little River runs alongside Fern Canyon trail.

Camp HostCamp hosts sell firewood ($10 a box) and perform regular rounds to ensure safety.

Cell CoverageReviews mention AT&T has no coverage in the campground, and there is Wi-Fi near the ranger building.

Trip Planning Tools

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

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.4

98 reviews

Recommended

Van Damme State Park Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Van Damme Campground is widely praised for its cleanliness, serene atmosphere, and well-maintained facilities. Positive reviews frequently highlight the friendly park staff and hosts, proximity to the beach, and enjoyable hiking trails. Negative feedback often revolves around the high camping fees and the lack of basic bathroom amenities like hand soap.

Review Summaries

Based on 98 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 98 reviews.

Site 30Loved
Site 30 is described as very private, located at the edge of the campground.
Site 60Mentioned
Site 60 accommodates up to 7 tents and 3 trucks, making it ideal for large groups.

What Campers Love

Clean bathrooms and showers, picturesque trails, proximity to Van Damme Beach, and helpful camp hosts. Many reviewers appreciate the peaceful atmosphere and the ease of access to trails and the beach.

Based on 98 reviews

Common Concerns

High nightly fee of $45, lack of soap and paper towels in restrooms, and limited privacy in lower sites near the entrance. Some campers also found the bridge to the upper sites challenging to...

Based on 98 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring quarters for showers, additional hand soap, and paper towels. Reserve early for weekends as the campground fills up quickly. Site 30 is recommended for privacy, and sites 66-69 are noted for...

Based on 98 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season due to kayak rentals and interpretive programs. Weekdays in the off-season provide a quieter experience with more availability. Winter weather can be cold, so warm...

Based on 98 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Worth every penny. Campground is pristine, the bathrooms are probably the nicest I've ever used while camping." - Vanessa Naranjo. "The showers are huge, private, and had endless hot water with...

Based on 98 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible features include wheelchair-friendly campsites (7, 10) and a restroom/shower near site 11. The pygmy forest boardwalk is fully accessible, and beach wheelchairs are available upon request.

Based on 98 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcomed at the campground and beach but not allowed on trails. Owners are advised to keep dogs leashed and confined to tents or vehicles at night.

Based on 98 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

Hikers and kayakers who book spring weekends early get the best of it: Fern Canyon peaks in March-May, whale migration is active, and kayak rentals open at the cove. Site 30 earns the privacy premium; site 60 fits groups of up to seven tents.

Skip if

Trailers heading to east-side sites face a temporary 10-foot-wide bridge requiring a sharp right turn and U-turn maneuver on exit, so tow rigs should confirm clearance before booking. AT&T users also get no cell signal anywhere in camp.

Nearby Campgrounds

Frequently Visited

4.4

(98)

Van Damme State Park Group Campground

null

Van Damme State Park Group Campground sits beneath coastal redwoods along California's Mendocino Coast, offering 65 tent, RV, and group sites from $45 per night. The campground provides flush toilets, hot showers (coin-operated), fire rings, and a dump station. Sites near the entrance run compact, while Highland Meadows sites offer better spacing.