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

Camping fees at Van Damme State Park Group 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 Group Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Van Damme State Park Group 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 Group Campground before I book?

Yes! Van Damme State Park Group 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 Group Campground?

Van Damme State Park Group Campground is open Spring through fall is the peak season for camping.. 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 Group Campground?

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

How many campsites does Van Damme State Park Group Campground have?

Van Damme State Park Group 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 Group Campground?

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

Van Damme State Park Group 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 Group Campground?

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

Van Damme State Park Group Campground

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

Fire policies at Van Damme State Park Group Campground: Fires allowed only in established fire rings and camp stoves. Firewood purchase required.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.43

98 reviews

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Top 10% in CASpring

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

184 ft

Price

$45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

65 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowersWiFi

Book on Sonoma Mendocino District Office Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

184 ft

Price

$45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

65 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowersWiFi

Book on Sonoma Mendocino District Office Official Website

Get Directions

Van Damme State Park Group Campground

$45.00 - $45.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The standard nightly fee for camping is $45, which does not include showers ($1 per 5 minutes). Additional costs may apply for firewood, extra...

Standard Site Fee$45.00

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Reserve California

Provider

707-937-5804null

I manage this campground

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Van Damme State Park Group Campground

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Nearby places

Mendocino (3 miles, approximately 6 minutes drive)

Fort Bragg (approximately 15-18 minutes drive)

Little River (approximately 0.5 miles south, around 2 minutes drive)

Nearby supplies

Firewood available from campground host or nearby stores, priced between $7.50-$10. Groceries can be obtained from Safeway in Fort Bragg or nearby delis/gas stations located within 0.5 miles south of the park.

Driving directionsVan Damme State Park is three miles south of Mendocino on Highway 1. The highway separates the campground and the Fern Canyon trailhead to the east, from the beach and parking lot to the west. Visitors traveling with large trailers are advised to park in the beach parking lot and walk to inspect the bridge before attempting to cross.

Road access is limited due to a narrow temporary single-lane bridge measuring 10 feet wide and 53 feet long. Trailers may need to make tight maneuvers such as a U-turn in designated areas to access the campground. Large trailers are recommended to stay in the beach parking lot instead of crossing the bridge.

Weather at Van Damme State Park Group 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 Group Campground

Spring delivers the most reliable conditions: cool mornings in the mid-40s to low-50s, daytime highs in the mid-50s to mid-60s, and morning fog that typically clears by late morning. Trails are greenest then, wildflowers bloom, and crowds stay moderate compared to summer weekends. Winter storms bring heavy rain that nourishes the forest but can make camping uncomfortable. Summer mornings start foggy before burning off to sun, though temperatures stay mild year-round due to coastal influence. Pack layers regardless of season. The coast's weather shifts quickly.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 10% in CA

Described as the most reliable season: mild temps, cleared morning fog, excellent trails.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Spring through fall is the peak season for camping.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: The park is open year-round, though restrictions or closures may apply to specific trails or areas.

About Van Damme State Park Group Campground

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.

Van Damme State Park Group Campground offers various camping accommodations, with options for group camping and larger trailers.

Historical Significance

The Pomo people inhabited this coastline before European contact. Later, logging operations harvested the area's redwoods during California's timber boom era.

Weather and SeasonsSpring delivers the most reliable conditions: cool mornings in the mid-40s to low-50s, daytime highs in the mid-50s to mid-60s, and morning fog that typically clears by late morning. Trails are greenest then, wildflowers bloom, and crowds stay moderate compared to summer weekends. Winter storms bring heavy rain that nourishes the forest but can make camping uncomfortable. Summer mornings start foggy before burning off to sun, though temperatures stay mild year-round due to coastal influence. Pack layers regardless of season. The coast's weather shifts quickly.

ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery, the campground's coastal location offers a gentle terrain that welcomes campers of all abilities to explore its varied landscapes.

Natural Features and SceneryThe park's landscape shifts from Pacific beaches and coastal bluffs inland through wetlands and riparian zones along the Little River. Redwood groves tower over the campground itself, while trails lead to the pygmy forest, where ancient trees grow only feet tall due to acidic soil conditions. Fern Canyon trails wind through fern-draped corridors. The park sits at 184 feet elevation, close enough to the ocean that morning fog is common. Ecological variety defines this area. You can move between marine environment, sandy beach, forest types, and wetlands within a compact area. Wildlife viewing opportunities follow the riparian zones and forest edges.

Geological RegionPerched along the dramatic Mendocino Coast, Van Damme State Park encompasses an extraordinary tapestry of ecosystems rarely found in such close proximity. From the crashing waves of the marine environment to sandy coastal beaches and rugged bluff terraces, the landscape transforms inland through mysterious wetlands, the fascinating pygmy forest phenomenon, towering redwood groves, and vibrant riparian zones. This geological diversity creates endless opportunities for exploration and discovery.

Scenic ViewsProvides forested views and proximity to the Little River and Mendocino Coast beaches.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo additional lodging accommodations (such as cabins) are mentioned in the materials.

Programs & ActivitiesSeasonal interpretive programs are offered, including hikes, campfire programs, and junior ranger activities for children aged 7 to 12.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in time is 2 PM.

Check-out

Check-out time is 12 PM.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 7 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum occupancy per family campsite is 8 people.

Groups

Group camping sites can accommodate multiple trailers or vehicles. One user noted: 'Booked the Group Campsite. Large area room for 3 or 4 trailers or multiple cars.'

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. Inner sites space out more generously. Lower sites near the entrance sit closer together and handle most of the through-traffic. A tight bridge provides campground access, which can challenge larger rigs. Site size varies: some accommodate multiple tents and vehicles, others fit only single tents.

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

Walk-in AvailabilityLimited first-come, first-served sites are available alongside reservations.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are managed through ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling 1-800-444-7275.

AccessibilityCampsites 7 and 10 are paved and have wheelchair-accessible tables. There is an accessible combination toilet/shower near campsite 11. Accessible parking is adjacent to this facility.

Site SizeUser reviews indicate that sites vary in size; some are large enough to accommodate multiple tents and vehicles, while others are smaller and suitable for single tents.

PrivacyUser reviews describe varying levels of privacy, with some campsites located in open areas and others tucked away for seclusion. Sites in Highland Meadows are noted for better spacing and privacy.

Total Campsites65 campsites

Recommended SitesBook inner sites at Highland Meadows for larger group setups and privacy. Sites near the park entrance are smaller and less private.

Best CampsitesSite 30 gets consistent praise for privacy and quiet. Avoid sites 66-69, which lost shade after tree removal. Highland Meadows sites generally provide better spacing than lower sites near the entrance, which run more compact and see higher foot traffic.

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Amenities available

Van Damme State Park Group Campground offers a range of amenities such as restrooms, showers, potable water, firewood for purchase, picnic tables, and trash/recycling facilities. The campground is generally clean and well-maintained, as noted in multiple user reviews.

Showers

Potable water

WiFi

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The campground and surrounding Van Damme State Park offer a variety of recreational activities including hiking, biking, birding, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Cultural and Educational Programs

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include rogue waves near the coast and wildlife such as raccoons and skunks seeking food.

Food Storage RequiredBear lockers are provided for food storage, ensuring safety from wildlife.

Fire PolicyFires allowed only in established fire rings and camp stoves. Firewood purchase required.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services can be accessed via 911. Mendocino District Office provides their contact number: 707-937-5804.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, with users reminded to place trash in designated dumpsters promptly to prevent wildlife disturbances.

Water FeaturesClose to Little River and Mendocino Coast beaches.

Camp HostCampground hosts sell firewood for $10 per box and provide general assistance.

Cell CoverageUser reviews do not consistently clarify cell phone coverage, but one review mentions no AT&T coverage.

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 Group Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews generally praise the campground for its cleanliness, amenities, and peaceful atmosphere. Some reviewers note drawbacks such as crowded sites near the entrance and additional costs for showers.

Review Summaries

Based on 98 reviews

What Campers Love

Highlights include clean restrooms and showers, picturesque trails, and proximity to the beach. One user described it as 'one of the best camping grounds I've ever been to.'

Based on 98 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints include small crowded sites near the entrance, lack of hand soap and towels in bathrooms, and the expense of the nightly fee ($45).

Based on 98 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The group camping site is praised for its large size accommodating multiple vehicles and trailers. Site 30 is noted for its privacy and location at the edge of the campground.

Based on 98 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Tips include bringing quarters for showers, checking site photos for size and privacy, and reserving sites in Highland Meadows for better spacing.

Based on 98 reviews

Seasonal Insights

User reviews suggest that the campground is busiest during weekends and summer months, making reservations essential during these times. Weekdays are quieter, offering a more peaceful experience.

Based on 98 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Van Damme State Campground is worth every penny. Campground is pristine, the bathrooms are probably the nicest I've ever used while camping.' — Vanessa Naranjo 2. 'The campground is super pretty,...

Based on 98 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible sites include campsites 7 and 10, which are paved and feature wheelchair-accessible tables. The restroom/shower near campsite 11 is generally accessible.

Based on 98 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed in the campground but must be leashed. Dogs are forbidden on most trails, but areas near the beach are pet-friendly.

Based on 98 reviews

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Go if

Hikers and kayakers who want spring weekends under redwoods with easy access to Fern Canyon's 8.5-mile trail and sea cave tours. Reserve Highland Meadows or site 30 for real privacy and spacing, and bring quarters for the coin showers.

Skip if

Trailers and larger RVs face a genuinely awkward temporary bridge right now, narrow at 10 feet with no straight approach or exit, requiring a U-turn maneuver on the far side. Entrance-loop sites also run tight and catch most of the foot traffic.

Nearby Campgrounds

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

Enroute Campsites at Van Damme State Park sits just inland from the Mendocino Coast, offering 65 sites under a canopy of coastal redwoods and Douglas fir. The campground charges $45 per night and fills up during peak season, so reserve ahead. Sites near the entrance are small and close together, while Highland Meadows sites offer more room and spacing for families or groups.