Van Damme State Park Group Campground

4.49

98 reviews

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Scenic Views

Quick Facts

184 ft

Price

$45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

65 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowersWiFi

Opens Sonoma Mendocino District Office site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

184 ft

Price

$45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

65 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowersWiFi

Opens Sonoma Mendocino District Office site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

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

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

cleanshowersrestroomsbeach

"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."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

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Van Damme State Park Group Campground

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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.

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.

Best Time to Camp at Van Damme State Park Group Campground

Experience the enchanting dance of coastal weather throughout the year at Van Damme. Summer mornings greet campers with mystical fog that rolls in from the Pacific, creating an ethereal atmosphere before giving way to brilliant sunshine by mid-morning. Winter brings dramatic storms and refreshing rains that nourish the verdant forest. The temperate climate means comfortable camping year-round, though savvy visitors pack layers to adapt to the coast's ever-changing moods.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer offers tours and kayaking; mornings bring coastal fog but it's peak season for activities.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall is within the prime spring–fall season with good hiking and quieter conditions than summer weekends.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.5 / 5

Top 7% in CA

Spring is listed as peak season; excellent for trails and wildlife viewing (peak season: spring–fall).

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Park is open year-round but cooler weather, possible trail restrictions and fewer services in winter.

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.
Current Alerts: Fern Canyon Trail from Bridge 4 to Bridge 7 is closed.

About Van Damme State Park Group Campground

Nestled beneath towering coastal redwoods, Van Damme State Park Campground invites you to experience the magic of Northern California's rugged coastline. With over 65 thoughtfully placed drive-in campsites, this peaceful retreat offers the perfect balance of wilderness and comfort. Wake up to the gentle rustle of ancient trees while enjoying modern conveniences including flush toilets, warm pay showers, and cozy fire pits where evening stories come to life under a canopy of stars.

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

Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape rich with stories spanning centuries. Long before the first sawmill echoed through these woods, the Pomo people called this coastline home, living in harmony with the forest and sea. Later, the mighty redwoods that shelter today's campground drew lumber pioneers who shaped California's early economy. Each trail and clearing whispers tales of indigenous wisdom and frontier determination, inviting modern visitors to become part of this continuing narrative.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the enchanting dance of coastal weather throughout the year at Van Damme. Summer mornings greet campers with mystical fog that rolls in from the Pacific, creating an ethereal atmosphere before giving way to brilliant sunshine by mid-morning. Winter brings dramatic storms and refreshing rains that nourish the verdant forest. The temperate climate means comfortable camping year-round, though savvy visitors pack layers to adapt to the coast's ever-changing moods.

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 SceneryDiscover a wonderland of ecological diversity where the iconic Fern Canyon trail winds through prehistoric-looking groves draped in emerald ferns. The Little River meanders peacefully toward the sea, creating tranquil spots for reflection. From the otherworldly pygmy forest where centuries-old trees stand just feet tall, to majestic redwood cathedrals and lush riparian corridors teeming with wildlife, Van Damme showcases nature's incredible artistry at every turn.

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.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

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 features loops with drive-in campsites, including inner sites spaced apart and lower sites near the entrance more compact.

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.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

WiFi

Flush toilets

Dump station

Fire rings

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.

HikingVan Damme State Park features several hiking trails ranging from easy to strenuous. Highlights include the Fern Canyon Scenic Trail and Pygmy Forest Trail. One user mentioned: 'Loved the 8.5 mile Fern Canyon trail hike with bridges well-maintained.'

FishingFishing is permitted in the park, with anglers over 16 required to carry a valid fishing license.

BikingThe park offers biking trails such as the Fern Canyon Scenic Trail and Old Logging Road Trail. Bicycles are restricted from certain areas, including the pygmy forest boardwalk.

BoatingKayaking is popular at the park’s beach, with summer tours exploring tide pools and sea caves available.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing opportunities include birds like pileated woodpeckers, yellow warblers, and northern spotted owls. User reviews also mention chipmunks and skunks near campsites.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsSeasonal interpretive programs are offered, including hikes, campfire programs, and junior ranger activities for children aged 7 to 12.

Policies & Safety

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

Active AlertsFern Canyon Trail from Bridge 4 to Bridge 7 is closed.

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.

Weather at Van Damme State Park Group Campground

Reviews

4.5

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

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

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

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