Van Damme State Park is a breathtaking coastal park containing an array of recreational activities. It is located three miles south of the town of Mendocino on Highway 1. The campground features many well-appointed, scenic campsites offering plenty of room for visitors to spread out and enjoy their stay. Many of the campsites are wheelchair accessible. Outdoor activities include boating, fishing, bird watching, jogging, kayaking, scuba diving, snorkeling and windsurfing. Hiking trails include a ¼ mile-long wheelchair-accessible boardwalk through the Pygmy Forest with stunted trees in bog-like conditions, as well as a 4.15 mile loop through the Redwood forest of Fern Canyon. There are nine hike-in sites available for campers who wish to experience a more rustic getaway. Visitors can explore this idyllic spot and immerse themselves in nature with all it has to offer.

The upper loop and hiking trail were both closed during our visit due to rain damage. But there's an accessible beach right across the street (walking distance) from the lower loop campground. The perfect mixture of wooded and ocean views!

Pet-friendly: Yes, but must be leashed and well-behaved

Wifi/cell service: There is very limited wifi available in the lower loop, and spotty cell service

Seasonality: All seasons