Navarro Beach Campground
4.8032 reviewsHighway 128, two miles east of Hwy. 1 Albion, CA 95410
Navarro Beach Campground
$20.00 - $35.00
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Fees range from $20 to $35 depending on site type and availability. Navarro Beach Campground is first-come, first-serve with no reservation fees.
About this campground
Where the mighty Navarro River meets the endless Pacific, Navarro Beach Campground offers adventurous souls a back-to-basics escape from modern life. This pristine primitive campground invites you to disconnect and immerse yourself in raw coastal beauty, with only chemical toilets and the sounds of crashing waves as your companions. Perfect for those who find luxury in solitude and simplicity, this hidden gem provides an authentic wilderness experience just steps from the ocean's edge.
Navarro Beach Campground offers primitive camping at 10 designated sites. RVs and trailers longer than 28 feet are discouraged due to narrow and curving roads.
Historical SignificanceThese ancient grounds whisper stories of the Pomo people, who harvested the river's bounty and gathered shellfish along these shores for thousands of years. As the 19th century dawned, the thunderous crash of falling redwoods echoed through these valleys as logging operations transformed the landscape. Today, visitors can explore the nearby Captain Fletcher's Inn, a weathered reminder of the maritime adventures and commercial ambitions that once connected this remote coastline to distant ports around the world.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature keeps you guessing along this dramatic coastline, where morning fog can give way to brilliant sunshine in minutes. Pack your layers and prepare for adventure—summer days might surprise you with warm golden hours perfect for beachcombing, while winter transforms the landscape into a moody masterpiece of storm-watching opportunities. During the rainy season, the Navarro River occasionally reclaims its floodplain, creating temporary wetlands that attract migrating birds and showcase nature's ever-changing canvas.
ElevationNestled at sea level where river meets ocean, the campground offers an intimate connection with the tidal rhythms and coastal dynamics of the Pacific shoreline.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into an emerald cathedral of towering second-growth redwoods, where shafts of filtered sunlight dance across carpets of coastal ferns and moss-draped branches. This enchanted forest opens dramatically to reveal the Navarro River's grand finale—a dynamic estuary where freshwater tangos with the salty Pacific, creating a rich tapestry of life. Watch playful harbor seals surf the river mouth while sleek river otters fish the brackish waters, all set against a backdrop of crashing waves and wheeling seabirds.
Geological RegionCarved by millennia of flowing water and oceanic forces, this remarkable landscape showcases nature's resilience at the confluence of the Navarro River and Pacific Ocean. Majestic second-growth redwood groves rise from nutrient-rich soils, their roots drinking deeply from seasonal floods that have shaped this delta for centuries. Beneath their protective canopy, a lush understory thrives—western sword ferns unfurl like ancient scrolls, glossy salal leaves catch the morning dew, and wild huckleberries offer sweet rewards to those who wander these verdant trails.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible features are generally unavailable at Navarro Beach Campground. However, accessible beach wheelchairs can be reserved within the broader Mendocino coast area by contacting (707) 937-5721 at least seven days in advance.
Sites SizeSites are primitive and small, catering primarily to basic camping setups.
Sites PrivacySites are clustered near the estuary area, offering a scenic but less secluded experience.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo particular site recommendations mentioned.
Best CampsitesNo specific campsite ratings or preferences provided.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
- First-come, first-serve
- no specified check-in time.
Check-out
No specified check-out time.
Stay Limit
No maximum consecutive night limit stated.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific guest limits mentioned.
Groups
Group camping options are not specifically mentioned at Navarro Beach Campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutPrimitive layout with 10 sites accessible via the south side of the Navarro River Bridge.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round with restrictions during winter due to potential flooding.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platforms applicable; sites are first-come, first-serve.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. All 10 sites are walk-up accessible.
Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation policy available since sites are first-come, first-serve.
Amenities available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Navarro Beach Campground offers limited recreational activities focused on nature and water-based experiences. Swimming and wading are popular during summer, while winter and spring welcome kayakers and canoeists. Fishing opportunities are significant, particularly for steelhead trout, subject to California fishing regulations.
HikingNo hiking trails are directly mentioned within Navarro Beach Campground.
FishingSteelhead trout fishing at Navarro River is highly praised during allowable months, subject to catch-and-release policies and the use of barbless hooks. Anglers need a valid California fishing license and steelhead card.
SwimmingSwimming and wading are popular in summer months. Safety measures and lifeguard presence are not specifically mentioned.
BikingNo biking paths or trails are specifically mentioned for Navarro Beach Campground.
BoatingKayaking and canoeing are popular during winter and spring months along the tranquil Navarro River.
Wildlife viewingVisitors may encounter harbor seals, river otters, California sea lions, and other species. The beach and river estuary are ideal spots for wildlife observation.
Beach activitiesBeach-related activities include sunbathing and enjoying the scenic estuary views.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned for Navarro Beach Campground.
Winter ActivitiesWinter activities include kayaking and canoeing along the peaceful Navarro River.
Water SportsNon-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are available during winter and spring months.
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted only in designated facilities. Gathering wood is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential winter flooding and poison oak are noted hazards. Large RVs are discouraged due to narrow, winding roads.
Active alertsPark is open with restrictions. Winter flooding may affect accessibility.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 18
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 70%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 10.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
The Mendocino District Office can be reached at (707) 937-5804 for emergencies. Additional police and emergency services may be accessed in nearby towns such as Mendocino and Fort Bragg.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo specific peak season date ranges provided.
Trash and recyclingCampers are required to dispose of trash in receptacles provided, and feeding wildlife or leaving food outside is strongly discouraged.
Proximity to water featuresSituated at the mouth of the Navarro River, adjacent to the Pacific Ocean.
Common complaintsLimited facilities and the lack of amenities such as running water are recurring concerns.
HostNo data available about campground hosts.
Campground Map
Highway 128, two miles east of Hwy. 1 Albion, CA 95410
Driving directionsNavarro River Redwoods State Park is accessible via Highway 128, two miles east of the junction with State Highway 1. The Navarro Beach Campground is located at the mouth of the Navarro River on the Pacific Ocean. The access road is situated on the south side of the Navarro River Bridge.
The campground is located along Highway 128, known for its narrow and curving roads. Access is relatively straightforward, although larger RVs and trailers over 28 feet are not recommended due to road conditions.Nearby places
Albion: 2 miles east, Mendocino: approximately 10 miles northwest, Fort Bragg: approximately 20 miles northwest.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Mendocino (approximately 10 miles northwest) or Albion (approximately 2 miles east).
Camper Reviews
4.8
32 reviews
Navarro Beach Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the scenic beauty of Navarro Beach Campground, with its location at the estuary providing stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Common themes include tranquility and proximity to nature, but limited amenities such as potable water and showers are noted as drawbacks.
Review Summaries
Based on 32 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the campground's location and natural beauty, calling it a great spot for beach camping and enjoying views of the Navarro River and ocean.
Based on 32 reviewsCommon Concerns
Reviews commonly mention the lack of potable water, showers, and electricity as inconveniences, along with the presence of chemical toilets, which some find insufficient.
Based on 32 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring sufficient water and supplies due to the lack of running water. Early arrival is recommended to secure a site as camping is first-come, first-serve.
Based on 32 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter and spring are favored for activities like kayaking and canoeing, while summer is ideal for swimming and other beach activities. Rainy conditions in winter may occasionally flood the...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Camping here feels like being in a secluded paradise." "The views of the Pacific Ocean are breathtaking, but lack of running water makes it challenging." "A perfect spot for nature lovers who can do...
Based on 32 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers or reviews addressing individual campsites are provided.
Based on 32 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are limited; no specific features at Navarro Beach Campground are mentioned aside from the availability of beach wheelchairs within the broader state park.
Based on 32 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are appreciated by campers who bring their dogs, provided they are leashed and under control as per park regulations.
Based on 32 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025