Enroute Campsites
4.5431 reviewsThree miles south of Mendocino on Highway 1, Van Damme State Park, Little River, CA
Enroute Campsites
$45.00 - $45.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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
The nightly fee for campsites is $45. Showers cost $1 for 5 minutes, and firewood is $10 per box. Dump station usage incurs an additional $10 fee.
About this campground
Discover the magic of Van Damme State Park's Enroute Campsites, where 65 thoughtfully designed drive-in sites welcome adventurers seeking the perfect blend of forest and sea. Whether you're pitching a tent beneath towering coastal redwoods, parking your smaller trailer among ancient Douglas firs, or settling in with your RV, you'll find yourself immersed in one of California's most enchanting coastal landscapes. Just moments from the rugged Mendocino shoreline, these campsites serve as your gateway to both misty beaches and cathedral-like forest groves.
Enroute Campsites at Van Damme State Park support a range of camping styles, from tent camping to RV camping, as well as group sites.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape rich with stories spanning millennia. Long before the thunderous sawmills of the redwood lumber era echoed through these valleys, the Pomo people called this coastal paradise home, carefully stewarding its resources for countless generations. Today's visitors can sense the layers of history—from ancient indigenous pathways to the remnants of logging operations that once harvested these mighty giants, each telling a chapter in California's complex environmental and cultural narrative.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the gentle rhythms of California's coastal climate, where mild temperatures grace the campground throughout the year. Winter transforms the landscape with refreshing Pacific storms that nourish the ancient redwoods, while summer mornings arrive wrapped in mysterious coastal fog that gradually unveils stunning blue skies by afternoon. Even during the warmest months, the ocean's influence brings crisp evenings perfect for campfire gatherings—so pack those extra layers and prepare for nature's daily temperature dance.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery on your visit, the campground's unique position creates a remarkable microclimate where ocean breezes meet forest air, producing the perfect conditions for both coastal redwoods and the rare pygmy forest ecosystem nearby.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living postcard where majestic coastal redwoods and stately Douglas firs create a verdant canopy overhead, their ancient branches filtering sunlight into ethereal beams. The melodic Little River winds through the landscape, offering tranquil spots for reflection and wildlife watching. But the true marvel lies in the park's extraordinary pygmy forest—a botanical wonderland where full-grown trees stand no taller than a person, creating an otherworldly landscape that challenges everything you thought you knew about forest ecosystems.
Geological RegionPerched along the dramatic Mendocino Coast, Van Damme State Park showcases nature's geological artistry. Here, the relentless Pacific has carved a spectacular meeting place of land and sea, while inland, ancient marine terraces tell the story of prehistoric ocean levels. The park's famous pygmy forest grows atop these old sea beds, where highly acidic, nutrient-poor soils have created one of the world's most unique ecological phenomena—a testament to nature's ability to adapt and thrive in the most challenging conditions.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-accessible campsites (7 and 10) are available, featuring paved surfaces and accessible tables. An accessible combination toilet/shower facility is located near campsite 11.
Sites SizeSites vary in size; some are suitable for multiple tents and vehicles, while others are smaller and compact near the park entrance.
Sites PrivacyLower sites near the entrance are described as small and clustered, offering less privacy. Inner sites in Highland Meadows are more spaced out, ideal for larger families.
Total Campsites65 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites 66-69 if you prefer shaded areas as they are in a clearing. Consider Highland Meadows for larger groups or families.
Best CampsitesSite 30 is described as 'very private and just at the edge of the campground.' Sites in Highland Meadows are more spacious and suited for large groups.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
- Maximum occupancy per site is 8 people
- stay limit is null.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Eight guests are allowed per site.
Groups
The group campsite accommodates multiple trailers or vehicles, with a recommended trailer length of 24-27 feet due to the tight bridge. The site is spacious and hidden from wind, providing a quieter experience.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are spread out among wooded areas, open clearings, and Highland Meadows. Loops and sections are not explicitly labeled.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Fern Canyon Trail from Bridge 4 to Bridge 7 is temporarily closed.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online at ReserveCalifornia.com or by calling 1-800-444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityA limited number of sites are available for first-come, first-served campers.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled up to 48 hours in advance. Policies for late cancellations are not provided.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Van Damme State Park offers a variety of recreational activities, including hiking, kayaking, bird watching, fishing, biking, and exploring the nearby beach. The Fern Canyon Trail is a popular spot for hiking, offering lush scenery and well-maintained bridges.
Hiking
The Fern Canyon Trail is a highlight, featuring a 5-mile round trip with minimal elevation changes. The trail passes through second-growth redwood forests and provides opportunities for birdwatching. Other trails include the Pygmy Forest Boardwalk and Old Logging Road Trail.Fishing
Fishing is permitted with a valid license at Van Damme Beach and adjacent areas. Coho salmon and other species populate the Little River.Biking
Biking is allowed on designated trails, including the 2.5-mile Fern Canyon Scenic Trail and the Old Logging Road Trail. Bikes are prohibited in certain areas, such as the pygmy forest.Boating
Kayaking is popular at Van Damme Beach, with rentals available seasonally. The cove features tide pools and sea caves that are ideal for exploration.Wildlife viewing
Campers reported seeing pileated woodpeckers, Coho salmon, and other wildlife along the trails. The pygmy forest is also a good spot for observing unique plant species.Beach activities
Van Damme Beach offers kayaking, birdwatching, and scenic views. The proximity to the campground makes it convenient for campers.Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretive programs and exhibits are available, including the Fern Canyon Self-Guided Nature Trail, which educates visitors about local flora and fauna.Winter Activities
Not specified in the source materials.Water Sports
Kayaking opportunities include exploring nearby tide pools and sea caves.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted only in established fire rings or camp stoves. Gathering firewood is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsWildfire risks during summer months. Wildlife such as raccoons can invade campsites. Poison oak is present on trails.
Active alertsFern Canyon Trail is partially closed from Bridge 4 to Bridge 7. Temporary bridge access requires caution.
Weather forecast
59
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Foggy
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 92%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Foggy
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
Emergency medical services and police are accessible by calling 911. The closest hospital is in Fort Bragg, approximately 20 minutes north. Ranger stations are available within the park for immediate assistance.
Good to know
Peak season datesSpring through fall is considered peak season.
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available throughout the campground, and campers are encouraged to dispose of garbage promptly to deter wildlife.
Proximity to water featuresLocated across Highway 1 from the Little River beach and Van Damme Marine Conservation Area.
Common complaintsSome sites are small and lack privacy, especially near the entrance. Complaints about high prices ($45 per night) and lack of free showers.
HostCampground hosts are available onsite, selling firewood and providing assistance.
Campground Map
Three miles south of Mendocino on Highway 1, Van Damme State Park, Little River, CA
Driving directionsThe park is located three miles south of Mendocino on Highway 1. The highway runs through the park, separating the campground and the Fern Canyon trailhead to the east and the beach and parking lot to the west.
The park is accessible via Highway 1, which runs directly through the park. A temporary single-lane bridge measuring 10 feet in width and 53 feet in length allows access to campsites on the east side of Little River. This bridge requires maneuvering, including a right turn off the bridge followed by a U-turn in the designated area. Signage is available to guide motorists, and trailers above 24 to 27 feet are not recommended.Nearby places
Mendocino (3 miles, approximately 5-10 minutes drive), Fort Bragg (15-18 miles, approximately 20 minutes drive)
Nearby supplies
Firewood can be purchased onsite for $10 per box or at a deli/gas station 0.5 miles south for $7.50 per bundle. Safeway and additional camping supplies are available in Fort Bragg, approximately 15 minutes away.
Camper Reviews
4.5
31 reviews
Enroute Campsites is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users generally describe the campground as clean, well-maintained, and peaceful. The location near the beach and access to trails are frequently praised. Camp hosts are noted for their friendliness and helpfulness.
Review Summaries
Based on 31 reviews
What Campers Love
Common highlights include clean restrooms and showers, close proximity to the beach, friendly camp hosts, and scenic hiking trails. Many campers appreciate the availability of hot showers and...
Based on 31 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users noted the lack of privacy for campsites near the entrance, absence of hand soap and paper towels in bathrooms, and the additional cost for showers.
Based on 31 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring quarters for showers, hand soap, and towels. Reserve in advance during peak seasons. Sites in Highland Meadows are more spacious and private.
Based on 31 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Weekdays see fewer reservations and quieter stays compared to weekends, which are often packed. Summer interpretive programs are popular with families.
Based on 31 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The bathrooms are probably the nicest I've ever used while camping." - Vanessa Naranjo; "Showers are huge, private and had endless hot water with great water pressure." - Casey Arents-Gonzalez;...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 30 is considered the best for privacy. Sites 66-69 lack shade. Sites 62 and 64 offer enough space for large family tents.
Based on 31 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible campsites 7 and 10 are highlighted as suitable for wheelchairs. The accessible restroom near site 11 is well-regarded.
Based on 31 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed in the campground but must be leashed. They are not permitted on trails or dirt roads.
Based on 31 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025