The best campgrounds near Albion, California with wildlife watching

Looking for a camping experience near Albion, California that's perfect for wildlife watching? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 980 options in the area, you're sure to find the perfect campsite to suit your needs. Whether you prefer tent camping, RV camping, or cabin rentals, you'll have plenty of choices to explore. And with campsites like Jug Handle Creek Farm (1479 reviews), Salmon Creek Ranch (1270 reviews), and Mendocino Magic (410 reviews) being top-rated favorites, you know you'll be in for a great experience. Plus, popular amenities like toilets, trash facilities, and pet-friendly sites are available. So pack your binoculars and get ready for an unforgettable wildlife watching adventure!

94% (7.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Albion

83%

(18)

270 sites · Calpella, California

Discover the diverse allure of Lake Mendocino, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

11. Westport-Union Landing State Beach

100%

(3)

87 sites · Cleone, California

Discover the rugged beauty of Westport-Union Landing State Beach.

12. Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

97%

(36)

87 sites · Leggett, California

Hike the Lost Coast and take in the ethereal beauty of this California state park.

Pets

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Thanktuary Retreat

96%

(115)

31mi from Albion · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Learn more about this land: The winds whisper through the redwood trees and provide respite from the hot sun. Here on the ridge above Gualala, lies nestled a lovely and serene campground called Thanktuary Retreat. Skunks, jackrabbits, deer, foxes and very rarely a mountain lion or bear can be found on our 5 acres of forested land. There is a fishpond with water lilies, mini golf course and pétanque court (both with equipment in a useful shed close by), a horse shoe ring and beautiful, natural secluded spots in the redwoods perfect for meditation and vision questing. Huckleberry bushes and ferns grow abundantly. The place lends itself to self-reflection and introspection. There is space for 1 RV with a patio table and chairs and some sun loungers. There are also 2 tent sites available on the property, located in one large area, further away from the RV sites. Barely 7 minutes away is downtown Gualala, with amenities such as 2 supermarkets, pharmacy, bakery, restaurants and more. There is a beautiful holistic gift store, The Sea Trader, Four Eyed Frog Bookstore, and some lovely art galleries in town.   Kayaking is available at the Gualala River. Hiking at Gualala Regional Park, the Bluff Trail, The Sea Ranch public access beaches, Stump Beach, Salt Point Park with a petrified forest, Bowling Ball Beach with its amazing natural formations (can only be seen fully at low tide of more than -0.2m), Manchester State Beach, Elk Beach, and more. Swimming at the Navarro River, and various bays. It is a place of incredible scenic beauty all along CA 1. Watch whales spouting during whale season. (Gray whales and orcas is December to May. For humpbacks, visit May through November, and for blue whales, the largest animal on Earth, plan your stay between July and October). Bower Park, just 0.5 miles away with a lovely lake, tennis courts, a baseball field, a basketball court, and two separate playgrounds. Play disc golf or hike along the nature trail/fitness course. Anchor Bay is 5 miles up CA 1, with a supermarket, a few cafes, restaurants (including a great Thai place!) laundromat, hair salon, and more. The quaint town of Point Arena is 12 miles north, with a supermarket, Frannie's Cup And Saucer, The Bird Cafe, a beautiful historic lighthouse, a theater, a pier, a mini-safari park (B Bryan Preserve with zebras, giraffes and more. Tours need to be booked in advance). Also visit Roots, a natural pharmacy for herbs, teas and supplements.  There are also spots like Occidental, Bodega Bay, Jenner (with the Russian River to kayak and swim) and Timber Cove, all on the way to Gualala from the south. Bodega Bay has lovely spots to eat, with clam chowder, fish and chips. Enjoy wind and water sports, and walk on the pier.

Many Moons Homestead

99%

(258)

0.4mi from Albion · 3 sites · Lodging

Situated on 2 acres, the old farmhouse, where our family lives is said to be one of the very oldest houses in Albion... built in 1865! When we got the place in 2018, it was in pretty bad disrepair and the land was a a jungle of brambles, holly bush, and tons of buried trash. Pregnant and feeling brave (also very naive), we dug into loving up the land and home. Here we are, nearly 6 years later, with 2 sweet little dudes climbing the old plum tree, a secret garden filled with all kinds of wild and cultivated edible and medicinal plants to enjoy. It makes our hearts really happy to care for this land and we love to share it with folks looking to slow down and connect with this beautiful place we get to call home. We view ourselves as just the current stewards of this beautiful place. This was home to the flora and fauna for hundreds of thousands of years before people, then home to the Pomo people for many generations, then a slew of immigrants and homesteaders, and now us. As our motto goes, This land, home, trees, and forest animals have been here for many moons before us; it's our greatest hope to be worthy stewards to ensure its health and vitality for many more.

spirit chicken ranch

98%

(165)

27mi from Albion · 9 sites · Tents, RVs

Our property boasts year round creeks, waterfalls, swimming holes, Madrones, Oaks, Douglas firs and manzanitas. Wild horses roam the land as well as the occasional mountain lion and black bear. On the human end we have an ancient walnut grove as well as many fruit trees two small ponds all in total privacy at the very end of the road. We also have a Sauna and outdoor bathtub and shower available for use. We are out a 9 mile dirt road and a 4X4 or all wheel drive vehicle is highly recommended. Ask me about booking the whole place for a private event!

Ocean-view Redwood Forest Glamping

97%

(77)

19mi from Albion · 18 sites · Lodging

Welcome to Ocean Forest Retreat.Nestled on a ridge with a stunning ocean view, our retreat offers a serene escape amidst ancient redwoods. Surrounded by thousands of acres of tranquil forest and just minutes from the beach, this is the perfect place to unplug, breathe deeply, and reconnect with nature. We have four cozy and unique glamping cabins, each with its own charm. The Honeybear and Garden Cabins have French doors that open onto breathtaking forest views, glass door woodstoves, and decks provide the perfect spots to relax and unwind amidst nature. The Earth Cabin is nestled under the majestic redwoods, where you can craft your own culinary adventure with a clay firebrick oven—enjoy baking your own pizza in the heart of the forest! It's surrounded by a covered gathering area with earthen benches and a simple outdoor kitchen. The Redwood TreeCabin has French doors that lead out to a redwood deck, a loft, and a cozy atmosphere that feels like a treehouse. All cabins come with comfy queen beds, heaters for chilly nights, private outdoor fire pits, hammocks, and solar string lights to illuminate your own little corner of the magical forest. Enjoy stargazing without the glow of city lights! Each cabin has its own private outdoor hot shower under the canopy of redwoods and private composting toilets. The Earth Cabin also offers an outdoor bathtub, where you can soak under the stars. We're off the grid, so leave your devices behind and enjoy a digital detox. No WiFi or cell service means you can truly unplug and reconnect with nature and yourself. Ideal for meditation, yoga, and finding serenity in the peacefulness of the forest. We're just a 5 min. drive from Mackerricher State Park’s coastal trails, Ten Mile Beach, and Glass Beach, the Skunk Train, and Fort Bragg’s restaurants and cafes are only ten minutes away. You can spend your days exploring the coast, or simply soaking up the tranquility of our forest. Our cabins are cozy 10x12 spaces that comfortably fit two people. If you're traveling with friends or family, we welcome additional guests with a fee. Please inquire. Come join us at Ocean Forest Retreat and let the beauty of nature recharge your soul.

South Facing Ridge With Views

97%

(526)

13mi from Albion · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Surrounded by cooperate timberland,  it feels like there are no neighbors!  There is not a house in sight but the the ridge views seem to go on forever!  - There is a simple latrine at each site. A full bath house with a flush toilet and hot shower is available next to the main house. A water spigot is attached to the main house. - Spare camping supplies are available by the bath house if you forget something! Ask ahead if you need to borrow a specific item. More about the property: I built my home high upon a southern ridge. Watching the river of coastal fog flow in and out below me is one of the most wonderful views to behold! I have 30 acres of land to explore and camp upon in the surrounding redwood forest. 10 miles east are Montgomery Woods redwood preserve with GIANT trees, and a little farther, perhaps a mile is the famous Orr Hot Springs Resort. If you drive a half hour west from my land you will be in the coastal Mendocino village. We are marijuana friendly!! Thus, we have created more of an adult oriented atmosphere. one last note: We recently made separate listings for different sites. See campsite #1 for reviews.Guests love staying here "What a fantastic experience. I arrived to Cosmo’s super late after a long day going up the coast. It was a last minute book that morning, if I remember right - my campsite had fallen through. His directions were spot on, and very kindly he stayed up to take me to my site and help me get set up, even going so far as to light me a fire. His property was easily navigable in the dark, and my two wheel drive made it fine. We talked for a while - what a cool guy. He was able to give me recommendations from a friend of what to do during the next legs of my trip, which was great and really did make a difference for the rest of my week. I cooked my dinner and sat stunned looking at some of the best stargazing I’ve had in a long time.When I woke up I realized that I had been sleeping next to a mountainside view - this was site 3. Talk about the best surprise I’ve gotten in a while unzipping a tent. The clouds were gathered in the valley and as I ate breakfast I got to watch the sun slowly clear then out. It was unbelievable.Before I left, Cosmo let me use his indoor solar-heated shower and told me all about his projects to build his own home and roads and move towards a more sustainable future. Overall this is really the best of what I imagine hipcamp has to offer - kind property owners & unique individuals who care about their guests while also allowing them to have their own experience. If I’m ever near Mendocino I will gladly make the trip inland to stay at his property again."

Lucky Penny Laytonville

99%

(183)

35mi from Albion · 9 sites · Tents, RVs

We've headed into our Winter season, so we are offering a discounted price to camp. However, due to the weather of the season. Outdoor kitchen and showers are closed for the season. Starting April 15th 2026 the kitchen and outdoor showers we'll be fully reopen for Spring. Outdoor camping made easy with a FULLY OUTFITTED OPEN AIR OUTDOOR KITCHEN and HOT SHOWERS (not available in the coldest times of the year when pipes freeze). Kitchen includes hot water sinks, refrigerator, stove, microwave, toaster oven, toaster, blender, espresso machine, coffee grinder and maker, dishes, utensils, pots and pans, knives, cutting boards, etc. If there's something you need and can't find it, we'll bring it out from our kitchen in the house. ALL YOU NEED TO BRING FOR MEALS IS THE FOOD. Limited grocery shopping in our little town; it's good to shop ahead. During June- August, fires MIGHT be allowed in the communal fire pit near the kitchen. You must ask the host!, No fires at your campsite June- August, Fires during cooler months are often allowed at your campsite, but you must ask the host if current conditions allow Fire MUST be completely extinguished before you go to sleep at night. Instructions are printed and at at each site as well as at the communal firepit. Firewood available for purchase. SMOKERS, please be super careful! Outlets to CHARGE YOUR PHONE and DEVICES at the Stage and in the kitchen. Fruit trees and gardens dot the property. Feel free to pick a piece of fruit. We almost always have organic fresh eggs from the chickens for sale, The Camp Store has a variety of items such as jam, organic veggies, flowers, etc. See the list on the fridge. We're in a wooded country neighborhood where lots of folks have dogs, so you might hear some barking and see some neighbors. Very occasionally we see a dog off leash. We ask that you keep your dogs on leash at all times, as we have cats and chickens. We encourage you to enjoy the forest, but do be aware that there is poison oak. If you don't know what it looks like we can show you. Arrive anytime after 1pm. Check out is at noon, but you can often stay later if we don't have other campers arriving to your site. If your plans change, just let us know at least 24 hours before check-in and you'll get a full refund.

Nelson Family Vineyards

97%

(146)

34mi from Albion · 7 sites · RVs

For 70 years the Nelson family has been farming vineyards and attracting people every year to the beautiful region of Hopland. It is truly a family affair as each generation has put in their time and energy, infusing this ranch with their own flair. In 1951 Herman and Clara Nelson sold their ranch in what is now Silicon Valley and headed north, landing in Southern Mendocino County near the town of Hopland. Since then the mature prune orchards and grass-fed sheep that dotted the farm’s rolling hills have given way to an abundance of sustainable vineyards as well as Bartlett pears, an olive orchard, and live Christmas Trees. You will be staying on a working ranch, vineyards, and winery. We have several locations but none of them have hookups at this time. We have vineyard views and oak woodlands and hilltop valley views. We host weddings and other events. We have a tasting room and a redwood picnic area. We are the fourth owners of this property. The ranch has produced hops, prunes, pears, wine grapes, sheep, and cattle at different periods. Currently, we grow pears, grapes, strawberries, and Christmas trees.

Meadow Farm & Forest

98%

(232)

16mi from Albion · 9 sites · RVs, Lodging

Meadow Farm is a quiet and creative sanctuary surrounded by the forest. The ocean breezes freshen the air and the pulse of the planet is heard as the surf sounds travel to put us to rest at night.. We are a place for people experimenting with the new old ways to live with low impact and conservation of our precious resources. We offer affordable accommodations, organic gardening, and education on plants and living simply. We welcome your interest in veganic garden and diet, orchards, and forest trails. Our organic vegetables and fruit may be available if you wish to bring some of our farm to your table. We can offer you a quiet and peaceful place without social pressures if you wish to "decompress" from city life, jobs or any stressful times. Or come to the communal fire near the bathhouse for sharing some time with family and the few other campers that may be there. Bringing your own wood is welcome. The coastal bike and hike trails are many. From South of Ft Bragg to the Sand Dunes near Ward Ave. you can travel over 7 miles one way and go down to quiet little beach coves along the way. Meadow Farm is a nonprofit 501c3 with goals of coastal food security, disaster preparation and sheltering, carbon sequestering and forest restoration. We offer native plant tours on or off site with advance notice. We like our dog companions! Two McNab collies, Moxie and Shama live here and may bark at first...still very friendly and social with people and other dogs.. There are several dog friendly off-leash areas such as, Noyo North Harbor Beach, Seaside Beach and dog parks in both Ft Bragg and Mendocino. Our farm is dog friendly tho we wish pets to be kept close, must be neutered and friendly to other dogs and people. Please be sure to bury or bag the waste. Speaking of waste, Meadow Farm strives to reduce waste by avoiding plastic as much as possible, recycling what we can and composting our veggie scraps. Please bring your own waste receptacles and take them along when you go. We take ours to the Caspar Transfer Station which is open Saturday through Wednesday... the location and hours can be found online. Our water is from a deep well and we periodically test it for bacteria. It is cold and delicious. Our irrigation pipes that have spigots and hoses at each camp are safe for drinking, cooking and cleaning Our solar pump moves water into storage tanks that provide all the water to the farm. It is very important that the water valves on your camp spigot is turned off (gently please) to avoid losing 2500 gallons of water in a short time. If you see a leak or break in a line please contact us immediately. There are also water shut offs for the camps on the west side of the Farm House if you are unable to reach us right away.. When doing dishes we request that you use the strainer to catch food particles from the dish water and toss them in your trash or compost bucket. If you have vegetable waste let us know and we can pick them up for adding to the worm bins or composting piles. We make worm "tea" fertilizer and rich soil from these offerings. No animal products or oil please... a few egg shells are okay. We do have the usual wildlife though we haven't had problems with them. Ravens will raid your camp if food or bags are left out while you are away. From dusk to dawn keep children and pets close. We coexist well here with the critters...and glad to have them. Wishing you a very peaceful and soul refreshing stay at Meadow Farm. Come and allow this natural setting to heal and restore your sense of well-being.

Public campgrounds near Albion

100%

(9)

Navarro Beach Campground

2.3mi from Albion · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Navarro River Redwoods State Park

98%

(60)

Wildcat Campground

18mi from Albion · 88 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hendy Woods State Park

Chekaka Recreation Area and Campground (Lake Mendocino)

100%

(1)

Chekaka Recreation Area and Campground (Lake Mendocino)

31mi from Albion · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mendocino Lake

86%

(7)

Kyen Campground

31mi from Albion · 101 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mendocino Lake

100%

(3)

Howard Creek Campground

31mi from Albion · 85 sites · in Westport-Union Landing State Beach

Miti Boat-In Campground

32mi from Albion · 16 sites · in Mendocino Lake

89%

(9)

Bushay Recreation Area and Campground

32mi from Albion · 137 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mendocino Lake

97%

(15)

Usal Beach Camp

43mi from Albion · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

100%

(2)

Middle Creek Campground

43mi from Albion · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mendocino National Forest

Fellow camper set up camp right on the bluff's edge. Most epic view from a camp site.

100%

(1)

Anderson Camp

44mi from Albion · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sinkyone Wilderness State Park

Fuller Grove Group Campground

45mi from Albion · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Mendocino National Forest

Fuller Grove Campground

45mi from Albion · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mendocino National Forest

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Cabin 5 is the largest of our cabins with a queen and bunked twins. It’s also taller than the others.

U

Ujjwal

1 week ago

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Heartwood Mendocino

Definitely one of the best places I have stayed in a while!

J

Jay

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

1 night at Comptche Matrix @ Sunny-land

Cute little spot! The host and her sons and dogs were very friendly and helpful. Two big dogs were a little bit of a concern since I'm not a dog person, but they were very nice dogs, and it was actually nice having them around when you are camping in the middle of the woods.

K

Kyle

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Locus Solus

Loved this campsite. Secluded but easy to get to/close to town. Will be back!

Laura

3 weeks ago

13 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Nelson Family Vineyards

Amazing view, beautiful vineyard, sweet cows, tasty wine. Wish we could have stayed for the hike and more wine tastings.

S

Sherissa

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

Great place to camp! Clean restrooms, ample space, close to some great trails. We will definitely be back!

K

Kristen

3 weeks ago

4 ft travel trailer

With kids

3 nights at Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

Loved it all. Highly recommend. We will be back for sure.

M

Michael

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to spirit chicken ranch

Definitely recommend a 4x4 vehicle to get to the property. Have your directions downloaded before you pass the high school. Our Subaru was up for the task! The property is gorgeous and very secluded. We brought our 8 year old boy and dog. We were super lucky to have the entire camp site to ourselves the entire weekend. The temperature at night was almost freezing, so the sauna and shower made it much more tolerable. The sauna was by far the highlight of the trip for me besides being with my family unplugged! Epic stargazing at the point camp site. Having a kitchen to make a full meal for each meal was a luxury. The kitchen has everything you need to cook minus ingredients. Bring your own oil/spices etc. Also, pack out what you pack in. Meaning, there isn’t a garbage facility/ site dumpster. Also, there is really only 1 running toilet that we could find by the kitchen. I could see this being annoying in a large group setting, although having a toilet at all is a luxury when camping. If you’re a BBQ enthusiast, bring your own grill, there isn’t one to use on the property. Make sure to bring tick repellant/ check yourselves (especially dogs) regularly. We pulled a dozen off our dog and bodies. Highly recommend this spot for a weekend getaway! We loved it and will certainly be back, as a couple, as a family and with friends for sure!!

J

Johnathon

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Root's End

Really loved staying here, the tiny cabin was clean and had all the amenities needed for a comfortable winter stay. The outhouse was clean and the firewood was provided. Location is relatively close to downtown which was also nice

N

Nate

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

Great camp site. Bathrooms were the nicest and cleanest of any campground I've ever been to. Distance between sites was also nice--no one was too close

M

Michele

3 weeks ago

Tent

4 nights at Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

Beautiful, spacious site! Quiet, great location. Will definitely stay here again!

C

Christina

3 weeks ago

18 ft pop-up camper

2 nights at Root's End

Delightfully clean and private campground in the redwoods. The host was quick to communicate and respond to any needs. Very convenient to town while tucked away in a quiet and peaceful setting. We’ll be back.

F

Fiona

3 weeks ago

16 ft pop-up camper

2 nights at spirit chicken ranch

A beautiful place to come in the fall. Weather was warm during the day the forest hikes and waterfall were beautiful. Having a bath house with a sauna was a real treat. Be prepared for the long dirt road up to the property. Lots of potholes, steep hills, and turns, you need daylight and patience.

A

Alden

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at South Facing Ridge With Views

Cosmo was a wonderful host who greeted me and oriented me to the features of the property. He even let me take a warm shower in his place. The site was beautiful with stunning views and trails all around the site to explore the property. It was a beautiful one night stay that I definitely recommend!

The cabin in spring. Bench with garden view right in front of it.

R

Ryan

November 2025

With pets

2 nights at Meadow Farm & Forest

The Cozy Cabin is tiny and adorable - one of those rare properties that is actually exactly as described in its listing. We brought our dog and had a lovely stay. The bed is very comfortable, the cabin is well insulated, well spaced from other dwellings and campsites, the land around it is beautiful, and there are lots of stars to see on a clear night. Only noteworthy flaw was upon arrival: it was pretty tough to find our way in the dark. Arrive in the daylight if possible until they add clearer night-reflective signage and/or a detailed campsite map!

from the driveway looking down on the cabin

Kara

November 2025

1 night at South Facing Ridge With Views

The rustic cabin in the woods outside Mendocino was exactly the kind of peaceful getaway I was hoping for. The cabin itself is simple, cozy, and full of character—wood walls, a sturdy little wood burning stove that kept the space warm at night, and big windows with beautiful tree views in every direction. I also appreciated the fresh spring water on site—I was able to fill my camper easily, which was a huge plus. There are scenic views all around the property, and some fun, quirky touches too. Vintage buses, old motorcycles hanging in the trees, and other funky art pieces make wandering the land feel like a little adventure of its own. It’s a place with personality, and you can tell the host has put a lot of heart into it. Speaking of the host—super kind, welcoming, and genuinely happy to share his land. He gave great recommendations and made me feel right at home without being intrusive. If you’re looking for a peaceful, off-the-grid-feeling stay with charm, creativity, and forest magic, this spot is perfect. I’d absolutely stay here again.

There's a fire pit right outside the yurt :)

m

mary

November 2025

Group trip

1 night at Shangri-La

gorgeous spot and gorgeous tub. thank you andrea! it’s was extremely private and the tub leveled up our experience, now it will feel hard to go camping without one! :P if you’re going in the fall or winter, do NOT skip out on the heater add on. i figured since it was an insulated yurt we would be fine, but we were extremely cold when going to bed! luckily, the water was nice and hot all night in the tub, which was incredible. hope to come back here one day.

Cody

November 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

Really great spot! Love the trail and beach access and the bathrooms are a nice luxury :)

M

Madeline

November 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to spirit chicken ranch

Spirit chicken ranch is magical! The sauna was the perfect respite on a slightly chilly autumn evening. Much thanks to Chris, we’ll definitely be back!

G

Grace

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

Tent camping was so much fun. We lucked out on the weather and it was beautiful. Very quiet campsites. As well as great clean bathrooms!

Deborah

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Thanktuary Retreat

The “Thanktuary “was a peaceful place. Our campsite was soft. Had water and a table with umbrella which was helpful due to the rain. We enjoyed walking the grounds, sitting in the hot tub and enjoying the woods.