The best campgrounds near Anchor Bay, California with wildlife watching

If you're looking for a camping experience near Anchor Bay, California that's perfect for wildlife watching, look no further than Jug Handle Creek Farm (1479 reviews), Salmon Creek Ranch (1270 reviews), and Mendocino Magic (410 reviews). These campsites offer popular amenities such as trash disposal, potable water, and showers. And if you're feeling adventurous, you can also enjoy activities like paddling, surfing, and fishing. With an average price per night of $66 and options as low as $20, camping near Anchor Bay, California has never been more accessible. So pack your gear and get ready to explore the great outdoors!

94% (10K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Anchor Bay

100%

(9)

11 sites · Albion, California

Meander through the eleven mile long redwood tunnel at this coveted park off of highway 128.

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

11. Lake Sonoma Recreation Area

93%

(42)

113 sites · Cloverdale, California

Discover the serene beauty of Lake Sonoma and its myriad outdoor activities.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

12. Mendocino Lake

83%

(18)

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Shangri-La

97%

(512)

50mi from Anchor Bay · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging

For 21 years, we have worked on keeping this property as a Sacred Space. There's a meadow with an Indian artifact and amazing views. We are a team, husband and wife, this is off-the-grid and we raise our children here. At the same time, we grow organic food and work on our crafts and spiritual practice, never using chemical fertilizers, and keeping all of the groundwater clear and clean with an abundance of spring water for drinking. This is a magical forest retreat and we love to share it with others who are like-minded. Right out of the Mendocino National Forest, 100-Acre Forest and Meadow Retreat is just minutes to the Eel River out of the small town of Potter Valley and 15 minutes to Lake Pillsbury. Private views, fresh spring water and endless possibilities. *******We also recommend that you have AWD or 4x4 vehicle, as the road is dirt coming in and the campsite are up the mountain off of a dirt road*******We have 2 campsites currently with fresh spring water, and fire pits. Private and in the woods. Lots of hiking on the land, with stunning views. Bring your own tent, hammock, food whatever you need to be a happy camper!! In the spring of 2019 we added in 2 new yurt sites, with soaking tubs, filled with hot spring water. We have 2 campsites to book for regular camping tents and we just added a community bathroom . Nestled away in the forest very private queen size bed natural spring water for soaking in the tub on your porch. In addition for comfort and convenience we have a nice bathroom with hand-washing station. Each yurt can come with propane heat in winter time you need to request it, in the Extras. making it cozy all year long. *******We also recommend that you have AWD or 4x4 vehicle, as the road is dirt coming in and the campsite are up the mountain off of a dirt road*******.

Thanktuary Retreat

96%

(115)

1.9mi from Anchor Bay · 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.

Pine Grove Cobb Resort

94%

(370)

45mi from Anchor Bay · 10 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

The historic Pine Grove Cobb Resort offers a unique lodging and event location in the beautiful Northern California Mountains, 30 minutes from California’s wine country. Ideal for family reunions, group retreats and relaxing private getaways, we offer sleeping accommodations for up to 30 people and room for many more to camp, gather and celebrate. Commune with nature at Pine Grove Cobb Resort, nestled in 30 acres of the Northern California Mayacamas Mountain Range. Take a walk through the property, cool off in the year-round Cobb Creek or take a dip in the Mountain Spring water, non-chlorinated pool. Get ready to enjoy wood fired pizza and other delectable treats from our Cob Pizza Oven which is the perfect spot to enjoy a cozy evening with family and friends. The property also offers a large chlorinated swimming pool with diving board, water slide and kiddy pools. In summer season a poolside grill serves up yummy food. We have cabins, glamping and group tent camping available - as well as our Sanctuary Treehouse, a Hipcamp favorite.

Many Moons Homestead

99%

(258)

30mi from Anchor Bay · 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.

The Oak Show

100%

(105)

28mi from Anchor Bay · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

We are Albion locals lucky enough to call the Oak Show home. We live on the other end of the Oak Show property, a distance providing ample privacy for guests. We have two young children and two Lab mix dogs. You may see us walking along the driveway. Please drive slowly. We share this space with our neighbors, children, and pets. We also ask that campers be mindful of noise in the evenings and respect our rule of all amplified music being off between the hours of 10pm-8am. The water on our property comes from our well. Please be respectful of the drought conditions in our area and conserve water in any way possible. The base rate for this site includes up to four people, there is an extra charge of $15 per day, per person for any extra people. Campers can set up tents or trailers around the site and have access to the kitchen and bathroom, as well as an outdoor shower. There is a kegerator, gas grill, propane heater, and a corn hole set available to rent (see Extras). There is plenty of space to set up multiple tents, perfect for a group. Navarro Beach and Van Damme State Beach are 15 minute drives away. The village of Albion has a general store and deli, as well as beautiful river and marina. A 20 minute drive North will get you to the village of Mendocino where you'll find shopping and restaurants, as well as access to hiking, biking, kayaking, and whale watching. Should you have any questions or need any help during your stay, we are just a short walk away and happy to help. We hope you enjoy our site and we look forward to hosting you!

Mandala Springs Wellness Center

95%

(237)

44mi from Anchor Bay · 51 sites · Tents, RVs

Mandala Springs is a spacious and welcoming retreat center in the Mayacamas Mountains, offering shaded tent sites, RV spaces with full hookups, and plenty of open space to roam. Campers enjoy clean, accessible bathrooms, wide trails for biking and hiking, and peaceful surroundings perfect for families, friend groups, and solo travelers alike. Whether you’re pitching a tent under the stars or parking your RV for a few restful nights, you’ll find the amenities you need and room to breathe. Beyond the campsites, Mandala invites you to explore 200 acres of natural beauty, from paddle boating on Kelsey Pond to lounging by the pool, relaxing in a hammock, or sharing stories around a community fire pit. There are also seasonal events, lawn games, and a general store stocked with snacks and essentials to keep your weekend carefree and connected. This land has long been considered sacred, once serving as a safe gathering place for local native tribes, and that spirit of peace and protection still lives here. In that same spirit, Mandala Springs is a substance-free, vegetarian environment designed to support wellness, mindfulness, and restoration for all who visit. Whether you’re here for a personal retreat or just to enjoy a weekend in nature, Mandala offers a gentle and nourishing escape from everyday life.

South Facing Ridge With Views

97%

(526)

29mi from Anchor Bay · 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."

spirit chicken ranch

98%

(165)

27mi from Anchor Bay · 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!

Public campgrounds near Anchor Bay

98%

(60)

Wildcat Campground

19mi from Anchor Bay · 88 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hendy Woods State Park

98%

(82)

Gerstle Cove Campground

21mi from Anchor Bay · 110 sites · Tents, RVs · in Salt Point State Park

97%

(49)

Woodside Campground

22mi from Anchor Bay · 79 sites · Tents, RVs · in Salt Point State Park

100%

(9)

Navarro Beach Campground

28mi from Anchor Bay · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Navarro River Redwoods State Park

95%

(25)

Liberty Glen Campground

29mi from Anchor Bay · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Sonoma Recreation Area

89%

(17)

Lake Sonoma Boat-In Campground

29mi from Anchor Bay · 108 sites · in Lake Sonoma Recreation Area

Chekaka Recreation Area and Campground (Lake Mendocino)

100%

(1)

Chekaka Recreation Area and Campground (Lake Mendocino)

34mi from Anchor Bay · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mendocino Lake

Miti Boat-In Campground

35mi from Anchor Bay · 16 sites · in Mendocino Lake

86%

(7)

Kyen Campground

36mi from Anchor Bay · 101 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mendocino Lake

89%

(9)

Bushay Recreation Area and Campground

36mi from Anchor Bay · 137 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mendocino Lake

Cole Creek Campground

43mi from Anchor Bay · 138 sites · Tents, RVs · in Clear Lake State Park

98%

(143)

Bodega Dunes Campground

43mi from Anchor Bay · 103 sites · Tents, RVs · in Sonoma Coast State Park

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!

L

Lyderic

3 weeks ago

2 nights at Salmon Creek Ranch

This was our second time at the treehouse and it did not disappoint. From the surrounding forest and trails to the cozy amenities and feel of the treehouse, this cannot be beat. We can't wait to continue coming again in the future!

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!

T

Tracy

3 weeks ago

20 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Mandala Springs Wellness Center

Mandala Springs was great! We loved the easy trailer hook-ups, clean and nice bathrooms and the things to do around the land. We did some nice hikes, went on the paddle boat and roasted s’mores.

S

Sarah

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Finley Camp

Daniel's property is gorgeous and we loved site 11 tucked into it's own nook, far enough aways from everyone else to feel cozy. The frogs, owls, and cow neighbors sounded so soothing. The porta potties are clean and the hand washing station is an added bonus. Follow the directions on hipcamp for sure! We'd definitely come back. Such a great location in the woods and close to the coast. Be sure to check out old growth tree grove 15 mins north.

Eavan

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Salmon Creek Ranch

Beautiful campsite. We stayed at Redwood #1 and it was very shady and secluded. We were able to see other camp sites and campers in the distance but it was spacious and clean. Would recommend!

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.

J

Juliana

3 weeks ago

22 ft campervan

2 nights at Mandala Springs Wellness Center

Beautiful property it felt very welcoming, calm and serene. There is water, power and sani dump on every site. Super convenient and easy to use.

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!

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.