The best campgrounds near Cloverdale, California with wildlife watching

Welcome to Hipcamp, where adventure awaits! With over 1100 options near Cloverdale, California, you'll find the perfect campsite for wildlife watching. Whether you're a seasoned nature enthusiast or just getting started, we've got you covered. Check out the top campsites like Jug Handle Creek Farm (1479 reviews), Salmon Creek Ranch (1270 reviews), and Mendocino Magic (410 reviews) for an unforgettable experience. Enjoy popular amenities like trash disposal, showers, and campfires, and engage in exciting activities such as horseback riding, wildlife watching, and whitewater paddling. With an average price per night of $69 and options starting as low as $20, you'll find a camping experience that fits your budget. Book your adventure now and embrace the great outdoors!

94% (8.9K)

Top-rated campgrounds

98%

(131)

192 sites · Timber Cove, California

This rugged stretch of California coast has sweet views and plenty to do. There are rocky promontories, coastal forests, and kelp-dotted beaches to explore. The dramatic cliffs here are sandstone that has been eroded and shaped by the sea. You might see cave-like features called tafoni. Tafoni is formed when the ocean deposits salt on the sandstone. The salt interacts with the sandstone, hardening parts of it and forming the signature honeycomb features. It also gives this park its name. All these features make Salt Point a great place for climbing. Where else can you lead an overhanging roof while looking out over the Pacific? Make sure you check the tide tables, some routes are underwater at low tide!There is also plenty of hiking in the area. Trails wind through Douglas Fir and Coastal Redwood forests before spitting you out on rocky beaches. If it’s been raining, hike the Bluff Trail to find a hidden waterfall that spills directly into the ocean. Camping can be had at the nearby Gerstle Cove and Woodside Campgrounds. Spots here fill up fast and need to be reserved ahead of time. If they are booked up, we’ve got you covered. Hit up Hipcamp for other accommodations.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

11. Mendocino Lake

83%

(18)

270 sites · Calpella, California

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

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

12. Hendy Woods State Park

98%

(60)

90 sites · Philo, California

An inland wonderland with some of California's most breathtaking redwood groves.

Pets

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Thanktuary Retreat

96%

(115)

28mi from Cloverdale · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Gualala, CA

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.

The Oak Show

100%

(105)

47mi from Cloverdale · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Albion, CA

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!

The Meadow Grove of Hands Full Farm

95%

(1034)

35mi from Cloverdale · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Valley Ford, CA

The Meadow Grove is a wild and natural pasture with campsites located near the historic Narrow Gauge Railroad bed on a family owned working ranch in coastal Northern California. The camp sites are nestled in a pasture and grove of mixed Eucalyptus, willow and cypress trees. The sites are perfect for tents or camper vans, or small trailers. [When we open in the spring, the grass can be 'slippery' and it is recommended you have 4WD. Around mid-June it is dried out enough for 2WD access to all sites]. Not suitable for RVs It is also, managed and operated by a single mother. Please keep this in mind. Notes about the campsites are: They each come with a picnic table. The grounds are a working ranch, so there is variations of the soil- some lumps and bumps and general natural state of a pasture v. a groomed lawn. Site #1, #2, #3, and #4 have the most level areas for parking and tent-ing. Up until mid-June, we recommend #1 for 2WD access. Campervans that do not have 4WD may have trouble accessing other sites. Please remember this when you book! *Campers who "change sites" without written approval by the host will be charged double!* There is a composting camp toilet, we do not have running water at the campground. The ranch itself is 300 acres of rolling hills pasture, with hilltop views of the Estero Americano valley. The Meadow Grove is home to many varieties of raptors and other birds-providing excellent bird watching. Seasonally there are blackberries to fill your containers, and some hiking. We are mere minutes from the quaint towns of Valley Ford, Tomales, and Dillon Beach, and a short drive from Bodega, Bodega Bay or Marshall, Pt. Reyes Station and Inverness. Nearby attractions include: Sonoma Coast beaches, Pt. Reyes National Seashore, coastal hiking trails, local farm-to-table eateries. Inland attractions include: redwoods, wine tasting, Russian River activities and so much more. The ranch borders Hwy 1, so there is some degree of road noise. Traffic usually dies down mid afternoon, and isn't too much of a disturbance. Virtually all traffic on our stretch of road is daytime traffic. There can be however, some heavy weekend traffic during the day with car clubs and motorcycle riders enjoying the coastal highway. *The Friendly Gray Cat's name is Boots!*

Bliss Mountain

96%

(81)

26mi from Cloverdale · 9 sites · Lodging · Middletown, CA

This is country living at its best! We live in the main house at the top of the hill and we look forward to sharing the magic of Bliss Mountain aka Jerusalem Ranch with our guests. We are 20 minutes from Harbin Hot Springs or Clearlake resort area. Our listings range from a Country Home,Bliss Mountain Studio apt to Teepee and Trailer. Read each description for information on amenities. An optional workshop/performance space and additional lodging is available on the property for larger groups – including 2600 ft Country Home and Bliss Mountain Studio Apt. Perfect for a family reunion, destination wedding, filming your YouTube video with spectacular scenery, a personal healing journey or yoga/meditation workshop/retreat. It’s also wonderful for getting creative, focused artistic or creative projects done . The Tepee is also an inspiring place to record or play music. Many vocalists, performers, sound healers and painters have been inspired to create magic here. Hike our trails scattered with sparkling Lake County “diamonds” – explore an old vineyard, mossy oak forest and sweeping views of Hidden Valley Lake, snow capped mountains and the mysterious, mystical dormant volcano Mt. Konocti. We invite all guest to visit The Bliss Mountain Temple. The Temple space is a world of its own. It has clouds painted on all the walls and ceiling and is home to an amazing art Gallery that feature the works of Karma Moffet the famous Marin County Area Artist and others. Karma is also a life Musician well known for Healing Sound Journey Sessions. Optional Offerings and events that can be arranged in the Temple are: Therapeutic Sound Journeys, musical performances with Karma, Taressa Bell, Halle Blessing and other artist. Also: Dance Gatherings, Yoga Sessions, Creative Art Sessions,receptions etc.

Coastal Ridge Cabin

96%

(59)

46mi from Cloverdale · 3 sites · Lodging · CA

A secluded, private, ridgetop cabin homestead hand-built with all salvaged, recycled & harvested materials. Simple and rustic; yet comfortable with all amenities. This land is "outdoor oriented" meaning outside shower, bathtub, pizza oven, bbq, sauna, laundry room, yardsports, etc. Foraging for huckleberries and wild mushrooms encouraged. Great opportunites for all ocean and river activities. Canines Welcome.

Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Glamping

95%

(498)

37mi from Cloverdale · 7 sites · Lodging · Kenwood, CA

We have four lovely Glamping sites at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park and 25 miles of hiking trails, nestled in the glorious chaparral of the Mayacama Mountain Range and Sonoma Hills, deep in the heart of wine country. The cost is $150 per night on weekends (Fri and Sat) and $125 per night on weekdays (Sun-Thurs). There is a 2-night minimum stay required between Memorial Day and Labor Day. In our family-friendly campground, our tents are 16-Foot Canvas and come with one queen-size bed, two futon lounge chairs (May be converted to twin beds), rugs, tables, lighting, and complementary firewood the first night. At no additional cost, we can add up to two twin beds to each tent upon request to sleep up to 6 people. 8 people max allowed at the campsite. The glamping sites include a picnic table, fire ring, outdoor seating, and room for additional tents if desired. All sites are easy walking distance to flush toilets and a bathhouse, with large, clean, coin operated hot shower rooms. There is no cell service in the park, but free WiFi is available at the Visitor Center. PLEASE NOTE that Bedding (sheets, pillows, blankets) IS NOT included in a standard rental, but is available as an add-on. Guests are encouraged to bring their own bedding whenever possible. If no bedding is added, we will assume a one-queen setup with mattress covers only. We kindly ask guests to provide at least 48-hour notice if bedding will be required. We will always try to accommodate last-minute requests, but we cannot guarantee this. PETS and SMOKING ARE NOT ALLOWED INSIDE our glamping tents! This is strictly enforced, and you WILL be charged a $150 cleaning fee for any violation of this policy. Parking: Your reservation includes parking for one vehicle. There is an additional $10 per night per vehicle charge for more than one vehicle, which you can pay for at the Visitor's Center upon check-in. Please note that a $25 setup/cleaning fee is charged per reservation, plus a booking fee. Since 2012, operation of Sugarloaf Ridge State Park has been spearheaded by the Sonoma Ecology Center. Operating under AB42, the SEC efforts have resulted in a revitalized park that engages with all of our community and welcomes visitors from all over the country and the world.

Mandala Springs Wellness Center

95%

(237)

14mi from Cloverdale · 51 sites · Tents, RVs · Cobb, CA

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.

Many Moons Homestead

99%

(258)

49mi from Cloverdale · 3 sites · Lodging · Albion, CA

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.

Public campgrounds near Cloverdale

95%

(25)

Liberty Glen Campground

6.1mi from Cloverdale · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Sonoma Recreation Area

Chekaka Recreation Area and Campground (Lake Mendocino)

30mi from Cloverdale · 16 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mendocino Lake

Miti Boat-In Campground

30mi from Cloverdale · 16 sites · in Mendocino Lake

98%

(60)

Wildcat Campground

31mi from Cloverdale · 88 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hendy Woods State Park

89%

(9)

Bushay Recreation Area and Campground

31mi from Cloverdale · 137 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mendocino Lake

Stories from the community

L

Lyderic

2 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!

M

Michael

2 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!!

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!

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Maria

3 weeks ago

With pets

4 nights at Coastal Ridge Cabin

I loved it. The land and cabin felt cared for and welcoming. Our stay was in November so pretty cold but very cozy and worth it. We appreciated that the kitchen as well stocked with everything we needed. The outdoor tub was just the best thing ever and the bed inside was like a cloud. Would definitely stay again!

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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.

k

kelsey

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

With pets

1 night at The Meadow Grove of Hands Full Farm

Easy spot to camp right off the highway. Would stay here again

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

3 weeks ago

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 :)

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mary

3 weeks ago

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.

M

Madeline

3 weeks ago

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!

C

Corey

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Glamping

We loved our glamping experience at Sugarloaf SP! The tent was spacious and cozy with comfortable beds and plenty of places to sit and hang out. We rented the heater which was much appreciated when the temp dropped and some rained moved in. We appreciated our first bundle of firewood. All of the staff was very friendly and quick to help out if we needed something. They also keep the bathrooms super clean and well stocked and a short walk from any site. The center of the campground being a beautiful meadow with lots of wildlife at night and clear skies show a perfect view of the starry night. We would definitely stay again.

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.

Maricris

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at Salmon Creek Ranch

Loved this campsite! Surrounded by beautiful redwoods, quiet, and very peaceful.. Felt safe the whole time during my solo car-camping trip. Perfect place to relax, read by the fire, make coffee, and enjoy the quiet of nature. Would definitely come back!

Lisa

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Coastal Ridge Cabin

Bon's place is a true delight! The cabin is cozy and comfortable and the property is filled with places to explore and be inspired. The kitchen is very well supplied with all the cookware you'll need to craft your culinary treats. This is where to come when you want space to just BE. Give yourself this gift and check out this exceptional property.

R

Robert

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Salmon Creek Ranch

Gorgeous property, great hosts, authentic experience. Many banana slug were spotted

Looking down upon Redwood Campsite #3. Note tent deck on right.

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michelle

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Salmon Creek Ranch

Loved camping in the redwood groves! We had a large group and the hosts were super accommodating to help us get the right setup for our party. A couple of things to note: 1 - the redwood grove campsites ABSOLUTELY require a 4WD or AWD. there is a very bumping/steep road that descends down into the meadow. 2 - the creekside campsites are essentially just parking areas for an RV. we were so lucky that the creek was low so we were able to cross by foot and enjoy the rest of the property on the other side. 3 - don't skip the redwood walking trails on the property!! super beautiful and green area. lots of banana slugs and newts to spot. bonus activity: spot the laurel bay leaf trees! 4 - there is a LOT of poison ivy around the creekside camping sites. make sure your party knows what it looks like, bring cortisone as backup, and do your best to avoid brushing against the edge of the campsite! (worst case, soap and water will help)