The best campgrounds near Manchester, California with wildlife watching

Looking to experience the great outdoors near Manchester, California? With over 999 options for camping and wildlife watching, Hipcamp is your go-to website. Whether you're a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or a newbie looking to spot some critters, we've got you covered. Check out top campsites like Jug Handle Creek Farm (1479 reviews), Salmon Creek Ranch (1270 reviews), and Mendocino Magic (410 reviews). With prices ranging from $20 to an average of $66 per night, there's an option for every budget. Plus, popular amenities like toilets, pets, and showers are available, along with activities like climbing, biking, and paddling to keep you entertained. Start planning your wildlife adventure today!

94% (7.1K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Campfire serenade at Jughandle Beach, just a short walk from our campsite

83%

(18)

270 sites · Calpella, California

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

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

11. Salt Point State Park

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

Potable water

Toilets

12. Lake Sonoma Recreation Area

93%

(42)

113 sites · Cloverdale, California

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

Pets

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Shangri-La

97%

(511)

45mi from Manchester · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging · Upper Lake, CA

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*******.

Meadow Farm & Forest

98%

(231)

33mi from Manchester · 9 sites · RVs, Lodging · Fort Bragg, CA

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.

Locus Solus

96%

(79)

3.7mi from Manchester · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Point Arena, CA

Tired of the scorching heat? Come chill out on the coast where it's always 20 degrees cooler than everywhere else. Located in the coastal prairie minutes from the Pacific Ocean and the town of Point Arena. Plenty of privacy to launch into day trips and other adventures in this special corner of the world. The Octagon and the campsite offer solitude, stunning views, bird watching, and walking trails on the property. We're 5 mins from town, the cove, various beaches, tide pools, the historic lighthouse, fishing spots, and the B Bryan Animal Preserve where you can view African animals and hand feed giraffes. Come find what you've been missing!

Otter Valley Farm

96%

(78)

19mi from Manchester · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Comptche, CA

Otter Valley Farm sits in a sunny valley cradled by redwood forest. Across the valley from camp we run a small farm with a menagerie of animals. In spring and summer, we enjoy many warm sunny days, with occasional foggy mornings. Relax at camp, in the meadow or enjoy many nearby activities for kids and adults alike. Just 2.5 hours north of the Bay Area, the farm is near many hiking trails amongst the world's tallest trees. We are a 30 min drive to the town of Mendocino and the treasures of the North Coast, including majestic beaches, fresh fish, whale watching, paddle boarding, kayaking, surfing, hiking, hot springs etc. A drive of equal distance inland will take you to Anderson Valley, home of Hendy Woods State Park and a mecca for cider and wine tasting. Meadow Car Camp: Park a car or bring your van, RV, camper, or trailer to this serene spot in the open sunny meadow next to the redwoods. RV’s and campers must be self-sufficient. No hookups available and no generators allowed. Redwood Walk-In Tent Sites: Pitch your tent in the serenity of the towering redwoods looking out onto the sunny peaceful meadow. Redwood camp is situated in a grove of redwoods containing multiple tent sites. These are walk-in sites with easy unloading, no more than 50 feet from your car. Tent campers must park in the parking area between the sign board and porta-potty. There is a communal area for all campers with a water spigot, picnic table/bear box, and porta-potty near our info signboard and parking area. Be advised that this is a working farm and there is an echo in the valley. While it is peacefully quiet most of the time, you may hear some daytime farm activity. We also have a guard dog who moves around with our flock of sheep and goats who barks regularly after dark and when she perceives a potential predator. **There is no cell service on or within 15 minutes of our property. Wifi and a landline phone are available to campers in case of emergencies. **Pets must be kept on a leash at all times! For the safety of everyone including your pets, our dogs, and the various livestock on the farm, we can't allow any pets off leash.

99%

(283)

2.4mi from Manchester · 77 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Point Arena, CA

Originally purchased in the late 60's by "Redwood and Savatri", Oz Farm was initially a commune of sorts and is no doubt a very special place...heck, its even got it's own comic book! Here you can pick your poison, as the property is comprised of 7 rustic cabins, redwood campsites, and geodesic domes that would make Buckminster Fuller proud. The working farm is comprised of over 230 accessible acres of flowing meadows, redwood groves, prime agriculture, and is intersected by the beautiful Garcia River, which flows into the mighty pacific. One thing that is very apparent, is how clearly passionate the community at Oz Farm is about ecology and agriculture. Once you step foot onto Oz Farm, you'll begin to understand why. The property is open seasonally and frequently rented by full-camp retreats and events throughout the summer. Individual cabins open to rent one month in advance and are advertised through instagram @villageozfarm

Public campgrounds near Manchester

98%

(60)

Wildcat Campground

14mi from Manchester · 88 sites · Tents, RVs · in Hendy Woods State Park

100%

(9)

Navarro Beach Campground

15mi from Manchester · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Navarro River Redwoods State Park

Chekaka Recreation Area and Campground (Lake Mendocino)

100%

(1)

Chekaka Recreation Area and Campground (Lake Mendocino)

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

Miti Boat-In Campground

32mi from Manchester · 16 sites · in Mendocino Lake

86%

(7)

Kyen Campground

33mi from Manchester · 101 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mendocino Lake

89%

(9)

Bushay Recreation Area and Campground

33mi from Manchester · 137 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mendocino Lake

98%

(82)

Gerstle Cove Campground

34mi from Manchester · 110 sites · Tents, RVs · in Salt Point State Park

97%

(49)

Woodside Campground

35mi from Manchester · 79 sites · Tents, RVs · in Salt Point State Park

95%

(25)

Liberty Glen Campground

39mi from Manchester · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Lake Sonoma Recreation Area

89%

(17)

Lake Sonoma Boat-In Campground

39mi from Manchester · 108 sites · in Lake Sonoma Recreation Area

100%

(2)

Middle Creek Campground

44mi from Manchester · 23 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mendocino National Forest

Cole Creek Campground

47mi from Manchester · 138 sites · Tents, RVs · in Clear Lake State Park

Stories from the community

R

Ryan

1 week ago

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!

R

Robert

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Otter Valley Farm

Incredible stay, the host was warm and welcoming. Helped me find the right spot and checked on me the second day but otherwise left me to enjoy myself. I was at site 6 - great little area tucked away along the trees. Recommend to anyone that needs a place

G

Grace

2 weeks ago

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

3 weeks ago

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.

Lisa

3 weeks ago

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

Ray

3 weeks ago

With kids

2 nights at Root's End

Great spot, close to town and really enjoyed the space. Firewood provided was a nice touch.

C

Charlotte

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Baby Banana Slug Farm

My partner and I had an amazing time at Nathan’s camp ground. He was super welcoming and provided more than we could ask for. The tent ground came provided with a functional sink, a wooden table, and fire wood on site. Super nice area, with beautiful views all around it. We are looking forward to coming back here again one day with more of our friends. Best camping ever.

H

Henry

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Root's End

Great little spot to stay and a really communicative and helpful host! Other reviews have mentioned that the house felt damp - hate to break it to you but thats just kinda what its like in that part of CA in late fall and over the winter. I thought it was really well looked after and nicely equipped, and comfy enough for 3 to sleep in.

P

Paris

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Oak Show

This is such a gem!! I’ve stayed here a few times with a group. It’s a beautiful property and Alanna has created such a great space with the perfect setup. Will definitely be back!

a

angela greenaway

November 2025

19 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Root's End

Molly was a great host! Convenient to downtown Mendocino. The site was situated in a redwood grove and felt very tranquil!

Katherine

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

Spacious sites with plenty of privacy between sites. Beautiful location. Clean and maintained flush toilets were a plus.

J

November 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

Usually camp sites are small and rarely provide plenty of room. We rented #7 for 8 people. Honestly, we could have set up 20 tents it is very large. It is flat, with two large tables, 1 pitfire, running water, and two modern restrooms with a sink, lovely, They offer free wood logs at the entrance of the camp. You are right there, walking distance to the beach on a trail, or you can visit the pine forest. The no-pets policy should be revisited; that is the reason I almost cancel. Restroom code is a good idea, but a surprise when you have no cell reception, it can be a challenge. We ultimately got our access code. Lastly, no one came to bug us, which made us feel comfortable. good quality campsite a few miles from Mendocino, beach etc

M

Martin

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

Jug Handle was exceptional. An historic farm turned conservation center, with trails from camp to the Pygmy Forest, was hard to beat. We enjoyed warm fires surrounded by tanbark oak. The campground is well maintained and is a must-stay if you are looking for a Mendocino getaway!

Madison

October 2025

With pets

3 nights at Coastal Ridge Cabin

I had a lovely, cozy stay at Bon's cabin. The location is perfect - 10 mins from Elk, 20 mins to Mendocino village, 25 mins to Philo - and the drive is stunning. The cabin itself is incredibly private and cozy with all the amenities, from a full kitchen, to an equipped bathroom, to comfy beds. Then there's the outdoor tub (!!!), wood-fired sauna, and pizza oven. Though Bon has provided space heaters, one of my favorite parts of my stay was keeping the cabin nice and warm with the wood stove. Truly a perfect fall getaway, I can't wait to come back!

L

Larry

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

The campground is clean and grassy, and quiet this time of year. The main draw for us is that the location is central to trailheads that lead right from the campground. You want to walk to rugged beaches Mendocino is known for? Less than a mile. You want to go to the fabulous Ecological Staircase, a self-guided walk in geological time. Less than 3 miles. It is not far from other state parks/beaches, and not far from Fort Bragg, now a tourist destination having non-chain restaurants of all kinds.

A

Alexis

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Heartwood Mendocino

Gorgeous location!! The cabin was perfect, cute, clean, and comfortable. It was a little stormy out but heated blankets on the bed made it a great place to stay cozy while listening to the rain patter onto the roof. Don't miss the outdoor redwood shower!

M

Michael

October 2025

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to The Oak Show

Wonderful private space that was comfortable even during a windy and rainy weekend. Facilities provided were convenient and everything was extremely well maintained.

C

Carolynne

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Shangri-La

Beautiful and peaceful campsite, particularly the green yurt. Extremely serene forest, and beautiful trees and wildlife. The yurt and tub were clean and cozy, and the bathroom was perfectly stocked.