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Hendy Woods
Overview
Overview
Hendy Woods State Park offers a serene escape into the heart of the Anderson Valley in Northern California. Known for its towering old-growth redwoods, the park provides a lush, shaded environment for RVers looking to disconnect from the digital world. This destination is a standout for those who appreciate the unique microclimate of the Navarro River Valley, where morning mists often drape over the forest floor. Unlike more crowded coastal parks, Hendy Woods maintains a peaceful atmosphere where the sound of the wind through ancient groves is the primary soundtrack to your stay.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in Philo, California, the park is nestled along the banks of the Navarro River. The surrounding landscape is a beautiful mix of dense forest, open meadows, and rolling vineyards. Travelers reach the park via winding roads that showcase the natural beauty of Mendocino County, making the scenic journey as memorable as the destination itself. The park's location in the valley often results in warmer, clearer weather than the foggy coastline located just a short drive to the west.
Amenities & Park Features
Camping at Hendy Woods is a rustic experience without hookups, making it ideal for self-contained RVs. The park features two main campgrounds, Azalea and Upper Rock, which offer paved parking pads, fire rings, and sturdy picnic tables. Essential facilities include restrooms with showers and a centralized sanitary dump station for convenient waste management. Most sites are deeply shaded by the forest canopy, providing natural privacy and a close, immersive connection to the woodland environment.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The primary draw is the network of hiking trails, including the highly accessible Discovery Trail which winds through Big Hendy Grove. Just outside the park gates, the Anderson Valley is world-renowned for its boutique wineries, specifically known for exceptional Pinot Noir and local cider houses. Visitors can also explore the quirky town of Boonville or take a 30-minute drive to the rugged Mendocino coast to view the Pacific Ocean before returning to the quiet sanctuary of the redwoods.
Who This Park Is Best For
This park is best for travelers seeking a quiet nature retreat rather than a high-activity resort. Because of the size restrictions for rigs, which typically accommodate units up to 35 feet, it is perfect for small to mid-sized motorhomes and van lifers. It is an excellent choice for photographers, hikers, and wine enthusiasts who want to balance outdoor adventure with the sophisticated flavors of local California viticulture in a tranquil, forested setting.
Features & Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
Reviews
lemurs
A grand forest of ancient redwoods (first growth). Thank you to all of the folks who helped save this forest from being logged. We were here on a Sunday and it wasn’t busy. One thing you’ll notice is how quiet and peaceful it is. The photos don’t really capture the grandness of these giants. Also there is good cellular coverage pretty much all through Big Hendy.
EZ life
Camping at Hendy Woods State Park was such a peaceful experience surrounded by beautiful redwoods 🌲 The campground was very well maintained, and I really appreciated the clean flush restrooms and bathrooms — definitely made camping much more comfortable. The hiking trails nearby were easy and kid-friendly, making it a great place for families to explore nature together. I also liked that each campsite had bear-proof storage lockers, which helped us feel safer and more organized while storing food overnight. Overall, a relaxing and family-friendly campground with beautiful scenery and thoughtful amenities. Could definitely come back again! 😊
mike c
My family and I rented one of the small cabins there. It was last minute and they were partially closed for the winter months. Cabin has a wood burner and they sold firewood. There are bunks in the cabin, our three year old loved it! Bathroom very clean. The place looked a little run down. Pot holes, trees down from a storm, hiking trails partially closed. The redwood tree were amazing! We all had fun.
Dan
Very soothing deep shady filled with moss and majestic trees. Tiny 2min walk to the river very worth it! Wish I brought boots so I could stand in the frigid water to skip stones! Very calm, picturesque water mirror effect
Hideki Hitomi
Such an underrated park. So many well maintained trailers with just incredible and massive redwoods. Love taking my small kids on these trails and just getting lost in the wonder. The place is pristine and calm with very few people on the trails. Parking is super easy as well!