I used to be an avid camper and outdoor enthusiast. There’s something about being in nature that brings a type of peace that’s incomparable to anything else—the calmness, the stillness, the quiet. It’s a reset, a deep breath away from the noise of everyday life. But life got busy, and it had been a while since I’d packed up my gear and headed out into the wilderness.

So when I decided to ease back into camping, I wanted to do it without the hassle of packing all the gear, setting up camp, and dealing with logistics—but still enjoy the fresh air, the crackle of a campfire, and the stillness of sleeping under the stars. That’s where Mendocino Grove came in.

This may be a trigger warning for those who are dirt-baggers at heart and really get down when it comes to camping (hot showers, a kitchen/cafe, i know, i know), but it’s been awhile!

The Journey: Worth It, But Plan Ahead

I started with a flight from SNA to SFO, followed by a 174-mile drive from San Francisco to Mendocino Grove. While the drive was breathtaking—winding coastal roads, towering redwoods, and ocean views—it was a trek. If I were to do it again, I’d plan a little better, maybe staying a night in San Francisco or splitting the drive with a stop along the way.

By the time I arrived, though, the travel fatigue melted away. The crisp air, the scent of redwoods, and the sound of the ocean in the distance immediately made it all worthwhile.

Camping Without the Hassle

One of the best parts of Mendocino Grove is that it lets you enjoy the outdoors without the stress of traditional camping. No need to lug around a tent, sleeping bags, cookware, or even firewood—it’s all taken care of for you.

Each safari-style tent is set on a wooden platform and comes fully furnished with a real bed, warm linens, and—best of all—heated blankets. The nights near the coast can get chilly, but being wrapped up in warmth while listening to the ocean breeze made for some of the most restful sleep I’ve had in a long time.

Amenities That Make It Feel Like a Retreat:

Hot showers & clean bathhouses stocked with organic EO bath products
Campfire Kitchen & Grill with everything you need to cook a meal
On-site food options & complimentary coffee/tea in the morning
A well-stocked provision store for anything you may have forgotten
Pet-friendly, so you can bring your fur babies. They even have pet-specific tents which include a bed for them!
Friendly, welcoming staff who make sure you have everything you need

Everything was incredibly clean and well-maintained—a huge plus when staying outdoors. It felt like the perfect balance of nature and comfort.

The Perfect Outdoor Escape

The campsites are well-spaced, giving you privacy and quiet, while still being close enough to feel like part of a small outdoor community. Sitting by the fire at night, feeling the cool air, hearing the distant ocean waves, and staring up at the endless sky full of stars, I remembered exactly why I used to love camping so much.

Nearby, there’s plenty to explore:

Big River Beach – A scenic, peaceful spot for a morning walk or bonfire
Mendocino town – A charming, artsy coastal town with shops and cafes
Hiking through redwood forests – Towering trees and fresh air all around

Would I Do It Again? Absolutely.

The only gripe I had was the long travel distance from the nearest airport—but that’s something I’ll plan better for next time. And there will be a next time.

I’d love to return for more than just one night, fully embrace the slow pace, and soak up even more of that unmatched peace and stillness that nature brings.

If you’re looking for a stress-free way to experience camping, Mendocino Grove is absolutely worth it.

Check them out here and start planning your own outdoor retreat.

Let me know if you’ve ever had a chance to explore this hidden gem or one of your favorite places to camp! Thanks for stopping by