Glamping Under the Redwoods – Canoeing on Big River

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Over the years, we’ve camped and Food Partied! in many unique places, encouraging readers to spend more time standing in awe with Mother Nature.

Travelin’ Solo – Elk and Mendocino County

Travelin’ Solo – Southwest and Colorado

Travelin’ Solo – Idaho Hot Springs and Yellowstone

Over those same years, we’ve also heard from readers who want nothing of it. “Laura – I don’t camp – what do you have for me?”

Well… how does a comfy mattress with electric blanket, coastal views, on-site sauna, morning yoga, and someone else cooking breakfast sound to you? Catch the last rays of summer or falls warmer coastal temperatures with a camp and glamp in the heart of Mendocino.

Perched just above the coast, we stumbled upon a spot made for those who crave the adventure of camping – only with a touch more comfort. The land itself carries whispers of a curious past, once a campground that housed folks on a mission described to me with a wink, nod and only two words – ‘adventurous and helpful.’ Intriguing, right? The land was unoccupied for years until re-imagined into Mendocino Grove. Still a campground, yes – but elevated. Picturesque open spaces, towering trees, trails for hiking, comfortable bathrooms, community gathering spots and even a hot water wash for your pup. Platform tents with plenty of room and single or double beds accommodate couples, friends and families. Cool nights are easy under your fluffy comforter with – wait for it – an adjustable heater! Everyone gets a picnic table and fire pit – you can even ask the campfire valet to set it up. Now that is what I am talking about!

What’s for dinner?

An old friend from the 1988 California Peace Walk lives in Mendo, as locals say. She walked over and we took advantage of Mendocino Grove’s onsite gas grills and basket of kitchen gear for a DIY dinner on The Overlook. Even with overcast skies, that Mendo coastline is a charmer.

For food staples it’s a 2-minute drive north to town. Don’t miss the natural foods store located in an old church, with a second larger grocer within walking distance.

You can also shop at a farmers market, or buy fresh seafood off the Fort Bragg dock at Noyo Harbor. On special weekends, enjoy Friday Night Dinner hosted by the Grove and leave cooking to them.

Weekly Farmers Markets

Mendocino: Friday: 12:00 PM – 2:30 PM

Fort Bragg: Wednesday: 2:30 PM – 5:30 PM

A 10 minute walk from the property leads you to Catch a Canoe and Bicycles Too!, part of the neighboring Stanford Inn and Resort.

Located near the mouth of the Big River, explore this extensive waterway with different boating options including authentic redwood outriggers and carbon catamaran canoes. The staff really knows their stuff and recommended a 2-person kayak with pedals – first time for both of us and very helpful when afternoon winds kicked up. Felt weird at the start but my body quickly got in the groove.

J. brought a boat cooler and we packed lunch for the ride. Works great with kayaks and even attaches to paddle boards. Now I need one of course.

After a half day of take me to the river bliss, we walked back to the Grove for a sauna and on-site massage. Ok, now will you come camping with me?

In the mornings, grab a cup of local jo’ Thanksgiving coffee, hot chocolate on tap, or combine both into the Meadow Commons house specialty. Take a seat around the cozy fire.

We enjoyed homemade pastries and a hot oatmeal bar alongside steaming coffee and interesting conversations with people from all over the world. (It’s hard to take camping gear on a plane.) People were just hanging out and getting to know each other. Very chill and friendly. The fire flamed stories and easy connection.

We got to know an Oregon couple on a second visit with their 10 year old son. I told her I didn’t think a place like this would be for me… too safe, or too foo foo maybe….so I asked why the return. “James (son) couldn’t stop talking about the hot chocolate on tap. It’s so much easier and enjoyable to camp without packing the gear.”

They got a point. I felt comfy but also kind of wild too. Mendocino is close with good restaurants and gorgeous views. But you can also eat outside, get lost in redwoods and rivers, roast marshmallows with a fire and fall asleep under the stars. You know… better than foo foo.

With a wink and nod toward the history… ‘adventurous and helpful‘ still describes the place quite well.