Russian Gulch State Park, nestled just north of Mendocino, California, is a magical place. It combines redwood forest, rugged coastline, and cascading waters. This stunning park spans leafy creek canyons, dramatic ocean headlands, and a sandy beach beneath the historic Panhorst Bridge. It offers a dynamic escape for outdoor adventurers. It is also perfect for serenity seekers.
What Makes This Park Unique
Russian Gulch State Park stands out with its layered landscapes. Towering redwoods stand in shaded canyon hollows. The coastline reveals dramatic features like the Devil’s Punchbowl—an ocean-carved blowhole that captures the power of crashing waves. A moss-draped waterfall that plunges into the gulch adds a touch of hidden paradise and literary charm. Spring wildflowers and the contrast between forest tranquility and ocean energy make this a uniquely Californian experience.
Top Activities and Amenities
State Park & Campsites
The park offers a camp retreat shaded by redwoods. It includes approximately 26 family campsites. There are also equestrian sites with corrals and one group site. Sites accommodate tents, trailers, or RVs up to 24 ft. These are available by reservation from May through early fall. During winter, the campground is first-come, first-served.
Hiking Trails & Beach Access
You’ll find over 15 miles of trails weaving through forest, along the coast, and to the waterfall. Easy hikes include the headlands trail out to the Devil’s Punchbowl. The Fern Canyon–Falls Loop trails deliver a 36-foot waterfall. It flows through a fern-lined, rhododendron-sprinkled canyon. The park boasts a small beach directly beneath the Panhorst Bridge. It is complete with restrooms and outdoor showers for rinsing off.
Beach Activities, Fishing & Boating
The protected cove along the gulch mouth invites swimming, tidepool exploration, scuba diving, and snorkeling. It also encourages kayaking, skin diving, and ocean fishing. Licensed visitors can pursue abalone, crabs, lobster, finfish, oysters, and mussels. However, warm caution is advised: stray waves and cold waters mean vigilance is key.
Wildlife Viewing & Interpretive Programs
Wildlife thrives here—from harbor seals slipping offshore to tidepool inhabitants like sea stars and crabs. Interpretive and Junior Ranger programs are offered during summer, and an historic recreation hall adds cultural context.
Restrooms, Showers & Other Facilities
Campers enjoy access to flush restrooms, pay showers, and drinking water. They also have fire rings, picnic tables, and BBQ grills at each campsite. Additionally, food lockers are available. Dogs on leashes (max 6 ft) are welcome in the campground, picnic area, beach, and headlands trail. They are not allowed on trails east of Highway 1 or in Fern Canyon.
Visitor Center & Accessibility
While there’s no conventional visitor center, a group recreation hall, the accessible Fern Canyon Trail (0.9 mi), and ADA-friendly campsite 21 make the park welcoming to visitors with varying needs. Beach wheelchairs are available by reservation.
Horseback Riding & Bike Trails
Equestrians enjoy designated trails and a separate horse camp with corrals. Bicycles are permitted on select fire roads and the Fern Canyon Trail.
Practical Visitor Tips
- Day-use parking is typically $8 per vehicle; pass holders (Golden Poppy, Explorer Passport) receive discounts.
- Park hours are from 6 a.m. until sunset.
- Campsites accommodate up to 24 ft vehicles. Reservations from May to Labor Day; winter is first-come, first-served.
- Dogs must be leashed; trail access for pets is restricted—plan accordingly.
- Fern Canyon and North Trail to Falls Loop are closed due to storm damage; the waterfall is still accessible via alternative routes.
- Trails and coastline can be slippery—wear sturdy footwear and watch for sneaker waves.
- No drones allowed in the park.
Local insight: For a memorable experience, hike to the waterfall early in the morning. The light filters through the ferns and moss at that time. Later, circle back via the headlands. Catch sunset over the ocean from the Devil’s Punchbowl overlook. This moment is often accompanied by the soft calls of seabirds and the distant rush of waves against the cliffs.