Welcome to a majestic escape at Hendy Woods State Park. It is tucked into the heart of Anderson Valley in Mendocino County, California. A mere three-hour drive north of San Francisco, this enchanting retreat protects ancient coast redwood groves, meandering rivers, and open meadows—offering a serene yet adventurous getaway amid towering giants.
What Makes Hendy Woods State Park Unique
Hendy Woods brings together two ancient redwood sanctuaries, Big Hendy and Little Hendy. These sanctuaries house trees up to 300 feet tall. Some of these trees are nearly 1,000 years old. Unlike coastal redwood parks, it enjoys warmer, drier weather and less fog, making it ideal for swimming, river play, and hiking. The park’s cultural allure includes the Hermit Hut Trail, leading to dwellings of the famed “Hendy Hermit,” and vibrant interpretive programs run by local volunteers.
Top Activities & Amenities
?️ Campsites & Cabins
The park offers 92 campsites across Wildcat and Azalea camp loops. Each campsite features picnic tables, food lockers, barbecue stoves, fire rings, and piped drinking water. RVs up to 35 feet are welcome, though there are no hookups. A hike-in/bike-in primitive site is also available. Four rustic cabins—including one ADA-accessible—provide cozy wooden stays with basic amenities and wood stoves.
? Hiking Trails & Nature Walks
With about 5 miles of trails, the park caters to all ability levels:
- Discovery Trail: A 0.6-mile, wheelchair-accessible loop through giant redwoods with interpretive markers.
- Big Hendy Loop: A 1.6-mile combination of trails through old-growth forest.
- Hermit Hut Trail: A moderate 2.7-mile loop climbing to historic hermit residences amid redwoods and upland habitat.
- Little Hendy Trail: A gentle half-mile loop in the smaller redwood grove.
? Picnic Areas & Amphitheater
The riverside meadow boasts 12 ADA-compliant picnic sites with shade ramadas and BBQ grills. A central amphitheater hosts seasonal campfire programs and Junior Ranger events during summers.
? Restrooms, Showers & Drinking Water
Flush toilets and coin-operated showers are available in both campground loops. Drinking water spigots, recycling bins, and trash receptacles are spread throughout the park.
? Swimming, Canoeing & Wildlife Viewing
The Navarro River runs through the park. It offers wading and swimming near the Greenwood Road bridge. You can enjoy calm floating in late winter and spring. Keep an eye out for woodpeckers, deer, owls, and redwood ecosystem wildlife along quiet forest trails.
???? Visitor Center, Interpretive Programs & Gift Shop
A volunteer-staffed visitor center near Wildcat Campground operates on weekends from May through September. It offers interpretive displays and nature gifts. Visitors can find guides, ice cream, and park souvenirs. Ranger-led nature walks, campfire talks, and community-sponsored Quest brochures engage families and learners.
? ADA & Accessibility Features
Accessible amenities include the Discovery Trail and select camp loops (Azalea). They also include restrooms, a ramped cabin, picnic ramadas, and paved paths. These features make the park welcoming for mobility-impaired guests.
♻️ Amenities for Groups
Group campsites are available by reservation at both camp loops. A dump station is on-site. Biking is limited to paved roads; horses are not permitted on trails. Pets are allowed only within the campground and paved areas, always on leash.
Visitor Tips
- Fees & Reservations: Campsites $35–50/night; cabins vary. Reserve May–September at ReserveCalifornia up to six months ahead; first-come first-served other months.
- Parking: Free in camp loops and day-use lot near the river meadow.
- Pets: Leashed pets allowed only in campground and paved areas—not on trails.
- Fire & Cooking: Fires only in provided rings or stoves; purchase firewood onsite.
- Showers: Coin-operated hot showers; bring quarters.
- Trash & Recycling: Use provided bins; help keep the park clean.
- Wildlife Safety: Store food in lockers; be alert for wildlife, especially at dawn and dusk.
- Accessibility: One ADA-accessible cabin, campsites, restrooms, picnic sites and trails.
- Closures: Seasonal trail maintenance and winter weather may affect access online.
- Weather: Summer highs reach low 90s°F; nights cool to 40s–50s°F. Coastal fog is rare locally.
Local Insight & Seasonal Tip
Visit in late spring or early fall to enjoy warm days ideal for swimming, fewer mosquitoes, and vibrant flora. Don’t miss the Hermit Hut Trail at sunrise—it’s peaceful and atmospheric. After your stay, take a short drive to Boonville or Philo for wine tasting at Anderson Valley wineries, or enjoy a relaxing pint at Anderson Valley Brewing Company to round out your rustic redwood retreat.