Van Damme State Park - map and other informations

Description

Van Damme State Park is a beautiful coastal park located in Mendocino County, California. It was established in 1934 and covers an area of approximately 1,831 acres. The park is named after Charles Van Damme, a Belgian immigrant who settled in the area in the late 1800s.

Activities and Attractions

Van Damme State Park offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. One of the main attractions is the beach, which stretches for about a mile along the coastline. The beach is perfect for swimming, sunbathing, picnicking, and beachcombing.

The park also has several hiking trails that wind through lush forests and along scenic bluffs. The Fern Canyon Trail is a popular choice, as it takes you through a beautiful canyon filled with ferns and redwood trees. Another trail worth exploring is the Pygmy Forest Trail, which leads you through a unique ecosystem where trees have stunted growth due to poor soil conditions.

If you're interested in wildlife viewing, Van Damme State Park is home to a variety of animals and birds. Keep an eye out for harbor seals lounging on the rocks near the beach or spot some migratory birds during their annual journey.

Camping

For those looking to spend more time in nature, Van Damme State Park offers camping facilities. There are 69 campsites available for tents or RVs, each equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. Restrooms with showers are also available for campers.

Reservations can be made online or by phone up to six months in advance. It's recommended to book your campsite early, especially during peak season (May-September), as availability can fill up quickly.

Picnic Areas

If you're not planning to camp overnight, Van Damme State Park has several picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal surrounded by nature. The picnic areas are equipped with tables and barbecue grills, making it a great spot for a family gathering or a romantic picnic.

Visitor Center

The park has a visitor center where you can learn more about the natural and cultural history of the area. The knowledgeable staff can provide information on hiking trails, wildlife sightings, and upcoming events.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Van Damme State Park

Is there an entrance fee for Van Damme State Park?

Yes, there is an entrance fee for vehicles entering Van Damme State Park. As of 2021, the fee is $8 per vehicle. Pedestrians and cyclists do not have to pay an entrance fee.

Are dogs allowed in Van Damme State Park?

Yes, dogs are allowed in Van Damme State Park but must be kept on a leash at all times. They are not allowed on the beach or in any buildings within the park.

Can I go fishing in Van Damme State Park?

Yes, fishing is allowed in Van Damme State Park. The park has a small lagoon where you can fish for steelhead trout and salmon. A valid California fishing license is required.

	Temp max	Temp min	Rain	Snow
Jan	13 °C 55 °F	7 °C 45 °F	121 mm 4.8 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Feb	14 °C 57 °F	7 °C 45 °F	98 mm 3.9 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Mar	14 °C 57 °F	7 °C 45 °F	111 mm 4.4 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Apr	16 °C 61 °F	8 °C 46 °F	49 mm 1.9 in	0 mm 0.0 in
May	18 °C 64 °F	10 °C 50 °F	24 mm 0.9 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Jun	21 °C 70 °F	12 °C 54 °F	5 mm 0.2 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Jul	23 °C 73 °F	13 °C 55 °F	1 mm 0.0 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Aug	23 °C 73 °F	14 °C 57 °F	0 mm 0.0 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Sep	23 °C 73 °F	14 °C 57 °F	11 mm 0.4 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Oct	20 °C 68 °F	12 °C 54 °F	47 mm 1.9 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Nov	16 °C 61 °F	9 °C 48 °F	82 mm 3.2 in	0 mm 0.0 in
Dec	13 °C 55 °F	7 °C 45 °F	141 mm 5.6 in	0 mm 0.0 in