Hendy Woods State Park

From Ukiah, take Highway 128 West towards Boonville. Hendy Woods State Park is located just off Highway 128, about 10 miles west of Boonville. The drive itself is scenic, passing through vineyards and forests.

Public transportation options are very limited in this rural area. It is highly recommended to have a car for convenient access to Hendy Woods State Park and surrounding attractions.

The drive from the Mendocino coast to Hendy Woods State Park is a beautiful 45-minute journey through the forest on a well-maintained road.

Yes, there is an electric vehicle charger on-site, making it a convenient stop for EV owners.

While possible, it's a long day trip (around 3-4 hours each way). Many visitors opt to stay overnight or combine it with a longer Mendocino coast trip to fully enjoy the park and nearby wineries.

Day use fees typically apply for parking. Camping fees vary depending on the type of site (tent, RV, cabin). It's always best to check the official California State Parks website for the most current fee information.

The park is generally open from 8 AM to sunset daily for day use. Campground hours may differ. Always verify current hours on the official park website before your visit.

Reservations are highly recommended, especially for cabins and during peak season or weekends. You can usually book through the California State Parks reservation system.

While some parks accept cash for day use, it's advisable to have a credit card handy, as payment methods can vary. Check the park's specific policies.

California State Parks may offer various passes, such as the Golden Poppy Pass, for frequent visitors. Inquire at the visitor center or check the state park website for details.

The Discovery Trail through Big Hendy Grove and the Old Hendy Grove Trail are popular for their accessibility and stunning redwood views. For longer hikes, explore trails that lead through meadows and past historical sites.

Absolutely! The easy, short trails are perfect for little legs, and the cabins offer a fun camping experience. Kids will love exploring the giant redwoods.

You might spot deer, various insects like spiders, scorpions, and amphibians like salamanders. The park is a haven for local fauna.

Yes, there are designated picnic areas within the park, offering a lovely spot to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.

Campgrounds offer tent and RV sites, with some sites having access to restrooms and showers. Cabins are also available. Note that showers require payment.

There are no restaurants within Hendy Woods State Park itself. You'll need to bring your own food for picnics or dining at your campsite.

The nearby town of Boonville offers several dining options, including local eateries and cafes. For more variety, you can also explore wineries that may have food pairings or restaurants.

Yes, there are grocery stores in Boonville where you can stock up on supplies for your camping trip or picnic.

Campfires are typically allowed in designated fire rings, but always check for current fire restrictions and regulations, especially during dry seasons. Firewood can be purchased at the park.

The Anderson Valley is known for its wineries, and many offer wine tastings with food pairings or have on-site cafes. Gowans Cider is a popular local spot mentioned by visitors.

The towering redwoods, especially in Big Hendy Grove and along the Old Hendy Grove Trail, offer incredible photographic opportunities. Look for interesting light filtering through the canopy and unique bark textures.

Early morning or late afternoon often provides the best light, with soft, diffused rays filtering through the redwood canopy. This 'golden hour' can create magical shots.

Yes, the burn scars are a fascinating part of the redwoods' resilience. Rangers note these are often very old, from fires as far back as the 1930s.

A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the redwoods. A tripod can be helpful for low-light conditions inside the dense forest.

Look for intricate spiderwebs, unique fungi, and the dramatic contrast between the deep green foliage and the redwood bark. The sheer scale of the trees is a photo opportunity in itself.