Frank and Bess Smithe Grove
- US-101, Leggett, CA 95585, USA
- (707) 247-3318
- 10/15/2026
Description
On the south side of Mendocino, accessible by vehicle from Highway 1, or by trails down the bluffs, is Big River Beach. This beach is used by picnickers, sun bathers and players in the surf. Mendocino Headlands State Park began operation in 1974. In 2002 the Big River wetlands was added to the park creating a 7,400-acre wildlife corridor which links diverse coastal and inland habitats into the largest piece of connected public land entirely within Mendocino County. Reaching from the Big River’s mouth to 800-foot elevation inland ridges, the Big River wetlands includes a wide range of habitats. On the north it adjoins Jackson Demonstration State Forest and Mendocino Woodlands State Park. Public lands reach to the sea from Jackson Demonstration State Forest at Jug Handle State Reserve and Russian Gulch State Park. To the south, separated by a narrow strip of private land and Comptche Ukiah Road, lies Van Damme State Park with an RV campground and ocean access.
Location
Mendocino, CA 95460, USA
Contact us:
Customer Reviews:
Write a ReviewLeave a Review
Claim This Listing
Is this your business?
Claim listing is the best way to manage and protect your business.
Claim Now!
Smithe Redwoods State Natural Reserve
- 73201 US-101, Piercy, CA 95587, USA
- (707) 247-3318
- 10/15/2026
Ka Kahleh Trail
- Noyo Point Rd, Fort Bragg, CA 95437, USA
- 10/07/2026
Felisha Thomas
Spent the day here on July 16 with Jack and Jill Camp. Despite the water being ice cold( i lasted only 2 mins in it), the weather was soo wonderful to lay out and tan, nap, heck just to enjoy.
I’ve had this beach on my ‘wanted to go’ list for quite some time. Had no idea I’d be here this week. Happy, happy, joy, joy!!
Malhotra Nigl
you can just sit there for hours and it doesn’t get old. we stayed about two miles up the coast and came down here every afternoon to watch the seals. the waves crash against the rocks in this really satisfying way, and the tide pools are full of tiny crabs and anemones. i even saw a starfish clinging to a rock which I managed to not step on. definately bring something to sit on because the sand gets cold pretty quick. good spot to just zone out and not think about anything.
Leventer Kohs
…and honestly I wish I had discovered this spot way sooner, its just such a chill place to sit and watch the waves for awhile. The views are incredible, theres something so peaceful about the way the water hits those big rocks down below. I only had about an hour to stop but it was definately time well spent, I just sat on one of those fallen logs and zoned out completely. The walk down to the beach itself is kind of short but a little rough in parts so watch your step, nothing too crazy though. I can see myself coming back here tommorrow just to do it all over again. This whole area is a must stop if youre driving up the coast, for real.
Cat Spydell
Always a lovely place to visit. I have been dropping by this beach for years, & I have been to several gatherings there. It’s a beautiful getaway close to the quaint town of Mendocino. I stop by just to look at the view, sometimes not even leaving my car but just appreciating the atmosphere.
Chef Wills
It was a beautiful beach. Only had Porter Potties for restrooms. Parking is ready to find. The family had a great time but there were a bunch of jelly fish to watch out for.