Click for map Reservations: Call (800) 444-7275 "Thou Shalt Not..." No unleashed dogs While you're at it Snorkeling SCUBA Diving « Back to Camping Guide Bay Area Camping Guide: Russian Gulch State Park State Route 89 P.O. Box 440 Mendocino, CA 95460 (707) 937-5804 Russian Gulch takes its name from the Russian Gulch Creek Canyon inside the park. The Canyon is a densely-wooded headland, home to some great beachfront, as well as tide pools and ocean water fit for snorkeling and fishing. Miles of hiking trails wander through the forest, providing endless routes for day hikes once you've set up camp. Among the other attractions one shouldn't miss are the Devil's Punch Bowl, a sea cave that collapsed, leaving a churning water-pit where the tide comes in. There's also a 36-foot waterfall in the park. Calling for terrain conditions before visiting would be a move of great wisdom. The ground tends to be wet in Spring, which can be a bummer. The park is open April through October. Layered clothing is a must. Hot showers, flush toilets and grills are available at the campsites. Dogs on leashes OK on some trails. The park headquarters sells bundles of firewood for $5. Very nice of them, no? Getting there Pretty simple. Russian Gulch is two miles north of Mendocino on Highway One.