Hendy Woods State Park

If a Russian immigrant could live in the forests of Hendy Woods State Park for more than 18 years, then it must be worthy of a couple of nights in a tent at the campground tucked away in the Anderson Valley wine region.

The legend of the Hendy Hermit is one of many reasons to visit this 845-acre refuge amid the redwoods. Using the stump of a fallen redwood as a framework for his home, the hermit lived off the land and the generosity of strangers. Part of his hut is still intact for visitors to explore and there’s a kiosk with photos and articles to provide insight into the hermit’s meager existence.

The park also features two groves of old-growth redwoods: the 80-acre Big Hendy grove and the 20-acre Little Hendy Grove. Trails wind through the groves and campgrounds, allowing visitors to hike without having to get in a car and drive to a trailhead.

The 92 developed campsites are spacious although there isn't a lot of privacy from neighbors. That doesn’t seem to deter visitors, many of whom use this park as an annual getaway for the entire family to converge. Each site has a picnic table, fire grill and food lockers. Other amenities include drinking water, flush toilets and coin-operated showers. The sites can handle RVs that are 35 feet long, and there’s a RV dump station.

There are also four rustic cabins that can be rented. The cabins may be great for those seeking accommodations while wine tasting, but I would prefer to stick with tent camping every time.

The day-use area features access to the Navarro River. It’s fine for a dip on a hot summer day, and may be suitable for canoes and kayaks in winter and spring.

Fishing is not allowed within the park boundaries. The Department of Fish and Game has designated the area upstream from the Philo-Greenwood Bridge as a spawning habitat.

Bikes are not allowed on trails, but the paved roads throughout the campground and road to the day use area are safe and suitable for rides with the kids. Serious mountain bikers will need to look elsewhere for riding opportunities.

Location: From San Francisco, take Highway 101 to Cloverdale. Head west on Highway 128 for 45 minutes to Philo Greenwood Road, turn left to park entrance
Activities: Camping, hiking, biking, swimming, exploring redwoods, Hermit Hut
Information: 707-895-3141

Camping: 1-800-444-park
Website: www.cal-parks.ca.gov