Sonoma/Mendocino Coast Camping
I'm planning an August trip to the north coast that will hopefully include some Abalone diving. It would be nice to dive right from the campground- but more critical is fun stuff for the kids like a beach, forest, etc.
In my time window of Aug 5-12 it looks like the state parks near Fort Bragg and Mendocino (Mackerricker and Van Damme) are booked. A few private campgrounds such as the Albion River Campground. South in Sonoma County I see Anchor Bay and Ocean Cove campgrounds.
Albion River Campground- Right under the CA-1 bridge. Might be good to bring Kayak and ride the tide up the river. Otherwise looks like a good location but pretty plain gravel parking lot. Lots of day-tripping nearby.
Ocean Cove- 15 miles N of Jenner by Stillwater cove
Appears that there's no actual beach
Anchor Bay- 4 miles N of Gualala
Beach. Appears to have both good beach for kids and great diving.