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Simple Pleasures & Valley Adventures

A laid-back weekend of towering redwoods, farm stops, sweet treats and family-friendly tastings makes this getaway feel both adventurous and easy. You’ll base yourselves under the ancient trees at Hendy Woods State Park, with short scenic drives to markets, farms and cozy small-town spots where kids can roam and grown-ups can sip something local. Expect fresh air, winding country roads and that magical moment when sunlight filters through cathedral-like redwoods.

Day 1

Morning
Hit the road early and enjoy the scenic drive inland, watching the landscape shift from open stretches to rolling vineyards and forested hills.

Afternoon
Arrive around lunchtime and stop at Anderson Valley Market to pick up fresh sandwiches, chips and cold drinks. Take your picnic to Hendy Woods State Park, check in, and settle into your campsite beneath the towering redwoods. After setting up, head out for an easy family hike on one of the park’s gentle loop trails. Stroll beneath massive trunks, listen for woodpeckers and let the kids explore fallen logs and fern-lined paths.

Evening
Drive a few minutes to Jumbo’s Win-Win in Philo for a relaxed burger dinner. It’s casual, satisfying and perfect after a travel day. Head back to camp as dusk settles in, toast marshmallows and fall asleep to the quiet hush of the forest.

Day 2

Morning
Start the day with breakfast at Mosswood Market in Boonville. Grab coffee, pastries or hearty breakfast sandwiches before a leisurely valley drive.

Afternoon
Make your way to Foursight Wines for a tasting while exploring their beautiful Mendocino Lavender and Pollinator Garden, a lovely space for kids to wander while adults sip. Next, head to Pennyroyal Farm for wine tasting paired with goat cheese and small bites. Kids will love seeing the goats and taking a farm tour it’s hands-on, educational and fun.

Continue on to Offspring Pizza for a late lunch with creative, wood-fired pies. Before leaving town, swing by Paysanne Ice Cream for a sweet treat everyone will be talking about.

On your way back toward camp, stop at Lemon’s Market to pick up easy dinner supplies like grill-ready veggies, fresh meat or salad fixings.

Evening
Back at Hendy Woods State Park, cook dinner at your campsite. As the light fades through the redwoods, enjoy a slow meal outdoors and keep an eye out for deer quietly moving through the trees.

Day 3

Morning
Wake to birdsong and enjoy a relaxed breakfast at camp. Sip coffee in the cool forest air while the kids explore nearby trails or search for squirrels and Steller’s jays. Pack up camp at an unhurried pace, soaking in the last views of the redwoods.

Afternoon
On your way out, stop at The Apple Farm for fresh fruit and their famously delicious apple juice a refreshing road snack. Continue to Gowan’s Heirloom Cider where parents can enjoy a cider tasting beneath the trees while kids explore the open orchard grounds. In spring, the blossoms make this stop especially magical.

Evening
Before heading home, stop at The Boonville Distillery for a relaxed farewell lunch. The laid-back setting makes it an easy final stop where everyone can unwind before the drive.

Tips & Extras

When to Visit
Spring brings wildflowers, orchard blossoms, and flowing creeks. Summer offers warm days perfect for camping and swimming holes. Fall means harvest season and golden vineyard views. Even winter can be beautiful, with mist drifting through the redwoods just pack rain layers.

What to Know
Bring layers mornings and evenings can be cool under the trees. Pack flashlights for nighttime campground walks, and keep a picnic blanket handy for spontaneous stops.

Bonus Stop – Meyer Family Cellars
A welcoming, family-friendly tasting room known for rich reds. There’s often outdoor space where kids can stretch their legs while adults enjoy a relaxed tasting.

Bonus Stop – Boonville Community Park
A perfect picnic stop with open green space and room for kids to run. Pick up snacks in town and enjoy a low-key lunch surrounded by valley views before continuing your adventures.

Keep Exploring the Magic!

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