Jackson Demonstration State Forest


Fifteen miles west of Willits on Hwy 20, this forest offers day-use recreational activities, including hiking trails and mountain-biking. You can also camp here. A demonstration forest is so named as it is used for forestry education, research and sustainable felling techniques. Seek out the 25ft Chamberlain Creek Waterfall on the mile-long Waterfall Grove Trail if you can. These beautiful falls are situated in a lush canyon surrounded by redwoods and ferns.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Kelley House Museum

8.34 MILES

Check out the research library and changing exhibits on early California and Mendocino. The 1861 museum hosts seasonal, two-hour walking tours for $10;…

2. Jug Handle State Natural Reserve

8.41 MILES

Between Mendocino and Fort Bragg, Jug Handle preserves an ecological staircase that you can view on a 5-mile (round-trip) self-guided nature trail. The…

3. Sea Glass Museum

8.42 MILES

Just south of town, this museum showcases the sea glass found on local beaches with beautiful displays, plus audiovisual explanations and additional…

4. Mendocino Art Center

8.47 MILES

Behind a yard of twisting iron sculpture, the city’s art center takes up a whole tree-filled block. It hosts exhibitions, nationally renowned art classes…

5. Kwan Tai Temple

8.53 MILES

Peering in the window of this 1852 temple reveals an old altar dedicated to the Chinese god of war. Tours are available by appointment and provide a…

6. Mendocino Coast Botanical Gardens

8.64 MILES

This gem of Northern California displays native flora, rhododendrons and heritage roses. The succulent display alone is amazing and the organic garden is…

7. Van Damme State Park

8.79 MILES

Three miles south of Mendocino, this sprawling 1831-acre park draws beachcombers, divers and kayakers to its easy-access beach, and hikers to its pygmy…

8. Point Cabrillo Light Station

8.9 MILES

Built in 1909, this stout lighthouse stands on a 300-acre wildlife preserve north of town, between Russian Gulch and Caspar Beach. The grounds also…