Little River California

Little River California Information

Just 2 miles south of the popular tourist town of Mendocino, Little River was founded by trappers in the mid-1800s. Soon afterward, the lumber industry discovered this little town at the mouth of a river and deemed it the perfect place for a sawmill. Before long, the town was bursting at the seams - becoming home to a shipyard and railroad as well. Unfortunately for some, the industry dried up by the turn of the 20th century and Little River reverted back to its beautiful, natural state.

Today, a much-less-crowded Little River sits on a bluff overlooking a popular state beach where you'll often find divers searching for abalone. In addition, the Van Damme State Park also boasts a wonderful scenic trail system and is home to the Pygmy Forest, a wooded area where mature, cone-bearing cypress and pine trees stand six inches to eight feet tall. The park is especially popular with bicyclists and joggers.

Kayak tours of the coast are available through an outfitter stationed at the State Park. Also look for the local fire department's annual BBQ, a fun event where the whole town participates.