Sometimes, the best way to recharge is to escape into nature. That’s exactly what I did when I packed my bags and headed to Mendocino for a weekend of van life. With Josie the Adventurer—a fully-equipped 2013 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter camper van—as my travel companion, I explored the serene landscapes of Mendocino, biked along the Big River, and enjoyed the unique experience of sleeping on the beach at Van Damme State Park. This adventure wasn’t just a trip; it was a lesson in simplicity, comfort, and connection with the great outdoors.

Why Mendocino?

Nestled along California’s rugged northern coast, Mendocino is a dream destination for anyone seeking natural beauty, outdoor activities, and a touch of coastal charm. Its unspoiled beaches, towering redwoods, and quaint small-town vibe make it the perfect spot for a van life adventure. I’d visited Mendocino before, but this time, I wanted a more immersive experience—one where I could wake up to the sound of waves, bike through dense forests, and end my day stargazing on a beach.

Enter Josie the Adventurer, the camper van that would make all of this possible.

Meet Josie the Adventurer

We rented Josie the camper van from Outdoorsy. Heather, the host, has created a home on wheels that balances functionality and comfort. Recently renovated, this 2013 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter comes with everything you need for an unforgettable road trip. Here are some of the standout features that made my adventure smooth and enjoyable:

Spacious and Comfortable: Josie can seat five and sleep up to four, making it ideal for solo travelers, couples, or small groups. The almost-king-sized bed was incredibly cozy, and there’s even a hammock for extra lounging or sleeping space.
Kitchen Essentials: The van comes with a butcher block countertop, a sink, and a fridge/freezer combo. The 750-watt inverter allowed me to use kitchen gadgets like the instant pot and tea kettle, making it easy to whip up meals on the go.
Off-Grid Capabilities: With three 150-watt solar panels, Josie is designed for off-grid adventures. I never worried about running out of power, even after multiple days of camping without hookups.
Work-Friendly Setup: If you need to catch up on work, Josie has a standing desk area and cell phone holders for hands-free navigation or entertainment.
Convenience Features: The van includes a portable toilet, an outdoor shower, and an optional showering tent. The diesel heater kept me warm on cool nights, and the roof deck offered the perfect spot for stargazing.

Heather also provides linens, pillows, and a variety of kitchen tools, so all you need to bring is your sense of adventure.

Day 1: Biking Along the Big River

I kicked off my Mendocino adventure with a bike ride along the Big River. The bike rack, available as an add-on with Josie, made it easy to bring my bike along. The Big River trail is a gentle, well-maintained path that winds through towering redwoods and follows the river as it flows toward the ocean.

The ride was pure magic. The air was crisp and cool, carrying the earthy scent of the forest. Sunlight filtered through the trees, creating dappled patterns on the ground. I stopped several times to take in the views and snap photos of the river glinting in the sunlight. At one point, I spotted a family of otters playing near the water’s edge—a delightful reminder of Mendocino’s rich wildlife.

The trail is ideal for all skill levels, so whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, you’ll find it enjoyable. If you don’t have your own bike, Heather offers discounted ebike rentals, making it easy to explore the area.

Ready to embark on your own unforgettable adventure? Whether you’re dreaming of coastal getaways, mountain escapes, or scenic road trips, Outdoorsy has the perfect RV or camper van to make it happen

Use promo code EXSPLORE to get $50 off your first RV rental! Click here to start your journey today and explore the great outdoors like never before.

Don’t wait—your next adventure is just a click away! 🚐✨

Day 2: Beachfront Camping at Van Damme State Park

After an active day on the Big River trail, I headed to Van Damme State Park to set up camp for the night. This park is a gem for van lifers, as it allows camper vans to park right next to the beach. Josie fit perfectly in the designated lot, and within minutes, I was enjoying the stunning coastal views.

The sound of waves crashing against the shore was a soothing backdrop as I prepared dinner in Josie’s well-equipped kitchen. Using the instant pot, I made a simple but delicious meal of quinoa, roasted vegetables, and a cup of herbal tea. After dinner, I climbed up to the roof deck with a blanket and spent the evening stargazing. The sky was clear, and the stars felt close enough to touch.

When it was time to sleep, Josie’s bed did not disappoint. The nearly king-sized mattress was as comfortable as any hotel bed, and the gentle sound of the waves lulled me to sleep. I woke up early to catch the sunrise—a breathtaking display of pinks, oranges, and purples spreading across the horizon.

Day 3: Exploring Mendocino Village

On my final day, I drove into Mendocino Village to explore its charming shops, art galleries, and restaurants. The village is small but full of character, with historic buildings and stunning ocean views. I parked Josie in a nearby lot and spent the morning wandering through the streets. Highlights included:

Shopping: The village is home to several unique shops selling everything from handmade jewelry to local artwork. I picked up a few souvenirs, including a hand-carved wooden ornament.
Food: While Mendocino has several great restaurants, I opted to prepare lunch in Josie to make the most of the van’s amenities. I parked by a scenic overlook, made a fresh salad, and enjoyed my meal with a view of the ocean.

The Joys of Van Life

One of the most rewarding aspects of this trip was experiencing the freedom and simplicity of van life. Here are a few reasons why Josie made this adventure so special:

Flexibility: Having a home on wheels allowed me to explore at my own pace. Whether I wanted to linger at a scenic spot or move on to the next destination, the choice was entirely mine.
Comfort: Despite being in the middle of nature, I had all the comforts of home, from a cozy bed to a fully stocked kitchen.
Connection with Nature: Sleeping on the beach, biking through the forest, and dining with ocean views made me feel more connected to the natural world.

Tips for Your Own Van Life Adventure

If you’re considering a van life trip to Mendocino (or anywhere else), here are a few tips to make the most of your experience:

Plan Your Route: Mendocino has plenty of scenic spots, so take some time to map out your itinerary. Be sure to include both well-known attractions and hidden gems.
Pack Smart: While Josie comes with most of the essentials, don’t forget to bring personal items like clothing, toiletries, and any specialty gear you might need.
Embrace Simplicity: One of the best parts of van life is learning to live with less. Focus on the experience rather than the stuff, and you’ll find it incredibly freeing.
Respect Nature: Always follow Leave No Trace principles to keep the environment clean and beautiful for future travelers.

Final Thoughts

My Mendocino adventure with Josie the Adventurer was everything I hoped it would be and more. From biking along the Big River to sleeping on the beach at Van Damme State Park, every moment was filled with beauty, relaxation, and a sense of wonder. Josie’s thoughtful design and Heather’s excellent hosting made the experience seamless and enjoyable.

If you’re dreaming of a van life adventure, Mendocino is the perfect destination, and Josie the Adventurer is the perfect companion. Whether you’re an experienced van lifer or trying it out for the first time, this trip will leave you with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

I’m already planning my next trip with Josie—who knows where the road will take me next?

Ready to embark on your own unforgettable adventure? Whether you’re dreaming of coastal getaways, mountain escapes, or scenic road trips, Outdoorsy has the perfect RV or camper van to make it happen.

Use promo code EXSPLORE to get $50 off your first RV rental! Click here to start your journey today and explore the great outdoors like never before.

Don’t wait—your next adventure is just a click away! 🚐✨