Masterson Group Campground
03 reviewsStonyford Work Station, P.O. Box 160, Stonyford, CA, 95979-0160, USA
Masterson Group Campground
$75.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The nightly rate for the group standard nonelectric site is $75 during the peak season from June 01 to September 30 each year. The fee excludes potential discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Hidden among towering pines and sun-dappled meadows in the heart of Mendocino National Forest, Masterson Group Campground offers the perfect escape for families, friends, and organizations seeking to reconnect in nature's embrace. This thoughtfully designed group camping destination combines the tranquility of dense forest solitude with the convenience of facilities built for large gatherings, creating an ideal backdrop for reunions, retreats, and celebrations under the stars.
Masterson Group Campground is specifically designed for group camping and offers primitive facilities without electricity or sewer hookups.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this specific campground remains unwritten, the surrounding Mendocino National Forest holds centuries of stories within its ancient groves and meadows, serving as a timeless gathering place for those seeking respite in nature.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Masterson into a camper's paradise, with June through September bringing crystal-clear skies and comfortable temperatures perfect for outdoor adventures. While winter months deliver bone-chilling cold and occasional precipitation, the shoulder seasons offer their own quiet beauty. The dry mountain air and moderate humidity create ideal conditions for campfires and stargazing during peak season, when the forest truly comes alive with visitors and wildlife alike.
ElevationNestled at an elevation that places you among the clouds and mountain breezes, this campground offers the refreshing coolness of higher altitudes while remaining accessible to adventurers of all abilities.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to sunlight filtering through a cathedral of pines, your tent pitched on soft meadow grass that stretches toward the forest edge. By day, this natural amphitheater shelters you beneath its verdant canopy, while nights reveal a spectacular celestial show unobscured by city lights. Just a short journey away, the pristine waters of Plaskett Lake beckon anglers and paddlers, while a network of trails winds through the forest, offering glimpses of wildlife and hidden meadows. Here, every direction promises discovery, from quiet fishing spots to scenic overlooks.
Geological RegionPerched on the eastern reaches of California's Coastal Mountain Range, Masterson Group Campground occupies a remarkable position within the vast Mendocino National Forest. This rugged landscape, carved by ancient geological forces, creates a dramatic tapestry of forested peaks, hidden valleys, and jewel-like lakes. The dense coniferous forests give way to unexpected grassy clearings, forming natural gathering spaces that have drawn visitors to these mountains for generations. This secluded corner of northwestern California offers a rare combination of accessibility and wilderness, where the mountains meet the sky in endless ridgelines.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned.
Sites SizeThe campground is spacious enough to accommodate up to 75 guests and 25 vehicles.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews describe the campground as private and large, surrounded by towering pines and offering solitude.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors are advised to call ahead to check water availability and use Alder Springs Road instead of Google Maps’ suggested route for easier access.
Best CampsitesGroup Standard Nonelectric site accommodating up to 75 guests, described as spacious and private.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 75 guests per group site
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 75 guests and 25 vehicles, making it ideal for large gatherings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features open meadow areas surrounded by dense forest.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season starts June 1 and ends September 30 each year.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not specified for this campground.
Cancellation PolicyYou can cancel anytime before the scheduled arrival date with a refund minus a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations (less than 14 calendar days before check-in) will also subtract your first night's recreation use fee. Reservations cannot be canceled on the check-in date.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Masterson Group Campground offers a wide variety of activities, from hiking and wildlife viewing to fishing and non-motorized boating at nearby Plaskett Lake. Its open meadow areas are ideal for group games, and a large fire ring adds to the nighttime experience. Mendocino National Forest provides opportunities for hunting (seasonal), off-highway vehicle riding, and nature exploration.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are abundant in Mendocino National Forest, which spans over 913,306 acres of mountains and canyons. Trails vary in difficulty and offer stunning views.Fishing
Fishing at Plaskett Lake, a short one-mile walk from the campground, features trout. User reviews highlight its suitability for fishing but note it is less ideal for swimming.Biking
Trails suitable for biking are available in the Mendocino National Forest.Boating
Non-motorized boating, including canoeing, is available at Plaskett Lake, which is a short walk from the campground.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is popular, with deer, birds, chipmunks, and rabbits commonly seen. Bears may also be present.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly discussed in the authoritative sources.Water Sports
Water sports such as paddling and canoeing are available at Plaskett Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed at the designated fire ring. Visitors are encouraged to use local firewood to prevent spreading tree-killing pests.
- Quiet hours information is null.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife like bears and deer, and challenging road conditions. Roads may require 4WD due to rutting as noted by reviewers.
Active alertsOne review warns against following Google Maps directions due to a dangerous road (307) being 'out of commission.' Seasonal water availability may also vary.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 53%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 11.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Stonyford Work Station is the nearest emergency services point. Further information on hospitals and police stations is null.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 01 - September 30 each year.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available on-site, but recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresPlaskett Lake is located one mile from the campground and offers trout fishing and non-motorized boating activities.
Common complaintsComplaints include challenges navigating roads (Google Maps inaccuracies and rutted terrain), and water being unavailable during some visits.
HostInformation about hosts is null.
Campground Map
Stonyford Work Station, P.O. Box 160, Stonyford, CA, 95979-0160, USA
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 5, take the exit for Willows/Oroville Hwy 162 and head west. After about 23 miles turn right at the junction at County Road 306. Travel approximately four miles, then turn left onto 162/Forest Highway 7. After approximately 30 miles turn right at the Masterson Group Campground sign and follow the road for a quarter-mile to the gated entrance.
The Mendocino National Forest is noted for being California’s only national forest not crossed by a paved road. Some reviews highlight challenges accessing the campground due to unpaved, rutted roads: 'It is best to have 4WD as the road is rutted and can be difficult in places.' Another reviewer warns against following Google Maps directions, as one route suggested (via 307) is dangerous and out of commission.Nearby places
Stonyford (roughly 8 miles), Willows (approximately 34 miles).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are likely available in Stonyford, approximately 8 miles away. Detailed information on grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel stations is null.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Masterson Group Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's spaciousness, privacy, and suitability for large groups. Visitors appreciate the clean vault toilets and running water (seasonal), as well as the nearby Plaskett Lake for fishing and canoeing.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include a quiet and clean environment, proximity to Plaskett Lake, and spaciousness ideal for group activities. Vault toilets are well-maintained, and the surrounding forest adds to...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some reviews mention seasonal water unavailability and road conditions requiring a 4WD vehicle. Clearing activities during certain visits impacted the site's cleanliness.
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Future campers are advised to confirm water availability and use Alder Springs Road instead of Google Maps directions to avoid dangerous routes. Bringing 4WD is recommended due to rutted roads.
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Seasonal water availability and road conditions can affect the camping experience. Summer months are popular for group camping, while hunting season sees increased visitation.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Bathrooms and running water are available. They were doing some clearing while we were there, so it was kind of messy." "Nearby Plaskett Lake is a good fishing lake but not for swimming. Use Alder...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
The campground is described as spacious and private, suitable for large groups up to 75 guests. Vault toilets are clean and well-stocked.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features and experiences are not discussed in user reviews.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies and experiences are not explicitly mentioned in user reviews.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025