Madrone Campground
4.826 reviews1600 U.S. Highway 101 Garberville, CA 95542
Madrone Campground
$8.00 - $8.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Day-use parking fee is $8 per vehicle per day. Self-registration available at park entrance during off-season for Madrone Campground (cash/check only).
About this campground
Nestled within the enchanting Richardson Grove State Park, Madrone Campground offers an intimate escape beneath towering coast redwoods that have stood sentinel for millennia. This seasonal sanctuary invites campers to disconnect from the modern world and immerse themselves in the timeless beauty of ancient forests, where the gentle murmur of the South Fork Eel River provides nature's perfect soundtrack for your rustic camping adventure.
Madrone Campground primarily offers walk-in campsites during the off-season. Tent camping, RV camping, and group camping are available at Richardson Grove State Park, but specific options for this campground may vary.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape where human history spans thousands of years. The Sinkyone people, the original stewards of this land, held these ancient redwoods as sacred beings, their spiritual connection evident in every moss-covered trunk and sun-dappled grove. Today's visitors can explore the charming Richardson Grove Historic Lodge and discover the enduring legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps, whose Depression-era handiwork still enhances the park's trails and facilities.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the magic of California's redwood coast through dramatically different seasons. Summer days bring warm temperatures between 75-95°F, with mystical morning fog weaving through the giant trees before giving way to golden afternoon sunshine. Winter transforms the campground into a moody wonderland, with temperatures settling between 30-50°F as gentle rains nourish the verdant forest floor and create a symphony of droplets on fern fronds.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery, the campground's position along the river valley creates a perfect microclimate where ancient redwoods thrive in the coastal fog belt.
Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to crane your neck in wonder as you camp among living skyscrapers—coast redwoods that have witnessed over 1,000 years of history and soar more than 300 feet into the California sky. The forest floor transforms into an emerald carpet of redwood sorrel, delicate ferns, and velvety mosses that thrive in the cathedral-like shade. The South Fork of the Eel River winds gracefully through this natural sanctuary, its crystal-clear waters reflecting the towering giants above while providing refreshing swimming holes and peaceful spots for contemplation.
Geological RegionMadrone Campground sits in a remarkable geological sweet spot where ancient rivers deposited rich alluvial soils, creating the perfect foundation for the world's tallest trees. This unique combination of nutrient-rich earth, coastal fog, and the life-giving waters of the South Fork Eel River has nurtured a primeval forest ecosystem found nowhere else on Earth. The mild maritime climate, shaped by Pacific Ocean influences, maintains the delicate balance that allows these botanical titans to thrive.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible features in the park include ADA-compliant trails and restrooms. The Grove Nature Trail and Redwood Exhibit Trail are wheelchair-accessible with compacted soil surfaces and generally flat terrains.
Sites SizeUsers describe the campsites as spacious and wide.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are noted to be well-separated, providing a sense of privacy.
Total Campsites75 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsites with privacy, views, and shade are generally rated highly by users, such as 7, 36, 54, and 132.
Best CampsitesBest campsites include numbers 7, 36, 38, 51, 54, 55, 60, 61, 69, 71, 73, 78, 82, 88, 89, 106, 114, 115, 120, 132, 135, 138, 144, 156, 157A, 158, and 175.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit of 15 days per calendar year.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSpecific site layout details not provided.
Open and Closed SeasonMadrone Campground is open between September 2 and May 24 (off-season). Fully reopens for reservations a week before Memorial Day weekend.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through www.reservecalifornia.com.
Walk-in AvailabilityDuring off-season (September 2 to May 24), Madrone Campground operates on a walk-in basis with self-registration available at the park entrance (cash/check only).
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policy details not provided.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
The Madrone Campground at Richardson Grove State Park offers a variety of activities, including hiking, swimming, and fishing. The park features old-growth redwoods and the scenic Eel River, providing opportunities for nature exploration and relaxation.
Hiking
The park offers approximately 10 miles of hiking trails. Notable trails include the Grove Nature Trail and Redwood Exhibit Trail, both accessible and less than 1 mile long. Longer, moderate trails such as the Woodland Trail and Lookout Point Trail are available for adventurous hikers.Fishing
Catch-and-release fishing is permitted on the South Fork Eel River during the winter months. Visitors can fish for salmon and steelhead.Swimming
Swimming is popular in June and July, with two main swimming holes located near the Dawn Redwood Group Campground. The Eel River provides a scenic and refreshing environment for water activities.Biking
Biking is permitted only on paved roadways within the park.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife in the park includes black-tailed deer, river otters, and bald eagles. Visitors can also spot salmon and steelhead in the Eel River during winter months. The park is home to the Bat Tree, where Yuma myotis bats reside.Cultural and Educational Programs
During the summer, the park hosts campfire programs, Junior Ranger activities, and guided nature walks. Educational opportunities such as guided field trips and virtual programs are available during the school year.Winter Activities
Winter activities include fishing for salmon and steelhead in the Eel River.Water Sports
No information provided about non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are permitted only in designated fireplaces, no ground fires allowed.
Hazards
General hazardsPossible encounters with bears and mountain lions. Poison oak is prevalent in the undergrowth. Harmful algae blooms in the river during late summer may pose risks to children and pets.
Active alertsClosures may occur during hazardous weather conditions, with wind speeds exceeding 55 mph.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 24
Sunday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 1.2 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
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
District Office: 3431 Fort Ave., Eureka, CA 95503 (Open Monday - Friday, 8 AM - 4 PM). Contact: (707) 445-6547. Emergency park contact: (707) 247-3318.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day to Labor Day is considered peak season.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available, but specific details about locations and pickup schedules are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near the South Fork of the Eel River, a 'wild and scenic' river with swimming holes accessible during peak season.
Common complaintsNone explicitly stated in authoritative content or user reviews.
HostVisitor center staff are available during peak season and offer interpretive programs and assistance. Hosts described as welcoming in user reviews.
Campground Map
1600 U.S. Highway 101 Garberville, CA 95542
Driving directionsThe park is located 7 miles south of Garberville on Highway 101. Access is easy off Highway 101.
Highway 101 bisects the park, offering paved road access. Seasonal closures can occur due to hazardous weather with wind speeds over 55 mph.Nearby places
Garberville (7 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Garberville, located 7 miles from the park.
Camper Reviews
4.8
6 reviews
Madrone Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users generally praise Madrone Campground for its peaceful atmosphere, beautiful location among redwoods, and well-maintained facilities. Positive highlights include clean restrooms and showers, spacious campsites, and friendly staff.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Highlights from user reviews include comments about the 'beautifully kept campsites,' 'huge and very clean bathrooms and showers,' and the 'peaceful place for camping.' Families have expressed their...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
No significant complaints were noted in the provided user reviews.
Based on 6 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Recommendations include trying the barebones cabins, enjoying the hiking trails, and visiting the charming visitor center.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer is the peak season, with campfire programs and Junior Ranger activities enhancing the camping experience. Winter camping is quieter, with opportunities for fishing and observing spawning...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful campground set among the redwoods along the Eel River. Facilities are well maintained, bathrooms and showers are clean and well kept.' - Daryl Shook 2. 'Bathrooms and showers were huge...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Best campsites include sites 7, 36, 38, 51, and others listed as particularly desirable. Specific reviews for these sites are not provided.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
Reviews highlight accessible trails and facilities, such as the Grove Nature Trail and Redwood Exhibit Trail, which offer compacted soil surfaces and flat terrains.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must remain on a leash no longer than six feet during the day and be kept in vehicles or tents at night. Pets are not permitted on hiking trails.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025