Bushay Recreation Area

5300 Soda Bay Road, Kelseyville, CA 95451

Perched on a scenic hilltop overlooking the shimmering waters of Clear Lake, Bay View Campground invites outdoor enthusiasts to discover a perfect blend of natural beauty and tranquil camping. Your partially shaded campsite becomes a gateway to adventure, with the winding Dorn Nature Trail beckoning just steps away. Whether you're seeking sunrise views over California's largest natural lake or a peaceful evening under ancient oaks, this charming retreat offers an authentic camping experience with all the essentials you need for a memorable stay.

5300 Soda Bay Road, Kelseyville, CA 95451

Discover the only lakeside escape in Clear Lake State Park at Kelsey Creek Campground, where 65 thoughtfully designed sites nestle between the shimmering waters of Clear Lake and the tranquil Kelsey Slough. Each site comes equipped with everything you need for the perfect outdoor experience: crackling fire rings for evening gatherings, sturdy picnic tables for memorable meals under the stars, and secure food storage boxes to keep your provisions safe from curious wildlife.

18599 Philo-Greenwood Road, Philo, CA 95466

Tucked between the majestic Big Hendy and Little Hendy groves, Wildcat Campground beckons with 49 thoughtfully positioned sites that place you at the heart of Hendy Woods State Park's ancient forest sanctuary. Each site comes equipped with everything you need for a comfortable stay—sturdy tables for gathering, barbecue stoves for evening meals, secure food lockers to protect your provisions, and nearby restrooms featuring the welcome luxury of hot showers after a day of exploration.

18599 Philo-Greenwood Road, Philo, CA 95466

Discover your perfect basecamp at Azalea Campground, where 43 thoughtfully designed sites await beneath the protective canopy of Hendy Woods State Park's majestic redwoods. Each site comes complete with its own picnic table, barbecue stove, and secure food locker, creating an ideal outdoor living space. Just steps away, you'll find pristine restrooms with hot showers and fresh drinking water, ensuring comfort meets wilderness in this enchanting forest setting tucked between two ancient groves that have stood sentinel for centuries.

Mendocino National Forest

Escape to the untamed wilderness where true solitude awaits. This pristine dispersed camping area offers adventurous souls the ultimate back-to-basics experience, where you'll find nothing but raw nature and endless possibilities. Set up camp wherever the landscape calls to you, fall asleep under a blanket of stars, and wake to the sounds of the wild. With no designated sites or facilities, this is camping at its most authentic – just you, your gear, and the great outdoors.

N39 12.164 W123 11.197

While Chekaka Recreation Area at Lake Mendocino has transitioned to a day-use-only destination, it remains a beloved gateway to outdoor adventure in Northern California. Though overnight camping is no longer available, visitors can still reserve the scenic Overlook Day-Use Area for group gatherings and spend their days exploring the lake's sparkling waters. Whether you're casting a line for bass, launching your boat for an afternoon cruise, navigating the hiking trails, or perfecting your throw at the disc golf course, this recreational haven offers endless opportunities for outdoor enjoyment against the backdrop of Mendocino's stunning landscape.

Mendocino Lake

1400 Marina Drive

Nestled in the rolling hills of California's stunning Mendocino Range, Kyen Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts to experience the natural beauty of Lake Mendocino. With 93 spacious family sites spread across a landscape dotted with graceful oaks, fragrant manzanita, and towering pines, this well-appointed campground serves as your gateway to unforgettable adventures. Modern amenities including flush and vault toilets, hot showers, fresh drinking water, a convenient dump station, and easy boat ramp access ensure comfort meets wilderness. Wake to the songs of diverse bird species and keep watch for the abundant wildlife that calls these oak-studded hills home.

Located 8 miles north of Upper Lake on County Road 301 (Forest Road M-1).

Nestled alongside the gentle waters of Middle Creek, this intimate campground serves as a gateway to adventure for off-highway vehicle enthusiasts and equestrian explorers. The partially shaded grounds offer a perfect balance of sun and shelter, creating an ideal basecamp for those seeking thrilling trail rides through Mendocino National Forest. While amenities remain refreshingly simple, the campground's direct access to extensive OHV trails and proximity to the creek make it a beloved destination for riders who prefer authentic outdoor experiences over resort-style camping.

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Escape to the untamed beauty of Deer Valley Campground, where pristine forest solitude awaits in the heart of Mendocino National Forest. This rustic dry camping destination invites adventurers to disconnect from modern conveniences and reconnect with nature's raw essence. Come prepared for a true wilderness experience—bring your own water and pack out what you pack in, as this remote haven operates without potable water or garbage services.

Mendocino National Forest

Tucked away in the heart of Mendocino National Forest, Penny Pines Campground beckons adventurers with its intimate collection of 10 tent-only sites nestled beneath a cathedral of towering Ponderosa Pines. This hidden gem has become a beloved basecamp for off-road enthusiasts, offering direct access to an extensive 135-mile OHV trail network that winds through the forest. As evening falls, campers are rewarded with sweeping western vistas that paint the sky in brilliant hues, while the gentle whisper of pine needles creates nature's perfect soundtrack for a peaceful night under the stars.

Mendocino National Forest

Nestled in the heart of Mendocino National Forest, Letts Lake Campground beckons with the promise of tranquil waters and pristine wilderness. This hidden gem centers around a sparkling 35-acre lake where paddle boats glide silently across mirror-like surfaces and anglers cast for trout in the early morning mist. Modern amenities blend seamlessly with nature, featuring fully accessible restrooms and a thoughtfully designed fishing pier that ensures everyone can experience the magic of lakeside living. Whether you're seeking a refreshing swim on a warm afternoon or the gentle splash of oars at sunset, this campground delivers an authentic outdoor experience without sacrificing comfort.

Mendocino National Forest

Tucked around the shores of a pristine 35-acre mountain lake, Letts Lake Campground invites you to unplug and unwind with peaceful paddling, cast a line for trout, or take a refreshing swim in crystal-clear waters. This thoughtfully designed first-come, first-served retreat welcomes everyone with its accessible one-mile lakeside trail, barrier-free fishing pier, and campsites that accommodate trailers up to 30 feet.

Mendocino National Forest

Tucked into a scenic mixed coniferous forest, Mill Valley Campground offers 15 intimate first-come, first-served sites perfect for adventurers seeking a quieter Forest Service experience. With direct OHV trail access and room for trailers up to 24 feet, this hidden gem sits just a mile from the sparkling waters of Letts Lake, blending rugged recreation with natural tranquility.

Mendocino National Forest

Nestled just a mile north of the popular Letts Lake, Mill Valley Campground offers a peaceful retreat among towering Ponderosa pines and fragrant conifers. This hidden gem serves as a quieter alternative when Letts Lake reaches capacity, featuring a simple yet charming single-loop design that winds through a cathedral of forest shade. Fresh from recent renovations that brought new picnic tables, fire rings, and protective barriers, the campground welcomes both traditional campers and off-highway vehicle enthusiasts who can access miles of thrilling OHV trails right from their campsite.

Mendocino National Forest

Discover a hidden gem where the gentle murmur of Bear Creek provides a year-round soundtrack to your camping adventure. This charming campground offers an intimate escape into nature, with the perpetually flowing creek creating a refreshing ambiance that transforms every stay into a memorable experience.

Mendocino National Forest

Tucked away in the Mendocino National Forest, Dixie Glade offers an intimate escape with just seven first-come, first-served campsites perfect for those seeking solitude. This quiet retreat provides the essentials—tables, stoves, and fire rings—while the Recreation.gov mobile app makes on-site payment simple, though you'll want to pack in your own water for your stay.

Mendocino National Forest

Perched along Forest Road M10 high above the popular Fouts Springs OHV area, Dixie Glade Campground offers an intimate escape with just seven thoughtfully appointed sites. Each campsite comes complete with sturdy tables, grills, and – uniquely – corrals and hitching posts that welcome equestrian adventurers and their trusted packstock companions. A gentle 0.8-mile trail winds from the campground to connect with the renowned Deafy Glade Trail, serving as your gateway to the pristine Snow Mountain Wilderness where endless adventures await.

10025 ELK MOUNTAIN ROAD, UPPER LAKE, CA, USA, 95485

Perched high above the world at 4,400 feet, Pine Mountain Lookout invites adventurers to step back in time and experience life in a historic fire detection cabin. This rustic retreat in Mendocino National Forest rewards visitors with sweeping 180-degree mountain vistas that stretch to the horizon, while offering an authentic taste of solitude in the wilderness. Though the accommodations are simple—featuring bunk beds and vault toilets—the real luxury lies in the unparalleled views, the chance to spot wandering wildlife, and the opportunity to disconnect from the modern world in this piece of living history.

Mendocino National Forest

Nestled within the tranquil embrace of Mendocino National Forest, Fuller Grove Group Campground offers the perfect retreat for those seeking to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature. This secluded haven sits adjacent to Fuller Boat Ramp, providing seamless access to pristine waters when lake levels permit. The campground welcomes all visitors with fully accessible amenities, including sturdy picnic tables perfect for evening gatherings, crackling fire rings for storytelling under the stars, secure food storage lockers to protect your provisions from curious wildlife, and well-maintained restroom facilities.

Upper Lake, CA, near State Rt. 20 and Main St.

Nestled along the shores of Lake Pillsbury in the heart of Mendocino National Forest, Sunset Campground offers two distinct camping experiences. The lakeside loop beckons water enthusiasts with sweeping views of the shimmering lake, where morning mist dances across the water and boats cut gentle wakes through the afternoon sun. For those seeking a more secluded retreat, the shaded upper loop provides a tranquil escape beneath towering canopies, where soft grass carpets the forest floor and privacy abounds. Whether you're launching your boat for a day of fishing or setting out on scenic forest trails, Sunset Campground serves as your perfect basecamp for adventure.

Mendocino National Forest

Tucked into a peaceful inlet at Lake Pillsbury's northwestern corner, this campground offers the perfect blend of lakeside tranquility and easy water access. Just a short stroll from your campsite, the shimmering waters of Mendocino National Forest's largest lake beckon with endless possibilities for adventure. Whether you're launching your boat from the nearby ramp at dawn, casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, or taking an afternoon swim, this scenic basecamp puts you at the heart of one of Northern California's most beloved recreational lakes.

In Upper Lake, CA, at intersection of State Rt. 20 and Main St., take Main St. 0.9 miles to Elk Mountain Rd. (a.k.a. County Rt. 301 and Forest Rt. M1). Turn left onto Elk Mountain Rd. and go 27.1 miles to a "T" intersection. Turn right, staying on Rt. M1, and go 4.1 miles to campground sign. Turn right at sign into campground.

Nestled beneath a canopy of majestic oaks in the heart of Mendocino National Forest, Oak Flat Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape along the shores of Lake Pillsbury. This intimate hideaway features 12 thoughtfully spaced sites that capture the essence of dispersed camping while maintaining easy access to the lake's recreational opportunities. When neighboring Sunset Point reaches capacity, Oak Flat becomes a coveted refuge for those seeking a more secluded camping experience. Open throughout all four seasons, this year-round sanctuary invites adventurers to discover the ever-changing beauty of Northern California's backcountry.

Mendocino National Forest

Discover a hidden gem where tranquility meets adventure at this secluded campground nestled alongside the Gravelly Valley airstrip in the heart of Mendocino National Forest. Tucked peacefully between Oak Flat and Pogie Point campgrounds, this single-loop retreat offers a refreshing escape from the crowds that flock to Lake Pillsbury's more popular spots. Here, sun-drenched campsites bask beneath the protective canopy of majestic California oaks, creating an intimate outdoor experience where the only sounds you'll hear are rustling leaves and distant birdsong.

Mendocino National Forest

Nestled deep within the Mendocino National Forest, Lower Nye Campground offers an authentic wilderness experience for those seeking solitude and raw natural beauty. This dispersed camping area captivates visitors with its expansive meadow stretching beneath ancient oaks, where camper Charley once described discovering 'a beautiful campground with a large open meadow in front and a very primitive road that goes through into a shady stand of oaks.' True to its backcountry nature, Lower Nye provides no formal amenities—no tables, fire rings, or potable water—just pure, undeveloped wilderness. Please note: The campground remains closed following damage from the devastating 2018 Ranch Fire and 2020 August Complex, as forest officials work to ensure visitor safety.

5300 Soda Bay Road, Kelseyville, CA 95451

5300 Soda Bay Road, Kelseyville, CA 95451

18599 Philo-Greenwood Road, Philo, CA 95466

1400 Marina Drive

18599 Philo-Greenwood Road, Philo, CA 95466

N39 12.164 W123 11.197

10025 ELK MOUNTAIN ROAD, UPPER LAKE, CA, USA, 95485

Mendocino National Forest

Upper Lake, CA, near State Rt. 20 and Main St.

Mendocino National Forest

In Upper Lake, CA, at intersection of State Rt. 20 and Main St., take Main St. 0.9 miles to Elk Mountain Rd. (a.k.a. County Rt. 301 and Forest Rt. M1). Turn left onto Elk Mountain Rd. and go 27.1 miles to a "T" intersection. Turn right, staying on Rt. M1, and go 4.1 miles to campground sign. Turn right at sign into campground.

Located 8 miles north of Upper Lake on County Road 301 (Forest Road M-1).

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Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino Lake

INYO, CA, USA

Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Sierra, Big Pine Canyon offers adventurers a gateway to some of California's most dramatic alpine wilderness. This stunning canyon serves as your basecamp for exploring ancient glaciers, crystal-clear mountain lakes, and towering granite peaks that pierce the sky at over 14,000 feet. Whether you're seeking challenging mountaineering routes or peaceful streamside camping, Big Pine Canyon delivers an authentic High Sierra experience that will leave you breathless—both from the altitude and the sheer beauty surrounding you.

1 Visitor Center Dr Lee Vining, CA 93541

Tucked into a scenic bend along the melodious Lee Vining Creek, Big Bend Campground invites adventurers to claim one of its 17 intimate campsites within the majestic Inyo National Forest. This hidden gem serves as the perfect basecamp for those drawn to both Yosemite's stunning Tuolumne Meadows entrance and the otherworldly landscapes of Mono Basin Scenic Area. Each site comes equipped with essential amenities including vault toilets, fresh potable water, and bear-proof food storage lockers to ensure both comfort and wildlife safety during your stay.

Modoc National Forest

Nestled at the gateway to the South Warner Wilderness, Pepperdine Campground offers three distinct camping experiences in one remarkable location. Equestrian enthusiasts will discover a dedicated horse camp complete with convenient stock water and pole stalls at select sites. The trailhead staging area beckons adventurers with ample parking and corrals, serving as your launching point into the wilderness. For those seeking a more intimate experience, a cozy family camping loop awaits beneath a canopy of ancient fir trees. As a pack-it-in, pack-it-out facility, Pepperdine encourages visitors to embrace Leave No Trace principles while immersing themselves in this pristine mountain environment.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Gather your favorite people at Camp 4 Group Campsite, where up to 35 adventurers can create lasting memories together in the heart of nature. This thoughtfully developed campground welcomes groups with everything needed for the perfect outdoor gathering – spacious picnic tables for shared meals under towering trees, crackling fire pits for evening storytelling, convenient vault toilets, and regular garbage collection that lets you focus on what matters most: quality time with friends and family.

Upper Soda Springs Campground, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546

Nestled in the heart of Reds Meadow Valley, Upper Soda Springs Campground offers an intimate escape where the melodic San Joaquin River becomes your constant companion. This tranquil retreat features 28 thoughtfully spaced campsites, each equipped with bear-proof lockers, picnic tables, and access to pristine pit toilets and fresh potable water. Adventure beckons from every direction—cast a line into the crystal-clear river waters, set out on scenic trails that wind through ancient forests, or venture to the nearby geological wonder of Devil's Postpile National Monument and the breathtaking cascade of Rainbow Falls.

13652 Highway 79 Julian, CA 92036

Saddle up for an unforgettable equestrian adventure at Los Vaqueros Group Horse Campground, where the spirit of the Old West meets modern camping comfort. This specialized horse-friendly retreat beckons riders and their four-legged companions with direct access to the legendary California Riding and Hiking Trail. Well-appointed horse corrals ensure your equine partners rest as comfortably as you do, making this the perfect basecamp for exploring miles of scenic trails that wind through California's stunning backcountry.

Doran Regional Park

Nestled along a stunning 2-mile stretch of sandy beach on Bodega Bay, Doran Regional Park Campground offers 112 year-round campsites where the Pacific Ocean meets coastal adventure. With five distinct camping zones ranging from harbor-side spots to tent-only areas, this family-friendly destination combines beach camping with exceptional access to fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. Whether you're launching your kayak into the bay, exploring tide pools along the rock jetty, or simply enjoying soft sand and mellow surf, Doran delivers a quintessential California coastal camping experience.

Mendocino National Forest

Tucked into a peaceful inlet at Lake Pillsbury's northwestern corner, this campground offers the perfect blend of lakeside tranquility and easy water access. Just a short stroll from your campsite, the shimmering waters of Mendocino National Forest's largest lake beckon with endless possibilities for adventure. Whether you're launching your boat from the nearby ramp at dawn, casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, or taking an afternoon swim, this scenic basecamp puts you at the heart of one of Northern California's most beloved recreational lakes.

17119 Avenue of the Giants, Weott CA 95571

Escape into the cathedral-like sanctuary of Hamilton Barn Environmental Campground, where primitive hike-in campsites nestle beneath towering old-growth redwoods. This hidden gem rewards adventurous souls with unparalleled privacy and profound solitude, offering a rare chance to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature's ancient rhythms.

CA-108, Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, California

Nestled along the scenic Sonora Pass on CA-108, Sonora Bridge Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 22 tranquil sites carved into a landscape of towering Jeffrey pines and aromatic sagebrush. Here, where the melodious West Walker River flows just steps away, anglers cast their lines into pristine waters while hikers set off to explore the dramatic high country. This rustic mountain retreat offers the perfect basecamp for your Sierra Nevada adventures, complete with firewood available on-site to fuel evening campfires under star-studded skies.