General Campgrounds & Trailheads

Stony Gorge Reservoir

Nestled along the northwest shores of Stony Gorge Reservoir, Pines Group Site offers an exclusive retreat for groups seeking adventure in California's scenic foothills. This dedicated group campground serves as your basecamp for endless water recreation, where the reservoir's sparkling waters invite you to cast a line, take a refreshing swim, or launch your boat for a day of exploration. With sweeping views of the surrounding hills and ample open spaces for group activities, Pines creates the perfect setting for family reunions, scout troops, and outdoor clubs to gather beneath the California sun.

Mendocino National Forest

Nestled at the edge of the pristine Yuki Wilderness, Grizzly Flat offers adventurous souls a true back-to-basics camping experience within Mendocino National Forest. This former fire station site has transformed into a rustic dispersed camping area where simplicity reigns supreme. With just vault toilets and scattered fire rings dotting the landscape, it's a place where tent campers can truly disconnect from the modern world. The rough terrain and minimal amenities make this spot best suited for those seeking solitude rather than RV comfort.

Mendocino National Forest

Nestled deep within the Mendocino National Forest, Plaskett Meadows Campground offers a tranquil escape among ancient Douglas firs and stately white firs that stretch skyward like nature's cathedral. This rustic mountain retreat beckons anglers and nature lovers alike with its two pristine trout-stocked lakes, where morning mist dances across the water and the only sounds are birdsong and the gentle splash of rising fish. While amenities remain refreshingly simple—vault toilets and sturdy picnic tables beneath the canopy—the real luxury here is the profound sense of peace that comes from camping in California's high country.

Stonyford Work Station, P.O. Box 160, Stonyford, CA, 95979-0160, USA

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.

Mendocino National Forest

Nestled beneath a canopy of towering oak and pine trees, Atchison Campground invites you to experience the tranquility of nature at its finest. Six welcoming fire rings beckon evening gatherings under starlit skies, while ten thoughtfully placed picnic tables provide perfect spots for meals amid the forest ambiance. Adventure awaits just 2.6 miles east, where a hidden spring-fed stream offers refreshment after exploring the peaceful road that winds through the landscape—a cyclist's and hiker's dream thanks to its blissfully light traffic and scenic surroundings.

Mendocino National Forest

Escape to the untamed wilderness at Surveyors Camp Campground, where true adventurers find solace in simplicity. This rustic retreat offers three primitive campsites, each equipped with a weathered picnic table that's witnessed countless campfire stories. Here, you'll experience camping as it was meant to be—no running water, no paved roads, just you and the raw beauty of nature. The dirt access roads and natural parking areas preserve the authentic wilderness experience, while the pack-it-in, pack-it-out policy ensures this hidden gem remains pristine for future explorers. Perfect for those seeking a genuine dry camping adventure far from the crowds.

Mendocino National Forest

Perched dramatically on a bluff above the rushing waters of the Middle Fork Eel River, this intimate seasonal retreat offers an authentic wilderness experience in the heart of Mendocino National Forest. Magnificent oak canopies create natural cathedral ceilings overhead, where ancient valley oaks mingle with evergreen live oaks, while madrone trees display their distinctive cinnamon-red bark. From your campsite, you'll enjoy privileged access to two of California's most pristine waterways—the National Wild and Scenic Black Butte and Middle Fork Eel Rivers. Though the Eel River Work Center sits conveniently nearby, the campground maintains its secluded charm. Visitors should note that poison oak thrives throughout the area, adding to the authentic California wilderness experience.

Mendocino National Forest

Tucked away in the pristine wilderness of Mendocino National Forest, Wells Cabin Campground offers an authentic backcountry experience for those seeking solitude among towering red firs. This intimate campground features 25 thoughtfully spaced sites, each equipped with essential amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and cooking stoves. With only vault toilets and no hookups, this is a place where simplicity reigns supreme. Adventure seekers should note that the rugged access roads and compact sites make this campground unsuitable for RVs or trailers—it's designed for tent campers and small vehicles ready to embrace the wild.

Mendocino National Forest

<p>Nestled along the pristine northern banks of Thomes Creek, this tranquil campground offers visitors a peaceful riverside retreat. The gentle murmur of flowing water creates a natural soundtrack for your outdoor adventure, while the creek's northern shoreline provides prime access to excellent fishing spots and refreshing swimming holes. Whether you're seeking a quiet weekend escape or a base camp for creek-side exploration, this streamside location delivers the perfect blend of accessibility and natural beauty.</p>

Mendocino National Forest

Escape to the untouched wilderness of Howard Meadows Campground, where six intimate campsites await those seeking true solitude in the heart of Mendocino National Forest. This beautifully remote destination strips camping down to its purest form – just you, nature, and the essentials. With only a vault toilet and no running water, Howard Meadows invites adventurers to embrace the simplicity of backcountry camping. Remember to arrive self-sufficient with all necessary supplies and leave no trace of your visit, preserving this pristine sanctuary for future explorers.

Mendocino National Forest

Nestled in a tranquil grove where ancient oaks create a natural canopy, this charming campground offers a peaceful retreat that changes with the seasons. In spring and early summer, a babbling creek winds through the heart of the camp, providing a soothing soundtrack to your outdoor adventure. As summer progresses, the creek bed transforms into a gentle reminder of nature's cycles, perfect for exploring smooth river stones and discovering the hidden life that thrives in this seasonal waterway.

Mendocino National Forest, Covelo, CA

Tucked away in a serene mixed-conifer forest, Little Doe Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape where the only sounds are rustling leaves and birdsong. This intimate campground features 11 thoughtfully spaced tent sites, each equipped with its own picnic table and fire ring, creating perfect basecamp for nature lovers seeking solitude. Three well-maintained vault toilets serve the campground, while the remote location ensures a peaceful retreat far from the crowds.

Mendocino National Forest

Nestled where ancient forest meets open meadow, Kingsley Glade Campground offers the perfect blend of woodland shelter and expansive mountain views. This tranquil retreat sits at 4,500 feet elevation, where cool mountain breezes carry the scent of pine and wildflowers. Just five miles away, the crystal-clear waters of Thomes Creek beckon anglers and swimmers alike, creating a natural playground for outdoor enthusiasts seeking both relaxation and adventure in the heart of the wilderness.

Mendocino National Forest

Nestled within the enchanting Mendocino Forest, this hidden gem offers campers an authentic Northern California wilderness experience. Towering redwoods and Douglas firs create a natural cathedral overhead, while moss-covered trails wind through ancient groves that have stood sentinel for centuries. Whether you're seeking solitude among the giants or adventure on backcountry trails, this campground serves as your gateway to one of California's most pristine forest ecosystems.

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Tucked beneath towering fir and pine trees where forest meets meadow, this rustic campground offers an authentic wilderness experience. The loosely maintained sites preserve the natural character of the landscape, with some featuring established fire pits perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. As one visitor aptly described it, this 'nice rough campground' provides just enough amenities while keeping you connected to the wild. The expansive meadow serves as nature's amphitheater, where wildlife frequently makes appearances and the changing light creates an ever-shifting canvas of colors and shadows.

Mendocino National Forest

Currently closed following the devastating 2018 Ranch Fire and 2020 August Complex Fire, this resilient campground awaits its eventual reopening amid a landscape of renewal. When accessible, visitors will find a spacious trailer pull-through site nestled within a recovering forest ecosystem. The unpaved site offers a genuine back-to-nature experience, surrounded by towering conifers and firs that have long called this area home, interspersed with hardy deciduous trees and vibrant understory bushes that speak to nature's remarkable ability to regenerate.

Mendocino National Forest

Tucked away in the heart of Mendocino National Forest, Green Springs Campground offers an intimate escape with just four secluded sites. This hidden gem provides the perfect basecamp for adventurers seeking solitude and direct access to pristine wilderness trails. Each site comes equipped with a fire ring where stories are shared under starlit skies, while the campground's prime location offers immediate access to hiking trails that wind their way into the spectacular Yolla Bolly Wilderness.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Escape to the pristine wilderness at Tomhead Saddle Campground, where tent camping takes on its purest form. Tucked away in the breathtaking Shasta-Trinity National Forest, this remote sanctuary lies within the legendary Yolla Bolly-Middle Eel Wilderness—one of California's most untouched natural treasures. While you'll find restroom facilities for your convenience, the absence of potable water reminds campers to come prepared for a true backcountry experience. This is camping as it was meant to be: just you, your tent, and the vast wilderness stretching endlessly before you.

Stonyford Work Station, P.O. Box 160, Stonyford, CA, 95979-0160, USA

Mendocino National Forest, Covelo, CA

Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino National Forest

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Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino National Forest

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino National Forest

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.