North Fork Campground

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.

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.

Mendocino National Forest

Nestled within a pristine forest of towering fir and pine, Cedar Camp Campground once offered visitors an enchanting retreat into nature's embrace. This beloved woodland sanctuary, where generations of campers found solace beneath ancient evergreen canopies, currently remains closed to ensure visitor safety following the impacts of the 2018 Ranch Fire and 2020 August Complex. The campground eagerly awaits its restoration to once again welcome outdoor enthusiasts to its tranquil setting.

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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 peaceful Little Stony Creek drainage, Little Stony Campground offers an authentic escape for those seeking solitude in nature. This hidden gem caters primarily to tent campers who appreciate a more rustic experience, with sites nestled among the natural landscape. While the secluded setting provides a true wilderness feel, the narrow access roads and compact sites make it unsuitable for RVs and large trailers—perfect for those who prefer their camping adventures on the simpler side.

Mendocino National Forest

Tucked into a peaceful drainage where chaparral meets towering conifers, Little Stony offers an intimate escape with just 8 first-come, first-served sites. This cozy campground welcomes trailers up to 24 feet and keeps things simple with fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets—just pay through the Recreation.gov mobile app when you arrive.

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 away in the heart of Mendocino National Forest, Old Mill Campground invites you to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature. This hidden gem sits beneath a magnificent canopy of towering pines and fragrant firs, where generations of trees have created a sanctuary of natural seclusion. Here, the only notifications you'll receive are from chirping birds and rustling branches, making it the perfect escape for those seeking authentic wilderness solitude.

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.

Mendocino National Forest

Tucked along a scenic forest road in the heart of Mendocino National Forest, Mill Creek Campground offers an intimate escape where the gentle sounds of flowing water create nature's perfect soundtrack. This charming roadside retreat comes alive during winter and early spring when Mill Creek swells with seasonal rains, transforming the campground into a streamside paradise that beckons adventurers seeking solitude and natural beauty.

Mendocino National Forest

Tucked along a scenic roadside in Mendocino National Forest, Mill Creek Campground offers an intimate escape with just six campsites, each outfitted with picnic tables and fire rings. A babbling creek winds through the property, providing a natural soundtrack to your stay, while the simple first-come, first-served system and convenient on-site payment through the Recreation.gov mobile app keep logistics refreshingly straightforward.

Stonyford Work Station, P.O. Box 160

Escape to Gray Pine Group Campground, a secluded mountain retreat nestled at 1,700 feet in the heart of Mendocino National Forest. This spacious wilderness haven beckons groups seeking adventure far from the crowds, where the only sounds are rustling pines and distant wildlife. From your basecamp, explore miles of thrilling OHV trails that wind through the rugged backcountry, cast a line in crystal-clear mountain streams, or set out on foot to discover hidden forest paths. Whether you're planning a family reunion, scout expedition, or friends' getaway, Gray Pine offers the perfect blend of isolation and accessibility for creating lasting memories under towering evergreens.

Mendocino National Forest

Welcome to an off-road enthusiast's paradise, where adventure begins at your campsite door. This campground serves as your gateway to an extensive network of over 100 miles of OHV trails that wind through diverse terrain. Whether you're a beginner seeking gentle paths or an experienced rider craving heart-pounding challenges, you'll find trails perfectly suited to your skill level. From smooth, meandering routes ideal for families to technical obstacles that will test even the most seasoned riders, this is where memories are made on two wheels or four.

Mendocino National Forest

Adventure seekers will find their basecamp at Fouts, a first-come, first-served campground designed with off-highway vehicle enthusiasts in mind. With convenient on-site payment through Recreation.gov Scan & Pay, you'll have everything you need including picnic tables, cooking stoves, accessible restrooms, ample trailer space (accommodating rigs up to 50 feet), and dumpster facilities—all positioned as your gateway to an extensive network of nearby OHV roads and trails.

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Nestled along the meandering South Fork of Stony Creek, South Fork Campground beckons adventure seekers to the heart of Mendocino National Forest. This cherished outdoor haven welcomes off-highway vehicle enthusiasts, anglers, hunters, and trail riders to explore its rugged terrain. Whether you're carving through forest trails on your dirt bike, casting a line into the creek's cool waters, or settling in for a night under the stars, this fee-based campground delivers the authentic wilderness experience that creates lasting memories.

Mendocino National Forest

Tucked into the heart of Mendocino National Forest, South Fork Campground offers a peaceful retreat where the gentle murmur of a year-round stream accompanies your stay beneath a canopy of spreading oaks. This first-come, first-served gem features two spacious camping areas equipped with tables and fire rings, welcoming RVs up to 30 feet. Pay conveniently on-site by scanning the Recreation.gov QR code.

Mendocino National Forest

Nestled in nature's embrace, Davis Flat Campground offers 20 well-appointed campsites, each complete with its own table and fire ring where stories are shared and memories are made under the stars. This intimate campground provides the perfect basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts seeking authentic wilderness experiences.

Mendocino National Forest

Nestled in the heart of Mendocino's OHV playground, Davis Flat welcomes adventure-seekers on a first-come, first-served basis with all the essentials for your off-road basecamp. This spacious campground in the Grindstone Ranger District offers trailer-friendly sites up to 50 feet, complete with picnic tables, fire rings, and convenient dumpsters, putting you right at the doorstep of the expansive Mendocino OHV Corridor's motorized trail network.

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.

Located 10 miles west of Stonyford on Road #18N03.

Tucked into the heart of Mendocino National Forest, North Fork Campground offers an authentic first-come, first-served camping experience where the gentle sounds of a year-round stream accompany your stay. This intimate oak grove retreat operates through Recreation.gov's convenient Scan & Pay mobile feature, welcoming RVs up to 30 feet alongside tent campers seeking a peaceful escape with basic amenities and easy access to fishing and OHV adventures.

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.

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

Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino National Forest

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.

Mendocino National Forest

Mendocino National Forest

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

Mendocino National Forest

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Mendocino National Forest

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Located 10 miles west of Stonyford on Road #18N03.

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.