How much does camping cost at Plaskett Meadows Campground?

Camping fees at Plaskett Meadows Campground range from Free. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Is Plaskett Meadows Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Plaskett Meadows Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Sites are not reservable; walk-up only.

What is the best time to visit Plaskett Meadows Campground?

Plaskett Meadows Campground is open May to September (Memorial Day to Labor Day). The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Plaskett Meadows Campground?

Plaskett Meadows Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Plaskett Meadows Campground?

Fire policies at Plaskett Meadows Campground: Campfires are allowed, with some sites offering fire rings and Klamath ovens.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Plaskett Meadows Campground have?

Plaskett Meadows Campground has 36 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Plaskett Meadows Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Plaskett Meadows Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Plaskett Meadows Campground?

Plaskett Meadows Campground offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Plaskett Meadows Campground?

Popular activities at Plaskett Meadows Campground include Fishing, Boating. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Plaskett Meadows Campground

3.62

26 reviews

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

36 campsites

Season

Open seasonally with...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

36 campsites

Season

Open seasonally with...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Plaskett Meadows Campground

$0.00 - $10.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Single Site: $10 per night May - September (Memorial Day-Labor Day): $10/night Off-season: $0

Standard Site Fee$10.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

USFS

Provider

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Plaskett Meadows Campground

Compare with similar sites, watch availability, and build a packing list — Camp Sage handles all of it.

Campground Map

Plaskett Meadows Campground

39.7285, -122.8458

Nearby places

Covelo: 36 miles northwest of Elk Creek and 15 miles east of Eel River Station.

Nearby supplies

Hot showers and limited groceries are available at Black Butte River Ranch, located at the intersection of Route 162 and FH-1.

Driving directionsFrom Covelo, CA take State Rt. 162 north 1.1 miles to an intersection. Turn right, staying on Rt. 162 and go 2.2 miles to a Y intersection. Bear left, staying on Rt. 162, and go 8.3 miles to another intersection. Continue straight onto Forest Highway FH-1 (dirt and rocky) and go 19.9 miles to campground sign. Turn right and go 0.4 miles to intersection. Turn left into campground. NOTE: State Rt. 162 is narrow two-lane road that winds along the Middle Fork of Eel River.

Forest Highway FH-1 is described as dirt and rocky, with State Route 162 being narrow and winding. This could present challenges for larger vehicles and less experienced drivers.

Weather at Plaskett Meadows Campground

Current alert: The campground is currently closed due to safety issues caused by falling hazard trees.

Best Time to Camp at Plaskett Meadows Campground

Summer brings the most reliable access and weather, with warm days in the mid-60s to low-80s°F and cool nights dropping to the mid-30s to mid-40s°F. Trout fishing peaks during these months, and trails are snow-free. Winter snow can limit or close access entirely. Spring lingers cold at this elevation, with freezing temperatures possible well into the season.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Best access and weather; trout fishing peaks; services operate June–Oct with warm days and cool nights.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May to September (Memorial Day to Labor Day). Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open seasonally with services provided June 15 to October, weather-dependent.

About Plaskett Meadows Campground

Plaskett Meadows Campground sits at 6,000 feet in the Mendocino National Forest near Covelo, offering 36 primitive tent sites among mixed pine and fir forest. Two small stocked lakes provide fishing and non-motorized boating, though the campground itself is tight and compact with minimal privacy between sites. Vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables are available, but bring your own water. The spigots don't work, and there's no cell service.

Plaskett Meadows Campground is primarily a tent-camping destination with compact sites that are not suitable for RVs.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings the most reliable access and weather, with warm days in the mid-60s to low-80s°F and cool nights dropping to the mid-30s to mid-40s°F. Trout fishing peaks during these months, and trails are snow-free. Winter snow can limit or close access entirely. Spring lingers cold at this elevation, with freezing temperatures possible well into the season.

ElevationPerched at an impressive 6,000 feet above sea level, Plaskett Meadows exists in that magical realm where the air is crisp, the stars shine brighter, and every breath feels cleaner. This lofty elevation brings mountain weather in all its moods—from sun-drenched summer afternoons to winter days when snow transforms the landscape into a pristine wilderness. The thin mountain air and cooler temperatures create an invigorating atmosphere that reminds visitors they've truly escaped to the heights.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies high-elevation terrain where pine and fir species grow together at 6,000 feet. Two small lakes offer fishing and kayaking opportunities. The forest provides shade, though the sites themselves sit close together. Mornings can bring mist over the water. This is bear country, so proper food storage is required.

Geological RegionRising from the rugged backbone of the Mendocino National Forest, this high-elevation sanctuary showcases the region's diverse coniferous ecosystem. At 6,000 feet, the campground occupies a sweet spot where pine and fir species thrive together, creating a mixed forest that represents millions of years of geological and biological evolution. This mountainous terrain, carved by ancient forces and polished by time, offers camping within one of Northern California's most pristine forest environments—a place where the earth's story is written in every rock formation and ridgeline.

Scenic ViewsThe campground does not provide lake views from most sites, as noted in user reviews.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodgings available within the park. This is exclusively a camping facility.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

11:00 AM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay of 14 days is allowed.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutTwo unnamed loops with sites packed close together. Privacy is minimal to poor. The campground is compact overall, best suited for tents and small campers rather than large RVs.

Walk-in AvailabilitySites are not reservable; walk-up only.

AccessibilityThe campground includes a wheelchair-friendly fishing pier at Plaskett Lake and some wheelchair-accessible vault toilets.

Site SizeThe campground is best suited for tents, slide-ins, and pop-up campers. The sites are compact and privacy is limited. "The campground is tight and compact and is best suited for tents, slide-ins, and pop-up campers.

PrivacyPrivacy is minimal to poor due to the close proximity of the campsites. "With sites close together, privacy is minimal to poor.

Total Campsites36 campsites

Recommended SitesThe left loop is noted for having fire rings and Klamath ovens at most sites, but also more erosion and uneven parking surfaces. The right loop offers grills.

Amenities available

Plaskett Meadows Campground offers basic amenities suitable for a rustic camping experience in a remote area. The campground features picnic tables at all 36 campsites, providing a convenient space for meals and activities. Vault toilets are available, with some user reviews noting their cleanliness (e.g., "only very clean vault toilets" - Nancy Smith). However, potable water is not available on-site, prompting campers to bring their own water supply. Water spigots are present but not functional, as noted by a user: "No water. Bring water. Has spigots, but not on." (Nancy Smith).

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers limited recreational activities, focusing on fishing and non-motorized boating at Plaskett Lake. Swimming is not recommended, and there are no hiking trails.

Fishing

Boating

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsActive hazard trees (falling trees, standing dead trees) pose significant risks, leading to the current closure of the campground. The area is also bear habitat, requiring food storage precautions.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. The campground has vault toilets instead.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed, with some sites offering fire rings and Klamath ovens.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM

Emergency ServicesEmergency services information is not explicitly provided.

Trash & RecyclingGarbage pickup is available on-site, as noted by a user review. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.

Water FeaturesTwo small lakes (approximately 3-4 acres in size each) are available for trout fishing. One lake features a wheelchair-friendly fishing pier.

Camp HostNo campsite host is available.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Plaskett Meadows Campground

Been here? Tap a star to start. Takes about a minute.

Sign-in required only if you want your name on it.

From Booking Sources

3.6

26 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Plaskett Meadows Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Plaskett Meadows Campground are a mix of positive and critical feedback. Many users praise the beauty and remoteness of the location, but several complaints highlight the lack of functional water spigots and disturbances such as nearby logging operations.

Review Summaries

Based on 26 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciate the natural beauty and cleanliness of the campground, as well as the fishing opportunities. "This place has a lot of different sized camping spots" (Wez So_N_So); "Beautiful meadow...

Based on 26 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints include non-functional water spigots, lack of potable water, insect prevalence, and disturbances from a nearby logging operation. "No water. Bring water. Has spigots, but not on."...

Based on 26 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No specific campsite numbers are highlighted as the best or worst, but the loop to the left of the fee board is noted to have more erosion and irregular parking.

Based on 26 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Recommendations include bringing your own water due to spigots not being functional and practicing bear-safe food storage techniques as this is bear country.

Based on 26 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground operates primarily during the summer months (June to October), with services available weather permitting. Some reviewers note that the area may be less enjoyable during periods of...

Based on 26 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Great bathrooms, wood, clean camps, but those chipmunks will steal your spork." (John Stile); "If you're ok with being one with nature thinks your place. No cell reception. No showers. Just you and...

Based on 26 reviews

Accessibility Features

Some positive mentions of accessibility features, such as the wheelchair-friendly fishing pier at Plaskett Lake.

Based on 26 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews specifically address pet policies or experiences.

Based on 26 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

Every adventure creates another. Share what you learned so the next camper feels a little more prepared heading out.

Go if

Trout anglers and canoe campers who can haul all their own water will get the most out of Plaskett Lake's stocked fishing and the wheelchair-accessible pier, all for $10 a night with zero crowds once you're in.

Skip if

The campground is closed right now for hazard tree removal, so confirm it's reopened before making the drive. Even when open, logging trucks cut through the campground, sites are packed tight with no privacy, and there's zero potable water despite spigots being present.

Nearby Campgrounds

Less Visited

2.6

(7)

Masterson Group Campground

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

Masterson Group Campground sits at 6,220 feet in Mendocino National Forest near Stonyford, a short walk from Plaskett Lake. Operated by the USDA Forest Service, this small group site offers a quiet, forested setting for summer gatherings with vault toilets, potable water, fire rings, and picnic tables. Visitors hike forest trails, fish the nearby lake, and enjoy wildlife viewing in a spacious, clean environment.

Plaskett Meadows Campground

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

Get Notified When Available

Plan a trip to Plaskett Meadows Campground

Campground Map

Weather at Plaskett Meadows Campground

Best Time to Camp at Plaskett Meadows Campground

Planning Tips

About Plaskett Meadows Campground

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews

Go if

Skip if

Overview

About the campground

Seasons & access

Facilities

Water activities

Directions

Plan a trip to Plaskett Meadows Campground

Best Time to Camp at Plaskett Meadows Campground

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Amenities available

Activities you can enjoy

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Site-Specific Reviews