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Deer Valley Campground

4 ReviewsAdd Review

Rough dirt roads lead to Deer Valley Campground, where six sites sit within Mendocino National Forest about 45 minutes from Nice. The US Forest Service maintains this drive-in facility year-round, though access requires navigating unpaved forest roads that campers report as manageable for most vehicles, including smaller cars.

Each site includes a fire pit, barbecue grill, and picnic table, with vault toilets positioned at both ends of the small campground. RVs up to 16 feet can access the sites, though the remote location and road conditions favor tent camping and smaller rigs. Fire restrictions apply frequently during dry periods, so campers should bring propane stoves as backup cooking options.

The campground tends to stay quiet, with one April visitor finding only one other occupied site on a Friday night. Motorcycles use the surrounding forest roads regularly, adding occasional engine noise to the otherwise secluded setting. "A long way down a dirt road to arrive," notes Jessi P., summarizing the trade-off between accessibility and solitude that defines this spot.

Deer Valley works well for campers comfortable with basic amenities who want forest access without crowds. The combination of year-round availability and remote location appeals to those seeking pet-friendly campgrounds around Mendocino National Forest away from busier recreation areas.

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Map & DirectionsDeer Valley Campground is located in California near Upper Lake

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

Located 12 miles north of Upper Lake on County Road 301 (Forest Road M-1), and 4 miles east on Forest Road 16N01. Lat - 39° 15' 57.1068", Long - 122° 53' 01.8744"

Coordinates

39.2810006 N
122.88400036 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Picnic Table
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets

Drive Time

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Reviews4 Camper Reviews - Deer Valley Campground

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4.0

out of 5

4 Reviews

Campers regularly cited the beautiful scenery and peaceful solitude as key highlights. Basic amenities like fire pits and picnic tables are provided at each site. Access requires driving on rough dirt roads, but most found it manageable.

Reviewed Nov. 6, 2021

Ridgewalker

Beautiful place sunrises and sunsets even chasing the moon everyone said experience this adventure sincerely Ray Snyder PS the months to visit all year round it's beautiful

Siteany site you want it's the same
Month of VisitApril
Reviewed Apr. 27, 2021

Secluded, very basic, lovely

A long way down a dirt road to arrive. Fire pits + bbq grill + picnic table on each of the six or so sites, and a vault toilet at either end of the camp. I went in a Friday night in April and there was only one other couple there.

Site7
Month of VisitMarch
Reviewed Jul. 7, 2020

Deer Valley Campground - Mendocino

After a last minute decision to leave Lake Berryessa in search of more solitude, found this gem of a spot. Lonely, picturesque, peaceful, and most importantly... open!

Totally recommend it. It’s a short 45 minute drive from Nice, CA adjacent to Clear Lake.

Note: there are fire restrictions- bring your propane stove / gas fire pit.

  • Review photo of Deer Valley Campground by Ulises V., July 7, 2020
  • Review photo of Deer Valley Campground by Ulises V., July 7, 2020
Reviewed Aug. 30, 2019

Great Spots for Tents & Small Campers

I have camped in this area for years. I only stay in the actual campground when fires aren’t allowed, which is a lot with as dry as it’s been. Lots of motorcycles in the area. But not a bad place to get away from the city. Daily easy access, rough dirt roads, I have a truck but would feel fine driving my wife’s Subaru to these sites.

  • Review photo of Deer Valley Campground by Joseph H., August 30, 2019
  • Review photo of Deer Valley Campground by Joseph H., August 30, 2019
  • Review photo of Deer Valley Campground by Joseph H., August 30, 2019
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Showing results 1-4 of 4 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Deer Valley Campground located in Mendocino?

Deer Valley Campground is located in Mendocino County, approximately 45 minutes from Nice, California, which is adjacent to Clear Lake. The campground is situated down a dirt road in a remote and peaceful area, offering a secluded camping experience away from urban areas. The location provides beautiful views and natural surroundings, making it ideal for those seeking solitude in nature.

What outdoor activities can you do near Deer Valley Campground in California?

The area around Deer Valley Campground offers numerous outdoor activities throughout the year. The region is popular with motorcyclists due to the accessible trails. Hiking opportunities abound in the surrounding natural areas. Wildlife viewing and stargazing are excellent activities given the remote location. Photography enthusiasts can capture stunning sunrise and sunset views. The campground's peaceful environment makes it perfect for relaxation and getting away from city life. Nearby Clear Lake may offer additional water-based recreation options.

What amenities are available at Deer Valley Campground?

Deer Valley Campground offers basic amenities for a rustic camping experience. Each of the approximately six sites features fire pits, BBQ grills, and picnic tables. The campground has vault toilets located at either end of the camp area. No running water, electrical hookups, or shower facilities are mentioned, so campers should come prepared with their own supplies. Fire restrictions may apply depending on seasonal conditions.

Are there photos available of Deer Valley Campground?

Photos of Deer Valley Campground can be found online through various camping websites and forums. The campground is known for its picturesque setting with beautiful sunrise and sunset views worth capturing. To see current images of the site layouts, facilities, and surrounding landscape, check official forest service websites or camping platforms. The scenic natural environment, particularly during sunrise and sunset, offers excellent photography opportunities.

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