Water activities and forest trails draw visitors to Mad River Campground, a US Forest Service site operating from late May through September in Six Rivers National Forest. The campground accommodates RVs up to 35 feet and provides standard amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms. Sites sit among forested terrain with some open areas near the river and lake access.
Campers can explore campgrounds near Six Rivers National Forest for additional forest-based options. Miller Spring sits 3.5 miles north for those wanting nearby alternatives. The seasonal operation and drive-in access make this spot suitable for RV travelers and tent campers seeking forest camping with water recreation opportunities.
Description
Overview
Mad River Campground is located on banks of its namesake river, about two miles south of Ruth Lake in the thickly forested mountains of northern California.
Recreation
Fishing is a popular activity and anglers can expect to catch a variety of trout in the Mad River. Nearby Ruth Lake is open for boating, swimming and other water-related activities. A marina and boat ramp are available for easy lake access, and maps and directions to the marina are located on the information boards in the campground.
Natural Features
The campground is situated on a bluff overlooking the river among a forested area of oak trees and evergreen shrubs. Portions of the campground are capped with tall Douglas fir trees, providing ample shade. The Six Rivers National Forest lies east of Eureka in northwestern California, stretching southward from the Oregon border for about 140 miles. U.S. 101, the famed "Redwood Highway," parallels the inland Forest along the coastline. The Forest is just east of the Redwood National Park.
Nearby Attractions
The 13,800-acre Ruth Lake is about three miles south of the campground.
Fee Info
Season Dates: 5/21/2021 - 9/13/2021 Daily rate $12/night Extra Vehicle $5/night Fee is due at entrance kiosk Cash or Check made payable to USDA (United States Department of Agriculture).
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsMad River Campground is located in California near Bridgeville
Public CampgroundDirections
When traveling north on Hwy 101, do not turn off at the Zenia Road exit at Garberville. This will result in a 2-hour delay driving on winding back roads. Instead, continue north until you reach the Hwy 36 exit near Fortuna. Turn right, heading east for approximately an hour until you reach the town of Mad River. After you cross the bridge at the Mad River, look for the Mad River Road turn-off on the right. The sign will say Ruth Lake. Continue for 10 minutes to reach the Mad River Campground. If traveling on Interstate 5, turn at Hwy 36 at Red Bluff and head west for 2 hours until you see the sign for Ruth Lake at Mad River Road.
Address
741 State Hwy 36
Bridgeville, CA 95526
Coordinates
40.4036111 N
123.4672222 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
