What is the max vehicle length at Mad River Campground?

Mad River Campground allows vehicles up to 35 feet.

Are fires allowed at Mad River Campground?

Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Mad River Campground, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

How hard is it to get a campsite at Mad River Campground?

Some campers book as far as 6 months in advance, so on high-demand weekends it can be very difficult to get a campsite at Mad River Campground. If you want to get a last-minute campsite at Mad River Campground, try setting up a text message Alert at TheDyrt.com/alerts

Why is it so hard to get a campsite at Mad River Campground?

There are 35 campsites at Mad River Campground and over 80 million Americans who camp! Try snagging a cancellation by setting up a text message Alert at TheDyrt.com/alerts

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Established Camping

Mad River Campground

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Mad River Campground is located near Bridgeville in the Six Rivers National Forest. The area features forested terrain with the Mad River flowing nearby. Temperatures range from 30°F in winter to 85°F in summer. Visitors can explore nearby attractions such as Ruth Lake and the Avenue of the Giants.

Description

US Forest Service

Six Rivers National Forest

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).

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Location

Mad River Campground is located in California

Directions

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.