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Map showing campground location near Comptche, California
Camper submitted image from Dunlap CampgroundView 5 Photos
CampingMap showing campground location near Comptche, California

Dunlap Campground

5 ReviewsAdd Review
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Wildlife sightings and creek access draw campers to Dunlap Campground in Jackson Demonstration State Forest, where deer, fox, and raccoon move through the wooded sites regularly. Set within this working state forest managed by CAL FIRE, the campground gives visitors a base for exploring the surrounding forest trails and the creek bed below the sites. Fort Bragg sits roughly 30 minutes west, making this a practical overnight stop for those moving along the Mendocino Coast corridor.

Sites are well-spaced and each includes a fire ring and picnic table. No water is available on-site, so campers should arrive with their own supply. The self-pay honor station runs $20 per night. CAL FIRE rangers do come through periodically to collect fees and handle trash, though the absence of a full-time camp host means maintenance can be inconsistent, particularly during fire season when staff resources are stretched thin.

Road noise is the most consistent complaint across reviews. The campground sits close enough to the road that traffic is audible throughout the day and into the evening, though most visitors report adjusting to it over time. Cell service is not available. Weekends fill quickly, so mid-week visits tend to offer more space and fewer crowds. Tom E. sums up the tradeoff plainly: "Three stars is mostly due to road noise."

For campers who want to compare nearby options within the same forest, camping spots near Jackson Demonstration State Forest include dispersed sites and other developed campgrounds at varying distances. Dunlap works best for those who value creek access and forest surroundings over amenities and quiet.

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Map & DirectionsDunlap Campground is located in California near Comptche

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

39.34951014 N
123.5473214 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

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

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Reservable
  • Toilets
  • Pets

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

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Reviews5 Camper Reviews - Dunlap Campground

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3.0

out of 5

5 Reviews

Guests frequently mentioned well-spaced sites with basic amenities and affordable first-come camping, though road noise is a consistent issue. Some visitors expressed disappointment with maintenance and party activity during busy periods.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile
Reviewed Aug. 12, 2021

Not very nice

Run by Calfire and to be fair they likely have better things to do during fire season than maintain the campsites

Lots of trash piled up around the cans, sites were covered in loose trash including old rusted car parts. On the honor system for the pay box. Since rangers don’t come around much I think it’s a “party” camp for local kids. Campsite near me was blasting music day and night and a couple got into a drunken domestic fight that sounded like it nearly came to blows. I almost left in the middle of the night to find a hotel.

A shame bc the woods and creek are quite lovely. Near the road.

Vault bathroom, no water, $20 a day.

Site9
Month of VisitAugust
Reviewed Jul. 22, 2021

Cheap, right off road

This campsite was $20 a night. It has a good amount of sites. We got lucky getting in late on a Saturday and finding a spot. It is right off the road so you can hear it but not see it easily. Great spot for a quick stay for the night.

Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Jun. 15, 2021

Easy in and out

Three stars is mostly due to road noise. We enjoy primitive sites like this. Self pay station was easy, several open spots when we arrived late afternoon. Nice hiking available and a visit to the little red school house was fun.

Site2
Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Oct. 28, 2020

Right off the highway

Decent sized sites well spaced apart. Self-pay station $15 when I went. Expect a LOT of road noise. Access to the river. Went mid week and was the only one there. Tons of wildlife. Fox, deer, raccoon, etc. keep your food locked up at all times. Second option since camp one was closed.

  • Review photo of Dunlap Campground by Carter B., October 28, 2020
Reviewed Aug. 27, 2020

Great FCFS sites close to coast

3 sites are currently closed due to COVID to encourage social distancing; sites fill up quickly on weekends; no on-site camp host, but Cal Fire does come through to write receipts and pick up trash. Not sure if there's water (we brought our own). Good option if needing first come first serve sites since all of the state parks are reservation-only currently. All sites have fire ring and picnic table, also some access to the creek/river bed below to explore. Really convenient to Fort Bragg (30 min away) or Willets (30 min away). No cell service. Only possible complaint would be that you can hear the road noise, but get used to it after awhile.

Site5
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Dunlap Campground by Linda Y., August 27, 2020
  • Review photo of Dunlap Campground by Linda Y., August 27, 2020
  • Review photo of Dunlap Campground by Linda Y., August 27, 2020
  • (4) View All
Showing results 1-5 of 5 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Dunlap Campground located and how do I get there?

Dunlap Campground is located right off a main road, which provides easy access but also means you'll hear some road noise during your stay. The campground is situated near a river, offering natural scenery and water access. While the exact location coordinates aren't specified, it's accessible by vehicle and clearly marked from the road. For precise directions, it's best to check with CalFire (who manages the property) or use a GPS navigation system.

What amenities and facilities are available at Dunlap Campground?

Dunlap Campground is a primitive camping area with minimal amenities. The campground has trash cans (though they can sometimes get full), a self-pay station, and various campsites that are well-spaced apart. While water availability is uncertain, it's recommended to bring your own to be safe. There are no on-site camp hosts, though CalFire personnel occasionally visit to collect fees and manage the area. The campground provides basic outdoor accommodations with access to natural surroundings.

Do I need to make reservations for Dunlap Campground?

No reservations are required at Dunlap Campground as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis. The campground uses a self-pay station where you can pay the fee (typically $15-20 per night) upon arrival. Sites tend to fill up quickly on weekends, so arriving early is recommended if you're planning a weekend stay. During weekdays, the campground is typically less crowded, with visitors sometimes having the entire place to themselves.

What activities are available at or near Dunlap Campground?

Dunlap Campground offers several outdoor activities for visitors. There's access to a river for water recreation and fishing. Hiking trails are available nearby for exploration. Wildlife viewing is excellent, with opportunities to spot deer, foxes, raccoons, and other animals (though this means food should be securely stored). The area also features cultural attractions like the little red school house that visitors can tour. The natural setting provides a good base for nature photography, stargazing, and general outdoor relaxation despite some road noise.

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