Surveyor Campground sits within Trinity National Forest at approximately 3,500 feet elevation. The area features a mix of oak and pine forest with relatively mild summer temperatures ranging from 65-85°F during peak camping season. Access requires navigating unpaved forest roads that connect to multiple trailheads serving both day riders and overnight equestrian campers.
What to do
Explore equestrian trails: The campground serves as a hub for horse riders accessing Usal Beach Campsites in the Sinkyone Wilderness. "This place is pretty cool. It's worth a one night stay. The drive up 101 and then the couple mile 'off road' drive to the beach was fun," notes Jesse H.
Fish nearby reservoirs: Stony Gorge Reservoir offers fishing opportunities approximately 35 miles east of Covelo. "The lake is amazing for swimming!" reports Cat C., making it a good alternative when water levels at Lake Pillsbury are low.
Day trip to coastal areas: From Covelo, experienced drivers can reach coastal camping areas within 2-3 hours. "Having grown up spending a lot of time on the N Cali coast, Usal beach was always my absolute FAVORITE spot to camp! The secluded beach, elk roaming free and the enchanted forest always were a major incentive to go," shares Robyn D.
What campers like
Free firewood availability: After forest management activities, campers appreciate the wood stacks. At Middle Creek Campground, "Each campsite has a picnic table, fire pit as well as a bbq grill. They do have vault toilets and running water. It was $8.00 a nite but offered a discount with America the beautiful pass," reports Donna M.
Remote location benefits: The isolation creates quiet camping opportunities. "I've been camping here since I was a kid and my dad was a hang glider pilot. The campground has vaulted toilets non-flushable of course. There is water at the campground except during the winter as they shut it off to keep the pipes from bursting," explains keith B. about Oak Flat Campground.
Horse-friendly facilities: Equestrian camping near Covelo provides basic but adequate amenities. "Take Forrest Route N17 off of Spouts Spring Rd. What a sweet surprise after spending an hour on an unimproved wash board road.. This is an ideal Campground for those with OHV's," writes Ann N. about Surveyor Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Most forest service roads require 4WD during spring and fall. "At least in Dec, very muddy. Would not advise without 4x4 and some experience. We got here in an unmodified 2000 ford explorer with traction tires, but it was near that rig's limit," warns Seth M. about accessing Usal Beach Campsites.
Limited amenities: Horse campgrounds near Covelo are primarily primitive. "Beautiful, clean and peaceful. Plenty of trails to explore and Noyo River meanders through the center. It was self pay upon arrival and the whole place was welcoming. No water but fire pits and grills, and picnic tables in campsites," describes Danielle F. about Jackson Demonstration Forest.
Legend
