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Camping near Mendocino National Forest

498 Reviews

Mendocino National Forest has camping choices that go from well-developed campgrounds to basic spots with few amenities. You can stay at Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort near Willits if you want a starting point for hiking the forest trails. Letts Lake Campground works well for campers who prefer a quieter setting with fishing nearby - many people try for bass and trout in the lake. At Sunset Point Campground inside the forest boundaries, you'll find good views and decent facilities. The forest terrain varies quite a bit, with some camping spots under trees and others in open areas. Weather changes quickly here, so pack for both warm days and cool nights. Most campers visit during spring and fall when the weather is mild and there are fewer people around. Summer brings dry conditions that increase fire danger in the forest. Always check current fire rules before your trip. Places like Oak Flat Campground have basic facilities, so bring everything you'll need. Some of the more remote camping areas require trucks or SUVs with higher clearance to reach them. The quiet and natural setting of Mendocino National Forest makes the extra preparation worthwhile. The forest has something for everyone, from RV sites to places where you can camp away from crowds.

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Best Camping Sites Near Mendocino National Forest (151)

    1. Mackerricher State Park Campground

    1463 Reviews
    Fort Bragg, CA
    45 miles

    $45 - $260 / night

    "There are many sites next to the ocean."

    "PROS

    → Campground is adjacent to the beach. You can hear the ocean and sometimes catch peeks of the ocean from the campground.

    → Campsites have bear lockers."

    2. Sunset Point Campground

    8 Reviews
    Mendocino National Forest, CA
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 275-2361

    "Close to neighboring campsites but not too bad. Grove village is really close where they have firewood, grocery store, restaurant, shops, post office. Bugs in summer so don’t forget your bug spray!"

    "Great location in the Sequoia National Park. Appropriate for families, couples or singles. Plenty of trails to roam and scenery galore. Easy access to bathrooms, evening activities."

    3. Fuller Grove Group Campground

    4 Reviews
    Potter Valley, CA
    1 mile
    Website

    "Camp sites are spaced out, so you're not on top of one another like some of the other sites around the lake. Also has a nice beach and direct access to the lake."

    "No better campsite for a long weekend of lake lounging and good camping good. The sites are BIG, and the ones that lead to the water give you best access to the lake."

    4. Pogie Point Campground

    4 Reviews
    Mendocino National Forest, CA
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (707) 275-2361

    "This is close to the lake, but no direct lake access. Weather was pretty hot and humid until a few hours after dark."

    "Pogie point is one of my favorite camp grounds around Lake Pillsbury. Not many people camp there because there is no direct access to park your boat next to your site."

    5. Letts Lake Campground — Mendocino National Forest

    11 Reviews
    Stonyford, CA
    16 miles
    Website

    $12 / night

    "National Forest pulled in officers from surrounding forests and Sheriff Depts.

    With a 35' Class A our options were limited. A Ranger suggested Letts Lake."

    "The campground does not offer very much privacy between sites, but is right on Letts Lake, offering great views."

    6. Oak Flat Campground

    3 Reviews
    Mendocino National Forest, CA
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 275-2361

    $5 / night

    "Was 0.75 miles away from water (we have been in a drought?) but beautiful spacious campsite. Even with annoying neighbors, you can have peace and quiet."

    "The local store is about a 10 minute drive away and during the summer has ice beer and provides firewood for sale (during winter no ice but plenty of snow)."

    7. Pine Mountain Lookout

    3 Reviews
    Potter Valley, CA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 275-2361

    $50 / night

    "Only caveat is the access to the cabin.  They're not kidding when they warn you to bring a chainsaw. "

    "The roads driving up to the lookout tower are logging roads so they are a bit rough, this wasn't something we were expecting on our drive there. But overall it was an amazing experience."

    8. Navy Camp

    2 Reviews
    Mendocino National Forest, CA
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (707) 275-2361

    "Navy Camp is a small, quiet campground on the far side of the lake from the dam. When the water is high (early summer), this camp is our favorite on the lake."

    9. Deer Valley Campground

    4 Reviews
    Upper Lake, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 275-2361

    "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."

    "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."

    10. Middle Creek Campground

    4 Reviews
    Upper Lake, CA
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 275-2361

    $8 / night

    "Middle creek campground was as close as we could find to free camping in Upper Lake CA."

    "Beautiful location, campground was easily accessible going up Elk Mountain Road. Camped in Site 11, pull through, no hook ups, nice picnic table, grill and fire pit. Vault toilets, no showers."

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400 Photos of 151 Mendocino National Forest Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Mendocino National Forest

498 Reviews of 151 Mendocino National Forest Campgrounds

Guide to Mendocino National Forest

Camping near Mendocino National Forest, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a family-friendly adventure, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Fishing: Many campers enjoy fishing in the local lakes. One visitor at Letts Lake Campground mentioned, "Great camping and fishing. Lots of smaller bass and trout."
  • Hiking: Explore the trails around the campgrounds. A reviewer at Kelsey Creek Campground noted, "Not much hiking in the park, but the few trails are nice."
  • Water Sports: If you're into water activities, check out The Aurora RV Park & Marina. One camper said, "You can fish right from your camp spot if you get a spot right on the water."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A visitor at Fuller Grove Group Campground shared, "The sites are BIG, and the ones that lead to the water give you best access to the lake."
  • Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Many campgrounds cater to families. A review for Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort highlighted, "The petting zoo was also super cute and the animals seemed like they were well taken care of."
  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms. A reviewer at Sunset Point Campground mentioned, "The bathrooms were clean, but I showered at the back of my van."

What you should know:

  • Road Conditions: Some campgrounds have rough access roads. A camper at Lakeview Dispersed Campground noted, "Drive up to the site all incline dirt road ~6 miles - we made it up without 4 wheel drive but some areas were a little sketchy."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full facilities. A visitor at Dunlap Campground said, "Run by Calfire and to be fair they likely have better things to do during fire season than maintain the campsites."
  • Noise Levels: Some areas can be noisy. A reviewer at Kyen Campground expressed, "There were several loud groups well after the posted quiet hours."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort, which offers a splash pad and playground. One parent said, "The splash pad was a family favorite."
  • Plan Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys to keep kids entertained. A camper at Letts Lake Campground mentioned, "There are hiking trails, a boat launch, BBQ pits, and food storage lockers."
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can make a big difference. A visitor at Kelsey Creek Campground noted, "Not much hiking in the park, so snacks are a must for the little ones."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campground. A reviewer at The Aurora RV Park & Marina said, "The lakeside spots are very tight together—and require backing in."
  • Bring Extra Supplies: Some campgrounds may not have water or trash services. A visitor at Lakeview Dispersed Campground mentioned, "No services, but had cell service."
  • Be Prepared for Weather: The area can get hot in summer. A camper at Sunset Point Campground noted, "Given how hot Lake Pills gets in the summer, this is a nice option to escape the summer's heat."

Camping near Mendocino National Forest, California, offers a variety of experiences, from serene lakeside spots to family-friendly amenities. Just be sure to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Mendocino National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, Mendocino National Forest offers a wide range of camping options, with 151 campgrounds and RV parks near Mendocino National Forest and 12 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Mendocino National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Mendocino National Forest is Mackerricher State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 1463 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Mendocino National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 12 free dispersed camping spots near Mendocino National Forest.

What parks are near Mendocino National Forest?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 18 parks near Mendocino National Forest that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.

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