Looking for the best campgrounds near Mendocino National Forest, CA? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Discover great camping spots near Mendocino National Forest, reviewed by campers like you.
"There were about 3-4 families around the main campsites, seemingly set up to have a whole bbq!"
"Great free campground! We've stayed here many times. It's open, grassy level and quiet. Next to a stream and surrounded by hills."
GuideQuiet stop, but I wouldn't call it the most beautiful stop I've ever stayed. Camping spots are to the left and the right I'd the day use. Pit toilets. No garbage.
TravelerSheldon Creek is a BLM campsite up a winding dirt/gravel road. We drove a 4WD vehicle, but most cars should be able to handle the journey up. Signs will direct you in the right direction, and lead you to a campground with spots to pitch tents or park/hangout. There are even picnic tables, fire pits, and bathrooms. I didn’t get a chance to check out the bathrooms, but they looked decent. We only had one neighbor who seemed pretty friendly, which was a relief as you’re pretty far out in a remote area. Overall this is a beautiful spot where we felt safe. Would definitely recommend!
ScoutThe camp area is closed, as of 2/9/2024. No indication of that on the BLM website.
GuideSuper easy to find coming up from the lake. A lot of spots to choose from. There were around 4 or 5 people here already but we were able to find a secluded spot that overlooks the lake. Very peaceful but some traffic sounds at night from the lake towns.
GuideCame up here in September of 2024. There were about 3-4 families around the main campsites, seemingly set up to have a whole bbq! Was able to find a bit of solitude a bit deeper into the campsite.
Not sure how much of a lake view there really is here, but that could have just been my campsite. The weather was nice around this time of year. Good cell service too!
The road getting to it was definitely a bit sketchy for my Rav4 AWD, probably wouldn't be able to do it if it wasn't dry. Large vehicles likely won't be able to make it up there.
Overall, I'd come back if I needed a spot to crash when in the area, but otherwise a little bit lackluster and would consider other options in the Snow Mountain Wilderness. Worth checking out though!
GuideThe ride up was rough. The views made it all worth it. The camp site was not an option for me. I need something semi level to navigate.
GuideMy wife and I were going to camp here but she was a little spooked by the amount of bears we saw on the trail to the campsite. This area was also decimated by wild fire recently and a large percentage of the forest is charred. We ended up passing this site up, but it looks like it is a cool spot. FYI the areas surrounding this site are not too suitable if looking for a hotel. We ended up driving a considerable distance down to Sonoma and continued on our honeymoon with wine tasting.
GuideTow behinds/trailers not recommended; rough roads and can’t turn back once on the path.
Otherwise 10/10 for our truck camper, had the place to ourselves for the 4th of July weekend, beautiful fresh water creek running through, great toilet & even a fire pit with abundance of wood around.
There are about 4/5 sites, only 2 with actual fire pits.
Please keep it amazing by keeping it clean.
FREE
TravelerA decent drive off the highway, but a good one. A few nice views. Google maps will not get you there, we followed the directions on this page.
Only 2 spots up here, maybe 3. But we had it to ourselves on a weeknight. The Bathroom (vault toilet) had toilet paper. There was some water in the creek, but it wasn’t super easy to access.
The site itself is nothing special, just a couple of pullouts in the woods. Probably very hot during the day since you’re up on a ridge. Can’t beat free though.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Mendocino National Forest in California, where nature lovers can enjoy the great outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of options for those seeking adventure and tranquility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Mendocino National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Mendocino National Forest is Lakeview Dispersed Campground with a 3.7-star rating from 11 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Mendocino National Forest?
TheDyrt.com has all 12 dispersed camping locations near Mendocino National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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