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.
$45 - $260 / night
"This state park was so much fun, very dog friendly! Campgrounds were nice and well kept, and just a short walk to the beach! I highly recommend:)"
"There are not many people in the off season so we were able to get a spot with direct access to the beach! Each spot has a picnic table and firepit."
"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."
$5 / night
"We finally learned our lesson after every Friday and/or Saturday over the years has been disrupted by people yelling and/or blasting music, running dogs off leash, and then (last trip) racing dirt bikes"
"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."
"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."
$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."
"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."
"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."
$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."
GuideJust a short drive from the main road into the Mendocino National Forest. You don’t need four-wheel-drive to get here. Clean camping that’s paved as well there nice stream next to the campground full of turtles, crawfish and ducks. Be aware that this campground is mainly used by dirtbike riders but not much of a bother. All around a great place to camp as well there are no water or trash services here so be sure to pack in and pack out
TravelerMiddle creek campground was as close as we could find to free camping in Upper Lake CA. At the time of our visit 90% of the Mendocino National Forest was closed as a result of fires the past year as well as landslides due to rains.this is normally a ohv area but since all trails are closed it is quiet and peaceful.you can hear the creek running along the camp, as well as the wild turkeys . There must be over 15 different species of birds as well. 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 a America the beautiful pass
GuideThis place was a very nice spot for any overnight stay on the way up to Oregon. The woman at the front desk was friendly and helpful. There is great shade in our site (A6) and a nice table. Kudos for the large dog park, now if I can only solve for the a*holes who can't be bothered to pick up after their dogs at every dog park I've ever visited. Don't expect a ton of privacy here and the sites are all gravel and/or dirt except for strips of grass in between neighbors. With all that said we will definitely use this as an overnight stop again.
Scoutcentrally located in within Anderson valley,so one can go for a hike and (cool off in the Navarro river), go next door and eat organic apple, and Saunders down 128 (<1/4 mile) and sip some wine at the Navarro winery. Big bonus for pet owner this park has trails that you can walk your dog on!
GuideWe originally were going to Fouts Creek Campground but it was HOV weekend (Presidents). Lots of dirt bikes and law enforcement. 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. There is a narrow one lane newly paved road that goes up to Dixie Glade equestrian camp, from there it is dirt. Taking it slow, we made it to Letts Lake and parked in spot 12. It was a tight fit, but we made it.
There are two additional campgrounds at the opposite end of the lake but they are closed for winter. As there was no water or trash service there was no fee. Typically $5.00)
The lake is small with no motors allowed but easy to walk around. Pet friendly in fact all but one campsite had at least one dog. Fire damage to the forest is substantial but new growth is already starting
TravelerMeh…
I had high hopes for this place, but overall, I’m unimpressed.
The good: Park staff is very responsive. Very close to the 101 with no highway nose.
The bad: No reservations. It is first come, first served. Poison Oak EVERYWHERE. No designated pet areas. Very tightly packed with no privacy. Hot with very little shade. Bathrooms are old, outdated, full of cobwebs and dirt. Low water pressure and n the showers.
ScoutWe stayed one night and lived the site and area surrounding. There were so many beautiful sounding birds in the canopy above and our site was surrounded by redwoods and douglas firs. I wanted to stay longer! Needless to say, I'll be back! I think this is my new favorite place. It was a little noisy at times but that's because it's fourth of July weekend and the site next to us had two families having a great time together. I was worried they might keep me up all night but they were respectful of quite hours which was nice. Pets are allowed which I also love. Next time I am bringing my pupper!
GuideDesigned for families, this KOA a lot. A petting zoo, water play, pool. arcade and events. We were there for movie night. They had a big screen and showed a film for the kiddos. Good stopover.
LegendAt $30 per night for a tent, this campground is a bit intense.
This is a drive up site. The online source for it is outdated but the site is a good place to stop if you just need a space for the night.
It is a combo trailer park, RV sites, and Tents sites so the navigation might be a little tricky in parts. There are power sites and water sources placed around the area.
There is a bath house in the middle of the park but if you are camped in the tent sites, it is pretty far away.
There are a couple porta potties set up that are closer to the tent sites.
Cash or check only here. No cards taken.
Make sure you check the pet rules too, they are very strict on them. We were lucky enough to not have our dogs with us this trip.
The sites are pretty secluded by shrubs so you do get a sense of privacy in places. The turns driving around might make RV camping a little tricky.
If you're looking to enjoy the great outdoors with your furry friend, there are several pet-friendly camping options near Mendocino National Forest in California. These campgrounds offer a variety of amenities and activities that cater to both you and your pets.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Mendocino National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Mendocino National Forest is Mackerricher State Park Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 1463 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Mendocino National Forest?
TheDyrt.com has all 101 dog-friendly camping locations near Mendocino National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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