Tent campsites near Potter Valley, California are scattered throughout the Mendocino National Forest and surrounding Bureau of Land Management areas. The region sits at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 7,000 feet, creating diverse camping microclimates. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F during day and drop to 50-60°F at night, with significant cooling at higher elevations.
What to do
Wildlife viewing along waterways: Lake Mendocino near COE Mendocino Lake Bu-Shay Campground offers opportunities to spot local birds and deer, particularly at dawn. A camper noted, "We had a great time when we stayed a night here in October. Our young kids had a great time playing on the playground which was an unexpected bonus."
OHV trail exploration: South Cow Mountain Recreation Area provides 120 miles of designated OHV trails connecting to Red Mountain campground. "This location was 6 miles from civilization down a windy road, then up a mountain side. If you like driving off road then the trip would be worth it, especially if you plan to stay a while," reports one visitor.
Creek wading and exploration: Many sites offer access to seasonal creeks and riverbeds. At Dunlap Campground, visitors can "access the river" and explore "the creek/river bed below," making it ideal for hot summer days when water levels permit safe wading.
What campers like
Affordable options with basic amenities: Campers appreciate the region's economical camping options. "Great price, simple, utilitarian camp ground," states a visitor to Penny Pines Campground, which offers tent sites with fire pits and picnic tables for $6 per night.
Seclusion and privacy: Many campgrounds provide escape from crowds. At Buckhorn Campground, one visitor appreciated it as "a good pick away from everyone else in the OHV park." Sites are typically well-spaced despite the small campground size.
Wildlife encounters: The natural surroundings support diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. A camper at Dunlap mentioned: "Tons of wildlife. Fox, deer, raccoon, etc. keep your food locked up at all times."
What you should know
Fire restrictions and recovery areas: Several campgrounds show evidence of past wildfires. At Penny Pines, a camper observed "much of the surrounding forest is a burned zone." Always check current fire restrictions as they change seasonally and many areas prohibit open flames during summer and fall.
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Most campgrounds offer basic amenities only. Red Mountain provides "bathroom facilities that could be cleaner, but I suggest that you bring your own. You should bring a solar shower and water to drink and cook with, as there is none," advised one visitor.
Road conditions and access: Many campgrounds require driving on unpaved roads. According to a Snow Mountain Wilderness visitor: "Easy to reach, great in beauty backpacking trip. No services. Water can be obtained from the creek but needs filtering." Always check road conditions before departure, especially during winter or after rain.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with amenities: For families with young children, COE Mendocino Lake Bu-Shay Campground offers flush toilets, free showers, and a playground. One camper shared: "The camp facilities are fine. The sites are spacious and there are a mix of shady and sunny sites. The flush bathrooms are fine, and there are free showers."
Plan for limited connectivity: Cell service varies dramatically between campgrounds. At Bu-Shay, a visitor reported: "We had OK cell coverage with Verizon - we could usually browse the internet but streaming videos were difficult." Download entertainment and maps before arrival.
Consider seasonal timing: Spring visits offer wildflowers while avoiding summer heat. A Snow Mountain visitor noted: "Wildflowers are plentiful in the spring." Fall camping provides mild temperatures and less crowded conditions.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions at wilderness campgrounds: Most forest campgrounds have limited space for larger vehicles. At Red Mountain Campground, a camper advised: "Worth the 4x4 trek to the campground. There is a 'million dollar' view of the mountain range and Clearlake." However, access requires high-clearance vehicles.
Bring extra water supplies: RVers should arrive with full water tanks. "You can stay 14 days out of the year for free. Be mindful of the environment," noted a Red Mountain visitor who emphasized the need to pack in all necessary water.
Check campground status before travel: Seasonal closures occur regularly. A Bu-Shay visitor reported: "I arrived 9/10/25 but did not camp here because the camp is closed for some flood damage repair." Call ranger stations for current status before traveling to remote sites.
