Dispersed camping options near Elk Creek, California range across several public lands within the Mendocino National Forest region. The area sits at elevations between 1,300-5,000 feet with summer temperatures frequently exceeding 90°F. Water levels at reservoir campgrounds fluctuate significantly between spring and late summer, affecting both shore access and fishing conditions.
What to do
Fishing at multiple reservoirs: East Park Reservoir offers varied fishing opportunities with less crowded weekday options. "The campsite #12 has a beautiful meadow behind it with deer that pass through," notes a visitor at Plaskett Meadows Campground, which features two ponds stocked with trout.
Hiking local trails: "Great trail system for exploring the park," mentions a camper who stayed at Buckhorn Recreation Area. Trails connect campgrounds with viewpoints overlooking the lake areas, particularly during spring when wildflowers bloom.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings offer the best wildlife spotting opportunities. "Heard lots of critters in the night, owls, deer, rabbits. In the morning was woken up by woodpeckers," reports a Buckhorn Recreation Area visitor who enjoyed the natural surroundings.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: "We picked a spot right on the water and got to enjoy the amazing views and sounds from the geese," shares a camper at East Park Reservoir. Many visitors note finding completely private camping areas, especially during weekdays.
Affordable camping: Stony Gorge Reservoir appeals to budget-conscious campers. "This campground is free!!! It has lots of vault toilets and trash cans, but there is no running water," explains a reviewer who appreciated the basic amenities without fees.
Spacious campsites: Oak Flat Campground receives praise for its layout. "Beautiful spacious campsite. Even with annoying neighbors, you can have peace and quiet," notes a visitor to this dog friendly campground near Elk Creek, highlighting the adequate separation between sites.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Water access changes dramatically throughout the year. At Oak Flat Campground, "There is water at the campground except during the winter as they shut it off to keep the pipes from bursting. The campground is open up all year round."
Weekend congestion: Weekday visits offer dramatically different experiences than weekends. One Oak Flat visitor warns: "Quiet and peaceful, watch elk, birds, lizards, toads/frogs on weekdays. All but the hardiest of wildlife and people should avoid the weekends."
Limited facilities: Most campgrounds offer basic amenities only. At Plaskett Meadows, a camper reports: "right now there is no water as there is a leak in the pipes they haven't been able to find." Bringing extra water is recommended for all campgrounds in the area.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Some campgrounds include specific facilities for children. "Nice playground area for kids," mentions a visitor to Buckhorn Recreation Area about the designated recreation space.
Consider proximity to amenities: Parkway RV Resort & Campground offers more developed facilities than forest service sites. "The sites are spacious and there is a pool to cool down during the hot summers," notes one visitor, which can be important with children during peak temperature months.
Plan for weather extremes: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F while nights can be significantly cooler. "Not much to the site. It was very hot and a distance to the lake," cautions a family who visited Buckhorn when water levels were low.
Tips from RVers
Level site considerations: Site selection matters significantly for comfort. At Buckhorn, one RVer shared: "The site itself was mostly level side to side but our back stabilizers were nearly fully extended (with blocks) and the front ones we barely had to put out."
Best overnight stops: Rolling Hills Casino Truck Lot receives consistent praise as a convenient stopping point. "Great overnight stop. Surprisingly quiet! Level pull-thru sites, full hook-ups," reports one RVer who appreciated the easy access.
Water and dump station access: Facilities vary widely between campgrounds. At Orland Buttes, a visitor notes: "There are random water spigots throughout the campground, as well as a dump station and water flush on the way out." This information helps RVers plan water management during their stay at pet friendly campgrounds in Elk Creek vicinity.
