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Best Campgrounds near Ukiah, CA

687 Reviews

Camping near Ukiah, California encompasses a range of options from lakeside recreation areas to secluded mountain sites. The region features several established campgrounds including Lake Mendocino's Bu-Shay Campground, Redwood Empire Fair RV Park in town, and Red Mountain dispersed camping areas. Visitors can also explore Hendy Woods State Park, located about 40 miles west in the Anderson Valley, known for its old-growth redwood groves. The area sits at the gateway to both wine country and redwood forests, with Clear Lake State Park approximately 30 miles southeast offering additional water-based recreation opportunities.

Access to many campgrounds varies seasonally, with Lake Mendocino's Bu-Shay Campground operating from May through September. Summer temperatures in Ukiah can exceed 100°F, while winter brings cooler temperatures and occasional rain. Fire restrictions are common during dry summer months, particularly in dispersed camping areas like Cow Mountain Recreation Area. Cell service is generally reliable in established campgrounds near town but becomes spotty in more remote areas. Many campgrounds require reservations during peak summer season, though some sites at Red Mountain remain first-come, first-served year-round.

The camping experiences around Ukiah vary significantly by location. Lakeside campgrounds like Bu-Shay offer spacious sites with amenities including flush toilets and free showers, making them suitable for families. According to one visitor, "The sites are spacious and there are a mix of shady and sunny sites. Our young kids had a great time playing on the playground." For those seeking seclusion, Red Mountain provides more primitive camping with vault toilets and no water hookups. As one camper noted, "This location was 6 miles from civilization down a windy road, then up a mountain side. Ultimate seclusion, with normal camping accommodations." RV travelers will find full hookups at Redwood Empire Fair RV Park within city limits, while tent campers might prefer the natural settings at Lake Mendocino or in the surrounding mountains.

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Best Camping Sites Near Ukiah, California (166)

    1. Mackerricher State Park Campground

    1463 Reviews
    Fort Bragg, CA
    39 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. Hendy Woods State Park Campground

    27 Reviews
    Philo, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 895-3141

    $45 - $70 / night

    "This California State Park is located in the Anderson Valley, a historic agricultural area located in the Navarro river watershed.  While only 120-ish miles from San Francisco, this area is remote. "

    "The sites are situated among towering redwoods. Which blocks the amazing clear night skies, but offer there own beauty.
    It was great! The nearby towns or phill and boonville are super cute."

    3. Narrows Lodge Resort

    4 Reviews
    Upper Lake, CA
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 275-2718

    "It’s a short walk from anywhere in the campground down to the lake. The water is crystal clear and there’s a little dock for jumping off of."

    "MUST BE SELF CONTAINED TO STAY IN THIS LOCATION!!"

    4. Redwood Empire Fair RV Park

    3 Reviews
    Ukiah, CA
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (707) 462-3884

    5. COE Mendocino Lake Bu-Shay Campground

    2 Reviews
    Mendocino Lake, CA
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 467-4200

    "The town of Ukiah is pretty close as well, so you can get food or supplies easily."

    6. Kyen Campground

    5 Reviews
    Redwood Valley, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 467-4200

    $35 - $65 / night

    7. Cow Mountain Rec Area Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Lakeport, CA
    10 miles
    Website

    "Love going to the tech course with our off road buggy. Crawled all over that hill."

    8. Red Mountain

    2 Reviews
    Ukiah, CA
    8 miles
    +1 (707) 468-4000

    9. Kelsey Creek Campground — Clear Lake State Park

    21 Reviews
    Kelseyville, CA
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 279-4293

    $30 / night

    "Having visited Lake County many times, I wasn't expecting much from this camp ground. I had intended to camp at Boggs Forest - my usual hangout for mountain biking when in the area."

    "Had a nice spot that was semi-shaded in the afternoon, next to a lovely couple who I was able to share some beers with. 

    The place was at capacity, but many people leave during the day."

    10. BLM Sheldon Creek

    9 Reviews
    Lakeport, CA
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 468-4000

    "Tow behinds/trailers not recommended; rough roads and can’t turn back once on the path."

    "Had deer, butterflies, and humming birds all around us. Babbling brook, cool and comfortable in mid-October. Looking forward to a springtime visit."

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Recent Camping Photos near Ukiah, CA

422 Photos of 166 Ukiah Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Ukiah, CA

687 Reviews of 166 Ukiah Campgrounds

Guide to Ukiah

Camping near Ukiah, California, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to explore.

What to do

  • Hiking: There are numerous trails around the campgrounds. For example, at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground, one reviewer mentioned, "We got a great workout hiking in the dunes to see the sunset over the ocean." The trails provide stunning views and a chance to connect with nature.
  • Beach Access: Many campgrounds, like Bodega Dunes Campground — Sonoma Coast State Park, are close to the beach. A camper shared, "The trail to the beach was a nice walk and easy to follow."
  • Wildlife Watching: Campgrounds like Hendy Woods State Park Campground are great for spotting local wildlife. One visitor noted, "We enjoyed a few quiet nights in the trees... lovely!"

What campers like

What you should know

  • No Hookups: Many campgrounds, like Van Damme State Park Campground, do not offer electric hookups. A visitor noted, "Each site has a picnic table, fire ring, and bear box. No hookups."
  • Coin-Operated Showers: Be prepared to pay for hot showers at some locations. A camper at Hendy Woods State Park Campground mentioned, "The shower was $1 for 5 minutes. The hot water felt amazing!"
  • Wildlife Caution: Some areas may have wildlife, so be cautious. A review for Gualala Point Regional Park warned about raccoons, stating, "Several other campers experienced over-eager raccoons while eating dinner."

Tips for camping with families

  • Activities for Kids: Look for campgrounds with family-friendly activities. One parent at Casini Ranch Family Campground said, "Lots of activities for the kids (ice cream social, hay ride, parks, etc)."
  • Spacious Sites: Choose campgrounds with larger sites for more room to play. A reviewer noted, "The campsite we got was pretty big as well" at Gualala Point Regional Park.
  • Pet-Friendly Options: Many campgrounds allow pets, making it easier to bring the whole family. One camper at Doran Regional Park mentioned, "Access to both the cove and ocean."

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Size: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Van Damme State Park Campground advised, "If you are in a tent you may have a challenge finding a flat enough spot."
  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for poor cell reception in some areas. A camper at Sugarloaf Ridge State Park Campground noted, "There is also no cell coverage for any of the major providers."
  • Bring Firewood: Some campgrounds do not provide firewood. A visitor at Westport Union Landing State Beach reminded campers, "Bring firewood there’s none available on site."

Camping near Ukiah, California, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. With beautiful campgrounds and plenty of activities, it’s a great spot to unwind and enjoy the great outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best campgrounds near Ukiah, CA?

The Ukiah area offers several excellent camping options within a reasonable drive. Hendy Woods State Park Campground is a gem featuring beautiful old-growth redwood groves and is considered one of the most beautiful redwood parks in Northern California. For those who enjoy water recreation, COE Mendocino Lake Bu-Shay Campground provides spacious sites with a mix of shady and sunny spots, flush bathrooms, and free showers. Other notable options include Russian Gulch State Park with its secluded, tree-filled sites and nearby hiking trails, and BLM Sheldon Creek for those seeking a more primitive camping experience closer to Ukiah.

What camping options are available in Ukiah for RVs?

Mendocino Redwoods RV Resort is a primary option for RVers near Ukiah, located just outside Willits on CA-20. This former KOA resort offers dedicated RV sites with hookups in a forested setting. Clear Lake Campground provides another option with RV accommodations, described as small but quaint with helpful management. For those needing convenient in-town access, Redwood Empire Fair RV Park in Ukiah offers water hookups and is big-rig friendly. Most RV parks in the area provide water and electrical hookups, with some offering full hookups including sewer. Reservations are recommended, especially during summer months when availability can be limited.

How much does camping cost in the Ukiah area?

Camping costs in the Ukiah area vary based on location and amenities. Kelsey Creek Campground — Clear Lake State Park charges state park fees, typically $25-35 per night for standard sites. Johnson's Beach offers riverside camping with easy access to local shops and bars at moderate rates ranging from $30-45 per night. For budget options, dispersed camping at Cow Mountain Recreation Area is available for free, though amenities are minimal. RV sites with hookups generally cost $40-60 per night at private campgrounds. State park reservations often incur an additional reservation fee of $7.99, while most private campgrounds require deposits ranging from one night's stay to 50% of the total reservation cost.

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