Lake Mendocino sits at approximately 730 feet elevation and forms a central recreation point near Ukiah, California. The surrounding campgrounds span diverse terrain, from lakeside sites at 700 feet to hillside camping up to 2,400 feet in the Mendocino National Forest. Winter temperatures average 32-55°F, while summer brings 50-95°F conditions with minimal rainfall.
What to do
Water activities at Lake Mendocino: The lake provides swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities. At Bushay Recreation Area, campers enjoy easy lake access. "We saw tons of fascinating birds (including a bald eagle!!) and heard the sound of frogs and turkeys which added a nice touch," notes Maddy S.
Hiking through redwoods: Explore ancient forest trails within 30 minutes of Ukiah. At Hendy Woods State Park Campground, visitors encounter old growth redwoods. "The two redwood groves are easily accessible from the campsite... I always come to Hendy Woods with my camera, especially in late winter, early spring to do some mushroom photography," shares Sophia B.
Wine tasting: Anderson Valley wine region surrounds several dog friendly campgrounds near Ukiah. "Anderson Valley is a Pinot Noir region so wineries surround the campground. Booneville is a cute nearby town with kid friendly Anderson Valley Brewery and Pennyroyal Cheese Farm," reports Beth K. from Hendy Woods.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At BLM Sheldon Creek, campers appreciate the secluded feel. "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," notes Carl L. The free campground has only 2-3 sites total.
Clean facilities: Many Ukiah area campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms and showers. At Bushay Recreation Area, campers found "super clean and well lit bathrooms" and "free showers (no need for quarters)," according to Maddy S., who also appreciated the "standard campsite setup (bench + fire ring) but also included a pole with a hook - perfect for hanging lights."
Affordability: Several pet-friendly campgrounds near Ukiah offer free or low-cost options. Kenny T. reports that BLM Sheldon Creek has "great toilet & even a fire pit with abundance of wood around. There are about 4/5 sites, only 2 with actual fire pits." Free camping creates budget-friendly options for travelers with dogs.
What you should know
Road access limitations: Some campgrounds have challenging approach roads. For Mackerricher State Park Campground, Jennifer M. notes it's "private and beautiful" with "showers, bathrooms, drinking water and fire rings," but Kenny T. cautions about BLM Sheldon Creek: "Tow behinds/trailers not recommended; rough roads and can't turn back once on the path."
Weather considerations: Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, while coastal sites stay cooler. Jennifer M. mentions that Mackerricher offers "temperate coastal weather perfect for getting away during the summer months."
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking. At Bushay Recreation Area, Maddy S. emphasizes, "Heads up! Advanced reservation is required."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play facilities for children. Joshua H. mentions at COE Mendocino Lake Bu-Shay Campground: "Our young kids had a great time playing on the playground which was an unexpected bonus."
Educational programs: Check for junior ranger opportunities at state parks. Christina H. reports from Mackerricher State Park: "The junior ranger program and nightly events for families helped keep the kids engaged in the camping experience. Park rangers hosted guided hikes, nighttime stargazing (with telescopes), and nightly campfires."
Beach options: Lakeside beaches provide safe swimming areas. At Kelsey Creek Campground, Kelly S. notes the site offers "lake front sites" with "great camping, hiking, boating" and "lots of nature trails."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Multiple campgrounds offer partial or full hookups. At Narrows Lodge Resort, Jessica R. shares: "We rented a camping yurt and we were so surprised how big it is! We received a key to our own bathroom and shower! They had a sink to wash dishes in and a place to clean our fish."
Site sizes: RV sites vary significantly in space and leveling. Melissa W. reports about Mackerricher: "Campsites are level and have enough space between them for adequate privacy. Our site along the beach side allowed for an easy walk to the ocean."
Dump station fees: Some locations charge for dump services. Mea H. notes about Kelsey Creek: "Dump station? - Yes. Water fill? - Yes. Clean site? - Yes. Clean bathroom? - Yes. Flush toilet? - Yes. Showers? - Yes, token operated."
