Ukiah's camping areas sit in the Coastal Mountain Range of Northern California, ranging from 600 to 2,500 feet in elevation. The region experiences Mediterranean climate patterns with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Most tent camping options near Ukiah remain open year-round, though seasonal fire restrictions typically limit campfire use during high-risk periods from June through October.
What to do
River recreation access: Paul M. Demmick Campground offers direct access to the Navarro River. "There's a path down to the river near the Day Use area; the river was pretty tame, which is surprising for a campground that routinely floods in the wintertime," notes camper L.
Forest exploration: Several miles of hiking trails wind through Jackson Demonstration Forest, allowing day hikers to experience diverse ecosystems. "Plenty of trails to explore and Noyo River meanders through the center," reports Danielle F., adding that the "day use area with tables and creek for playing in" provides additional recreation options.
OHV riding: For off-highway vehicle enthusiasts, Red Mountain offers extensive trail networks. According to justin, it's "paradise if you have ATVs etc. Cool spot off the beaten path" with the six-mile drive up the mountain providing initial off-road experience.
Wildlife viewing: Many campsites report substantial wildlife activity. At Dunlap Campground, Carter B. observed "tons of wildlife. Fox, deer, raccoon, etc." and cautions to "keep your food locked up at all times."
What campers like
Affordability: Most primitive tent camping sites near Ukiah cost between $6-20 per night. Penny Pines Campground offers budget-friendly options at "$6 per night" according to Cary A., who noted it's "beautiful and very affordable."
Midweek solitude: Several campgrounds report minimal occupancy during weekdays. At Buckhorn Campground, campers find themselves "away from everyone else in the OHV park" according to keith B., making for peaceful experiences outside weekend rush periods.
River proximity: Water access ranks high in camper satisfaction. At Cole Creek Campground, Chris P. mentioned "lots of places to fish" along with "hike and bike" opportunities, providing diverse recreation without leaving the campground.
Spacious sites: Campers frequently mention site spacing as a positive feature. Bu-Shay Campground delivers "spacious sites and there are a mix of shady and sunny sites," according to Joshua H., who adds that "the sites are spacious and there are a mix of shady and sunny sites."
What you should know
Road noise: Several campgrounds sit near highways with audible traffic. Linda Y. notes at Dunlap Campground: "Only possible complaint would be that you can hear the road noise, but get used to it after awhile." Tom E. agrees, stating "Three stars is mostly due to road noise."
Fire restrictions: During summer months, complete fire bans often apply. Many campgrounds have seasonal limitations affecting campfires, with Mary K. mentioning Dunlap provides "vault bathroom, no water, $20 a day" but fire availability depends entirely on current conditions.
Limited cell service: Most campgrounds offer minimal or no connectivity. At Bear Creek Campground, most visitors report no cell reception, forcing a digital disconnect during your stay.
Self-registration: The majority of primitive sites operate without permanent camp hosts. Cassidy Y. notes at Jackson Demonstration Forest: "No camp host on site, cal fire crew came in once a day to check the campground."
Tips for camping with families
Look for playgrounds: Only select campgrounds offer dedicated children's play areas. Joshua H. mentions Bu-Shay Campground: "Our young kids had a great time playing on the playground which was an unexpected bonus."
Consider bathroom facilities: Toilet quality varies significantly between campgrounds. Susan W. notes that at Paul Demmick Campground "there are plenty of vaulted toilets available" and they "were extremely clean no flies and didn't have a strong odor."
Creek play opportunities: Children enjoy water features at several campgrounds. As Cary A. describes Paul Demmick Campground: "There is creek access in the camp with a small day use area by the creek" providing natural play spaces.
Tips from RVers
Site access challenges: Several campgrounds have limited RV accessibility. Penny Pines Campground "is a small spot in the forest accessible by a rough road" according to Cary A., who notes that "camp spots are fairly small and close together."
Limited hookups: Most campgrounds near Ukiah lack RV-specific amenities. Israel M. reports Bu-Shay Campground has "water spickets everywhere and I think there are also dumping stations for people with RVs," making it one of the few options with partial RV facilities.
Road conditions: Access roads to many campgrounds require careful navigation. Red Mountain requires "worth the 4x4 trek to the campground" according to Becky H., who notes the reward is "a 'million dollar' view of the mountain range and Clearlake."
