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Established Camping

Mendocino National Forest Lake Red Bluff Recreation Area

3 Reviews
CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Mendocino National Forest Lake Red Bluff Recreation Area is near Red Bluff, CA. The terrain consists of forested areas and open spaces. Temperatures range from 40°F in winter to 95°F in summer. Nearby attractions include the Sacramento River and Lassen Volcanic National Park.

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Location

Mendocino National Forest Lake Red Bluff Recreation Area is located in California

Detail location of campground

Directions

Arriving from the North on I-5 Take the CA-36/Antelope Blvd exit toward Central Red Bluff/CA-99. Turn Left onto CA-36/Antelope Blvd. Turn right onto Sale Lane. The entrance gate is approximately 2 miles down Sale lane. Arriving from the South on I-5 Take the exit for Central Red Bluff/Antelope Blvd/Hwy 36. Turn Right onto Antelope Blvd. Turn right on Sale Lane. The entrance gate is approximately 2 miles down Sale Lane. Arriving from Chico on CA-99 Continue onto State Hwy 36W/Antelope Blvd. Turn Left on Sale Lane. The entrance gate is approximately 2 miles down Sale lane.

Coordinates

40.15563869 N
122.20261055 W

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Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 6 users
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Detours Nearby

LOCAL FAVORITES PRESENTED BYToyota Trucks
Orland Buttes

Orland Buttes

43 min away

Stony Gorge Reservoir - USBR

Stony Gorge Reservoir - USBR

57 min away

Drive Time

Presented byToyota Trucks

Connectivity

Presented byT-Mobile SatelliteT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 6 users
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group
  • Cabins
  • Tent Cabin

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Reservable
  • Showers
  • Drinking Water
  • Electric Hookups
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites

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Reviews

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3.5

out of 5

3 Reviews

DMN D.
Reviewed Feb. 3, 2023

Good for passing through

I stay here a lot as I pass through. Every single time there has been a methhead staying who is a ranting and raving lunatic dropping f-bombs this and m-fer that for the whole campground to hear. If they stopped taking cash it would fix a lot of problems separating vagrants from true nomads.

Site21
Month of VisitFebruary
M
Reviewed Mar. 21, 2022

Great spot of passing through

This is a great spot close, but not too close to the highway. About 5-7 drive off the highway right next to the Sacramento River. There were about 20-25 sites that need to be booked online. It was full when we went, but we were able to boondock in the fisherman’s boat loading area w/out issue.

Siteboondocked
Month of VisitMarch
D
Reviewed Nov. 18, 2021

Great Quiet Campground

This is a gem in Red Bluff. CA. You are minutes from I-5 but it is impossible to hear the traffic. Right on the Sacramento River and the skies are remarkably dark.

We paid $8 per night for a site with our Interagency Senior Pass, no hookups. There are some sites with water and electric for $25 or $12.50 with pass. No sewer dump available.

I did not use the showers or bathrooms. Quarters required for a hot shower. Husband says bathroom was clean.

Beautiful old sycamore trees give this park lots of shade in the hotter months and provide a peaceful setting even in the winter months.

It is only about an hour to Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center at Lassen NP.

In November when we stayed, there were maybe four or five other campers.

We would definitely return when we are driving thru.

Site2
Month of VisitNovember
Showing results 1-3 of 3 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there photos available of Red Bluff Recreation Area to preview the campground?

Photos of Red Bluff Recreation Area can be found on the USFS (United States Forest Service) website and various camping platforms, including The Dyrt. These images typically showcase the campground's riverside setting, campsite layouts, and natural surroundings. For the most current and comprehensive collection of photos, check the official Mendocino National Forest website or contact the forest service office directly to preview the campground before your visit.

Where is Red Bluff Recreation Area located and how do I access it?

Red Bluff Recreation Area is located in the Mendocino National Forest, right along the Sacramento River in Red Bluff, California. The campground is conveniently positioned just minutes from Interstate 5, making it easily accessible for travelers. Despite its proximity to the highway, it maintains a peaceful atmosphere with no traffic noise. The recreation area is approximately a 5-7 minute drive off the highway, providing a good balance between accessibility and tranquility.

What camping options are available at Red Bluff Recreation Area?

Red Bluff Recreation Area offers several camping options to suit different preferences. The campground has approximately 20-25 reservable sites that must be booked online. Some sites include water and electric hookups for $25, while non-hookup sites are available at a lower rate (approximately $8 per night with an Interagency Senior Pass). For overflow situations or when the main campground is full, visitors can boondock in the fisherman's boat loading area. The campground accepts cash payments, though all official sites should be reserved through the online reservation system.

What attractions and activities can visitors enjoy at Red Bluff Recreation Area?

Red Bluff Recreation Area offers several attractive features for visitors. The campground sits directly on the Sacramento River, providing opportunities for fishing, boating (with a boat loading area available), and water activities. The location boasts remarkably dark skies, making it excellent for stargazing and night photography. While the recreation area itself is peaceful and quiet despite its proximity to I-5, it also serves as a convenient base for exploring the broader Mendocino National Forest. The combination of riverside location, dark skies, and forest access makes it popular for both overnight stays and longer camping trips.

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