Camping near Mendocino Lake

83% (16 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Mendocino Lake adventure.

Discover the diverse allure of Lake Mendocino, a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Mendocino Lake

Book externally

Public campgrounds in the park
Book externally

Stay at a public campground in Mendocino Lake

Chekaka Recreation Area and Campground (Lake Mendocino)

16 sites · RVs, Tents In Mendocino Lake

89%

(9)

Bushay Recreation Area and Campground

137 sites · RVs, Tents In Mendocino Lake

88%

(6)

Kyen Campground

101 sites · RVs, Tents In Mendocino Lake

Miti Boat-In Campground

16 sites In Mendocino Lake

from

/ night

Top-rated campgrounds near Mendocino Lake

95%

(206)

Forest Ocean Retreat

3 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · CA

Tree studded campsites with large view of the ocean. Not far off Hwy 1. Many beaches to choose from a few miles away. Close to Anchor Bay, Gualala and Point Arena. Large secluded sites with picnic tables and plenty of room to pitch a tent. Porta potty and potable water available. Great place to get away. Please note ticks are always prevalent on the coast and Spring time there are more of them please make sure you and your dog are protected.

97%

(462)

Shangri-La

8 sites · Lodging, Tents100 acres · Upper Lake, CA

For 21 years, we have worked on keeping this property as a Sacred Space. There's a meadow with an Indian artifact and amazing views. We are a team, husband and wife, this is off-the-grid and we raise our children here. At the same time, we grow organic food and work on our crafts and spiritual practice, never using chemical fertilizers, and keeping all of the groundwater clear and clean with an abundance of spring water for drinking. This is a magical forest retreat and we love to share it with others who are like-minded. Right out of the Mendocino National Forest, 100-Acre Forest and Meadow Retreat is just minutes to the Eel River out of the small town of Potter Valley and 15 minutes to Lake Pillsbury. Private views, fresh spring water and endless possibilities. *******We also recommend that you have AWD or 4x4 vehicle, as the road is dirt coming in and the campsite are up the mountain off of a dirt road*******We have 2 campsites currently with fresh spring water, and fire pits. Private and in the woods. Lots of hiking on the land, with stunning views. Bring your own tent, hammock, food whatever you need to be a happy camper!! In the spring of 2019 we added in 2 new yurt sites, with soaking tubs, filled with hot spring water. We have 2 campsites to book for regular camping tents and we just added a community bathroom . Nestled away in the forest very private queen size bed natural spring water for soaking in the tub on your porch. In addition for comfort and convenience we have a nice bathroom with hand-washing station. Each yurt can come with propane heat in winter time you need to request it, in the Extras. making it cozy all year long. *******We also recommend that you have AWD or 4x4 vehicle, as the road is dirt coming in and the campsite are up the mountain off of a dirt road*******.

98%

(90)

spirit chicken ranch

7 sites · RVs, Tents130 acres · Ukiah, CA

Our property boasts year round creeks, waterfalls, swimming holes, Madrones, Oaks, Douglas firs and manzanitas. Wild horses roam the land as well as the occasional mountain lion and black bear. On the human end we have an ancient walnut grove as well as many fruit trees two small ponds all in total privacy at the very end of the road. We also have a Sauna and outdoor bathtub and shower available for use. We are out a 9 mile dirt road and a 4X4 or all wheel drive vehicle is highly recommended. Ask me about booking the whole place for a private event!

97%

(94)

Nelson Family Vineyards

7 sites · RVs200 acres · Ukiah, CA

For 70 years the Nelson family has been farming vineyards and attracting people every year to the beautiful region of Hopland. It is truly a family affair as each generation has put in their time and energy, infusing this ranch with their own flair. In 1951 Herman and Clara Nelson sold their ranch in what is now Silicon Valley and headed north, landing in Southern Mendocino County near the town of Hopland. Since then the mature prune orchards and grass-fed sheep that dotted the farm’s rolling hills have given way to an abundance of sustainable vineyards as well as Bartlett pears, an olive orchard, and live Christmas Trees. You will be staying on a working ranch, vineyards, and winery. We have several locations but none of them have hookups at this time. We have vineyard views and oak woodlands and hilltop valley views. We host weddings and other events. We have a tasting room and a redwood picnic area. We are the fourth owners of this property. The ranch has produced hops, prunes, pears, wine grapes, sheep, and cattle at different periods. Currently, we grow pears, grapes, strawberries, and Christmas trees.

100%

(11)

EL EL Cool Ranch

1 site · Lodging80 acres · Ukiah, CA

Welcome to our majestic homestead nestled on 80 acres of pristine wilderness, up a private secluded road just outside of Ukiah. Situated off Highway 253 towards Booneville, our enchanting retreat offers a sanctuary for nature lovers and adventurers alike. In the winter months, the landscape transforms into a winter wonderland, with streams, creeks, and waterfalls cascading through the lush forests. Lichen adorns the trees, while curious newts explore their surroundings. It's a magical time to reconnect with nature and marvel at the beauty of the season. As the temperatures rise in the summer, our homestead comes alive with vibrant gardens bursting with vegetables and flowers, fruit trees in bloom, and a tranquil pond offers the perfect spot for a dip. Keep an eye out for the unique wild ponies that call this valley home, adding to the allure of the landscape. Explore hiking trails that wind through the property, offering glimpses of wildlife and breathtaking vistas at every turn. Nearby rivers and creeks beckon for swimming, while the majestic redwoods and stunning coastline are just a short drive away. Our dome, a true architectural gem, provides a once-in-a-lifetime experience for guests. With its remarkable acoustics, it's the perfect setting for yoga sessions, writing retreats, or simply soaking in the serenity of the surroundings. In the colder months, cozy up next to the wood stove and indulge in a hot bath while a pot of soup simmers on the stove. Accessible via a well-maintained gravel and dirt road, our homestead offers a secluded escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Please note that AWD/4WD is required during the winter months to navigate the terrain safely. Whether you're seeking solitude and reflection or adventure and exploration, our majestic homestead offers something for everyone. We invite you to experience the magic of our sanctuary and create memories that will last a lifetime. Welcome home.

63%

(4)

Blue Lakes Village

20 sites · RVs2 acres · Upper Lake, CA

Recently renovated and under new management. Our team is consistently adding special touches throughout the property. Welcome to Blue Lakes Village - the coziest RV park in the Northern California Trees! Our RV park is a quiet, well shaded, carefully curated space that prioritizes relaxation. Kick up your feet, you deserve this vacation! Available for camper use we have: a private beach/dock, WiFi, restroom/shower, mini wash n' dry, fully-fenced dog park, camping games (during the warm season), patio space reserved for campers, and a budding community garden. Our beach offers stunning views of Upper Blue Lake. Use the private dock to jump in the refreshing water, launch your kayak, chill out on a floaty, or cast a line and reel 'em in! And across the street is Blue Lakes Road - this stretch is a couple miles worth of scenic country road, great for a hike, jog, or bike ride. There is plenty to do if you take a short drive into town. Ask our staff about other nearby small-town gems!

98%

(489)

Baby Banana Slug Farm

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Albion, CA

Once an ancient Redwood grove full of mature redwood trees towering 250 feet in the air, This is a beautiful piece of property, very private, with an old growth Redwood snag still remaining and 30 foot diameter re-sprouted Redwood fairy rings. it has its own private entrance.In the redwood forest, lots of trees and other vegetation. Good wildlife watching area. 4 miles from the ocean. Campsites have own access point. Pack it in, pack it out. Please be respectful of neighbors and land around you.2 sites available - both with potable water, and area for campfires (outside of any burn ban), and toilet access. Firewood available for fee. Pets allowed.Guests love staying here: "This was such a treat. Nathan was a responsive, present host--made sure we had all of the wood we wanted. We were tucked away in the woods with great amenities... bathroom included. There is a beautiful tree on the campsite that made the whole experience magical. And my pup was free to run and around and bring me sticks. I will definitely come back again!"

100%

(153)

CAMPFIRE!

4 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Mendocino, CA

Come make yourself at home on our beautiful 10 acre property just up the road from the town of Mendocino. This site is only a 5 min drive to town, so it’s close to the beach, river access and local restaurants and shops.. Walk through the redwoods or enjoy the sunshine, the property offers a bit of it all! All we ask is that you make yourself at home!

96%

(4791)

Jug Handle Creek Farm

20 sites · RVs, Tents33 acres · Caspar, CA

Jug Handle Creek Farm and Nature Center is a nonprofit with a five minute walk to Jug Handle State Reserve, Jug Handle beach and the Ecological Staircase trail. We offer 11 unique campsites with plenty of space and privacy. Each site has two picnic tables, a fire ring, parking for two cars and plenty of space for your tents. We also offer three lovely cabins, which have power and access to a shared kitchen and bathroom with a hot shower. Our 33 acres include a native plant nursery, community gardens, forests, meadows, and nature trails. Our site has lots of nature trails, is peaceful and beautiful and just a 5-minute walk to Jug Handle Beach and the Jug Handle Preserve. Our Mission: We offer a welcoming and supportive environment for people of all backgrounds to explore nature and connect with the natural word. Nature stewardship is central to our non-profit mission and as an organization we are engaged in many nature restoration projects throughout Mendocino County. We also provide a supportive learning environment for nature education for disadvantaged youth during the school year. If you teach k-12 and would like to bring your classroom to Jug Handle contact us about special rates and our immersive nature education programs.

97%

(119)

Root's End

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents4 acres · Mendocino, CA

Nearly four acres close to town and amenities, yet quiet and secluded. Away from any major roads and on quiet nights, the fog horn from the Big River buoy can be heard. Wildlife on the property include piliated woodpeckers, deer, raccoons, jack rabbits, bears (keep your trash and food inside!), mountain lions, foxes, and of course, our resident ravens. Wild huckleberries and rhododendrons are abundant among the redwoods and fir. A beautiful spot to spend the night!

99%

(310)

Heartwood Mendocino

6 sites · Lodging40 acres · Mendocino, CA

Our property is just minutes from Mendocino's beaches, parks and sweet town, yet private and quiet as it is surrounded by 50,000 acre state forest with world class hiking and biking trails directly accessed from our place. Around the giant redwoods and meadows we have sprinkled in the most amazing little cabins and deluxe bath house. We have a great outdoor camp kitchen available for your use. This is a very special experience for us to share with you. We are a family of campers. We agree, there's nothing better than a rest in a hammock following a hike and a river swim and a night under the stars without the constant dinging of cell and internet! Guests love staying here: "Such a lovely getaway! Our family of four and little dog thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Heartwood. The cabins are great, with comfortable (warm) beds, very clean and cozy. It’s well worth the visit even in the winter! Really appreciated being outdoors surrounded by Redwoods, hiking the trails around the property, the modern bathrooms with hot showers, and the indoor sitting area to make coffee in the mornings. Our stay was relaxing, memorable and special!"

99%

(71)

Glynraven Gardens

7 sites · Lodging, Tents100 acres · Hopland, CA

This is a fully operational legal cannabis farm in the mountains of Mendocino County, overlooking beautiful wine country. There are 5 full time residents living and caring for the farm that also includes an organic fruit orchard and veggie garden. The owner, Antler bought the property 18 years ago, and has lived full time her for 10 years. Antler has a vision for this communal farm to be a place for artists and others to come and create freely. As you explore this property you will see where his vision has come into play with many artists leaving their mark on this beautiful land in many forms. If you're looking to be inspired and get away from the usual and mundane... then this is the place to come. Many people have said this land holds some kind of special magic and there isn't anything like it. Antler is always excited to share the story of this land, so feel free to ask questions when you see him around!

The best camping near Mendocino Lake guide

Overview

About

From the redwood forests to wine country, 1,822-acre Mendocino Lake was made for you and me. It’s formed by the Coyote Dam on the Russian River and flanked with groves of oak mixed in with manzanita and pines.

There are ample boating, swimming and water skiing opportunities and fish folk will find sunfish, bass, crappie, catfish and perch angling their lines. If you believe that not all those who wander are lost, there are several miles of trails around the lake including 7-mile Kaweyo Trail, which is open to hiking and horseback riding and makes for some handsome views of the lake. Year-round camping and picnicking are also park pastimes.

Notable campgrounds

Bushay Campground: A family favorite with easy lake access and ample amenities for a comfortable stay.
Kyen Campground: Nestled between lush landscapes, offering serene spots for both relaxation and recreation.
Chekaka Campground: Ideal for those seeking tranquility, with beautiful views and access to hiking trails.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early to secure your spot, as sites fill up quickly, especially during peak season.
Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter experience.
Keep an eye on cancellations for last-minute opportunities.
Explore nearby camping options for alternative accommodations when the park is full.

When to go

The best time to visit Lake Mendocino is during the fall, winter, and spring months when wildlife is abundant and the landscape is vibrant. Summer offers the warmest weather for water activities, though it's also the busiest season.

Know before you go

Check for any park closures or special advisories before your trip.
Be prepared for wildlife encounters and know how to stay safe.
Accessibility varies across areas, so plan according to your needs.
Facilities include restrooms and picnic areas, but always pack essentials.
Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the park's natural beauty.