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Eel River Campground

In

Mendocino National Forest

·

92%

·

15 sites · RV, Tent

Located on the western slopes of the Mendocino National Forest, Eel River Campground lies at the junction of the Black Butte and the Middle Fork Eel Rivers. Sites are suitable for families, but just remember to pack out any trash. Life is good for everyone while splashing in swimming holes, breathing in the clean Northern California air, and watching the stars at night!

What this place offers

Campfire allowed

Pets allowed

No showers

Toilets

Potable water

Picnic tables

No sewage hookups

No electric hookups

First come, first served

RV, Tent

Explore 674 campgrounds near Mendocino National Forest

Available campgrounds nearby

Top-rated for location, privacy, and amenities near Mendocino National Forest

Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

50mi from Eel River Campground · 20 sites · Tents, RVs · Caspar, CA

Nestled on 33 acres of coastal meadows and forest, Jug Handle Creek Nature Center is a peaceful, nature-centered campground with a rich history and a truly unique landscape. Saved from development in the 1970s, Jug Handle now stands as a thriving nonprofit sanctuary dedicated to education, restoration, and connection with the natural world. Just a five-minute walk from Jug Handle State Reserve, Jug Handle Beach, and the renowned Ecological Staircase Trail - a rare geological formation that reveals 500,000 years of coastal history - you’ll find yourself immersed in one of Mendocino County’s most remarkable environments. We offer 11 spacious campsites, each with two picnic tables, a fire ring, parking for two vehicles, and plenty of room for tents. Spread out across open meadows and forest edges, the sites offer privacy, quiet, and the soothing sounds of nature. Explore on-site nature trails, a native plant nursery, and beautiful woodlands, or simply relax beneath the stars. A few important things to note: Due to the close proximity of neighboring livestock, as well as the bountiful wildlife that call this special place home, PETS ARE NO LONGER PERMITTED on the premises. Firewood is not provided, though there are several roadside stands nearby where it is available for purchase. You'll be pretty independent here. We provide self-check-in for your convenience. Directions and access information (including the bathroom code!) will be messaged to you prior to your stay.

Heartwood Mendocino

49mi from Eel River Campground · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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, camp sites and deluxe bath house. We have a great outdoor camp kitchen available for your use. The redwood tree shower must not be missed! 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 or a beach day 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!" Please remember that we are in the woods and there is wildlife around. We don't want them to get into your food items, and recommend that you place food items in the enclosed common room or in the critter proof cupboards in the outdoor kitchen.

Waterfall Camp

50mi from Eel River Campground · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Mendocino, CA

Welcome to Waterfall Camp. Fallow us on IG https://www.instagram.com/waterfallcampmendocino/ Come enjoy your stay with us on our beautiful 5-acre property centrally located, its only 10 min to the village of Mendocino, 5 minute drive to Caspar beach and 10 min to the town of Fort Bragg. Nestled on the edge of the Redwoods and Pygmy Forest, adjacent to Russian Gulch State Park. The property has private access into park which consists of many miles of beautiful Redwood trails,the trail to the waterfall, biking trails along with a trail that leads straight to the ocean. Come and relax around your private campfire and cook over the open flames or treat yourself to fine dining in Mendocino or Fort Bragg, the experience is at your fingertips. From camping under the stars to hiking and biking through the redwoods or kayaking up Big River, come let the Mendocino coast show you what it’s all about. Our goal is to make you feel right at home. Each of our three sites has a redwood deck with a sink and food prep space, potable water, remote solar lighting, picnic table, smokeless fire pit and grill, firewood, level parking area and tent pad. One of the three sites can accommodate a 25’ trailer. There is a beautiful redwood bathhouse with two outdoor showers and two flushing toilets. All water onsite is potable so make sure to top off before your day of adventuring. There is a horseshoe pit, cornhole, and badminton set for fun under the sun. All sites are a two min walk to the State Park trails and 5 min ride to Jackson state forest bike trails. It's about a half hour walk to the beautiful waterfall from our property. Large Groups are welcome to book all three sites with two additional RV locations. Also we have a fully stocked westfalia camper van to glamp in if your wanting to pack light for the weekend. We hope to make your stay with us a memorable and fun experience. Shay & Liz -

Mariposa Institute

47mi from Eel River Campground · 9 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Ukiah, CA

The land spans 115 acres of mixed oak woodlands with a seasonal creek running through it. Formerly an alternative school, the property features several unique buildings, including two indoor sleeping spaces (with a combination of single and bunk beds), a fully functional kitchen, and two full bathrooms. Guests can stay indoors or camp and will enjoy hiking to the upper meadow, dipping in the creek, and soaking in the peace and quiet.

Comptche Matrix @ Sunny-land

47mi from Eel River Campground · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging · Comptche, CA

Over the years, this town has attracted artists, musicians, writers and wine lovers from all over the world in search for inspiration. Here, you can explore Mendocino County's exquisite State Parks such as Montgomery Woods with giant redwoods (20 min drive). Orr Hot Springs (25 min), enjoy restaurants, coastal landscapes (Hwy 1 , 40 min away) , hiking trails along the headlands & beaches (40 min away), wineries (Anderson Valley 30 min) also hike the pygmy forests nearby in Little River. Fishing and whale watching too out of Ft. Bragg. Ca. Sunnyland is a VERY REMOTE AND RURAL location. We are an off grid solar homestead. Beautiful redwood grove campsites and views for miles. Stargazing and no light pollution. Meteor showers are the best here! Hiking trails all over the property, hundreds of different wild mushrooms. Bird watching, hearing ravens and hawks right here at our place making for an extra special vibe. We have two very friendly Great Pyrenees, 2 cats, 5 ducks and 10 chickens. Fresh farm eggs available. These animals are all located near the house, and not near the campsites. Directions: Please contact me for specific instructions on how to get here ahead of your arrival time. Feel free to reach out the day before for directions also. If you are coming from Ukiah, reach out to me there. Or if coming from the coast please reach out to me from Mendocino area since service is very unreliable shortly after both of those towns. Please check in before dark or contact me before for detailed directions. Drive slowly and respectfully for all neighbors and campers. Follow your Bliss.... Kids are absolutely welcome. CELL SERVICE IS SPOTTY. Wifi is available here up at the main house if needed. Water is available at the main house. Campsites are private.

South Facing Ridge With Views

47mi from Eel River Campground · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Comptche, CA

Surrounded by cooperate timberland, it feels like there are no neighbors! There is not a house in sight but the the ridge views seem to go on forever! - There is a simple latrine at each site. A full bath house with a flush toilet and hot shower is available next to the main house. A water spigot is attached to the main house. - Spare camping supplies are available by the bath house if you forget something! Ask ahead if you need to borrow a specific item. More about the property: I built my home high upon a southern ridge. Watching the river of coastal fog flow in and out below me is one of the most wonderful views to behold! I have 30 acres of land to explore and camp upon in the surrounding redwood forest. 10 miles east are Montgomery Woods redwood preserve with GIANT trees, and a little farther, perhaps a mile is the famous Orr Hot Springs Resort. If you drive a half hour west from my land you will be in the coastal Mendocino village. We are marijuana friendly!! Thus, we have created more of an adult oriented atmosphere. one last note: We recently made separate listings for different sites. See campsite #1 for reviews.Guests love staying here "What a fantastic experience. I arrived to Cosmo’s super late after a long day going up the coast. It was a last minute book that morning, if I remember right - my campsite had fallen through. His directions were spot on, and very kindly he stayed up to take me to my site and help me get set up, even going so far as to light me a fire. His property was easily navigable in the dark, and my two wheel drive made it fine. We talked for a while - what a cool guy. He was able to give me recommendations from a friend of what to do during the next legs of my trip, which was great and really did make a difference for the rest of my week. I cooked my dinner and sat stunned looking at some of the best stargazing I’ve had in a long time.When I woke up I realized that I had been sleeping next to a mountainside view - this was site 3. Talk about the best surprise I’ve gotten in a while unzipping a tent. The clouds were gathered in the valley and as I ate breakfast I got to watch the sun slowly clear then out. It was unbelievable.Before I left, Cosmo let me use his indoor solar-heated shower and told me all about his projects to build his own home and roads and move towards a more sustainable future. Overall this is really the best of what I imagine hipcamp has to offer - kind property owners & unique individuals who care about their guests while also allowing them to have their own experience. If I’m ever near Mendocino I will gladly make the trip inland to stay at his property again."

spirit chicken ranch

49mi from Eel River Campground · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · 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!

Camp Miranda

48mi from Eel River Campground · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Miranda, CA

Nestled in a cozy neighborhood among towering redwoods, a base camp for the Avenue of the Giants. We offer secluded campsites located on our working homestead, adjacent to our orchard with dozens of established fruit and nut trees. Our farm stand is on site with in season food grown in our garden and fresh press cider daily in late summer/fall. Enjoy easy access to the nearby State Park Stephens Grove Trail Loop and the South Fork Eel River is a 3 minute drive down the Avenue of the Giants. Take a short stroll from camp into the charming town of Miranda. Discover a variety of delicious dining options and a cozy coffee shop with breakfast options, gas station with grocery items and Post Office. On-site amenities include 2 private completely remodeled restrooms for the 2025 season, with hot showers and flush toilets. Our campsites are spacious with roughly 30-50 feet between sites. Forest bathe amongst the Redwoods, Tanoaks, and Dogwood Trees, after exploring the near by State Park and river.

Meadow Farm & Forest

45mi from Eel River Campground · 9 sites · RVs, Lodging · Fort Bragg, CA

Meadow Farm is a quiet and creative sanctuary surrounded by the forest. The ocean breezes freshen the air and the pulse of the planet is heard as the surf sounds travel to put us to rest at night.. We are a place for people experimenting with the new old ways to live with low impact and conservation of our precious resources. We offer affordable accommodations, organic gardening, and education on plants and living simply. We welcome your interest in veganic garden and diet, orchards, and forest trails. Our organic vegetables and fruit may be available if you wish to bring some of our farm to your table. We can offer you a quiet and peaceful place without social pressures if you wish to "decompress" from city life, jobs or any stressful times. Or come to the communal fire near the bathhouse for sharing some time with family and the few other campers that may be there. Bringing your own wood is welcome. The coastal bike and hike trails are many. From South of Ft Bragg to the Sand Dunes near Ward Ave. you can travel over 7 miles one way and go down to quiet little beach coves along the way. Meadow Farm is a nonprofit 501c3 with goals of coastal food security, disaster preparation and sheltering, carbon sequestering and forest restoration. We offer native plant tours on or off site with advance notice. We like our dog companions! Two McNab collies, Moxie and Shama live here and may bark at first...still very friendly and social with people and other dogs.. There are several dog friendly off-leash areas such as, Noyo North Harbor Beach, Seaside Beach and dog parks in both Ft Bragg and Mendocino. Our farm is dog friendly tho we wish pets to be kept close, must be neutered and friendly to other dogs and people. Please be sure to bury or bag the waste. Speaking of waste, Meadow Farm strives to reduce waste by avoiding plastic as much as possible, recycling what we can and composting our veggie scraps. Please bring your own waste receptacles and take them along when you go. We take ours to the Caspar Transfer Station which is open Saturday through Wednesday... the location and hours can be found online. Our water is from a deep well and we periodically test it for bacteria. It is cold and delicious. Our irrigation pipes that have spigots and hoses at each camp are safe for drinking, cooking and cleaning Our solar pump moves water into storage tanks that provide all the water to the farm. It is very important that the water valves on your camp spigot is turned off (gently please) to avoid losing 2500 gallons of water in a short time. If you see a leak or break in a line please contact us immediately. There are also water shut offs for the camps on the west side of the Farm House if you are unable to reach us right away.. When doing dishes we request that you use the strainer to catch food particles from the dish water and toss them in your trash or compost bucket. If you have vegetable waste let us know and we can pick them up for adding to the worm bins or composting piles. We make worm "tea" fertilizer and rich soil from these offerings. No animal products or oil please... a few egg shells are okay. We do have the usual wildlife though we haven't had problems with them. Ravens will raid your camp if food or bags are left out while you are away. From dusk to dawn keep children and pets close. We coexist well here with the critters...and glad to have them. Wishing you a very peaceful and soul refreshing stay at Meadow Farm. Come and allow this natural setting to heal and restore your sense of well-being.

Websters Farm

45mi from Eel River Campground · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Orland, CA

My dad bought the farm in 1974 and it used to be a working dairy and sheep farm. My dad passed away while cutting our 6 acre oat field on mothers day 2003, our little farm started to break down. We have been working on it to bring it back to life and I hope to have it up and running strong again. Sadly I just lost my mother on Aug 6th and my father Aug 13th. Alot of loss but hopefully i can have a garden soon to offer more options for our guests. Learn more about this land: Our farm is 3miles west of town within 10 miles to Black Butte lake for fishing, boating, hiking, and even disk golf. Right off of I-5 by a Pilot travel center. 4496 county road DD and also shows as Orange grove ave on some GPS maps. Public pool 3miles(1pm-5pm, water arobics Tue and Thur 6-7pm $2, family night Tue and Thur 730-9pm June-Aug) as well as shopping and dining within 3miles. Great sunset and area to roam for a bike ride or walk in the country in our little hick town with only about 8000 population. It is very likely you will hear animals so if your a light sleeper you may want ear plugs. Chickens crow and roam, cows bellow from all sides, and dogs bark and welcome guests. No trespassing signs are for hunters and people that DO NOT have permission to be here. Driveway is rough and we are working on getting it fixed asap so please take your time coming up. There is FIELD roaches you may see soon after we irrigate, they are bigger then the nasty cockroach but harmless. The wind can be rough at times up here on our lil hill so be prepared with extra rope to tie down and secure if your in a tent, also park vehicle to help block from wind and driveway. It does get up into the high 100°s here during the summer so it would be good to have shade or plan to keep cool during the hottest parts of the day. The toilet is a outhouse with solar lights and does not flush, there is shavings to drop when done. Longer stays are best done at sites 4 and 5 further from the driveway. Quick stops just to sleep are best at 1 and 2. Rainy weather only sites 5, 6 and 1 are usable sadly.

Otter Valley Farm

49mi from Eel River Campground · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Comptche, CA

Otter Valley Farm sits in a sunny valley cradled by redwood forest. Across the valley from camp we run a small farm with a menagerie of animals. In spring and summer, we enjoy many warm sunny days, with occasional foggy mornings. Relax at camp, in the meadow or enjoy many nearby activities for kids and adults alike. Just 2.5 hours north of the Bay Area, the farm is near many hiking trails amongst the world's tallest trees. We are a 30 min drive to the town of Mendocino and the treasures of the North Coast, including majestic beaches, fresh fish, whale watching, paddle boarding, kayaking, surfing, hiking, hot springs etc. A drive of equal distance inland will take you to Anderson Valley, home of Hendy Woods State Park and a mecca for cider and wine tasting. Meadow Car Camp: Park a car or bring your van, RV, camper, or trailer to this serene spot in the open sunny meadow next to the redwoods. RV’s and campers must be self-sufficient. No hookups available and no generators allowed. Redwood Walk-In Tent Sites: Pitch your tent in the serenity of the towering redwoods looking out onto the sunny peaceful meadow. Redwood camp is situated in a grove of redwoods containing multiple tent sites. These are walk-in sites with easy unloading, no more than 50 feet from your car. Tent campers must park in the parking area between the sign board and porta-potty. There is a communal area for all campers with a water spigot, picnic table/bear box, and porta-potty near our info signboard and parking area. Be advised that this is a working farm and there is an echo in the valley. While it is peacefully quiet most of the time, you may hear some daytime farm activity. We also have a guard dog who moves around with our flock of sheep and goats who barks regularly after dark and when she perceives a potential predator. **There is no cell service on or within 15 minutes of our property. Wifi and a landline phone are available to campers in case of emergencies. **Pets must be kept on a leash at all times! For the safety of everyone including your pets, our dogs, and the various livestock on the farm, we can't allow any pets off leash.

Shangri-La

29mi from Eel River Campground · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging · 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*******.

More to explore nearby

92%

13 ratings · 2 reviews

Mixed feelings

· September 2025

Pretty unorganized. I didn’t really care I just used it as a place to crash after hiking in the redwoods. If your looking for twenty minutes away and you don’t really care about amenities sure

K

Kory B.

5 reviews

December 2016

Beautiful location above the Eel River right on the edge of the Mendocino National Forrest. I would stay here to break up a drive but consider there to be nicer more secluded campsites deeper in the forrest.

Gregory B.

9 years on Hipcamp

LocationEel River Campground, Mendocino National Forest, California, United States

Is anything missing?Suggest edits to improve this listing for fellow campers.

What this place offers

Campfire allowed

Pets allowed

No showers

Toilets

Potable water

Picnic tables

No sewage hookups

No electric hookups

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