The best forest campgrounds near Covelo, California

Forest camping in Covelo puts you right in the thick of Northern California’s wild side—think redwoods overhead, ferns underfoot, and trails that twist through quiet groves. You’ll find spots deep in the woods, close to swimming holes, or near creeks where the only noise is birdsong. Over 2,200 options offer just about any kind of forest experience, with prices averaging $80 a night but starting as low as $25. Top picks like Jug Handle Creek Farm (1,781 reviews), Mendocino Magic (397 reviews), and Baby Banana Slug Farm (382 reviews) keep campers coming back for the trails, wildlife, and easy access to swimming. Most sites allow campfires and pets, and many have showers—so you can clean up after a long hike or a dip in the river. If you want woods, wildlife, and the kind of quiet you can actually hear, Covelo’s forests deliver.

95% (8.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Campfire serenade at Jughandle Beach, just a short walk from our campsite

97%

(36)

87 sites · Leggett, California

Hike the Lost Coast and take in the ethereal beauty of this California state park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

11. Richardson Grove State Park

100%

(26)

228 sites · Benbow, California

Some of the most amazing redwoods in the world, plus the Eel River for water fun.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

12. Shasta-Trinity National Forest

93%

(137)

912 sites · Junction City, California

California’s largest national forest offers year-round outdoor adventures and diverse camping options.

Pets

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

South Facing Ridge With Views

97%

(526)

42mi from Covelo · 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."

Ariana Acres

94%

(69)

32mi from Covelo · 4 sites · Lodging · Willits, CA

Welcome to Ariana Acres 💛 💛 Conveniently located two hours north of San Francisco, and six minutes off the US 101. Our location is ideal for people traveling up and down this historic highway in search of a comfortable and peaceful night's rest. Golden Bowl is located at the far end of the property in its own private nook. Take the first driveway down the grade, and cross the seasonal creek. Follow the meandering path to your tent site. Golden Bowl is becoming a private resort destination. Equipped with a King Sealy Serta Mattress for ultimate sleep comfort. A new deck adjacent to Golden Bowl is home to a firepit, two outdoor lounge chairs, a propane grill, and outdoor kitchen. When the sun sets and hits the mountain at your camp, it looks like you are in a golden bowl. We welcome good stewards of the earth to come and enjoy this majestic mountain. Ariana Acres is located on Ridgewood Summitt, the highest mountain pass along this historic highway before descending into the town of Willits. Located at near 3000 feet elevation, the mountain air is brisk, clean and refreshing. Hiking trails surround you. Walk the ridge at sunset, or find a place to sit and watch it in awe and wonder. As we Fall into Winter, it's time for warm fires under the stars in the firepit, and in Golden Bowl tent. Golden Bowl has a cool coal stove inside with coal provided. We are so excited for this new edition, and experience into the past! Willits is named the heart of Mendocino County. Gateway to the Redwoods. This region is truly a hidden gem. The Skunk Train is world famous, and named one of the top 10 attractions in the United States by The NY Times. It's an open air steam locomotive, and it passes the world's largest Redwood tree. Guests at Ariana Acres receive a 50% discount! Whether you purchase tickets online, or in person. Ariana Acres is a place to come to feel away from it all, while only being a ten minute drive to town. You get the best of both worlds! Cheers to you hipcampers and many happy trails ahead 👣 😀

Many Moons Homestead

99%

(258)

48mi from Covelo · 3 sites · Lodging · Albion, CA

Situated on 2 acres, the old farmhouse, where our family lives is said to be one of the very oldest houses in Albion... built in 1865! When we got the place in 2018, it was in pretty bad disrepair and the land was a a jungle of brambles, holly bush, and tons of buried trash. Pregnant and feeling brave (also very naive), we dug into loving up the land and home. Here we are, nearly 6 years later, with 2 sweet little dudes climbing the old plum tree, a secret garden filled with all kinds of wild and cultivated edible and medicinal plants to enjoy. It makes our hearts really happy to care for this land and we love to share it with folks looking to slow down and connect with this beautiful place we get to call home. We view ourselves as just the current stewards of this beautiful place. This was home to the flora and fauna for hundreds of thousands of years before people, then home to the Pomo people for many generations, then a slew of immigrants and homesteaders, and now us. As our motto goes, This land, home, trees, and forest animals have been here for many moons before us; it's our greatest hope to be worthy stewards to ensure its health and vitality for many more.

Briceland Vineyards Ranch

92%

(60)

40mi from Covelo · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Redway, CA

Briceland Vineyards Ranch is 57 acres of oak woodlands 5.5 miles west from Redway Ca. on Briceland Thorn Road. This is the one road in and out of the lost coast and leads to Shelter Cove, about 15 miles west. This is about 15 miles to Avenue of the Giants as well. The property is the home of Briceland Vineyards, the first winery in Humboldt based on Humboldt grown grape and the most awarded winery in the county.

Lucky Penny Laytonville

99%

(183)

15mi from Covelo · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · Laytonville, CA

We've headed into our Winter season, so we are offering a discounted price to camp. However, due to the weather of the season. Outdoor kitchen and showers are closed for the season. Starting April 15th 2026 the kitchen and outdoor showers we'll be fully reopen for Spring. Outdoor camping made easy with a FULLY OUTFITTED OPEN AIR OUTDOOR KITCHEN and HOT SHOWERS (not available in the coldest times of the year when pipes freeze). Kitchen includes hot water sinks, refrigerator, stove, microwave, toaster oven, toaster, blender, espresso machine, coffee grinder and maker, dishes, utensils, pots and pans, knives, cutting boards, etc. If there's something you need and can't find it, we'll bring it out from our kitchen in the house. ALL YOU NEED TO BRING FOR MEALS IS THE FOOD. Limited grocery shopping in our little town; it's good to shop ahead. During June- August, fires MIGHT be allowed in the communal fire pit near the kitchen. You must ask the host!, No fires at your campsite June- August, Fires during cooler months are often allowed at your campsite, but you must ask the host if current conditions allow Fire MUST be completely extinguished before you go to sleep at night. Instructions are printed and at at each site as well as at the communal firepit. Firewood available for purchase. SMOKERS, please be super careful! Outlets to CHARGE YOUR PHONE and DEVICES at the Stage and in the kitchen. Fruit trees and gardens dot the property. Feel free to pick a piece of fruit. We almost always have organic fresh eggs from the chickens for sale, The Camp Store has a variety of items such as jam, organic veggies, flowers, etc. See the list on the fridge. We're in a wooded country neighborhood where lots of folks have dogs, so you might hear some barking and see some neighbors. Very occasionally we see a dog off leash. We ask that you keep your dogs on leash at all times, as we have cats and chickens. We encourage you to enjoy the forest, but do be aware that there is poison oak. If you don't know what it looks like we can show you. Arrive anytime after 1pm. Check out is at noon, but you can often stay later if we don't have other campers arriving to your site. If your plans change, just let us know at least 24 hours before check-in and you'll get a full refund.

swimming sanctuary

100%

(4)

27mi from Covelo · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging · Piercy, CA

very private mountain getaway. This is a very remote 40 acres. 1 hour of gravel road from highway 101, accessing up the bell springs road, Alternatively you can access this place from garberville Ca, it takes about 1 hour 15 minutes and is 1/2 paved and 1/2 gravel. This is not for hip campers wanting a quick stop while traveling the highway 101. This is the type of property you want to camp at for a couple of nights and enjoy the peace and quiet of nature and enjoy the 2 and a 1/2 million gallon pond full of life. 3800 Hansen ranch road, Piercy, Ca Piercy Ca 95454 There are several camp sites to choose from. Campers have use of the deck area with chairs and a table. Campers also have access to an electrical plug, and outside water faucet with hot and cold water. The pond is a huge living thing full of birds and dragon flies, and if your lucky you may get to see an otter family with babies.

Meadow Farm & Forest

98%

(232)

37mi from Covelo · 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.

Bigfoot’s Coastal Hideaway

80%

(109)

40mi from Covelo · 115 sites · Tents, RVs · Fort Bragg, CA

Retreat to the redwoods, and relax to the sounds of ravens and the babbling of a year round creek. We are located on the picturesque Mendocino coast just five minutes from highway one, and less than 10 minutes to Fort Bragg or the village of Mendocino. Enjoy 10 acres of family, pet and horse friendly land abundant with wildlife, huckleberries, rhododendrons, redwoods, and sunshine. Find a tire swing in the trees, or bring your chairs to the creek and splash around in the cool water with the kids and pups. We are surrounded by miles of trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding and foraging, and a quick drive to multiple breathtaking secluded beaches, state parks, old-growth redwoods, rivers, walking and biking trails and amenities. Enjoy kayaking, fishing, standup paddle boarding, whale watching, rail bikes, art galleries, wine tasting, and a lot more Porta potties and hot shower WiFi , water, and electricity available in some areas and campfires allowed in fire pits. Nearby you’ll find countless miles of hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails, ancient redwoods and Pygmy forests, secluded beaches, gorgeous state parks, and quaint towns. Kayaking, SUP, fishing, surfing, whale watching, wine tasting and tours, shopping, dining, galleries, restaurants, breweries, and bars are all minutes away. Whether it’s just you and your dog, or the whole family and all the kids, we have the perfect hideaway for you to set up camp and make yourself at home.

Public campgrounds near Covelo

92%

(13)

Eel River Campground

9.1mi from Covelo · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mendocino National Forest

Surveyors Camp Campground

15mi from Covelo · 3 sites · in Mendocino National Forest

Howard Meadows Campground

15mi from Covelo · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mendocino National Forest

Howard Lake Campground

15mi from Covelo · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mendocino National Forest

Little Doe Campground

16mi from Covelo · 13 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mendocino National Forest

Wells Cabin Campground

16mi from Covelo · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mendocino National Forest

Rock Cabin Trailhead

17mi from Covelo · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mendocino National Forest

Hammerhorn Campground

17mi from Covelo · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mendocino National Forest

Atchison Campground

18mi from Covelo · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mendocino National Forest

Sugar Spring Campground

18mi from Covelo · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mendocino National Forest

Green Springs Campground

21mi from Covelo · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · in Mendocino National Forest

Masterson Group Campground

22mi from Covelo · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Mendocino National Forest

Stories from the community

Cabin 5 is the largest of our cabins with a queen and bunked twins. It’s also taller than the others.

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Ujjwal

1 week ago

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Heartwood Mendocino

Definitely one of the best places I have stayed in a while!

E

Eden

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Ariana Acres

Even though the temps were a bit chilly at night, we stayed warm and comfortable! Kristina's communication was excellent and everything was as it was described. We ended up just getting dinner in town since it's so close and direct more time exploring the area.

S

Sherissa

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

Great place to camp! Clean restrooms, ample space, close to some great trails. We will definitely be back!

K

Kristen

3 weeks ago

4 ft travel trailer

With kids

3 nights at Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

Loved it all. Highly recommend. We will be back for sure.

M

Michael

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to spirit chicken ranch

Definitely recommend a 4x4 vehicle to get to the property. Have your directions downloaded before you pass the high school. Our Subaru was up for the task! The property is gorgeous and very secluded. We brought our 8 year old boy and dog. We were super lucky to have the entire camp site to ourselves the entire weekend. The temperature at night was almost freezing, so the sauna and shower made it much more tolerable. The sauna was by far the highlight of the trip for me besides being with my family unplugged! Epic stargazing at the point camp site. Having a kitchen to make a full meal for each meal was a luxury. The kitchen has everything you need to cook minus ingredients. Bring your own oil/spices etc. Also, pack out what you pack in. Meaning, there isn’t a garbage facility/ site dumpster. Also, there is really only 1 running toilet that we could find by the kitchen. I could see this being annoying in a large group setting, although having a toilet at all is a luxury when camping. If you’re a BBQ enthusiast, bring your own grill, there isn’t one to use on the property. Make sure to bring tick repellant/ check yourselves (especially dogs) regularly. We pulled a dozen off our dog and bodies. Highly recommend this spot for a weekend getaway! We loved it and will certainly be back, as a couple, as a family and with friends for sure!!

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Johnathon

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Root's End

Really loved staying here, the tiny cabin was clean and had all the amenities needed for a comfortable winter stay. The outhouse was clean and the firewood was provided. Location is relatively close to downtown which was also nice

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Citlali

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Heartwood Mendocino

We had a great time car camping with our dog at Heartwood this weekend. Beautiful site, with many handy amenities. The heated bathrooms were a lifesaver this chilly weekend, but we still took advantage of the redwood shower! It was great to chat with other campers and easy to drive out to explore beaches and hikes during the day, and run to Harvest Market if we needed anything. We will definitely come back again to camp or stay in a cabin.

S

Steve

3 weeks ago

With pets

3 nights at Heartwood Mendocino

A true gem in the forest of Mendocino. The attention to details and hospitality was amazing. The communal spaces are well thought out and create an almost hostel like experience. Being pet friendly was a huge plus. We can't wait to visit again!

Anna

3 weeks ago

3 nights at Baby Banana Slug Farm

Nathan was an incredible host and everything was better than we had imagined. This is a beautiful place and we had a great visit. Looking forward to coming back again!

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Patrick

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Waterfall Camp

We had an amazing thanksgiving weekend here. Shay and Liz have been amazing hosts. From firewood to string lights, everything is provided for an exceptional camping experience that still feels very connected to nature. We will definitely be back again. And the hot morning showers are a real treat.

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Nate

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

Great camp site. Bathrooms were the nicest and cleanest of any campground I've ever been to. Distance between sites was also nice--no one was too close

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Michele

3 weeks ago

Tent

4 nights at Jug Handle Creek Nature Center

Beautiful, spacious site! Quiet, great location. Will definitely stay here again!

Brandon & Marsha

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

4 nights at Waterfall Camp

Our recent stay at Shay and Liz’s Hipcamp in Mendocino County was, without question, the best Hipcamp experience we’ve ever had. From the moment we arrived, it was clear that they had thought of absolutely everything to make guests feel welcome, comfortable, and at home. Their warmth and hospitality set the tone, and the environment they’ve created is nothing short of magical, with unique artwork, beautiful plants, and thoughtful touches everywhere. Each site has its own outdoor kitchen, spacious tent pad, fire pit with chairs, blankets, and even firewood. Highlights included a hot shower among the redwoods, a trail from camp to a waterfall, and easy access to amazing beaches. The camp and nearby beaches were wonderfully dog‑friendly, and our son loved it so much he wrote a two‑page review in their guest book. We’ve already booked our return! Thanks again Shay and Liz!!

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Mel

3 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at Camp Miranda

great location! bathrooms were very nice. a little closer to the road than we hoped for but totally worth it

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bhavna

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Heartwood Mendocino

I loved the campsite. It’s amazing would definitely come back

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Hillary

3 weeks ago

With pets

3 nights at Baby Banana Slug Farm

I really enjoyed my time at Baby Banana Slug Farm! I stayed in the sunshine cabin and it was lovely, very cozy. I traveled on my own and I felt safe and comfortable the whole time.

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Christina

3 weeks ago

18 ft pop-up camper

2 nights at Root's End

Delightfully clean and private campground in the redwoods. The host was quick to communicate and respond to any needs. Very convenient to town while tucked away in a quiet and peaceful setting. We’ll be back.

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Fiona

3 weeks ago

16 ft pop-up camper

2 nights at spirit chicken ranch

A beautiful place to come in the fall. Weather was warm during the day the forest hikes and waterfall were beautiful. Having a bath house with a sauna was a real treat. Be prepared for the long dirt road up to the property. Lots of potholes, steep hills, and turns, you need daylight and patience.

A

Alden

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at South Facing Ridge With Views

Cosmo was a wonderful host who greeted me and oriented me to the features of the property. He even let me take a warm shower in his place. The site was beautiful with stunning views and trails all around the site to explore the property. It was a beautiful one night stay that I definitely recommend!

Rick

3 weeks ago

4 nights at Baby Banana Slug Farm

The Redwood Retreat cabin was again an amazing stay for my friends and I. It was nice and cozy and the beds were nice and comfy. We were able to cook all different kinds of stuff and had a great time exploring more of the area.