Mad River Campground sits on a bluff overlooking its namesake river, tucked into the forested mountains about two miles south of Ruth Lake. Most sites border the water, making this a solid pick for anglers targeting trout or families wanting easy lake access nearby.
Campground Details
- ⛺Type
- Developed
- 💵Fee per Night
- $12
- 📋Reservations
- First-Come, First-Served
- 📍GPS
- 40.40359, -123.46719
- 🌤️Best Seasons
- spring, fall
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- Yes
- 📞Phone
- 707-574-6233
- 🗺️Address
- CA
Amenities
The Camp
The campground spreads across a bluff above the Mad River, with most sites positioned right along the water. Tall Douglas fir trees shade portions of the camp, while oak trees and evergreen shrubs fill out the forest canopy. Sites accommodate both tents and RVs, each equipped with tables and fire rings.
The riverside setting works well for fishing directly from camp — the Mad River holds a variety of trout species. The sound of moving water provides natural background noise, though expect more company during peak fishing seasons.
What to Know
Sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis at $12 per night. The campground provides vault toilets and drinking water, covering the basics without frills. Spring and fall are the designated seasons, likely avoiding both summer heat and winter weather that can make these mountain roads challenging.
Information boards in the campground include maps and directions to Ruth Lake's marina, which saves fumbling around with phone service that may be spotty in these forested mountains.
Nearby
Ruth Lake spans 13,800 acres about three miles south of camp. The lake offers swimming, boating, and additional fishing opportunities, with a marina and boat ramp for easy access. This proximity gives campers options — river fishing from your site in the morning, lake activities in the afternoon.
The location puts you in Six Rivers National Forest territory, stretching 140 miles south from the Oregon border. While the famous Redwood Highway (U.S. 101) runs along the coast, this campground sits inland in the less-traveled forest interior.