14
Total Campsites
Campground
—
Reservable Sites
Mostly first-come
—
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About FIR COVE CAMPGROUND
Overview Fir Cove Campground is located on beautiful eastern shore of Ruth Lake, a 13,800-acre jewel situated in the thickly forested mountains of northern California. A variety of recreational opportunities abound. Fir Cove is one of three Forest Service campgrounds in the area, and one of two on the lake. Bailey Canyon Campground is the companion to Fir Cove. It is located east of Fir Cove and is first-come, first-serve. Recreation The lake provides boating, water skiing, fishing and countless other recreation opportunities. Anglers can enjoy a catch of small and largemouth bass, catfish, rainbow trout, Kokonee salmon, bluegill and crappie. Forested peaks and valleys offer ample opportunities for hunting, hiking and off-road vehicle use. The Bailey Vista and Lakeview Trailheads start from Fir Cove, and the Picket Peak Trailhead starts from Bailey Canyon. Facilities The lake provides boating, water skiing, fishing and countless other recreation opportunities. Anglers can enjoy a catch of small and largemouth bass, catfish, rainbow trout, Kokonee salmon, bluegill and crappie. Forested peaks and valleys offer ample opportunities for hunting, hiking and off-road vehicle use. The Bailey Vista and Lakeview Trailheads start from Fir Cove, and the Picket Peak Trailhead starts from Bailey Canyon. Natural Features The campground straddles a seasonal creek that empties into Ruth Lake. It is nestled in a mixture of mature Douglas fir, oak, pine and cedar trees at an elevation of about 2,700 feet. The Six Rivers National Forest lies east of Eureka in northwestern California, stretching southward from the Oregon border for about 140 miles. U.S. 101, the famed "Redwood Highway," parallels the inland Forest along the coastline. The Forest is just east of the Redwood National Park.
- 14 total campsites listed.
- Primarily first-come camping based on current listing data.
- Most common site type: unknown (14).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.
Our Take
What makes FIR COVE CAMPGROUND special
Tucked along the forested shoreline of Ruth Lake in the rugged mountains of Northern California, Fir Cove Campground offers a peaceful retreat far removed from the bustle of everyday life. Towering fir and pine trees frame each site, providing generous shade and a sense of seclusion that draws campers back year after year. The lake itself is the main attraction, with calm waters ideal for kayaking, canoeing, swimming, and fishing for bass and trout. A short walk from camp puts you at the water's edge, where mornings begin with mist rising off the surface and evenings close with sunsets painting the ridgeline in amber and violet. Hiking trails wind through the surrounding Six Rivers National Forest, revealing wildflower meadows and panoramic views of the Trinity Alps region. Summer and early fall deliver the warmest weather and best lake conditions, though spring visitors are rewarded with lush green hillsides and fewer crowds. Fir Cove is a wonderful choice for families seeking lakeside fun, anglers chasing a quiet bite, and couples looking for a romantic woodland escape in one of California's most underrated mountain settings.
Campsite Inventory
14 sites to choose from
Unknown
0
Reservable
0
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
Accessibility
Yes
BBQ
Yes
Campfire Allowed
Yes
Site capacity
Single
Check-out time
2:00 PM
Condition Rating
Good, Prime
Driveway entry
Back-In
Driveway Grade
Slight
Driveway length (ft)
20, 25, 30, 35
Driveway surface
Gravel
Grills/Fire Ring
Yes
Location Rating
Good, Prime
Max guests
8
Max vehicle length (ft)
15, 20, 25, 30
Minimum guests
Yes
Pets allowed
Yes
Picnic Table
Yes
Privacy
Yes
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
707-574-6233
angeliquerussell@fs.fed.us
Getting There
From Highway 101 When traveling north on Highway 101, do not turn off at the Zenia Road exit at Garberville. This will result in a 2-hour delay driving on winding back roads. Instead, continue north until you reach the Hwy 36 exit near Fortuna. Head east for approximately an hour until you reach the town of Mad River. After you cross the bridge at the Mad River, look for the Mad River Road turn-off on the right. The sign will say Ruth Lake. Continue for 20 minutes to reach Fir Cove campground. From Highway 5 Head west on Highway 36 at Red Bluff for 2 hours until you see the sign for Ruth Lake at Mad River Road.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to FIR COVE CAMPGROUND.
How do reservations work for FIR COVE CAMPGROUND?
Reservation availability for FIR COVE CAMPGROUND can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at FIR COVE CAMPGROUND?
FIR COVE CAMPGROUND currently lists Unknown (14).
Where is FIR COVE CAMPGROUND located?
FIR COVE CAMPGROUND is in California near Bridgeville. Coordinates: 40.3442, -123.4030.
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