
35
Total Campsites
Campground
—
Reservable Sites
Mostly first-come
7
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About MAD RIVER CAMPGROUND
Overview Mad River Campground is located on banks of its namesake river, about two miles south of Ruth Lake in the thickly forested mountains of northern California. Recreation Fishing is a popular activity and anglers can expect to catch a variety of trout in the Mad River. Nearby Ruth Lake is open for boating, swimming and other water-related activities. A marina and boat ramp are available for easy lake access, and maps and directions to the marina are located on the information boards in the campground. Facilities Fishing is a popular activity and anglers can expect to catch a variety of trout in the Mad River. Nearby Ruth Lake is open for boating, swimming and other water-related activities. A marina and boat ramp are available for easy lake access, and maps and directions to the marina are located on the information boards in the campground. Natural Features The campground is situated on a bluff overlooking the river among a forested area of oak trees and evergreen shrubs. Portions of the campground are capped with tall Douglas fir trees, providing ample shade. 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. Nearby Attractions The 13,800-acre Ruth Lake is about three miles south of the campground.
- 35 total campsites listed.
- Primarily first-come camping based on current listing data.
- 7 accessible campsites listed.
- Most common site type: standard nonelectric (35).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.


Campsite Inventory
35 sites to choose from
STANDARD NONELECTRIC
0
Reservable
7
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
Accessibility
Yes
Campfire Allowed
Yes
Site capacity
Single
Check-in time
2:00 PM
Check-out time
2:00 PM
Condition Rating
Good
Driveway entry
Back-In, Pull-Through
Driveway length (ft)
100, 20, 21, 23
Driveway surface
Gravel
Grills/Fire Ring
Yes
Max guests
8
Max vehicle length (ft)
15, 18, 19, 20
Minimum guests
Yes
Pets allowed
Yes
Picnic Table
Yes
Privacy
Yes
Proximity to Water
Riverfront
Quiet Area
Yes
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
707-574-6233
angeliquerussell@fs.fed.us
Getting There
When traveling north on Hwy 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. Turn right, heading 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 10 minutes to reach the Mad River Campground. If traveling on Interstate 5, turn at Hwy 36 at Red Bluff and head west 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 MAD RIVER CAMPGROUND.
How do reservations work for MAD RIVER CAMPGROUND?
Reservation availability for MAD RIVER CAMPGROUND can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at MAD RIVER CAMPGROUND?
MAD RIVER CAMPGROUND currently lists STANDARD NONELECTRIC (35).
Where is MAD RIVER CAMPGROUND located?
MAD RIVER CAMPGROUND is in California near Bridgeville. Coordinates: 40.4036, -123.4672.
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