Eel River Campground
4.009 reviewsEel River Campground
$8.00 - $8.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$8.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Overnight use fee is $8 per night for a single campsite. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount to single campsites only, applicable only on the fee for the campsite occupied by the pass holder. Payment is accepted via cash or check.
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About this campground
Perched dramatically on a bluff above the rushing waters of the Middle Fork Eel River, this intimate seasonal retreat offers an authentic wilderness experience in the heart of Mendocino National Forest. Magnificent oak canopies create natural cathedral ceilings overhead, where ancient valley oaks mingle with evergreen live oaks, while madrone trees display their distinctive cinnamon-red bark. From your campsite, you'll enjoy privileged access to two of California's most pristine waterways—the National Wild and Scenic Black Butte and Middle Fork Eel Rivers. Though the Eel River Work Center sits conveniently nearby, the campground maintains its secluded charm. Visitors should note that poison oak thrives throughout the area, adding to the authentic California wilderness experience.
Eel River Campground offers basic camping options with no RV hookups or tent pads. There are 15 combined sites that can be used for either tent or small RV camping.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at this living piece of American history, where the legacy of the Civilian Conservation Corps lives on in the handcrafted stone bases supporting the campground's pedestal grills—enduring monuments to the young men who helped build America's outdoor recreation infrastructure during the 1930s. The adjacent National Historic Eel River Ranger Station stands as a testament to decades of forest stewardship. This hallowed ground holds even deeper secrets, as archaeological treasures lie protected beneath the soil, making this an officially designated sensitive site where the ancient past meets the present. Visitors are reminded that digging is strictly prohibited to preserve these irreplaceable cultural resources.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings warm, golden days perfect for river adventures and starlit evenings around the campfire. As autumn arrives and temperatures drop, the campground prepares for its winter slumber—water systems are winterized in late fall to protect against freezing mountain temperatures. Plan your visit during the prime camping months when the Mediterranean climate showcases why Northern California summers are legendary among outdoor enthusiasts.
ElevationAt 1,500 feet above sea level, the campground occupies a sweet spot in the California mountains—high enough to escape the valley heat, yet low enough to remain accessible and comfortable throughout the camping season. This moderate elevation creates the perfect microclimate where oak woodlands flourish and cool river breezes provide natural air conditioning on warm summer afternoons.
Natural Features and SceneryNature's artistry unfolds in every direction from this bluff-top sanctuary, where a diverse tapestry of California native trees creates an ever-changing display of colors and textures. Majestic valley oaks spread their gnarled branches alongside the dark-leafed canyon live oaks, while distinctive black oaks add their own character to the forest mosaic. Pacific madrones paint striking red brushstrokes against the green canvas, their smooth bark peeling to reveal fresh copper tones beneath. Buckeye trees burst with creamy flower spikes in spring, while scattered pines and hardy manzanita shrubs complete this quintessential Northern California landscape. Below, the Middle Fork Eel River carves its ancient path through the canyon, its voice a constant companion to your camping experience.
Geological RegionThis remarkable bluff-top setting tells a geological story millions of years in the making, where the persistent Middle Fork Eel River has carved deep into the Mendocino National Forest landscape. The campground's elevated position offers a front-row seat to this ongoing natural sculpture, surrounded by the signature oak woodlands that define this region—from the massive Valley oaks that can live for centuries to the evergreen Canyon Live oaks that maintain their verdant canopy year-round. Hardy manzanita shrubs grip the hillsides with their distinctive red bark and twisted forms, perfectly adapted to this unique ecosystem. The proximity to the National Historic Eel River Ranger Station adds another layer to this rich tapestry, while the area's archaeological sensitivity hints at thousands of years of human connection to this special place.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly vault toilets are available at the campground.
Sites SizeThe parking aprons are approximately 10' x 38', and the pull-through sites (#7 and #10) accommodate larger trailers.
Sites PrivacyCampground sites are in a wooded environment, providing some level of privacy due to vegetation.
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites #7 and #10 are pull-throughs and can accommodate larger trailers, but trailers over 24 feet are not recommended due to narrow roads and tight turns.
Best CampsitesSites #7 and #10 are noted as pull-through sites that can accommodate larger trailers.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay permitted is 14 days.
Groups
Specific group camping facilities are not indicated.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features a single loop with 15 combined-use sites suitable for tents or RVs. Roads are narrow, with tight turns.
Open and Closed SeasonSeasonally open from April through mid-November. Closed mid-November to April.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyReservation rules and cancellation policies are not specified.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Eel River Campground can engage in outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming during summer months, and observing wildlife. The steep trail near site 7 offers access to both the Black Butte and Eel rivers.
Hiking
Hiking is a popular activity, particularly on the steep trail from site 7 that leads to the confluence of the Black Butte and Eel rivers.Fishing
Fishing is limited to catch-and-release for Steelhead trout and Salmon to protect fingerlings.Swimming
Swimming is a favored activity during the summer months, although shallow spots and algae may limit the experience in late summer. Some visitors have also used rafts in the river.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as frogs and fingerlings/small fish can be observed in the clear river water.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like rafting are informally practiced by visitors but are not officially managed activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Not mentioned.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPoison oak is common throughout the campground. Roads within the campground are narrow and may not accommodate trailers longer than 24 feet.
Active alertsNull
Weather forecast
99
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 19%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 12.5 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesNull
Trash and recyclingCampers are required to pack out their own trash as no trash facilities are available on-site.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to the Eel River Work Center with access to the Middle Fork Eel River and Black Butte River. There is a steep trail leading to the confluence of these rivers, which is a popular swimming area during summer months.
Common complaints"Too many loud drunks occupying the space, along with squirrels everywhere and bugs flying around, not to mention stray dogs." (User review) Other users have commented on seasonal low water levels: "Late August low river has algae."
HostNull
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Covelo, CA, take State Rt. 162 north 1.1 miles to an intersection. Turn right, staying on Rt. 162, and go 2.2 miles to a 'Y' intersection. Bear left, staying on Rt. 162, and go 8.3 miles to another intersection. Turn right and go 0.1 miles to campground on right. NOTE: State Rt. 162, a narrow two-lane road, winds along the Middle Fork of the Eel River.
Roads within the campground are very narrow with tight turns, and may not accommodate trailers longer than 24'. State Rt. 162 is a narrow two-lane road that winds along the Middle Fork of the Eel River.Nearby places
Covelo (approximately 12 miles, travel time variable depending on road conditions).
Nearby supplies
The Black Butte Country Store is across from the Eel River Work Center and is within easy walking distance from the campground. They have hamburgers and a variety of other foods and drinks. Additionally, Black Butte River Ranch offers limited groceries, hot showers (for a fee), and equestrian facilities.
Camper Reviews
4.0
9 reviews
Eel River Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Eel River Campground has mixed reviews, with some visitors praising the peaceful setting and proximity to the river, while others complain about cleanliness and noisy neighbors.
Review Summaries
Based on 9 reviews
What Campers Love
Many visitors highlight the scenic location near the river, the affordability of the campground ($8 per night), and the abundance of oak trees providing shade. 'Nice little campground by the river in...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Several reviews expressed dissatisfaction with the cleanliness of the campground, mentioning trash and poison oak. Noise from other campers, such as loud drunks, was also a noted issue.
Based on 9 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Future visitors are advised to plan for the absence of potable water and pack in all necessary items, including drinking water. Wearing protective clothing to avoid poison oak is also recommended.
Based on 9 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is particularly popular in summer for swimming and hiking, but late summer sees lower river levels and algae growth. Noise issues are reported more frequently during holiday weekends.
Based on 9 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'Nice campground with mostly oaks. Close to river next to campground but down the side of a cliff to get to. Liked hike there.' - Nancy Smith
- 'No running water. Poison oak needs to be cleaned. In...
Based on 9 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites #7 and #10 are highlighted as pull-throughs suitable for larger trailers.
Based on 9 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair-friendly vault toilets are available, but no other accessibility features are explicitly mentioned.
Based on 9 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews about pets are available.
Based on 9 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025