General Campgrounds & Trailheads
00 reviewGeneral Campgrounds & Trailheads
$75.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$75.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The fee for group standard non-electric sites during the peak season ranges from $75.00 per night.
About this campground
Nestled among towering pines, Masterson campground emerges as a pristine sanctuary designed for unforgettable group adventures. This spacious retreat welcomes large gatherings with open arms, where the whisper of wind through ancient evergreens creates a natural symphony of peace and solitude that feels worlds away from everyday life.
The Masterson Group Campground is designed for group camping and supports primitive camping options with minimal facilities.
Weather and SeasonsThe Mendocino National Forest graces visitors with California's signature Mediterranean climate, where warm, dry summers create perfect conditions for outdoor recreation. Crystal-clear skies dominate the summer months, inviting endless days of hiking, swimming, and stargazing, while mild temperatures make every season an opportunity for adventure.
Natural Features and SceneryExpansive emerald meadows stretch beneath a protective canopy of dense pine forests, creating a breathtaking tapestry of California's wild beauty. Just a short journey away, the pristine waters of Plaskett Lake sparkle like a hidden jewel, offering stunning vistas and refreshing mountain air that rejuvenates the soul. This harmonious blend of open grasslands and towering evergreens provides the perfect backdrop for memories that last a lifetime.
Geological RegionPerched along the dramatic eastern spur of California's Coastal Mountain Range, this remarkable landscape sits within the vast expanse of Mendocino National Forest. Here, in northwestern California's rugged backcountry, ancient geological forces have sculpted a terrain where mountains meet sky, creating a diverse ecosystem that showcases nature's raw magnificence.
Campsite details
AccessibilityDetails about accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are not provided.
Sites SizeThe site is described as accommodating up to 75 guests and 25 vehicles.
Sites PrivacyThere is no specific information about the level of privacy at the campsites, though the group layout suggests less seclusion.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Sites gates 10 opens onwards managed unlockable reservations.
Check-out
Vacate before11 same.
Stay Limit
14 nights during any single visit
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 75 guests and 25 vehicles
Groups
The group site can accommodate up to 75 guests and 25 vehicles.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSpacious accommodating up-to 25-car parking zones facilities restrooms visible central fire
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season is from June 1 to September 30; reservations open yearly rolling basis.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNon-reservable walk-up slots are not mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyReservations canceled close to check-in date include a $10 fee and forfeiting first-night usage fees. Group facility late cancellations need 14 days pre- arrival notice.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Masterson Group Campground provides a diverse range of recreational activities. With proximity to Plaskett Lake (about one mile away), it supports activities like trout fishing, canoeing, and other non-motorized boating. The open meadow areas within the campground allow for group games and a large fire ring offers communal campfire opportunities. The surrounding Mendocino National Forest provides ample opportunities for hiking, hunting, wildlife viewing, and off-highway vehicle riding.
Hiking
The Mendocino National Forest offers extensive hiking opportunities, with its 913,306 acres of mountains and canyons. Specific trails near the campground are not mentioned.Fishing
Fishing enthusiasts can enjoy fishing at Plaskett Lake, which is stocked with trout and located about a mile from the campground.Biking
Biking is permitted in the surrounding Mendocino National Forest, though specific trails or terrain details are not included.Boating
Plaskett Lake nearby offers opportunities for canoeing and other non-motorized watercraft activities.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a popular activity in the area. Visitors may spot deer, birds, rabbits, chipmunks, and occasionally bears.Winter Activities
No information is available about winter recreational activities.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as canoeing are available at the nearby Plaskett Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire strictly reserved campground-provided zones unauthorized stove/cooked equipment
- Quiet hours are Mandatory gates lock securely proper enforcement rest neighborhood.
Hazards
Weather forecast
93
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 22%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9.1 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
Nearest Forest Dispatch for emergencies is reachable at (530) 934-7758. No direct proximity to hospitals noted.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 1 - September 30
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available on-site, but visitors are encouraged to follow the Pack it In, Pack it Out program to manage waste responsibly.
Proximity to water featuresLake short accessible walk distance ideal fishing non-motorized boating canoeing.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 5, take the exit for Willows/Oroville Hwy 162 and head west. After about 23 miles turn right at the junction at County Road 306. Travel approximately four miles, then turn left onto 162/Forest Highway 7. After approximately 30 miles turn right at the Masterson Group Campground sign and follow the road for a quarter-mile to the gated entrance.
Accessible only via unpaved roads; Mendocino National Forest is noted as California’s only national forest not crossed by paved roads.Nearby places
Willows, CA (approximately 23 miles, ~35 min drive)
Sacramento, CA (~3-hour drive)
San Francisco, CA (~3-hour drive).
Nearby supplies
Grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel closest in Willows, CA, approximately 23 miles away.
Camper Reviews
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Last updated August 10, 2025