Little Stony Campground

Star4.08
7 reviews
Little Stony Campground
$5.00 - $5.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$5.00
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

Single Site costs $5/night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount on Single Campsites only. Discount applies only to the fee for the campsite physically occupied by the pass holder.
Share this campground
USFSProvider

About this campground

Tucked away in the peaceful Little Stony Creek drainage, Little Stony Campground offers an authentic escape for those seeking solitude in nature. This hidden gem caters primarily to tent campers who appreciate a more rustic experience, with sites nestled among the natural landscape. While the secluded setting provides a true wilderness feel, the narrow access roads and compact sites make it unsuitable for RVs and large trailers—perfect for those who prefer their camping adventures on the simpler side.
The campground primarily caters to tent campers but accommodates small RVs. It is not recommended for large RVs or trailers.
Historical SignificanceLittle Stony Campground carries the echoes of California's evolving relationship with its natural heritage. Originally known as Digger Pine Campground, it was later renamed Gray Pine Campground in a move toward more culturally sensitive terminology. Today's Little Stony name reflects its geographical home along the creek, but longtime visitors still recall its previous incarnations, adding layers of history to every campsite conversation.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of California's inland climate at Little Stony, where winters bring crisp, cold nights perfect for campfire stories, and summers can climb to sweltering temperatures that test even the hardiest outdoor enthusiasts. Savvy campers have discovered that spring offers the sweet spot—when wildflowers dot the brushland, temperatures remain comfortable, and the creek runs at its most inviting levels. Fall also presents pleasant conditions, with golden light filtering through the landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a landscape that defies typical forest camping expectations. Little Stony showcases California's distinctive brushland ecosystem, where hardy shrubs and scattered trees create an open, sun-drenched environment. Rather than dense forest canopy, campers find themselves immersed in rolling terrain dotted with native vegetation, offering expansive views and excellent stargazing opportunities. The Little Stony Creek winds through the area, providing a gentle soundtrack and occasional swimming holes during wetter months.
Geological RegionSituated within the Little Stony Creek drainage system, the campground occupies a unique ecological niche where California's coastal ranges meet inland valleys. This brushland habitat represents a fascinating transition zone, characterized by drought-resistant vegetation, seasonal creek flows, and exposed geological features that tell the story of millions of years of environmental change. The limited forest coverage creates an open landscape that offers both shelter and expansive views of the surrounding hills.

Campsite details

Sites PrivacyUser reviews suggest that the campground has limited shade and privacy, with some describing it as 'not a whole lot of shade here.'
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closer to the creek may offer better views and privacy.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2:00 p.m.
Check-out
11:00 a.m.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed


Activities you can enjoy

Recreational options focus on outdoor activities like OHV trail riding and fishing. The campground is especially popular among OHV enthusiasts.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in the nearby stream, as indicated in the recreation opportunities section.
Winter Activities
The campground is noted for its popularity in winter, particularly when the stream is in full flow.

Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Quiet hours are 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m.

Hazards

General hazards"Not a lot of shade here." (User Review by Fire Buff). "All vegetation was burned." (User Review by Tony Prine).
Active alertsGrindstone OHV trail system may have damage on trails and downed trees. County Road 42 is accessible.

Weather forecast

99
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Strong wind, exercise caution

Humidity: 23%

Very dry conditions, stay hydrated

Wind: 8 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.

Subscribe to unlock detailed weather insights

Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Good to know

Trash and recyclingNo information about trash and recycling facilities is available.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located near Little Stony Creek.
Common complaints"One stinky bathroom." (User Review by Ty White). "All vegetation was burned." (User Review by Tony Prine)

Campground Map

Driving directionsLocated 10 miles southwest of Stonyford. Latitude: 39° 17' 11.101199", Longitude: -122° 34' 35.266799".
"The last 3 miles on the unpaved road was really bumpy. Don’t recommend if you have a bigger vehicle." (User Review by Tahmina Khanom).
Nearby places
Stonyford: 10 miles

Camper Reviews

4.1
7 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Little Stony Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews describe the campground as small and secluded, with limited shade and basic facilities. It is popular among OHV enthusiasts but not ideal for larger RVs.
Review Summaries
Based on 7 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive comments include its affordability at $5 per night and its suitability for OHV activities. Some reviewers also appreciated the secluded nature of the campground.
Based on 7 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include a lack of potable water, limited shade, and inadequate restroom facilities ('one stinky bathroom'). The rough access road and absence of cell phone service were also...
Show more
Based on 7 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Reviewers recommend bringing your own water and avoiding the campground if you have a large RV or trailer. Covering for shade is suggested due to the limited vegetation.
Based on 7 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is most popular in winter when the stream is in full flow, but the lack of shade makes summer less ideal. Spring is considered a better season than summer due to the running creek.
Based on 7 reviews

Camper Quotes

- 'Small campground mostly tent sites, no water, and one stinky bathroom.' - Ty White - 'Really small, no cell phone service. All vegetation was burned.' - Tony Prine - 'Great little, secluded...
Show more
Based on 7 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No specific site reviews by number or location are available within the campground.
Based on 7 reviews

Last updated August 10, 2025

Campgrounds
Mendocino National Forest
Little Stony Campground