Mad River Campground
05 reviews741 State Hwy 36, Bridgeville, CA, 95526, USA
Mad River Campground
$12.00 - $12.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$12.00
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
Season dates: May 21 to September 13. Daily rate is $12 per night. Extra vehicle fees apply at $5/night. Fee is due at entrance kiosk and can be paid via cash or check to USDA.
About this campground
Perched along the pristine banks of the Mad River, this hidden gem rests just two miles south of the tranquil Ruth Lake. Here, where ancient forests carpet the rugged mountains of northern California, Mad River Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape within the vast Six Rivers National Forest. The soothing sounds of rushing water blend with the whisper of wind through towering trees, creating a natural symphony that welcomes weary travelers.
Mad River Campground offers tent and RV camping options. Some sites are first-come, first-served.
Historical SignificanceMad River Campground lies within the legendary Six Rivers National Forest, a magnificent wilderness that stretches 140 miles southward from the Oregon border. This storied landscape serves as the gateway to the world-famous Redwood National Park and the scenic 'Redwood Highway,' where ancient giants have stood sentinel for millennia. The region's rich heritage includes centuries of indigenous stewardship and the colorful tales of Gold Rush prospectors who once panned these very waters.
Weather and SeasonsBlessed with Northern California's signature dry climate, Mad River Campground enjoys comfortably moderate temperatures that make outdoor adventures a pleasure. While morning mist often dances above the river, afternoons bring warm sunshine filtering through the forest canopy. The Mediterranean-like conditions create perfect camping weather, though visitors should always prepare for the occasional mountain shower that keeps this verdant landscape thriving.
ElevationNestled within Northern California's dramatic mountain terrain, the campground occupies a sweet spot where mountain air meets river valley coolness. Though specific elevation details remain elusive, visitors will notice the characteristic mountain environment—crisp mornings, brilliant starry nights, and that unmistakable sense of being elevated above the everyday world, surrounded by peaks that pierce the coastal fog.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your riverside perch atop a scenic bluff, the Mad River unfolds below in a ribbon of sparkling water and smooth river stones. Majestic Douglas firs stretch skyward, their massive trunks creating natural cathedral columns, while graceful oaks and vibrant evergreen shrubs fill the understory with layers of green. This diverse forest canopy provides welcome shade during warm afternoons and frames spectacular views of the surrounding wilderness, where each turn of the trail reveals another postcard-worthy vista.
Geological RegionMad River Campground occupies a dramatic bluff carved by centuries of river flow through Northern California's ancient mountain landscape. Part of the extensive Six Rivers National Forest ecosystem, this geological wonderland showcases the region's complex natural history. The campground's elevated position above the Mad River offers glimpses into the area's fascinating geology, where tectonic forces and erosion have sculpted a terrain adorned with magnificent Douglas firs, sturdy oaks, and resilient evergreen shrubs that thrive in this unique mountain environment.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets are available, but no other specific accessibility features are mentioned.
Sites SizeSites vary in size but no explicit measurements are provided.
Sites PrivacySome sites offer privacy as they are adjacent to the Mad River and located among shaded oak and Douglas fir trees.
Total Campsites42 campsites
Recommended CampsitesConsider sites adjacent to the Mad River for access and privacy. Bring water shoes for river activities due to rocky terrain.
Best CampsitesSites near the Mad River are praised for their scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time unavailable.
Check-out
Check-out time unavailable.
Stay Limit
Maximum Consecutive Stay: You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Groups
- The campground supports single-family campsites
- no mention of group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle-family campsites are available, some adjacent to the Mad River. First-come, first-served and reservable options exist.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen Season: May 21 - September 13
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov
Walk-in AvailabilitySome campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies. For late cancellations, the first night's recreation use fee will be withheld. Cancellations within one day of check-in are not supported through the reservation platform.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Mad River Campground and nearby areas provide opportunities for fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, and general wildlife observation. Ruth Lake, located three miles south, expands recreational options with a marina and boat ramp.
Hiking
Hiking is listed as an activity, but no specific trails or difficulty levels are provided.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity in the Mad River, with opportunities to catch trout. User review: "Caught a good size silver salmon... awesome place."Swimming
Swimming is available at nearby Ruth Lake, which also has day-use areas with shade and sun for solar options.Boating
Boating is available at Ruth Lake, which has a marina and a boat ramp for easy access.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife observation is possible, with deer hunting mentioned as a popular activity in the area.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Boating and fishing dominate the water-related activities, with opportunities at Ruth Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire rings provided at each campsite.
- Quiet hours are Unavailable in the source.
Hazards
General hazardsPoison oak is abundant.
Weather forecast
91
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 23%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
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
Emergency services are unavailable in the source.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 21 - September 13
Trash and recyclingTrash is collected in the mornings as noted in a user review: "Nobody monitoring the campground except for emptying the trash in the morning." Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated adjacent to the Mad River and two miles south of Ruth Lake, which offers a marina and a boat ramp.
Common complaintsIssues mentioned in reviews include poor bathroom maintenance and lack of water during season closures.
HostNo host information available.
Campground Map
741 State Hwy 36, Bridgeville, CA, 95526, USA
Driving directionsWhen traveling north on Hwy 101, 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 crossing the bridge at 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.
Accessible from Hwy 36 near Fortuna or Red Bluff depending on direction. Roads include winding back roads that can be challenging. Avoid Zenia Road exit at Garberville, which causes a 2-hour delay.Nearby places
Bridgeville (approx. distance unavailable), Mad River (close proximity), Fortuna (approx. 1-hour drive)
Nearby supplies
Details about the closest supplies are unavailable in the source.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Mad River Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's privacy, proximity to Ruth Lake, and natural beauty, but also mention issues with facilities and local attitude. Several users appreciated the peaceful environment and recreational opportunities.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback includes privacy, river access, proximity to Ruth Lake, and opportunities for fishing and deer hunting. User review: "Great fun all around, just the bathroom was a turn off."
Based on 5 reviewsCommon Concerns
Issues raised include poor bathroom conditions, poison oak presence, and discourteous local interactions and staff. User review: "The bathroom closest to our camp site was just awful. Others were...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring water shoes for river access due to rocky terrain. Watch out for poison oak. Pay attention to signage for Ruth Lake marina access as it can be easily missed.
Based on 5 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Visitors should note water availability may be affected late in the season, as one user stated: "After paying and setting up our campsite is when we found out the water had been turned off for the...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Very few people here. I pulled in on Sunday afternoon I was the only one here." "Caught a good size silver salmon... awesome place." "After paying and setting up our campsite is when we found out...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Few site-specific details are available, but some sites are located directly on the river and offer privacy.
Based on 5 reviewsAccessibility Features
Vault toilets are accessible, but no additional accessibility features are mentioned.
Based on 5 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific mentions of pet policies or experiences.
Based on 5 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025