Mad River Campground

Six Rivers National Forest, California

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As of October 2026, Mad River Campground is a campground in Six Rivers National Forest, California with 35 campsites. Mad River Campground is booked through Recreation.gov.

PermitSnag checks Mad River Campground for availability and tells alert holders when a site opens up.
Mad River Campground is located at 40.4036° N, 123.4672° W.

Mad River Campground reservations and next available dates

October 2026

November 2026

open, tap to book on Recreation.govsold outin your alert

Campsites at Mad River Campground

Amenities

restrooms
potable water

At a glance: Setting: Mountain.

Things to do: fishing, boating, swimming, photography.

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

The campground offers multiple single-family campsites, available for tent and RV camping. Some sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. A majority of the sites are adjacent to the Mad River.

Tables and campfire rings are available at each site. Accessible vault toilets and drinking water are also provided.

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.

Rules and notices at Mad River Campground

Recreation.gov does not date these notices. We last read them on September 28, 2026. Check Mad River Campground on Recreation.gov

Notices from Recreation.gov

First come, first serve

Watch for poison oak

Boat inspections for quagga mussels and other aquatic invasive species are required at the Ruth Lake marina; an additional fee applies.

Click here for more information about Six Rivers National Forest

Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.

Recreation.gov permit and campground cancellations →

Mad River Campground FAQ

How hard is it to get a campsite at Mad River Campground?

Mad River Campground is rated "Moderate to Book" based on historical demand. With 35 sites available, you have good chances of finding availability, especially on weekdays.

How do I find last-minute availability at Mad River Campground?

Cancellations happen frequently at Mad River Campground, especially 1-2 weeks before check-in dates. PermitSnag monitors availability 24/7 and sends instant alerts when sites open up due to cancellations. This is often the best way to snag popular campsites.

How many campsites does Mad River Campground have?

Mad River Campground has 35 campsites.