Dixie Glade Campground

Hello, California adventurers seeking a tranquil escape into nature! If your ideal getaway involves peaceful surroundings, starlit nights, and the sounds of a serene forest, then Dixie Glade Campground near Stonyford, California, is a destination you'll want to discover. Tucked away within the magnificent Mendocino National Forest, this charming, smaller campground offers a truly quiet and refreshing outdoor experience, perfect for those looking to disconnect and reconnect with the natural world.

Dixie Glade Campground is renowned among its visitors for its calm atmosphere and well-spaced sites, providing a welcome contrast to more bustling recreational areas. It's a place where you can genuinely unwind, enjoy the simple pleasures of camping, and use it as a base to explore the rich natural beauty of Northern California. Whether you're an avid hiker, an equestrian enthusiast, or simply someone yearning for a peaceful retreat into the wilderness, Dixie Glade Campground promises a memorable and restorative experience for anyone looking for a no-frills, authentic forest adventure.

Dixie Glade Campground is strategically located near Stonyford, CA 95979, USA, placing it within the sprawling and diverse Mendocino National Forest. This position makes it an excellent base camp for exploring the surrounding natural landscape. The campground is situated on Forest Road M10, just above the Fouts Springs OHV area.

Access to Dixie Glade Campground is generally via Fouts Springs Road / M10, located approximately 14 miles west of Stonyford. While this road provides access, campers should be aware that portions of Forest Road M10 may involve unpaved sections and can experience delays or traffic controls due to ongoing construction or temporary repairs. Recent conditions have noted it as "passable but narrow" in certain areas. While some reviewers mention that a couple of sites might accommodate a "tent trailer or small overhead camper truck" with a "tight fit," the campground is primarily described as being "mostly tent only" due to the compact nature of some spots. It's also important to note that larger RVs or travel trailers up to 30 feet can be accommodated in some sites, but drivers should be comfortable navigating narrow forest roads. Always check the latest road conditions with the Mendocino National Forest before embarking on your journey, especially after severe weather, to ensure a smooth and safe arrival.

• Limited Number of Campsites: Dixie Glade is a smaller campground, offering seven designated campsites. This limited capacity contributes significantly to its peaceful and uncrowded atmosphere.

• Tent and Small RV/Camper Friendly: While primarily ideal for tent camping, a couple of sites are noted to potentially accommodate a tent trailer or a small overhead camper truck. Some information indicates accommodation for trailers up to 30 feet, but caution is advised due to road conditions and site access.

• Pit Toilets: The campground provides two pit toilets (also referred to as vault toilets). These are basic, non-flushing restrooms. Visitors should plan to bring their own toilet paper and hand sanitizer.

• Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a fire ring, allowing campers to enjoy traditional campfires. However, it is crucial to always check for current fire restrictions in the Mendocino National Forest before lighting any fires, as conditions can change rapidly in California's dry climate.

• Picnic Tables: All seven campsites are furnished with picnic tables, providing a convenient surface for cooking, dining, and other camp activities.

• No Potable Water: A key point for all visitors is that there is no potable water available at Dixie Glade Campground. Campers must bring their entire water supply for drinking, cooking, and hygiene, or be equipped to filter/treat water from natural sources if available and safe.

• No Trash Service: As is common in many national forest campgrounds, Dixie Glade operates under a "pack out your own garbage" policy. There are no trash receptacles, so campers are responsible for removing all their waste and leaving no trace behind.

• Horse Camping Facilities: A unique offering is the presence of a metal corral (which replaced an older wooden one) and hitching posts, making Dixie Glade suitable for horse camping and extended trail rides.

• Exceptional Peace and Quiet: This is the most consistently praised feature. Dixie Glade offers a truly "peaceful and quiet" camping experience, making it ideal for those seeking a serene escape from noise and crowds. The limited number of sites contributes significantly to this tranquility.

• Small, Intimate Campground: With only seven campsites, Dixie Glade fosters a more intimate and less overwhelming atmosphere than larger, more heavily trafficked campgrounds. This allows for a more personal connection with nature and fellow campers (if any).

• Proximity to Hiking Trails: A significant highlight is the nearby hiking trail through a "beautiful forest." Specifically, a short 0.8-mile trail connects directly to the Deafy Glade Trail, which in turn provides access to the vast Snow Mountain Wilderness. This offers extensive opportunities for hiking, backpacking, and exploring diverse forest ecosystems.

• Horse Camping Amenities: The presence of corrals and hitching posts makes Dixie Glade an excellent choice for equestrian campers looking for a base camp for horseback riding adventures within the Mendocino National Forest and connecting trails.

• Forest Immersion: The campground is set amidst diverse vegetation including chaparral, ponderosa pine, Douglas fir, and oaks, offering a rich and immersive forest environment. This provides ample opportunities for bird watching and enjoying the natural flora.

• Wildlife Potential: While explicit sightings aren't detailed, the mention of a "huge mountain lion by the water tank once" by a retired Forest Service individual hints at the wild nature of the area, suggesting potential for wildlife viewing for observant campers.

• Rustic and Authentic Experience: For those who appreciate primitive camping with minimal development, Dixie Glade provides an authentic, back-to-basics experience, allowing campers to truly disconnect from modern conveniences.

Address: Stonyford, CA 95979, USA

Phone: (530) 963-3128

Mobile Phone: +1 530-963-3128

The provided phone numbers, (530) 963-3128, are for the Stonyford Work Center of the Mendocino National Forest. This is the primary contact point for current and detailed information regarding Dixie Glade Campground. It is highly recommended that you call this number before your trip to get the most up-to-date information on road conditions, especially for Forest Road M10, fire restrictions (which are critical in California), campground status (open/closed), and any other alerts or warnings. Speaking directly with Forest Service personnel can help you plan your visit effectively and ensure a safe and enjoyable camping experience at this remote location.

For Californians, especially those in Northern California, Dixie Glade Campground offers a unique and highly desirable camping experience that caters to a specific appreciation for the outdoors. In a state where many popular campgrounds can feel crowded, Dixie Glade stands out as a genuinely "peaceful and quiet campground," providing the solitude many locals crave.

It is particularly suitable for seasoned tent campers or those with smaller, self-contained RVs or truck campers who are comfortable with primitive facilities and the "pack out your own garbage" ethic. The limited number of sites means a less congested environment, perfect for individuals or small groups looking for a truly serene escape. For equestrian enthusiasts in California, the dedicated horse camping facilities are a major draw, offering an unparalleled opportunity to explore the Mendocino National Forest on horseback.

Furthermore, its proximity to the Deafy Glade Trail and the Snow Mountain Wilderness makes it an ideal base for avid hikers and backpackers eager to explore challenging and beautiful wilderness areas. Dixie Glade is a testament to the diverse and tranquil outdoor opportunities available in California, away from the typical tourist trails. By embracing its rustic charm and respecting its natural environment, local Californians can truly immerse themselves in a quiet wilderness adventure and hope to "visit again" this remarkable glade.

Dixie Glade Campground

Stonyford, CA 95979, USA