Mayacmas Campground

For California locals who cherish the untouched beauty of our state's wild spaces and prefer a primitive camping experience far from the crowds, Mayacmas Campground offers a truly secluded mountain escape. Nestled within the North Cow Mountain Recreation Area near Ukiah, this Bureau of Land Management (BLM) campground is a hidden gem for those willing to venture off the beaten path. It's a place where the sounds of nature prevail, and the sense of solitude allows for a deep connection with California's natural splendor.

Mayacmas Campground is known for its rustic charm, with a limited number of sites that blend seamlessly into the surrounding forest of pine, oak, and fir. While it requires campers to be self-sufficient, the reward is an unparalleled sense of peace and privacy, attracting seasoned outdoors enthusiasts and those looking to truly disconnect. If you're a California resident seeking a quiet base camp for hiking, wildlife viewing, or simply unwinding in a stunning mountain setting, Mayacmas Campground provides an authentic wilderness experience.

Mayacmas Campground is situated in a remote part of Mesa County, CA 95482, USA, specifically within the North Cow Mountain Recreation Area. This expansive public land, managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), lies within the Mayacamas Mountains, east of Ukiah and west of Lakeport in Northwestern California. The campground itself is located "up in the mountain," offering elevated views and a refreshing escape from valley heat.

Accessing Mayacmas Campground requires navigating a rural and unpaved road. From Ukiah, you'll typically exit U.S. 101 South at Talmage Road, then proceed 1.5 miles east to Eastside Road. Turn right and go 0.3 miles to Mill Creek Road. Turn left and continue for approximately 3 miles to Mendo Rock Road, which you then follow for about 10 miles to reach the site. This road, especially the final few miles, is often described as a "graded washboard gravel County road" or simply a "rough" dirt road. While a 2x4 truck might be sufficient, letting air out of tires for better traction is a common recommendation, and a 4x4 vehicle would provide greater comfort and assurance, particularly during or after wet weather.

The remote nature of the access road contributes to the campground's secluded feel, making it less likely to be overcrowded. This journey into the mountains sets the tone for a primitive camping experience. For California locals, it's essential to plan for this type of access and ensure your vehicle is suitable. The payoff is reaching a tranquil spot where you're likely to find very few other campers, allowing for a truly peaceful retreat amidst California's diverse landscapes.

Mayacmas Campground offers primitive amenities designed for self-sufficient campers who appreciate a back-to-basics experience. The services provided are limited but essential for a comfortable stay in a remote setting:

• Campsites: There are six designated campsites available. While some sources mention picnic tables and barbecues for each site, recent reviews suggest some sites might have missing amenities due to overuse. Campers should be prepared for varying levels of site development.
• Vault Toilets: Two pit toilets (also known as vault toilets) are available within the campground. Visitors consistently report these toilets are kept clean and are usually stocked with toilet paper, a valued amenity in primitive settings.
• No Potable Water: There is no potable (drinkable) water available at Mayacmas Campground or within the broader North Cow Mountain Recreation Area. Campers must bring all their own water for drinking, cooking, and washing, or be prepared to filter/treat water from natural sources if available.
• No Trash Receptacles: While some older information might suggest otherwise, recent reviews confirm there are no trash cans or receptacles at the campground. Visitors are strictly required to pack out all trash and waste (Leave No Trace principles). A small trash bag might be found in the vault toilet, but this should not be relied upon for waste disposal.
• Fire Pits and Barbecues: Sites typically come equipped with fire pits and barbecue grates. However, campers must be aware of and adhere to current fire restrictions, which are common in California, especially during dry seasons. A California Campfire Permit is required for any campfires, and seasonal bans may prohibit fires entirely.
• No RV Hookups: The campground is primitive and does not offer any electrical, water, or sewer hookups for RVs. It can accommodate RVs, but they must be self-contained.

• Secluded Mountain Setting: Offers a deep sense of seclusion, providing a quiet and peaceful escape from populated areas. Reviewers frequently note having the campground entirely to themselves.
• Beautiful Surroundings: Enveloped by picturesque red sandstone cliffs, bluffs, and diverse forests of pine, oak, and fir, creating a scenic backdrop for camping.
• Primitive Camping Experience: Appeals to campers who prefer a rustic, less developed environment and are comfortable with self-sufficiency.
• Clean Vault Toilets: A significant highlight for a primitive campground, ensuring a more comfortable stay.
• Access to Hiking, Biking, and Equestrian Trails: The North Cow Mountain Recreation Area boasts nearly 30 miles of trails for non-motorized activities, offering ample opportunities for exploration.
• Wildlife Viewing: The area is home to various wildlife species, including birds that are active in the early mornings, and larger animals like black bears and black-tailed deer.
• Cooler Temperatures at Higher Elevation: Being "up in the mountain," the campground likely offers cooler temperatures than lower elevations, especially during warmer months.
• Occasional Sounds of Nature: Experience the quiet hum of the wilderness, punctuated by birdsong and the occasional small wildlife.
• Target Shooting Range Nearby: For those interested in recreational shooting, a designated shooting range is located within the North Cow Mountain Recreation Area. Campers should be aware that occasional gunfire may be heard from this range.
• First-Come, First-Served: This allows for spontaneous trips without the need for advance reservations.

Address: Ukiah, CA 95482, USA

Note: Mayacmas Campground is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) as part of the North Cow Mountain Recreation Area. There is no direct phone number for the campground itself. For current information regarding fire restrictions, road conditions, and general inquiries, California locals should contact the managing BLM field office.

Bureau of Land Management (BLM) - Ukiah Field Office:

Phone: (707) 468-4000

It is highly recommended to call the BLM Ukiah Field Office before your trip to check on fire restrictions (a campfire permit is required, and bans are common), current road conditions, and any other important updates, especially regarding water availability or trash policies.

For California locals who truly cherish solitude and an authentic, primitive outdoor experience, Mayacmas Campground offers an ideal retreat into the rugged beauty of the Mayacamas Mountains. It stands out as a destination for those who are prepared to be self-sufficient and appreciate a quieter, less developed camping environment, a common preference among seasoned Golden State adventurers.

The access, while requiring a capable vehicle and a willingness to navigate unpaved roads, contributes directly to the campground's secluded charm. This ensures that you're likely to find peace and quiet, often having the six sites to yourself, which is a rare luxury in California's popular recreation areas. The consistent cleanliness of the vault toilets is a notable comfort for a primitive site. While there's no potable water or trash service, this encourages a stronger adherence to Leave No Trace principles, fostering a deeper respect for the environment – a value many Californians hold dear. For hiking enthusiasts, the extensive network of non-motorized trails in the North Cow Mountain Recreation Area provides endless opportunities for exploration. Ultimately, Mayacmas Campground offers California residents a genuine opportunity to unplug, reconnect with nature, and experience the raw, untamed beauty of our state's backcountry, making it a highly recommended spot for those seeking a true wilderness escape.

Mayacmas Campground

Ukiah, CA 95482, USA