Plaskett Meadows Campground

For Californians seeking a refreshing escape into the heart of the Mendocino National Forest, Plaskett Meadows Campground has long been a beloved destination. Known for its unique setting amidst tall trees and featuring two inviting spring-fed lakes, this campground offers a distinct outdoor experience. While it promises serenity and natural beauty, prospective visitors should be aware of important updates regarding its current operational status. This detailed overview will guide you through the highlights of Plaskett Meadows, providing essential information to help you plan your potential visit to this unique Californian retreat.

Plaskett Meadows Campground is located in Elk Creek, CA 95939, USA, deeply nestled within the expansive Mendocino National Forest. Its address places it in a more remote and naturally preserved part of Northern California, accessible via Forest Highway 7 (FH7). While the approach to the campground might involve navigating a "dusty road," this is characteristic of many true wilderness campgrounds in the region, promising an escape from the paved highways and urban sprawl. The journey itself becomes part of the adventure, leading visitors into a tranquil environment surrounded by towering Douglas firs, pines, and fir trees.

However, it is crucial for anyone planning a visit to be aware of the campground's recent history and current operational status. Plaskett Meadows was significantly impacted by the 2020 August Complex fire and has subsequently suffered additional damage from winter storms. As a result, the campground has undergone extensive post-fire clean-up and hazard tree falling operations. While there has been a recent reopening on June 27, 2025, it is vital to check the very latest conditions and alerts directly with the Mendocino National Forest before embarking on your trip. This ensures public safety due to ongoing work and potential hazards from fallen trees. The location's remote nature means that a visit requires preparedness and an understanding of forest conditions. Despite the necessary maintenance, its secluded setting within the national forest ensures a genuine connection with nature, far from the hustle and bustle of city life, making it a desirable destination for Californians seeking a peaceful and authentic outdoor experience.

Services Offered:

• Multiple camping spots of varying sizes (accommodates 18- to 25-foot trailers).
• Picnic tables at most sites (two sites, #7 and #18, may not yet have new tables).
• Fire pits at sites.
• CXT restrooms (vault toilets) available (4 vaults).
• Potable water is available at the campground (confirmed as of recent reopening, but always check current conditions).
• Parking available, with limited parking outside of individual campsites.
• First-come, first-served basis (no reservations).
• Pet-friendly (pets allowed).

Features / Highlights:

• Spring-Fed Lakes: A standout feature of Plaskett Meadows Campground is its two small, spring-fed lakes. These lakes offer opportunities for swimming and are known as havens for trout fishing enthusiasts. While swimming is generally not recommended by the Forest Service, visitors have noted enjoying the water, and the fishing opportunities are a major draw.
• Unique Forest Setting: The campground is set within a mixed species forest of ponderosa pines, Douglas firs, and other fir trees, providing ample shade and a classic forest ambiance. While one reviewer noted it's "not as green as the other campgrounds in the area" (likely due to fire impact), the overall natural beauty of the area is undeniable.
• Post-Fire Recovery: The campground has undergone significant recovery efforts following the 2020 August Complex fire. This means visitors can observe forest resilience firsthand and appreciate the work done by the Forest Service to restore the area, including the installation of new fire rings, barriers, and signs.
• Accessible Fishing Pier: Plaskett Lake, one of the two lakes, features a wheelchair-friendly fishing pier, making fishing more accessible for a wider range of visitors.
• Variety of Campsite Sizes: The campground offers a lot of "different sized camping spots," providing flexibility for various camping setups, from tents to small trailers (up to 14-foot or 18-25 foot trailers depending on source, so confirm if bringing a larger one).
• Basic but Essential Amenities: Despite being in a rustic setting, the presence of CXT restrooms (vault toilets), picnic tables, and formerly water hookups (now potable water confirmed) provides essential comforts, balancing wilderness immersion with practical needs.
• First-Come, First-Served: The first-come, first-served policy means that spontaneous adventurers can potentially find a spot, though it's always advisable to have a backup plan, especially during peak seasons.
• Wildlife Potential: Being in bear country, the campground encourages safe food storage, indicating the presence of wildlife, which adds to the authentic wilderness experience.

Contact Information:

Address: Elk Creek, CA 95939, USA

Phone: (530) 934-3316 (Mendocino National Forest Supervisor's Office and Grindstone Ranger District)

Mobile Phone: +1 530-934-3316

For the most current information regarding re-openings, specific campsite conditions (e.g., availability of picnic tables at specific sites), and any alerts, it is highly recommended to contact the Mendocino National Forest directly or visit their official website before planning your trip.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Californians yearning for an authentic wilderness experience that combines forest camping with the joys of lakeside activities, Plaskett Meadows Campground, when safely accessible, offers a compelling option. Its location within the Mendocino National Forest, complete with two spring-fed lakes, provides a unique and refreshing natural setting. Locals who enjoy fishing, casual swimming, and simply relaxing by the water amidst a tranquil forest backdrop will find this campground particularly appealing.

While the campground has faced challenges due to past fires and ongoing clean-up efforts, the commitment to its restoration by the Forest Service ensures that it continues to be a valuable resource for outdoor enthusiasts. The presence of basic but essential amenities like CXT restrooms and newly restored potable water, combined with its first-come, first-served availability, makes it a convenient yet immersive option for spontaneous weekend trips or longer, planned getaways. For California residents who appreciate a rustic feel but still value certain comforts, and who are willing to check current conditions before heading out, Plaskett Meadows is a testament to the resilient beauty of our state's wildlands. It offers a chance to reconnect with nature, enjoy peaceful moments by the water, and create lasting memories in a truly special part of California, all while understanding and respecting the ongoing efforts to maintain its safety and natural integrity.

If you want to see a bit more of the area, you can watch (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LhYqdQD5Gx8).

Plaskett Meadows Campground

Elk Creek, CA 95939, USA