Toomes Camp

For those in California seeking a truly authentic and less-developed camping experience, Toomes Camp in Mendocino offers a rugged charm that's increasingly rare to find. Tucked away within the vast and beautiful Mendocino National Forest, Toomes Camp provides a straightforward, first-come, first-served opportunity to immerse yourself in nature. It's a destination for campers who appreciate simplicity and the raw beauty of the wilderness, far from the more crowded and amenity-rich campgrounds. Here, the focus is on self-reliance and connecting with the pristine California landscape, offering a genuine escape for outdoor enthusiasts.

Toomes Camp is not your average resort-style campground. It's known for its primitive setting, appealing to those who prefer dispersed camping and a more independent outdoor adventure. This means you'll find basic facilities, allowing the natural environment to be the star of your visit. The allure lies in its untouched beauty, the quiet solitude, and the abundance of opportunities for traditional outdoor activities. While it might be a shift for some accustomed to more luxurious camping, for many California locals, it represents the true spirit of getting back to basics and enjoying the state's incredible public lands. Its reputation as a rugged, untamed spot draws those who cherish the challenge and reward of a less-structured outdoor experience.

Toomes Camp is located in Mendocino, CA, within the expansive Mendocino National Forest. Its coordinates are approximately 40.003004, -122.759022. More specifically, it can be found on Toomes Camp Road (Mendocino FR 23N01), approximately 12.5 miles west of Paskenta, and 0.1 miles east of the Elder Creek/Riley Ridge junction. While the address provided is Mendocino, CA, it’s important to note that the camp is situated closer to Red Bluff and Paskenta, requiring travel into the forest.

Accessing Toomes Camp requires navigating forest roads, which can vary in condition depending on weather and maintenance. Generally, visitors should be prepared for unpaved roads and should check current road conditions with the Mendocino National Forest Grindstone Ranger District before embarking on their trip, especially outside of peak seasons. The campground is located within the Mendocino National Forest's Grindstone Ranger District and is typically open from June to October, weather permitting. This location, deep within the national forest, offers a true sense of remoteness while still being within a reasonable driving distance for many Northern California residents. The drive itself, through chaparral and oak woodlands, offers scenic views that set the tone for the wild experience awaiting at Toomes Camp. Due to its rustic nature, it’s advisable to have a reliable vehicle and be comfortable with navigating less-traveled routes.

Toomes Camp provides a very basic, primitive camping experience. The services available are minimal, reinforcing its appeal to those who seek self-sufficient outdoor adventures.

• First-Come, First-Served Campsites: Toomes Camp does not take reservations. All sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning early arrival is often recommended, especially during popular times like deer season.
• Restrooms: Basic restroom facilities are available. These are typically vault toilets, common in more primitive Forest Service campgrounds. Campers should be prepared with their own supplies, such as toilet paper and hand sanitizer.
• Undeveloped Sites for Tents and RVs: While not formal RV hookups, there are designated areas suitable for both tent camping and parking smaller RVs. Campers should be prepared for a dry camping experience, as there are no water or electrical hookups.
• No Developed Water Source: There is no potable water available at Toomes Camp. Visitors must bring all their own drinking water, or have means to filter/purify water from natural sources like Thomes Creek, if accessible and deemed safe.
• No Trash Services: Campers are expected to practice Leave No Trace principles, which includes packing out all trash and waste. There are no trash receptacles provided at the camp.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: While not guaranteed at every spot, some areas may have basic picnic tables and primitive fire rings. Campers should always check fire restrictions and bring their own firewood.

The true highlights of Toomes Camp lie in its undeveloped nature and the surrounding wilderness, offering a genuine connection to California's natural landscapes.

• Proximity to Thomes Creek: The campground offers access to Thomes Creek, a segment identified by the Forest Service as eligible for National Wild and Scenic River protection. This provides opportunities for fishing, wading, and enjoying the tranquil sounds of the creek. The Thomes Creek Trail descends to a stunning rocky gorge on the creek, offering picturesque views.
• Thomes Creek Inventoried Roadless Area: Toomes Camp is located within the Thomes Creek Inventoried Roadless Area (IRA), managed by the Forest Service to provide an undeveloped forest environment. This means pristine natural surroundings, offering a sense of solitude and untouched beauty.
• Excellent Hiking Opportunities: The Thomes Creek Trail, which begins at an elevation of 2,048 feet, is a significant draw. It descends to Thomes Creek and passes through diverse ecosystems, from chaparral to oak woodlands. Portions of the trail can be rugged and poorly maintained, adding to the adventurous spirit.
• Wildlife Viewing and Birdwatching: The area is rich in biodiversity, offering excellent opportunities for birdwatching and observing various wildlife in their natural habitat.
• Profusion of Wildflowers (Spring): In the spring, the area is renowned for its abundance and diversity of Coast Range wildflowers, making it a favorite spot for botanists and nature photographers.
• Primitive Recreation: The emphasis here is on primitive and semi-primitive recreation, perfect for those who enjoy backpacking, rough camping, and truly disconnecting from modern conveniences.
• Potential for Gold Panning: While not explicitly stated for Toomes Camp itself, creeks in the Mendocino National Forest can offer opportunities for recreational gold panning.
• Seasonal Accessibility: The camp is typically open from June to October, making it an ideal summer and early fall destination when mountain conditions are most favorable. Caution is advised during hotter summer months due to high temperatures.

Since Toomes Camp is a primitive, first-come, first-served campground within the Mendocino National Forest, there isn't a direct phone number for the camp itself. For information regarding conditions, accessibility, and regulations, it is best to contact the managing agency:

Mendocino National Forest, Grindstone Ranger District

Address: 825 N. Humboldt Ave., Willows, CA 95988

Phone: (530) 934-3316

It is highly recommended to call this number before your trip, especially to inquire about current road conditions, fire restrictions, and any potential closures.

For California residents, particularly those in Northern California, Toomes Camp offers a unique and valuable outdoor experience that stands apart from more commercialized camping destinations. Its location within the Mendocino National Forest provides an accessible yet truly wild escape. For locals, this means less travel time and more time immersed in the natural beauty of their own state. It caters specifically to the adventurous spirit, encouraging self-reliance and a deeper appreciation for the untamed landscapes that California has to offer.

While some past visitors have noted an increase in popularity during certain seasons, which can lead to a more crowded feel, the essence of Toomes Camp remains its primitive, no-frills approach to camping. This makes it an excellent choice for those who value solitude, the challenge of a less-developed site, and the chance to truly disconnect. It's perfect for hunters during deer season who understand and respect the wilderness, and for families and groups who want to teach self-sufficiency and an appreciation for raw nature. The basic amenities mean you’re not paying for extras you might not need, making it a cost-effective option for regular outdoor excursions.

The accessibility to Thomes Creek and its surrounding trails provides ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and simply enjoying the serenity of a flowing stream. For Californians who grew up exploring the state’s diverse natural playgrounds, Toomes Camp harks back to a simpler time of camping, free from the distractions of modern life. It's a reminder of the vast public lands available for everyone to enjoy, provided they treat them with respect and adhere to Leave No Trace principles. For an authentic wilderness experience, Toomes Camp remains a compelling option for those looking to truly get away from it all and embrace the rugged beauty of Northern California.

Toomes Camp

Mendocino, CA, USA (40.003004, -122, 759022, CA, USA