GRAY PINE GROUP CAMPGROUND

Hey there, California thrill-seekers and group adventurers! If your ideal outdoor getaway involves wide-open spaces, the hum of off-highway vehicles, and plenty of room for your entire crew, then GRAY PINE GROUP CAMPGROUND in Stonyford, CA, might just be your next favorite destination. Nestled within the expansive Mendocino National Forest, this campground is specifically designed to cater to large groups and is a prime hub for off-highway vehicle (OHV) enthusiasts.

GRAY PINE GROUP CAMPGROUND isn't about luxury amenities or serene, silent retreats; it's about robust outdoor activity, camaraderie, and direct access to an extensive network of trails. While some of the low-lying trees in the area have been impacted by past fires, creating a more "desert camping" feel in some spots, the essence of adventure and ample space for trailers and toy haulers remains. This article will provide you with a detailed look at GRAY PINE GROUP CAMPGROUND, covering its location, the services it offers, its key features and highlights, and essential contact information. Get ready to load up your rigs and experience a unique kind of California wilderness adventure!

GRAY PINE GROUP CAMPGROUND is located at Forest Rte 18N01, Stonyford, CA 95979, USA, placing it within the Mendocino National Forest. This vast forest, unique as California's only national forest not crossed by a paved road, spans the eastern spur of the Coastal Mountain Range in northwestern California, roughly a three-hour drive north of San Francisco and Sacramento.

More specifically, the campground is about 9.5 miles west of Stonyford on Forest Road 18N03, at an elevation of approximately 1,700 feet above sea level. Access from the south can be via Interstate 5, taking Exit 586 for Maxwell Road, then heading west through Sites and Lodoga before reaching Stonyford. From the north, Interstate 5 to Highway 162 West from Willows also leads to Stonyford. Once in Stonyford, you'll turn onto Fouts Springs Road/Forest Road M10 and then right onto Forest Road 18N03 towards Davis Flat. Access to the campground itself is often via a locked gate, with the combination typically provided upon reservation confirmation, ensuring a secure and private group experience. Its remote yet accessible location makes it a prime base for exploring the Mendocino National Forest's extensive OHV trail system.

• Group Campsite: GRAY PINE is specifically designated as a group campground. It features one very large group site that can comfortably accommodate up to 75 guests and approximately 25 vehicles/trailers, making it ideal for large gatherings, club events, or multiple families camping together.

• Trailer and Toy Hauler Friendly: This campground is explicitly designed for travel trailers and toy haulers, offering plenty of flat, spacious ground for parking rigs. The sites are large enough to fit at least 10 trailers, with driveway lengths up to 70 feet.

• Vault Toilets: The campground provides clean and well-maintained vault (non-flushing) toilets. Reviews confirm that the bathrooms are kept in good shape.

• No Potable Water: It's important to note that GRAY PINE GROUP CAMPGROUND does not offer potable (drinking) water. Campers must bring their entire water supply for all needs, including hydration, cooking, and washing.

• No Hookups: There are no electrical, water, or sewer hookups available at the campsites. This is a dry camping experience, requiring RV users to be self-sufficient with their own power and water systems.

• Picnic Tables & Fire Rings: Each site is equipped with several picnic tables and fire rings (or large firepits with cooking grates). These are essential for outdoor cooking and communal gatherings.

• Propane BBQ Grills: Some information suggests the availability of a "flip top barbecue" or similar grill options, enhancing cooking possibilities.

• Managed Access: The entrance to GRAY PINE is typically secured by a locked gate, with the combination provided to those with reservations. This adds a layer of security and privacy for the group.

• Fee-Based Reservations: While some basic campgrounds are free, Gray Pine Group Campground is a reservable site with a fee. Reviews indicate prices starting around $75.00 per night. Reservations are made through Recreation.gov and are highly recommended due to its group nature.

• Quiet Hours: Standard quiet hours are enforced, typically from 10:00 p.m. until 6:00 a.m., though due to the nature of OHV activities, early morning noise from vehicles preparing to hit the trails is to be expected.

• OHV Access: The primary highlight of GRAY PINE GROUP CAMPGROUND is its direct and convenient access to the extensive OHV trail system of the Mendocino National Forest. This makes it a premier destination for dirt biking, ATV riding, and off-roading.

• Large Group Capacity: Designed specifically for groups, the campground can accommodate up to 75 people and numerous vehicles/trailers. This is ideal for clubs, large family reunions, or organized outdoor events, offering ample space for everyone.

• Secluded and Isolated Setting: Despite the potential noise from OHVs during the day, the campground is noted for being "isolated" and "away from the crowd." This provides a sense of privacy and a true escape into the forest.

• Flat and Spacious Sites: The campsites are described as "nice and flat" with "plenty of space," making it easy to set up tents, park large RVs, and organize group activities.

• Rocky Ground (for tenters): While good for parking, tent campers should note that "most of the ground is very rocky," necessitating sturdy tent pegs and extra padding for comfortable sleeping.

• Varied Landscape: While some lower-lying trees were affected by fires, the area still features a mix of general vegetation including gray pine trees and brush. Higher elevations nearby (like Mill Valley Campground or Letts Lake) offer more traditional forested views if desired.

• Wildlife Viewing: The Mendocino National Forest is home to diverse wildlife, including deer, various birds, and occasionally bears, offering opportunities for nature observation.

• Proximity to Recreation: Beyond OHV riding, the Mendocino National Forest provides opportunities for horseback riding, hiking, backpacking, boating, fishing, and hunting in various areas, making it a versatile recreational hub.

• Views (Limited from site): While the campground itself might not offer "amazing views" directly from the site due to its position in a "bowl surrounded by mountain ranges" and the impact of past fires on some low-lying trees, the surrounding areas of the Mendocino National Forest certainly boast stunning vistas at higher elevations.

GRAY PINE GROUP CAMPGROUND is managed by the USDA Forest Service, specifically under the Stonyford Work Center of the Mendocino National Forest.

Address: Forest Rte 18N01, Stonyford, CA 95979, USA (This address represents the general area).

Phone: (530) 963-3128 (This is the phone number for the Stonyford Work Center, which manages the campground and recreation in the area.)

Mobile Phone: +1 530-963-3128 (Same contact number, likely for the Stonyford Work Center.)

For reservations, it is crucial to use the national reservation system:

Reservations: (877) 444-6777 or via the Recreation.gov website (search for "Gray Pine Group Campground").

It is highly recommended to check the official Mendocino National Forest website and Recreation.gov for the most up-to-date information on operating status, current conditions, fire restrictions, and any alerts before planning your visit.

For Californians, GRAY PINE GROUP CAMPGROUND offers a highly specialized and incredibly suitable option for those seeking a particular type of outdoor experience. If your group's idea of fun involves hitting the OHV trails, then this campground is an unparalleled base in Northern California. It's designed to accommodate large groups with their trailers and toy haulers, providing ample space and essential facilities tailored to this activity.

While some traditional tent campers might find the rocky ground or the early morning OHV noise a slight adjustment, for the target audience of off-road enthusiasts, these are simply part of the adventure. The fact that you can roll out of your trailer and directly access miles of challenging and enjoyable trails is a massive draw. The isolated setting provides a sense of escape, allowing groups to truly bond and enjoy their passion without disturbing others.

Despite the impact of past fires on some low-lying trees, the area still maintains a rugged, natural beauty that is distinctly Californian. It offers a no-frills, practical approach to group camping, focusing on functionality and access to recreation. For those who understand and embrace this environment, splitting the cost of the large group site makes it an affordable and highly effective solution for a memorable group outing. If your group is ready for adventure, requires space for multiple rigs, and thrives on the energy of OHV exploration, then GRAY PINE GROUP CAMPGROUND in the Mendocino National Forest is your go-to destination in California. Take care, hit the trails, and enjoy the unique rugged beauty this area has to offer!