California / Trinity County / Six Rivers National Forest

Fir Cove Campground

Closed — Closed for the season. Opens May 19, 2025 and operates through September 8, 2025. First-come, first-served only; no reservations accepted.

About

Fir Cove Campground is located on the beautiful eastern shore of Ruth Lake, a 13,800-acre reservoir situated in the thickly forested mountains of Six Rivers National Forest in northern California. The campground features 26 sites nestled under a canopy of mature Douglas fir, oak, ponderosa pine, and cedar trees at an elevation of approximately 2,700 feet. The campground straddles a seasonal creek that empties into Ruth Lake, with several campsites positioned right along the waterfront while others are tucked into the shade of tall oaks and conifers. Ruth Lake provides excellent opportunities for boating, water skiing, fishing, and countless other water-based recreation. Anglers can pursue smallmouth and largemouth bass, catfish, rainbow trout, Kokanee salmon, bluegill, and crappie. The Fir Cove Trail offers a quarter-mile scenic walk along the lakeshore connecting to Bailey Canyon Campground. Additional trailheads including Bailey Vista and Lakeview start from Fir Cove, while the Picket Peak Trailhead begins at nearby Bailey Canyon. The surrounding forested peaks and valleys provide opportunities for hiking, hunting, and off-road vehicle use. Fir Cove operates as one of three Forest Service campgrounds in the Ruth Lake area and one of two directly on the lake. The campground was not affected by the 2020 August Complex fire. Bailey Canyon Campground, located east of Fir Cove, offers additional first-come, first-served sites. The maximum trailer length is 22 feet. Campers are limited to 14 consecutive nights, and leashed pets are permitted.

Directions

From Highway 101 northbound, take the Highway 36 exit near Fortuna and head east for approximately one hour to the town of Mad River. After crossing the bridge at Mad River, turn right onto Mad River Road where the sign indicates Ruth Lake. Continue south for 11 miles to reach Fir Cove Campground. From Highway 5, head west on Highway 36 at Red Bluff for 2 hours until you reach Mad River Road.

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