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.
Hydrologic Outlook issued December 29 at 9:26PM PST by NWS Eureka CA
ESFEKA A series of atmospheric rivers will bring an increased risk for urban and small stream flooding late this week and into this weekend. The first round of rain will arrive Wednesday night into Thursday and provide generally light to moderate rainfall amounts. Locally heavy rain is expected in the King Range. This initial period of rain will set the stage for a more intense rainstorm expected to arrive Friday into Friday night. Current indications are for the heaviest rainfall to occur during the day on Friday into Friday night. The greatest risk for small stream flooding will occur during this time period and probably continue into Saturday after heavy rain has ended due to the lag in rainfall run-off. Road closures will be possible. At this point, the area of greatest concern is in southern Humboldt and northwest Mendocino counties. Small rivers, streams and creeks such as Elk river, Jacoby creek and Mattole river could exceed their banks and flood area roads. Southern Mendocino and Lake counties may also experience heavy rain and road flooding will be possible. Mainstem rivers will also likely rise sharply and will need to be monitored for possible flood stage exceedance. Be on the lookout for watches, advisories and warning as this next heavy rain event unfolds. Stay alert and remember to never attempt to drive through water covered roads. Water may be moving much faster than you think.
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.
Nearby Campgrounds
Location
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $12 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | 45ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| angeliquerussell@fs.fed.us | |
| Phone | +1 (707) 574-6233 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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