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Mad River Ranger District

The Mad River Ranger District is located on Highway 36 approximately 50 miles east of Highway 101 and the Eureka/Arcata area and 100 miles west of Interstate 5 and the cities of Redding and Red Bluff. Traveling south for 20-30 miles on county roads brings you to the communities of Ruth and Zenia.

The Mad River Ranger Station is at an elevation of 2550 feet. The remainder of the district varies from 2000 to 6000 feet.

The climate is characterized by warm, dry summers and cool, wet winters. Average precipitation in the area is 60" with the majority of the moisture falling between October and April. Snow is uncommon at elevations under 3000' but many areas on the district receive substantial snowfall.

General Information

Mad River District Office
741 Highway 36
Bridgeville, CA  95526
(707) 574-6233

Recreation Sites

Showing: 1 - 7 of 7 results

Bailey Canyon Campground

Site Closed
Pristine campground on the shores of Ruth Lake. Mixed conifer forest with some understory. 4 campsites along waterfront, others are in the shade of tall oaks, ponderosa and douglas fir trees. There…

Eel River

Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
The Eel River makes its 100-mile long stretch through some of the most pristine redwood groves in the state. The mouth of the mighty river opens up 15 miles south of Eureka after weaving its path…

Fir Cove Campground

Site Closed
Delightful campground, partly shaded under a canopy of oaks, maples, ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir trees. Short walk from campsites to Ruth Lake waters edge. There is a 14-day limit for occupying…

Mad River Campground

Site Closed
Large campground with 40 campsites available. Under the shaded canopy of douglas-fir, maples, and manzanita. Riverfront campsites offer trails down to the river. There is a 14-day limit for occupying…

Ruth Lake

Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
Due to concerns with aquatic invasive species, all boats and flotation devices prior to entering Ruth Lake must be inspected. Locations and cost info are available at 707-574-6332Ruth Lake is a…

Van Duzen River

Hunting, Fishing and Shooting
The Van Duzen River is a major tributary of the Eel River. The river makes a 60-mile long journey through beautiful Trinity and Humboldt counties. Along the river, you will find everything from pine,…

Last updated March 14th, 2025