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Mendocino/Fuller Grove
Overview
Fuller Grove provides a serene and authentic escape located on the northern shores of Lake Pillsbury within the expansive Mendocino National Forest. This destination is far from a typical paved RV resort; it offers a rugged, back-to-nature experience that appeals to those looking to disconnect from the modern world. Shaded by a dense canopy of ponderosa pines and Douglas firs, the park creates a tranquil environment where the sounds of the forest replace the hum of city life and artificial lights.
Location & Surroundings
Situated in the remote mountains of Potter Valley, CA, the journey to Fuller Grove is an integral part of the experience. The campground sits at an elevation of roughly 2,000 feet, providing a refreshing climate and stunning views of the surrounding ridges. Travelers should be aware that the final stretch of the trip involves navigating unpaved forest roads that can be dusty and winding. This isolation ensures a quiet atmosphere, making the lakeside location feel like a hidden gem tucked away in the California wilderness.
Amenities & Park Features
As a primitive USFS facility, Fuller Grove is designed for dry camping enthusiasts. Visitors will not find electrical or water hookups here, so it is essential to arrive with full tanks and charged batteries. The park provides essential features to support your stay:
- Vault toilets located conveniently throughout the loops.
- Potable water available via shared spigots during the peak season.
- Individual sites with heavy-duty picnic tables and fire rings.
A concrete boat ramp is located nearby, facilitating easy launches for various watercraft into the lake.
Nearby Attractions & Things to Do
The centerpiece of local activity is the 2,000-acre Lake Pillsbury, a haven for outdoor recreation. Visitors can spend their days engaged in various activities:
- Boating and kayaking across the expansive, blue waters.
- Fishing for bass and trout near the shoreline or by boat.
- Wildlife viewing, specifically tracking the resident Tule Elk herd.
Hikers can also access miles of forest trails that offer varying degrees of difficulty and exceptional birdwatching opportunities within the Mendocino National Forest.
Who This Park Is Best For
Fuller Grove is a premier choice for adventurous RVers who enjoy boondocking and possess a sense of self-sufficiency. It is particularly well-suited for boaters and anglers who want immediate access to the water. Because of the rugged, winding gravel roads leading into the basin, the park is best for those with smaller trailers or truck campers. If you are a traveler who values solitude, wildlife sightings, and a primitive camping style, this Potter Valley destination will not disappoint.
Amenities
- Recreational Facilities
- Policies
- Other Amenities & Services
- Recreation Nearby (within 10 miles)
- Facility
- On-Site Rentals
- Sites
User Reviews
Johnny Coppa
No water for 2024 but a great camp host(Cindy). Hope she’s back for 2025! Clean grounds, clean enough bathrooms considering the water problems. I hear water will be back on for 2025. Save Lake Pillsbury!!!
Tyler Tastes
Other than not being crowded there wasnt much here. No running water as advertised on the website, no lake as it looks to draining from the dam. Just muddy near the shore. Lots of policing from sherrif, ranger, camp management, other campers. Id recommend camping elsewhere or wild camp in the National Forest. The road in and out is rough.
Roger Williams
Had a great time at the Fuller Grove Group Campground. The camp hosts Mark and Judy are very nice and were super helpful in helping me find my kayak. Mark went the extra mile to store it for me until I could come a week later to pick it up. He even drove to town just to call me and let me know it was found. Really great people there.
George Reale
Been going here for years. Always a good outdoor experience. This time around was incredibly hot. 100+. Water in Lake Pillsbury was the lowest I've seen it. Fuller Grove has enough trees to where you can always find shade. If you've never been there be advised that the road up is an experience in itself. It's unpaved for about 7 miles. Not bad when it's been gravelled and a bit rough when the gravel wears off. Just keep your eyes peeled for sharp rocks and potholes and you'll be ok.
Craig Philpott
Excellent location for camping or day use or boat launching when the water level is high. Excellent location with shade right next to the water with bathrooms available. Nearby there is often a herd of local elk feeding in the evening on the North shore of the lake.
Julia “Jade” Clementi
Best host ever. Awesome campsite with adorable lizard buddies all over ♡
Joshua Pape
Nice secluded campground up in the hills. The drive in is a little rough, but that's to be expected. Buddy of ours managed to get lost in the woods for a while but he made it out safe, so that's a win in my book. Take standard bear precautions with food and you should be fine.
Megan Zahnow
Despite the picture that might have shown up for this - this place in no less than incredible. Access to a lake to swim/raft in, group sites available, and the rangers stopped by to greet us shortly after arrival. If you're looking to disconnect for a weekend, highly recommend (no cell service unless you're god)