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 District has many different recreational opportunities, and is particularly noted for it's excellent dispersed camping, off-highway vehicle opportunities, and excellent hunting.

Camping and Campgrounds
There are three campgrounds and over 40 dispersed camping sites in the Mad River Ranger District. The Van Duzen and Mad River's provide excellent fishing opportunities. Ruth Reservoir was developed in 1962 on the Mad River and provides 1200 acres of surface for boating, skiing, swimming, fishing and other water-related sports.

Fishing
There are lots of opportunities for fishing along the shores of the Van Duzen and Eel Rivers.

Guest Services
We have compiled a page of guest services information as a guide while visiting our forest. Print this page and take it with you on your visit to the Mad River Ranger District. more »

Trails
There are a variety of trails in the Mad River District that are sure to appeal to everyone. One very popular trail is the Discovery Trail. The Discovery trail is primarily open to street legal vehicles and makes for a great weekend activity