Hobo Gulch Campground

Within Trinity National Forest, Hobo Gulch Campground provides 10 sites along the East Fork of North Fork Trinity River. The Forest Service operates this drive-in facility from May through October, though the approach requires 45-60 minutes on fair to poor roads once leaving Highway 299. RVs are limited to 16 feet maximum length.

The campground features vault toilets and picnic tables, with campfires and pets allowed. Downed trees supply abundant firewood according to recent visitors. The river runs cold and fast, requiring caution for water activities. Cell service does not reach this location, and campers must pack out all trash as no collection service operates here. Hunters frequently use the area during season, though the sites remain well-spaced for privacy. This remote spot works best for campers comfortable with challenging access roads and self-sufficient camping.

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Location

Public Campground

Hobo Gulch Campground is located in California

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Junction City, CA, take State Rt. 299 west 6.4 miles to Helen sign. Turn right after sign onto East Fork Rd. and go 3.8 miles to Hobo Gulch Trailhead sign. Bear left at sign onto Forest Service Rt. 34N07Y (dirt) and go 12.2 miles to campground.

Coordinates

40.92421478 N
123.155158 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Picnic Table
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

Drive Time


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Reviews

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2 Reviews

Reviewed Oct. 1, 2024

Incredible!

Wow what a place, I’ve never seen anything quite like it.

The road although incredibly long and winding was well maintained and I’m pretty sure even a car could make it without issue.

The drive up was a whole experience in itself, reminded me of Last of The Mohicans, don’t slip!

I went during hunting season without realizing it, out of the 10 sites 7 where taken up by hunters, but I only saw one person my whole stay.

Site2
Month of VisitOctober
  • Review photo of Hobo Gulch Campground by Samuel H., October 1, 2024
  • Review photo of Hobo Gulch Campground by Samuel H., October 1, 2024
  • Review photo of Hobo Gulch Campground by Samuel H., October 1, 2024
  • (6) View All
Reviewed May. 23, 2024

Magnificent Isolation

2 nights & not a soul around!!! Directions are accurate, road is fair/poor. About 45-60 minutes once off Hwy 299. Right on the East Fork of North Fork Trinity River, there are 10 camping spots & 2 well-stocked vault toilets. Lots of downed trees provided plenty of firewood. ZERO CELL SERVICE (Verizon) The river was ripping really good & very cold. Use caution if going in. NO TRASH SERVICE, so pack it out.

Site10
Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Hobo Gulch Campground by Greg B., May 23, 2024
  • Review photo of Hobo Gulch Campground by Greg B., May 23, 2024
  • Review photo of Hobo Gulch Campground by Greg B., May 23, 2024
  • (7) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities and facilities are available at Hobo Gulch Campground?

Hobo Gulch Campground offers basic facilities including two well-stocked vault toilets serving the camping area. The campground sits right on the East Fork of North Fork Trinity River, providing access to water (which should be filtered or treated before drinking). There are no hookups, running water, or electrical connections available. Firewood can typically be gathered from downed trees in the area. Cell service is non-existent at the campground, so plan accordingly for your stay. The remote nature of this campground means visitors should bring all necessary supplies.

Are there hiking trails near Hobo Gulch Campground?

Yes, Hobo Gulch serves as a trailhead for hiking in the surrounding wilderness area. The campground provides access to trails that wind through the impressive mountain landscape. While specific trail names aren't mentioned, the area offers hiking opportunities that showcase the natural beauty of the region. The dramatic terrain visible during the drive in hints at the spectacular wilderness waiting to be explored. For serious hikers, the remote location and pristine natural setting make this an ideal base camp for day hikes or longer backpacking adventures.

What do Hobo Gulch Campground sites look like?

Hobo Gulch Campground features 10 primitive camping spots nestled along the East Fork of North Fork Trinity River. The sites are rustic and undeveloped, offering an authentic wilderness camping experience. The natural setting provides a scenic backdrop with the river nearby. Each site offers plenty of space and privacy, especially since the campground often has few visitors, making it possible to have the entire area to yourself. The surrounding forest provides shade and natural beauty, with fallen trees that can be used for firewood.

Where is Hobo Gulch Campground located and how do I get there?

Hobo Gulch Campground is located along the East Fork of North Fork Trinity River in Northern California. To reach the campground, take Highway 299, then turn onto a forest service road that leads to the site. The drive from Highway 299 takes approximately 45-60 minutes. The access road is fair to poor condition but generally passable, featuring long and winding sections with significant elevation changes. Despite the challenging drive, the road is maintained well enough that even passenger cars can typically make the journey without major issues.