Dispersed camping near Crescent City, California centers on the Smith River watershed and nearby Chetco River system across the Oregon border. Sites sit at elevations ranging from 200 to 1,500 feet, with summer temperatures averaging 65-75°F during the day and dropping to 45-55°F at night. Most forest service roads leading to campsites lack maintenance, with several becoming impassable during winter months from November through March.
What to do
Riverfront swimming: The Middle Fork Smith River offers natural swimming holes with clear water throughout summer months. One visitor at Middle Fork Smith River noted, "There is a trail that leads straight down to the river! Plenty of room for swimming and fishing."
Wildlife watching: South Fork Chetco provides opportunities to see local wildlife in their natural habitat. A camper at South Fork Chetco reported, "We saw a beaver swim up the river. We also saw a small herd of cows that rolled through."
Redwoods exploration: Many dispersed sites offer quick access to old-growth redwood groves. A camper at Middle Fork Smith River shared, "It's about a 15 min. drive to the Jedediah Redwoods, which if you haven't seen…IT'S A MUST!"
What campers like
Creek access: Many campers appreciate spots directly adjacent to water sources. At Patrick Creek Dispersed Camping, one visitor commented, "The creek behind us was beautiful and the sounds just put you right to sleep. Many spots along the road."
Privacy and seclusion: Some sites offer isolation from other campers. A visitor at South Fork Chetco wrote, "This is one of my favorite spots so far! We were able to get our rig and our Casita down fairly easy. We're right on the river with very beautiful views and the whole area to ourselves!"
Overnight convenience: Many sites work well for single-night stays when traveling between California and Oregon. A camper at Patrick Creek Dispersed Camping stated, "Got here by nightfall on a rainy evening, so didn't get to explore further into this roadside 'campground', but the spot I snag was good for two rigs, easily accessible, positioned right by the river."
What you should know
Site access challenges: Many sites require careful navigation on forest roads. A visitor to Redwood Creek Dispersed Camp warned, "Access road is gated after a couple of miles, so unable to even get close," while another clarified, "If you want to camp here, you MUST get a free permit on the website listed on here."
Seasonal insect issues: Yellow jackets and mosquitoes present problems during summer months. A camper at South Fork Chetco noted, "We're visiting early September so no fires are allowed at this time and the yellow jackets are still definitely out, so try and make sure you have a trap for them…they can get aggressive!"
Navigation errors: GPS and map applications often provide incorrect directions to dispersed sites. One camper at Redwood Bar Dispersed Camping advised, "Be careful with maps! This listing has the wrong pin on the map. If you use coordinates and google maps it will get you to the right side."
Tips for camping with families
Bring river footwear: Rocky stream beds require appropriate shoes. A camper at Redwood Creek Dispersed Camp explained, "You WILL cross a creek! The rocks are PAINFUL! Bring your sandals! We did not and that part sucked."
Weekend planning: Some sites become crowded and noisy on weekends. A visitor at Redwood Bar Dispersed Camping observed, "Side note - kids do come party here Friday nights maybe Saturdays. Music can be loud and trash is left."
Water safety: Fast-moving rivers require life jackets for children. One camper at Sand Camp - Dispersed reported, "There is a path down to the Smith River where you can set up tents and tent camp if you want," while another camper at Redwood Bar noted, "River was fast moving so if you have kids, make sure to bring lifejackets."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance requirements: Many sites demand high-clearance vehicles. A visitor at free dispersed camping warned, "Camp here if desperate and if you have a car that can handle a jank dirt road."
RV size limitations: Small trailers and campervans work better than large RVs at most sites. A camper at Patrick Creek Dispersed Camping cautioned, "Easy with our jeep, but I wouldn't recommend for larger trailers."
Parking restrictions: Some areas prohibit overnight vehicle camping in parking lots. A visitor to Sand Camp - Dispersed advised, "The sites are walk to (very short), and there are signs saying no camping in the parking lot, violators will be fined. We didnt want to chance sleeping in our van because it seemed like a place that would be patrolled."
