The Forks of Salmon region in Northern California sits at the confluence of the North and South Forks of the Salmon River in Siskiyou County. Located at approximately 1,300 feet elevation, this remote area experiences hot, dry summers and cold, wet winters with temperatures ranging from below freezing to over 90°F. Camping options near Forks of Salmon include established campgrounds, rustic sites along rivers, and luxury glamping accommodations that provide access to both mountain terrain and coastal redwoods.
What to do
Hiking to alpine lakes: East Fork Campground serves as an excellent basecamp for Trinity Alps adventures. "A 20 minute drive on a dirt road leads to the China Gultch Trailhead, a popular trail leading to Grizzly Lake," shares one visitor at East Fork Campground.
Wildlife observation: The region offers opportunities to view wildlife in their natural habitat. At Kamp Klamath RV Park and Campground, visitors can experience coastal wildlife. "Close to a secret beach where the seals feed and you can sit on the beach to watch the perfect sunset!" notes one camper.
Beach exploring: Several campgrounds provide access to coastal beaches within driving distance of Forks of Salmon. A visitor at Agate Campground notes, "We spent the morning beach combing and eating wild beach strawberries. Later we checked out the Indian village and Wedding Rock."
River swimming: Many campgrounds feature direct access to rivers or creeks for cooling off. One camper at Dillon Creek Campground states, "There is access to the stream which has a nice swimming hole, if you don't mind the cold."
What campers like
Peaceful isolation: Several campgrounds offer quiet, secluded experiences. A camper at Dillon Creek Campground appreciates that it's "quite with absolutely no cell service, which is great if that's what you are looking for."
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. At Agate Campground, campers appreciate the "clean bathrooms" and note that "each site has fire place, picnic table. Water within steps to each site."
Riverside camping: Sites along creeks and rivers are highly sought after. One East Fork Campground visitor describes it as a "nice little campground right next to a pretty river. When I stayed I was the only one at the campground."
Affordable options: Budget-conscious campers can find reasonable rates at several locations. A visitor to Boise Creek notes, "Camping fee is $10 per night, cash only. They do not have the QR code to scan to pay like some do."
What you should know
Road noise: Some campgrounds are located near highways, creating noise issues. A camper at Boise Creek warns, "This is a precise point where due to the grade of the road, every. Single. Passing. Semi. Downshifts, and there are plenty that go by all night."
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds in the area have limited operating seasons. Dillon Creek Campground operates from "May 23 to Oct 11," while East Fork Campground is open "May to October."
Fire restrictions: Fire regulations vary by location and season. One camper notes that at East Fork Campground, "The fire ring was double walled" but always check current restrictions before planning to have a campfire.
Cell service limitations: Many locations have limited or no connectivity. A visitor to Boise Creek mentions, "There is 1-2 bars of 5G here," but others report no service at all at locations closer to Forks of Salmon.
Tips for camping with families
Look for dedicated play areas: Some campgrounds offer specific amenities for children. A camper at Redwood Coast Cabins & RV Resort notes, "Children's play area was nice," making it suitable for families with young kids.
Choose swimming holes carefully: River and creek access points vary in safety. A visitor to Boise Creek shares, "There is a swimming hole at Big Rock River Access just 1.4 miles down the hill. Beautiful river."
Consider noise levels: Family-friendly campgrounds may have higher noise levels. At Kamp Klamath, one camper notes, "Given the fact that this site is so family friendly, noise is less of a concern for those who camp here."
Plan for temperature variations: The region experiences significant temperature swings. A camper at Boise Creek advises, "Warm in the afternoon and cool at night," so pack appropriate clothing for children.
Tips from RVers
Site selection matters: RV campers should research specific site dimensions. At Trinity Lake KOA Holiday, one RVer recommends, "I highly recommend getting a spot near the tents and exit to the river road if you are towing a trailer."
Hookup availability varies: Not all campgrounds offer full hookups. A Trinity Lake KOA visitor mentions, "Sites are full hook ups," while other campgrounds in the region may have limited or no hookups.
Access considerations: Some roads to campgrounds may present challenges. An RVer at Kamp Klamath shares that "No problem getting here" with their "24f RV," but access to other campgrounds may be more difficult.
Power reliability: Electric service can be inconsistent at some locations. One camper mentions, "The 15A outlet worked until the last day," highlighting the need for backup power options when glamping near Forks of Salmon.
