Dispersed camping opportunities near Fort Dick, California can be found within the Six Rivers National Forest and along the Smith River watershed. Most sites sit at elevations between 200-1,000 feet, creating a temperate coastal climate influenced by Pacific Ocean fog patterns. The camping season generally extends from April through October, with mid-summer water levels in rivers dropping significantly and changing swimming conditions at popular spots.
What to do
River swimming and floating: Patrick Creek Dispersed Camping offers direct access to clear, refreshing water. One camper noted, "Water is crystal clear. Perfect spot by the creek. The spot that we are at has a swing right above the water."
Stargazing: Sand Camp - Dispersed provides excellent night sky viewing opportunities due to minimal light pollution in the area. A camper reported, "The sky was dark and clear, perfect for stargazing. The few other people camping there were quiet and friendly."
Fishing: The Middle Fork Smith River provides good fishing opportunities with relatively easy access. A visitor mentioned, "There is an overlook to the river at the dead end of the road and you can hear people enjoying that view but nothing that would really disturb you. There is a trail that leads straight down to the river! Plenty of room for swimming and fishing."
Wildlife viewing: Watch for native wildlife including beavers at South Fork Chetco. One camper observed, "We saw a beaver swim up the river. We also saw a small herd of cows that rolled through. There's private land nearby so we assume they are escapees or allowed to roam."
What campers like
Secluded river spots: Many campers appreciate the privacy offered at less-developed sites. At South Fork Chetco, a camper shared, "This is one of my favorite spots so far! It's a little farther up than we anticipated going BUT so worth it...maybe a mile or so past the Redwood river access."
Variety of water features: Different sites offer unique water experiences from rapids to calm swimming holes. A camper at Redwood Bar Dispersed Camping noted, "Such an underrated spot. Amazing place to camp. We basically had the place to ourselves for 6 days. The space is huge."
Off-grid experience: The remote nature of rustic camping near Fort Dick provides a true disconnection from urban amenities. One visitor commented, "Site is beautiful and starlink is working great. Reiterating there is no cell service or any type of facilities. Crystal clear river for swimming/floating in."
Accessibility: Many sites can be reached with standard vehicles despite their remote locations. A camper observed, "Apple Maps got me there no problem! Absolutely beautiful view of the river. The bar is large, there were a few other cars there but we all have our own space."
What you should know
Navigation challenges: Map applications often provide incorrect directions to campsites. As one camper warned, "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. If you come across a road with a dead end sign, you're on the wrong side of the river."
Seasonal considerations: Early summer provides the best balance of water levels and temperature. A local camper at Redwood Bar Dispersed Camping shared, "As the summer progresses, the water level drops, the temperature rises and the algae grows. As such, we prefer June camping."
Variable crowds: Weekend traffic increases significantly at accessible sites. One visitor noted, "It sometimes gets crowded during holidays and weekends and the good places, not next to rapids and close enough to good swimming holes, become rare."
Road conditions: Many sites require traveling on unpaved roads with varying conditions. At Canyon Gulch by Eight Dollar Mountain, campers frequently encounter "busy & small" conditions where "I only saw two sites with fire rings on the side of the road and the road was busy with cars going by all hours for the night."
Tips for camping with families
Water safety: Rivers near Fort Dick have variable currents requiring caution. A camper at Redwood Bar advised, "River was fast moving so if you have kids, make sure to bring lifejackets."
Tent placement: Rocky terrain is common at riverside sites. One camper at Redwood Bar noted, "Me and my girlfriend tent camped here and although the ground was rocky we managed to pitch the tent just fine."
Bug protection: Patrick Creek Dispersed Camping visitors frequently encounter insects, especially in warmer months. A camper commented, "Very peaceful and secluded. Would definitely stay again! Only thing is the people before us did not practice leave no trace and there were some paper towels in a bush and dog toys left behind."
Weekend planning: Arrive early on weekends to secure family-friendly spots away from potential partying. One camper observed, "Side note - kids do come party here Friday nights maybe Saturdays. Music can be loud and trash is left. Overall such an incredible spot."
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: While many sites can accommodate RVs, careful assessment is needed. At Middle Fork Smith River, an RVer noted, "We dropped our trailer at the information center for the Redwoods, visited in the forest for a few hours, picked up the trailer and came right back to this spot with no problems."
Access considerations: Many forest roads have tight turns requiring caution. A camper advised, "Just go slow and you can easily get a big rig out here. Came on a Saturday afternoon and got a spot right on the water."
Leveling challenges: Riverbar sites often have uneven terrain. One RVer commented, "Be care diving out on the gravel bar, have seen some big rigs get stuck. The water in the river is amazing and as clean as you can get."
Turnaround spaces: Be aware of limited turnaround options at some sites. A camper recommended, "If you are using Apple maps, slow down about 1/2 mile before you are reaching the destination. Pin point takes you past ramp down to bar and it's a long drive to get turned around."
