Camping near Junction City, CA

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    Camping opportunities around Junction City, California include both established campgrounds and more primitive sites along the Trinity River. Junction City Campground offers tent and RV camping from mid-May through November, with sites set near the river. Nearby Douglas City Campground provides access to fishing spots and swimming holes along the Trinity River, while Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort offers year-round camping with full hookups and cabin options for those seeking more amenities.

    Most campgrounds in the Trinity River area operate seasonally, typically opening from May through October or November due to weather conditions. A review noted that "the river is gorgeous, cold, clean, and refreshing" at Douglas City Campground, highlighting one of the region's main attractions. Primitive camping areas often require visitors to pack out all trash and practice proper food storage due to local wildlife. Several campgrounds provide bear-safe storage boxes, particularly those closer to the Trinity Alps wilderness. Cell service throughout the area ranges from spotty to nonexistent, with most reviewers reporting better connectivity in Weaverville than in smaller communities like Junction City and Douglas City.

    The Trinity River serves as a focal point for recreation, with multiple campgrounds offering direct river access. Campers frequently mention the peaceful sound of flowing water as a highlight of their stay. Steel Bridge Campground and Douglas City Campground both provide riverside sites popular with anglers and swimmers during summer months. Forest Service and BLM campgrounds in the area typically offer basic amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. Many sites maintain reasonable privacy with natural vegetation between campsites. One camper described Douglas City as "one of the nicest public campgrounds I've seen," noting its recently improved facilities and proximity to the Trinity River. Visitors should be prepared for variable temperatures, with summer days reaching 100°F while evenings cool significantly after sunset.

    Best Campgrounds near Junction City (215)

      1. Douglas City Campground

      4.7(6)8mi from Junction CityRVs, Tents

      "While I generally like campsites close to the river, those set against the hill seem to provide a little more shade and privacy."

      "This campground is tucked down from the road and into a fairly narrow canyon. The trees are mostly oak, madrona, fir and pine, with the occasional mountain ash."

      2. Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort

      5.0(6)12mi from Junction CityRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "We were looking for.a place to camp near Redding, our home town. This campground is about 30 mins from Redding. It was an easy tow on rural but well maintained roads all the way to the campground."

      "There are tent sites away from the rv part, but we never checked that area out. The rv spots are very clean, and even though they’re close together with no privacy it was an amazingly quiet park."

      3. Junction City Campground

      4.0(3)1mi from Junction CityRVs, Tents

      "Beautiful location"

      "Not too far from a glacier lake, so good for hiking. Bears not too far away."

      4. Steel Bridge Campground

      5.0(3)8mi from Junction CityRVs, Tents

      "Lots of people in and out fishing Short trail at the end of the campground that follows the river."

      5. Mary Smith Campground

      4.2(5)13mi from Junction CityTents

      "Great little hiking trail steps from our site. Easy access to the water for some swimming. Smoke blew in from wildfires. Visibility very low but still beautiful."

      "Luckily the weather was so amazing especially being right next to this beautiful clear clean lake. We stayed at site 14, across from us was a small path that lead you down to the water."

      6. East Weaver Group Campground

      4.5(2)7mi from Junction City1 siteRVs, Tents

      "Beautiful creek running through so many different trails to choose from. Nice and shady"

      from $120 / night

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      7. Tannery

      4.5(4)13mi from Junction City90 sitesRVs, Tents

      "The lake is walking distance from the sites and the sites are far enough apart for privacy. My 2 year old had a blast! Also lots of firewood around, and fire pits were very nice!"

      "This is a great camp area, however when we went the Lake was really low. It was still very nice for fishing and kayaking."

      from $30 - $60 / night

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      8. Pigeon Point Group Campground

      3.0(2)5mi from Junction City1 siteRVs, Tents

      from $75 / night

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      9. Trinity Alps RV Park

      4.0(1)5mi from Junction City44 sitesRVs, Tents

      "Pleasant, grassy, mostly shaded area behind the main building. Restroom and showers, no extra charge. We paid $25 dollars to the helpful host. She asked for cash."

      from $25 - $65 / night

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      10. Strawhouse Resorts and Cafe

      5.0(1)8mi from Junction City8 sitesRVs, Glamping

      from $60 - $70 / night

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    Recent Reviews near Junction City, CA

    411 Reviews of 215 Junction City Campgrounds


    • LThe Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 8, 2026

      E-ne-nuck Campground

      Lots of shade trees..

      We spent two weeks at E-Ne-Nuck at site 10 which was the best option for our solar and star-link which was extremely limited at the campground from all the trees. No cell service at all. Pit toilets, trash & recycling offered. No water. Local dogs would roam and come say hi frequently which was the majority of the traffic for our visit. We saw three other campers our whole stay the end of May & early June. The fireplace was a different experience than a campfire but a few sites have actual fire rings.

    • Kelly I.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 6, 2026

      Lower Salt Creek Shoreline Campground

      Not for a quiet camper

      We noticed there were a few people when we stopped but at first it was no big deal, this wasn't the first time camping with others. But as the sun was starting to set more people showed up, fireworks were going off, music was getting louder and we had to leave as we were not going to get any sleep.

    • Grant M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 5, 2026

      Oak Bottom Tent Campground — Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area

      Ok, but a little disappointing.

      After several nights of free dispersed camping, we decided to spoil ourselves with a paid lakeside campsite for the showers, amenities, and fire pits. Our stay cost about $50, plus an additional $10 fee for our dog.

      The biggest downside is that the RV area is essentially just a parking lot. It’s completely exposed, with little to no shade, and can be windy and quite hot when the sun is out. The beach itself is nice, and there’s a boat launch if that’s what you’re coming for.

      We were disappointed to learn that the showers are not included and require an additional fee. We didn’t check the exact cost, but it wasn’t worth it to us, and we ended up rinsing off in the lake instead. The fire pits and covered pavilions are available in the day-use area and are only a short walk from the parking lot, but they are not located directly at the RV sites. Also worth noting: dogs are not allowed on the beach.

      Amenities include an RV dump station, potable water fill, restrooms, and showers. Access is easy, with paved roads and large, accessible parking areas.

      One other thing to be aware of is that you still need a National Park pass in addition to paying for the campsite.

      Overall, I’d recommend this more as a day-use destination or for travelers in larger RVs who want convenient amenities. If you’re overlanding or traveling in a truck camper, there are better and more scenic options available nearby.

    • Grant M.The Dyrt PRO User
      Jun. 2, 2026

      Cline Gulch BLM Dispersed

      No Camping, Day Use Only

      We arrived late after dark and found the area to be quite far off the beaten path. It was another overnight stop for us while traveling through the area.

      We located the designated spot, but the signage was confusing. There were numerous signs stating “No Camping” and “Day Use Only,” even though there were established fire pits present. It was difficult to tell whether the specific area we were in allowed overnight stays while the surrounding area did not.

      The river was nice, and the area itself is pretty. However, the road leading to the site is rough and best suited for 4x4 vehicles. There is also a fairly steep downhill section to reach the parking area.

      One positive was the solitude. We didn’t see a single vehicle pass by during our entire stay, so it was very peaceful and quiet throughout the night.

      I’m giving this location one star, not because of the scenery, but because of the confusing camping regulations. If the camping situation had been clearly marked, I would probably rate it two or three stars. Stay at your own risk and verify the rules for yourself before spending the night.

      There are no hookups, no water, and no amenities. At least from the spot where we stayed, there wasn’t even a maintained trail down to the river.

    • GThe Dyrt PRO User
      May. 28, 2026

      Aikens Creek Recreation Area

      Alkens is special place in my heart

      Stop by this place you boondocker (and fisherman too). Alkens Recreation Area is a GEM! It's free, it has the Klamath nearby, it's got a sunny location, it's away from the coastal climate. It get cool - cold. A nice combination of weather. There are individual campsites with nice concrete tables. Great for meals with the kids or grilling a steak on the Barbie. A short drive or walk grants you access to the River or Alkans Creek for an opportunity to have that pan fried fish. Be warned, there is no water (except in the river), no dump., no toilets, etc. but has been real pleasant for a couple of old fogies in a camp trailer with a 4X.

    • FThe Dyrt PRO User
      May. 27, 2026

      Castle Crags State Park Campground

      Good stop over

      The area has a lot to offer in terms of hiking and river based activities, ie fishing and kayaking. The river trail is beautiful. The campground facilities (toilets and showers) are basic and ok. Water was warm (after a minute of waiting). Some sites are very small, but generally not too close together. A few great sites across the river at first come first served area. The BIG downer is the noise from Highway 5 and the train which sounds its horn 5 or six times as it passes though each night (4 or more passes). Even with ear plugs it was tough to sleep inside an insulated van.

    • Heather C.
      May. 22, 2026

      Lakeshore Villa RV Park

      Miss the way it was

      When I first got here it was great everyone looked out for each other made meals together helped each other now not so much

    • LThe Dyrt PRO User
      May. 16, 2026

      Aikens Creek West Campground

      Great spot for dispersed camping, no services.

      We stayed a week and had the entire campground to ourselves the majority of our stay. Right on Klamath River and Aikens Creek. Light traffic noise from the road, numerous sites with tables & some with fire rings. No cell service. 14 day stay.


    Guide to Junction City

    The Trinity River corridor offers several camping sites near Junction City, California, with some locations open mid-May through November. The area sits at elevations ranging from 1,600 to 2,200 feet with summer temperatures typically reaching 85-95°F during day and cooling to 50-60°F overnight. Most campgrounds require a 10-14 day maximum stay during peak season.

    What to do

    Fishing access points: Junction City Campground provides convenient river access for anglers. "Not too far from the river and it's a quiet campground with great sites," notes camper Bryan C.

    Water activities: Tannery Gulch Campground offers lake-based recreation despite fluctuating water levels. "The lake level is very low. Quite a walk down to the water from the camp sites. $24 per night +$10 for extra vehicles," reports Cody S.

    Gold panning: Trinity River contains deposits of gold and pyrite that catch sunlight. Pigeon Point Group Campground has "beautiful camp spot right off of Highway 299 and beautiful Trinity County river access," according to a visitor.

    Hiking trails: East Weaver Group Campground features "so many different trails to choose from," with Jennifer S. adding it has a "beautiful creek running through" the area.

    What campers like

    Waterside camping: Steel Bridge Campground offers riverside sites. One visitor mentioned, "Short trail at the end of the campground that follows the river," making it easy to access water.

    Peaceful atmosphere: Many campsites provide quiet surroundings away from crowds. Junction City Campground visitor Rhonda W. notes, "Most likely, you will have a campground to yourself."

    Natural shade: East Weaver Group Campground has "nice and shady" sites according to Jennifer S., while other campers appreciate tree coverage during hot summer days.

    Wildlife viewing: Mary Smith Campground offers nature observation opportunities. Karen O. noted, "Birds and frogs were in abundance" during their stay, adding natural ambiance to camping experience.

    What you should know

    Seasonal water levels: Lake and river conditions vary significantly throughout camping season. At Tannery Gulch, "The lake level is very low. Quite a walk down to the water from the camp sites," reports Cody S.

    Limited amenities: Most campgrounds near Junction City offer basic facilities. "No firewood for sale at the campground so plan ahead," advises Cody S. about Tannery Gulch Campground.

    Bear safety: Several campgrounds require proper food storage. Mary Smith visitor Karen O. mentioned, "We set our tents up on the platforms and had a great view of the lake and trinity alps in the distance," with platforms helping keep food away from wildlife.

    Water temperature: Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort visitor Jason D. notes, "River access right around the corner," but Trinity River waters remain cold even during summer months.

    Tips for camping with families

    Tent platforms: Mary Smith Campground offers raised tent platforms at some sites. "We had the campground to ourselves as they hadn't put up the glamping tents yet. We set our tents up on the platforms and had a great view of the lake," reports Karen O.

    Shallow water access: Look for campsites with graduated water entry for safer swimming. At Mary Smith Campground, "We took tubes out and laid in the water and soaked up the sun," describes Azizah T.

    Bathroom facilities: Trinity Alps RV Park provides convenient restrooms. "Pleasant, grassy, mostly shaded area behind the main building. Restroom and showers, no extra charge," notes Robert A.

    Playground alternatives: Natural features often substitute for play equipment. At Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort, "We will definitely be back," says Corey L., noting the nearby river and forests provided entertainment.

    Tips from RVers

    Site size considerations: Most campgrounds accommodate smaller to mid-size RVs only. Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort visitor Jason D. advises, "Biggest I would put in here would be about a 30 foot trailer. You have to disconnect your tow vehicle."

    Level pads: Tannery Gulch Campground has well-maintained RV spaces. Tammy H. notes, "The RV pads were nice and level," making setup easier.

    Distance from town: Factor in driving time for supplies. Tara D. says about Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort: "Great little park. Lots of shade and green grass, good management, Clean restrooms and well kept grounds. Close to river and lakes for boating and fishing."

    Cellular connectivity: Service varies by provider and location. Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort offers "ok Verizon signal," according to Corey L., though service deteriorates further into the mountains.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Where are the campgrounds located in Junction City?

    Campgrounds in the Junction City area are scattered throughout the stunning Trinity River region. Junction City Campground is centrally located with drive-in access. For a riverside experience, Trinity River (Ca) — Shasta Trinity National Forest offers beautiful sites surrounded by mountains along the river. Nearby, you'll find Douglas City Campground and Steel Bridge Campground just a short drive away, providing additional options for exploring this picturesque area of Northern California.

    What amenities are available at Junction City campgrounds?

    Junction City area campgrounds offer a range of amenities to suit different camping styles. Peltier Bridge Primitive Campground provides clean, spacious sites with basic facilities. For more comforts, Trinity Lake KOA Holiday offers full amenities including sites suitable for trailers, tent camping areas, and access to the river. Many local campgrounds feature fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets. Tannery Gulch Campground provides well-shaded sites, some with lake views, tables, fire rings, and select sites even include bear boxes.

    When is the best season for camping in Junction City?

    The prime camping season in Junction City runs from late spring through early fall (May to October). Summer offers perfect conditions for enjoying water activities at Bailey Canyon Campground, where you can swim, fish, and boat on the lake. Late spring provides flowing waters at Pearch Creek Campground, with the river offering refreshing pools to splash in. Early fall brings cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Be aware that some campgrounds like Grizzly Creek Redwoods State Park Campground may have seasonal closures during winter months.