The Klamath area sits at the junction of the Klamath River and Pacific Ocean, creating unique camping conditions with both coastal and forest environments. Average summer temperatures range from 55-70°F with higher humidity than inland areas due to marine influence. Camping sites near Klamath, California offer access to both ancient redwood forests and coastal beaches within the same day's exploration.
What to do
Fern Canyon access: Located about 2 miles from Gold Bluffs Beach Campground with a creek crossing that requires careful navigation. "There was fire wood for sale for $8 and there was free wifi that actually worked. The camp host was very nice and helpful. Fern canyon was about 2 miles down the road. Heads up there is a creek crossing that could be sketchy in a low clearance vehicle," reports a camper at Gold Bluffs Beach Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The Klamath region offers opportunities to spot Roosevelt elk, bears, and marine wildlife. At Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, one visitor shared, "We saw so many animals: elk, a bear, scrub jays, chipmunks, tadpoles, rabbits, deer, etc. We were able to hike a bunch on the campground (very accessible), drive to Fern Canyon, and visit Jedediah Smith all in 3 days."
Redwood hiking trails: Many campgrounds offer direct trail access without driving. A camper at Elk Prairie Campground notes, "This is a lovely campground with hiking trails accessible from the campground. Some of the sites have no shade, but it wasn't a problem for us."
What campers like
Private settings despite proximity: Many campgrounds create natural separation between sites. At Mill Creek Campground, a camper observed, "Pretty nice campground, a good mile plus off the main highway and down in a valley, so you feel like you are out in the remote wilderness... The spots are fairly close together, but the nature of the vegetation made for 'walls' around the spots, which offered some privacy."
River access: Klamath River RV Park offers direct river views and fishing opportunities. "We stayed at Klamath River RV to explore the redwoods. It's a great location and close to parks/trails. Full hookup, riverfront sites available, clean bathrooms/showers, camp store, camp cafe open on weekends for breakfast, group fire pits."
Seasonal wildlife encounters: During specific seasons, wildlife viewing is particularly rewarding. At Kamp Klamath, a visitor mentioned, "We have stayed at Kamp Klamath a couple times. We go over for the Salmon run in August/September. The staff here is always friendly and accommodating."
What you should know
Security concerns: Some campgrounds have experienced theft issues. At Flint Ridge, a camper noted, "We parked in the parking lot and there was a sign saying security camera in use. There were signs warning us to not leave valuables in the car bc of thieves. I've never seen that at a campsite before and it really weirded me out."
Vegetation changes: Plant growth can alter campsite features over time. Regarding Flint Ridge, a visitor in 2023 shared, "Unfortunately the campsites no longer offer an ocean view as the vegetation has grown so much as of July 2023... Be warned there is tons of poison ivy even in the campground."
Highway noise: Several campgrounds near Highway 101 experience traffic noise. A Golden Bear RV Park camper reported, "While the views of the Klamath were so beautiful, the noise of the busy highway was such a vibe killer. I thought it would die down into the evening, but it kept busy all through the night until morning. And tons of big trucks!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Florence Keller Regional Park offers recreational facilities for children. "There is a day use area with horseshoe pits, including horseshoes, and volleyball or badminton grass court with no net and a playground," notes a visitor.
Educational opportunities: Ranger programs enhance the camping experience for children. At Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park, a camper shared, "We enjoyed proximity to trails and other parks, along with the ranger talks each night."
Bathroom considerations: Facility quality varies significantly between campgrounds. One camper at Florence Keller explained, "There is only one bathroom with flush toilets and they could use some serious updates. It can be quite a hike to the facilities from some of the sites. It has some portable toilets but they had not been emptied in a while and were disgusting."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Many campgrounds have limitations for larger rigs. At Mystic Forest RV Park, a camper shared, "Sites are on grass with no defined camper pads. Sites 15-21 are a little wonky in that the hookups are on the left side; we were able to thread our electric cord underneath our van to reach them."
Weather preparation: The coastal climate affects RV camping conditions. A visitor at Kamp Klamath advised, "Really loved how quiet it was here, lots of foliage creates a very secluded feel. Easy walk to where the Klamath River meets the Pacific Ocean and plenty to see around there. Beware this is considered a rain forest so your rig will really get a water test at the right times of the year."
RV site spacing: Many RV parks have tight site arrangements. One camper at Golden Bear RV Park noted, "Paved spots are tight. Level spots with full hookups. All the hookups are designed for you to pull in straight. So you will be running your hoses under your rig likely."
