Klamath, California sits at the confluence of the Klamath River and Pacific Ocean, creating a unique camping environment with coastal influence and dense redwood forests. Average rainfall exceeds 70 inches annually in this temperate rainforest climate. Campgrounds in the area range in elevation from sea level to about 1,200 feet in the surrounding hills.
What to do
River access activities: At Kamp Klamath RV Park and Campground, campers can enjoy fishing and beach time where the Klamath River meets the Pacific Ocean. "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," notes one visitor. The location provides opportunities for salmon fishing during the August/September runs.
Wildlife viewing: Elk Country RV Resort & Campground offers close encounters with Roosevelt elk that roam through the campground. "Elk country rv resort was AMAZING! Nothing beats sleeping under the canopy of redwood trees and waking in the brisk morning to find elk grazing in the adjacent pasture, who could care less that you're there," writes one camper. The property also includes a small pond where visitors have spotted river otters.
Redwood trails: Multiple hiking trails through ancient redwood groves are accessible within 20-30 minutes of most Klamath-area campgrounds. Mystic Forest RV Park offers its own hiking trail. "There is a hiking trail around the RV Site through the woods which is fantastic. Despite the rain we had a great time here," shares a camper. The site is located 1 mile from Trees of Mystery, a popular redwood attraction.
What campers like
Secluded settings: Cher-ere Bridge Camp Site provides spacious campsites that feel private. "Pretty nice campground with a fire pit and picnic table. Very spacious and private lots of room away from other campers," notes one reviewer. The campground's layout ensures more distance between sites than typical RV parks.
Riverside views: Golden Bear RV Park features riverfront sites that look directly over the Klamath River. "Nice grassy sites facing the Klamath River, full hookups, river front are pull in also have some pull-thrus, plus in the back are some back-ins," explains a visitor. Several campgrounds in the area position fire pits and seating areas to maximize river views.
Community amenities: Kamp Klamath hosts weekly salmon cookouts with live music during summer months. "Saturday nights in the summer are the best as they do a salmon cook out with live music," shares a longtime visitor. Several campgrounds offer community gathering spaces like pavilions and shared fire pits where campers can socialize.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Many campgrounds in the Klamath area have spotty cell service due to terrain. Redwood Meadows RV Resort provides wifi to compensate. "Cell phone coverage is spotty but they offer wifi and it allowed us a good chance to disconnect," explains a camper. Service improves closer to Highway 101 and in Crescent City.
Weather considerations: The region functions as a temperate rainforest with high precipitation. "Beware this is considered a rain forest so your rig will really get a water test at the right times of the year," advises a Kamp Klamath visitor. Morning marine layers from the coast often burn off by midday, particularly at inland campgrounds.
Limited services: Some campgrounds operate with restricted hours or seasonal closures. "We arrived today February 25th escaping The snow in Southern California," reports a winter visitor to Lighthouse Cove RV Park, one of the year-round options. Several campgrounds in the area close during winter months or reduce services.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and recreation: Some rv sites near Klamath, California include child-friendly facilities. Riverside RV Park offers a "tetherball pole with playground," according to a visitor. Several campgrounds feature basketball courts or open fields for games.
Beach activities: Lighthouse Cove RV Park provides direct beach access for families. "We had never been to the ocean and had so much fun having our camper parked directly off the beach. It was so clean and beautiful," reports a family. The nearby beaches offer tide pooling, beachcombing, and kite flying opportunities.
Nature programs: Many campgrounds near Klamath connect to nature activities specifically designed for children. "We did a horseback ride up into the redwoods with Crescent Trail rides," shares a Redwood Meadows RV Resort visitor. Junior Ranger programs are available at nearby national and state parks.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV spaces vary significantly between campgrounds near Klamath. Klamath River RV Park offers both pull-through and riverfront sites. "At the riverfront sites it's a little awkward to sit to the side of the camper, and most people sit in front of their campers looking over the river," advises a camper. Some waterfront sites require specific parking orientations.
Hookup configurations: Several campgrounds position utilities on the left side of RV sites. "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," explains a visitor to Mystic Forest RV Park. Water pressure can vary between campgrounds.
Navigation considerations: Many rv parks near Klamath, California have specific access challenges. "The spots can be a little tricky to get into and those with larger rigs should contact the management office to ensure they can fit and maneuver properly," advises a visitor to Redwood Meadows RV Resort, though they note seeing "plenty of huge Class As and triple axle 5th wheels" successfully navigating the park.