Trinity County camping offers diverse terrain from 1,500-2,000 feet elevation around Lewiston, with reliable summer temperatures reaching the upper 80s and occasional 100°F days. Campgrounds provide varying degrees of shade and water access, with multiple options catering to both primitive campers and those seeking more amenities on Trinity and Lewiston lakes.
What to do
River swimming access: At Peltier Bridge Primitive Campground, campers enjoy cooling off in the creek directly adjacent to sites. "Loved listening to the creek while falling asleep, lots of shade and the staff was friendly," notes reviewer Valerie T. The campground offers 9 well-spaced sites with creek access.
Lake activities: Trinity Lake provides excellent recreation at Tannery Gulch Campground where visitors can enjoy water sports and fishing. "The sight has two full size picnic tables and a fresh water spout. Solid fire pit. Bear proof cabinet for dry storage," shares Kayla G., though she mentions "the water was also very low" during her visit.
Archery practice: Some campgrounds offer unique recreational opportunities beyond water activities. At Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort, "There are targets set up for bow hunters in the pines below the park," according to reviewer Tara D., making it an excellent option for archery enthusiasts looking to practice while camping.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Oak Bottom Tent Campground provides peaceful shoreline sites despite being near popular recreation areas. "Our site had private water access and was a good distance from adjacent sites... But from our campsite, we sometimes feel like we were the only ones there," writes Matt T., highlighting the balance between access and seclusion.
Wildlife viewing: Local campgrounds offer opportunities to spot various wildlife. "We had an inquisitive fox which was cool," mentions Glyn P. from Oak Bottom Tent Campground, showing the diverse wildlife that visitors might encounter during their stay.
Fishing opportunities: Cooper Gulch Campground offers excellent fishing access despite limited amenities. "The campground is so so. I was there to fish for the weekend, and for that purpose it worked just fine," shares Dan G., noting the small campground has only 5 sites but provides direct lake access for anglers.
What you should know
Bear safety measures: Many campgrounds in the area require proper food storage. "They have bear safes (metal boxes with doors having bear-proof levers/latches) to store food. Haven't seen any nor have I seen signs of bear," reports Greg K. from Douglas City Campground, highlighting available safety infrastructure.
Low water levels: Trinity and Lewiston lakes can experience significant level fluctuations. At Hayward Flat Campground, one camper noted, "Quite a walk down to the water from the camp sites," indicating how water levels affect access to recreation.
Limited supplies: Remote location means planning ahead for necessities. "The closest place to get ice was about a half hour drive," mentions Kayla G. about Tannery Gulch, emphasizing the need to bring supplies or prepare for longer drives to restock.
Dog friendly campgrounds near Lewiston: Most Trinity County sites welcome pets but have varying rules. "Our dogs loved the area down below, we would take them off leash and let them do dog-things," notes Jason D. about a designated pet area at Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Tent platform options: Mary Smith Campground offers unique tent platforms with excellent views. "We set our tents up on the platforms and had a great view of the lake and trinity alps in the distance. Birds and frogs were in abundance," shares Karen O., highlighting the family-friendly wildlife viewing opportunities.
Beach access: Some campgrounds feature swimming areas ideal for children. "Small swim area where you could put you kayak/SUP in," notes Dan G. about Cooper Gulch Campground, providing information about water access for family activities.
Wildlife education: The area presents opportunities to teach children about local fauna. "Lots of critters though: deer, lizards, flies, MOSQITOS, butterflies," Greg K. mentions about Douglas City Campground, suggesting families should prepare for insects while enjoying wildlife sightings.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Know your vehicle limitations when selecting a campground. "Biggest I would put in here would be about a 30 foot trailer. You have to disconnect your tow vehicle," advises Jason D. about Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort, providing critical information for larger rigs.
Limited hookups: Many pet friendly RV campgrounds near Lewiston have minimal services. "Our 35 foot fifth wheel easily navigated the space," shares Tara D. about Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort, confirming accessibility while noting there's "a great area for tent camping or a place to dry camp with your RV just below the main RV park."
Leveling considerations: Campground terrain varies significantly across the region. At Douglas City Campground, "The pads are (mostly) level side-to-side, and easily adjustable front to back. They fit all sizes of trailers and RVs; a 40'+ pulled in this afternoon," notes Greg K., providing helpful information about the practical aspects of RV camping.
Ranger
