Sacramento River camping areas near Red Bluff, California offer diverse options within 25 miles of town. Summer temperatures frequently reach triple digits from June through September, with milder spring and fall seasons providing more comfortable camping conditions. The area sits at approximately 300 feet elevation and serves as both a destination for outdoor enthusiasts and a convenient stopover for travelers on Interstate 5.
What to do
Hiking trails: Perry Riffle Trailhead provides access to multiple trails with Sacramento River views. "Several horse and hiking trails start from here. There's a pit toilet, garbage, and recycling," notes one camper about this Perry Riffle Trailhead.
Fishing access: Several campgrounds offer river access points for anglers. "It is a nice campground for a one night stop. Easy access right off hwy 5 and surprisingly quiet being so close," mentions a visitor at Sycamore Grove Campground.
Wine tasting: Local wineries offer tastings within short driving distance. "There is also a nice winery, Tuscan Ridge Estate, about 10 miles west of town," notes a camper who stayed at Sycamore Grove Campground.
Nature exploration: Red Bluff Recreation Area features educational nature trails. "They have many of the plants and trees recognized by little name tags. So interesting and absolutely gorgeous," shares one reviewer.
What campers like
River views: Sacramento River views provide scenic camping backdrops. "My family and I stayed at this camp ground for 14 days. The grounds and sites are nice," mentions a visitor about their extended stay.
Mature shade trees: Sycamore Grove Campground offers protection from summer heat. "Nice park. Trees. Close to river. Friendly camp hosts," writes a camper who stopped while traveling from Portland to Arizona.
Resort amenities: Red Bluff KOA Journey offers premium facilities for those seeking more comfort. "This is a nice KOA with larger sites than some KOAs. It is super well-maintained with nice amenities including pool, small dog area, basketball court, horseshoe area, club house," reports a satisfied camper.
Wildlife viewing: Campers regularly spot local wildlife near camping areas. "Saw/heard great horned owl, fox, then cows in the morning," mentions a tent camper at Perry Riffle Trailhead.
What you should know
Varying shower quality: Shower facilities range from premium to basic across different campgrounds. "The men's shower had a sign that there was not hot water and my wife said she'd not use the women's bathroom or shower as they were a little nasty," reports a visitor at Sycamore Grove Campground.
Summer heat challenges: Temperatures regularly exceed 90°F in summer months. "It was roasting in August; the river was a nice way to cool off," notes a camper at Perry Riffle Trailhead.
Site maintenance concerns: Some campgrounds have inconsistent maintenance standards. "I would like to see the hosts do a little more maintenance around the CG. Clean up would be nice. Cigarette butts in the bbq, trash in the fire pit," mentions a reviewer about Sycamore Grove Campground.
Reservation requirements: Many campgrounds require advance booking during peak seasons. "Making my way down to Arizona from Portland this is a great stop off point," notes a traveler about Sycamore Grove's convenient location.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access options: Sacramento River RV Park offers a swimming pool for summer heat relief. "Pool is refreshing but there are a lot of kiddos, so don't expect quiet 'no splashing' moments unless it's a dinner time," advises a long-term resident.
Kid-friendly amenities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "There's a newly built sunshaded playground for the kids, ultimate course on grounds," mentions a camper about Sacramento River RV Park facilities.
Pet areas: Multiple campgrounds provide designated pet relief areas. "There is a great off leash dog area along a trail next to the river," notes a visitor about the Red Bluff KOA Journey property.
Budget-friendly options: Camping costs vary significantly between properties. "For an overnight stay that's cheap, then this would be your spot. It was $33 for a night with water and electricity. Sites were flat," shares a camper about their experience at Sycamore Grove.
Tips from RVers
Tree clearance challenges: RVers should watch for low branches at some campgrounds. "The CG is clean, quiet(except for some I-5 road noise) and fairly well maintained, except for the low hanging branches that could use some trimming around the CG loop and on the drive in/out," advises an RVer about Sycamore Grove.
Site sizing considerations: Rolling Hills Casino Truck Lot offers large sites suitable for big rigs. "Sites are level 75 ft pull through sites. We will stay again. Lower numbered sites are closest to amenities," notes one RVer about this convenient option.
Overnight convenience: Several camping sites near Red Bluff function well as transit stops. "Easy on/off freeway. Made a reservation 44 minutes before arriving. Quick check in. Great for overnight. Or casino patronage. No frills, but full hookups," mentions a reviewer about Rolling Hills Casino Truck Lot.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some campgrounds. "Traveling south and stayed one night. Easy to make a reservation, pool and exercise room, clean and updated bathrooms. Biggest downfall is the freeway is close by and it is therefore a little noisy," notes a visitor to Sacramento River RV Park.
