Camping sites near Sawyers Bar, California sit within Klamath National Forest at elevations between 2,000-3,500 feet, experiencing hot summers and snowy winters. This remote section of Northern California requires self-sufficiency as services are minimal, with many campgrounds operating seasonally due to mountain access roads that become impassable during winter months.
What to do
Swimming in creek pools: At Matthews Creek Campground, visitors can access clear, cold water via "a short walk down a fairly steep hill" to reach "a nice pebble beach." The water is described as "crystal clear (and cold)" by camper Thomas Y.
Hiking in Trinity Alps Wilderness: From East Fork Campground, hikers can reach popular trails. "A 20 minute drive on a dirt road leads to the China Gultch Trailhead, a popular trail leading to Grizzly Lake," notes Jack L., who adds this campground is "a great place to stay before heading into the Trinity Alps."
Kayaking and fishing: The Salmon River and tributaries offer paddling opportunities. The area features "bubbling" waterways, with Mule Bridge Campground sitting right beside "beautiful North Fork of Salmon, bubbling right next to camp," according to Greg B., who found "VERY little traffic & people" at this secluded spot.
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Most campgrounds in the area are rarely crowded. At Pearch Creek Campground, one camper noted, "I had the entire place to myself," while another mentioned "the times I've visited, it has been deserted save for the occasional host. nice and quiet."
Shade and natural features: Many sites feature mature forest canopy. Pearch Creek Campground offers "fairly large campground with large Fir trees that provide shade during the day. The creek runs next to the campground which provides wonderful water sounds all night," according to Josh W.
Wildlife viewing: The forests around campsites host diverse wildlife. One camper at Mulebridge Campground appreciated the natural setting along the North Fork of Salmon River, which provides habitat for various mountain species typical of the Klamath Mountains ecosystem.
What you should know
Remote location requires planning: The area has extremely limited services. "It is a pretty long drive down basically single lane roads to get to the campground, and you should make sure you have all supplies with no stores/supplies close by," warns Thomas Y. about Matthews Creek Campground.
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds are open May through October. Before visiting, check current status as seasonal closures vary. Pearch Creek Campground typically operates "May 24 to October 11" according to forest service information.
Rustic facilities: Etna City Park offers tent camping with basic amenities. "There is no room for RVs. The camping area is to the left back corner of the park," notes Patti M., adding that "There's a shower room behind the restrooms. You need to get tokens at the grocery store."
Limited connectivity: Cell service is virtually nonexistent. One visitor to Mulebridge Campground specifically noted "NO cell service (Verizon)" during their stay, making advance planning essential for safety.
Tips for camping with families
Look for creek access: Natural water features provide entertainment. Paul H. notes that Pearch Creek Campground is "a nice place to beat the heat" being "well shaded and next to a very clear and cold creek."
Consider city park options for supplies: Etna City Park offers camping with town conveniences nearby. "The grocery store, in fact the whole town, is all within walking distance," reports Patti M., adding that "There is a community pool for free public use" making it family-friendly.
Bring entertainment: Limited services mean families should pack activities. One camper recommends bringing games and activities since most campgrounds have no electricity or built-in entertainment options.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions apply: Most forest campgrounds accommodate smaller RVs only. Regarding Matthews Creek, Thomas Y. warns about "basically single lane roads," suggesting caution with larger rigs.
Consider private alternatives: For full hookups, Etna RV Park offers more amenities. One long-term visitor noted, "grassy, partially shaded, quiet sites with a little store, huge clean laundry, and the nice little town of Etna and all of its ammenities right here."
Bring water: Many forest campgrounds have unreliable water sources. Matthews Creek provides water, but "a sign warns to boil water before drinking," according to Thomas Y., making it wise for RVers to arrive with full freshwater tanks.
