Adam B.
Ranger
RangerAgate Campground — Sue-meg State Park
Amazing
Very beautiful place. Cell Verizon att were ok. 20-30 Mbps Showers were warm
Camping near Six Rivers National Forest
Camping opportunities in Six Rivers National Forest and surrounding areas range from established campgrounds to dispersed sites with varying levels of amenities. Lacks Creek BLM offers secluded primitive camping with multiple dispersed sites that feature fire rings and vault toilets. Several campgrounds in the area accommodate both tent and RV camping, including Happy Camp Campground near Willow Creek and Boise Creek Campground. The landscape includes options for riverside camping along the Trinity River and its tributaries, with some sites providing picnic tables and fire rings. For those seeking more comfort, Sugar Pine Camp & Cabin offers cabin accommodations with amenities like showers and drinking water.
Road conditions vary throughout the region, with many campgrounds accessible via forest service roads that require careful navigation. Groves Prairie Dispersed Camp can be reached by two routes - a longer one from Willow Creek or a shorter path from Hawkins Bar - though both involve forest service roads described as "fair" in condition. Most dispersed camping areas lack potable water, and cell service is often limited or nonexistent in remote locations. Several campgrounds operate seasonally, with many open from late spring through fall, typically May through October. One camper noted, "The road to get up there is a bit overgrown and there's a lot of potholes so just keep that in mind."
Campers consistently highlight the natural beauty and privacy of sites throughout the area. Riverside locations are particularly popular, offering swimming opportunities during warm months. Groves Prairie receives praise for its seclusion and meadow setting, while Happy Camp Campground provides access to OHV trails. Highway noise affects some campgrounds close to Route 299, particularly Boise Creek where truck traffic can disturb sleep. "Very close to Willow Creek which is convenient, but once night falls, beware, or bring very good earplugs," advised one visitor about highway noise. Wildlife sightings are common, with reports of deer wandering through campsites. Most locations have limited or no amenities, requiring campers to pack in water and pack out trash, making proper preparation essential.
Best Camping Sites Near Six Rivers National Forest (199)
1. Lacks Creek BLM
22 ReviewsHoopa, CA13 milesWebsite+1 (707) 825-2300"Camped here for one night mid September, slept in a car, great view and found the 3 spacious camping spots with a picnic table, fire pit (with a grill rack), and an unsmelly bathroom a short walk away."
"When you get to the area where apple maps says park and walk, just take the pine ridge or whatever trail a couple more miles up."
2. Boise Creek
7 ReviewsWillow Creek, CA8 milesWebsite+1 (530) 629-2118$10 / night
"on willow creek, adjacent to the highway. fairly busy at times, but pretty nice."
"Only down side is the highway noise but it is not obnoxious. One bar of ATT but enough to do this review."
3. Happy Camp Campground
4 ReviewsSix Rivers National Forest, CA6 miles+1 (530) 629-2118"Close to trails. Found this by exploring the area and stopped in to sleep. Plenty of open spots. I will come back."
"There are OHV trails nearby so expect some noise throughout the morning and afternoon. Pit toilets are available and fire pits and picnic tables are available at each site."
4. Groves Prairie Dispersed Camp
2 ReviewsWillow Creek, CA4 milesWebsite+1 (530) 629-2118"There is a beautiful little creek right next to the campsite."
"There is a tiny creek running nearby if needed. There is MAYBE one (1) bar of Verizon service, but it is extremely unreliable. "
5. East Fork Campground
4 ReviewsWillow Creek, CA12 milesWebsite+1 (530) 629-2118$25 / night
"As such, I had a difficult time getting signal and had trouble sending or receiving texts the further away I got from the camp entrance."
"Beautiful campsites along Rock Creek up-canyon from Toms Place and downstream from Rock Creek Lake and Mosquito Flats trailhead. Get the 100’s to be nearest the creek."
6. Elk Prairie Campground — Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park
78 ReviewsOrick, CA36 milesWebsite+1 (707) 464-6101$35 - $100 / night
"This was my favorite campground in our northern california tour. Campimg among the redwoods, so quiet and shady we slept in late each morning."
"There are also INCREDIBLE day trips into California’s interior, Indian history, little known parks and trails everywhere."
7. Tish Tang Campground
1 ReviewHoopa, CA6 milesWebsite+1 (530) 625-42848. Sugar Pine Camp & Cabin
1 ReviewWillow Creek, CA9 miles+1 (808) 634-4382$20 - $70 / night
"This property offers gorgeous mountain views, comfortable beds, and close access to outdoor activities. Check them out and leave them some love!"
9. Burnt Ranch Campground
3 ReviewsBurnt Ranch, CA13 milesWebsite+1 (530) 623-610610. Denny Campground
1 ReviewBurnt Ranch, CA9 milesWebsite"Even though the camp is right next to the Denny Rd, traffic is nonexistent. There are 6 camp spots, and I was thankful to get the last open one."
Recent Camping Photos near Six Rivers National Forest
207 Photos of 199 Six Rivers National Forest Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Groves Prairie Dispersed CampM
East Fork Campground
Radio Ranch
Lacks Creek BLM
BLM Dispersed Camping - Lacks Creek
Del Loma RV Park and CampgroundJ
Matthews Creek Campground
Pearch Creek CampgroundA
Big Flat CampgroundS
Oak Bottom Marina RV & Campground — Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area
Clam Beach County Park
The Retreat at Redwood Shores
Recent Reviews near Six Rivers National Forest
779 Reviews of 199 Six Rivers National Forest Campgrounds
- kkerri B.
TravelerThe Heights Casino RV Lot
Unique 5 stars
This parking lot was very clean, a bit of a slope, really nice view, and wonderful staff. The staff could be nicer and very hospitable. The nearby town of Trinidad is lovely to go explore. We will definitely stay here again as we journey up the northern part of the California coast. They are currently building a sweat lodge that will be open to the public next year and every quarter they have a Sound Bath that is also open to the public.
Dawn S.
GuideRedwood Acres RV Park
In the woods
This site was great for touring the Redwood Forest and Crescent City area. Camp hosts are friendly and easy to work with. There's a handful of tiny homes scattered about. Many are long term live-ins. Nice dog park. Friendly neighbors.
- NNorman J.Guide
Rattlesnake Cr. near Hwy 36, Shasta-Trinity NF
An option where there are few along HWY 36
This dispered site is 75 miles west of I5 and Red Bluff and just north of Hwy 36 about a 1/2 mile along USFS [Shasta-Trinity] Road 30N59. It is about 7 miles west of the 36/3 junction. Also about 3-4 miles east of USFS campgrounds Forest Glen and 2-3 miles east of Hell Gate. The entrance road here (30N59) is not very well marked but there is a large road sign on the south shoulder of 36, as shown in the pics, that is directly across from the entrance. Road 30N59 was not well maintaned (as of July 2026) but passable with care even with my 2wd SUV and teardrop. Like most disperesed camping bring everything and pack it out. Note - on Google Maps forest rd 30N59 is called Lower Rattlesnake Rd. Sites are flat areas with grass along the margins of 30N59 and right along the creek which was flowing well even in July.
- EEdgar V.Traveler
Coastal Pines RV Park
Horrible Experience. Couldn't stay.
Booked a site for the night and received a confirmed reservation and payment confirmation. When I arrived, the assigned site was already occupied by someone else, so I obviously could not stay.
I called and left a voicemail explaining the situation but never received a callback. It appears there is no one actually confirming or monitoring site availability when reservations are made online.
If you’re planning to stay here for the night while passing through, I would not count on having a site available just because the website says you do. You may arrive after a long drive only to find that your reserved site is already occupied and there’s nobody available to resolve the issue.
Chris J.TravelerClam Beach County Park
Wonderful ocean beach spot
Nice simple county park on the beach 200ft from highway 101. 10 spots with picnic tables and fire rings. 10 or so spots for 35ft rvs, pull thru. Pit toilet and no other amenities. Broad open beach with lots of driftwood.
- RRichard/Julie A.Traveler
Penn Campground — Sue-meg State Park
Serene area
This is such a great campground. Only caution would be the size of the spaces and the closeness of Huge trees as you’re parking or driving in the park for clearance of a trailer. Our trailer is only 30’ and we had to drive slow and watch all sides for branches and close trees
Amanda D.GuideRedwood Creek Dispersed Camp
Beautiful Redwoods, Free Permit Required
I love these sites because NPS allows you to camp all along the gravel by the creek which from what I saw- goes extremely far into the park. As long as you’re okay with very shallow water crossings- you can walk pretty far if all the spots close to the trail are closed.
Hiked in from Tall Trees Grove parking which requires a free online permit because they send you the code to a locked gate. It was 2.7 mile hike down to the gravel, it’s all downhill so remember that when you are leaving.
Creek provided access to water easily and access to hiking trails, giant redwoods, beautiful scenery, it’s very remote so no service but likely to see other people. I imagine it might be packed on weekends. If you camp by Tall Trees Trial you’re likely to see people some sites there isn’t much privacy. Campfires OK on gravel.
Pack in pack out, leave no trace, no bathrooms so dig a hole!
- Amanda D.Guide
44 Backcountry Camp — Redwood National Park
Nestled in the Redwoods - remote
Campsites are close together, one is more isolated and overlooks the trail. 2 bear boxes and 4 picnic tables. Remote but had amenities. Didn’t see many people but if others showed up it would fill quickly. .5-.7 miles to the nearest water source Redwood creek which is also completely downhill from camp. So you do a mile total, straight up hill on the way back.
If you’re okay with a more open site but want to be close to the water the dispersed gravel by the creek is definitely the way to go instead!
Guide to Six Rivers National Forest
Six Rivers National Forest campsites span diverse elevations from 3,600 to 7,000 feet, creating distinctive microclimates throughout the area. The forest contains over 1,500 miles of rivers and streams, making water access a key feature for many camping locations. Cell service varies dramatically between campsites, with coverage being especially poor in the deeper valleys and canyons.
What to do
Trail exploration from camp: Lacks Creek BLM offers direct access to hiking trails right from your site. "The whole BLM management area is well developed and has signs to guide you," notes Derrick H., who adds that many sites feature picnic tables and fire rings.
Swimming holes nearby: During summer months, the Trinity River provides cooling relief. "There is a swimming hole at Big Rock River Access just 1.4 miles down the hill. Beautiful river," reports Jules S. who stayed at Boise Creek Campground.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region supports diverse animal populations that frequently visit campsites. At Elk Prairie Campground, one camper experienced "amazing weather. We saw so many animals: elk, a bear, scrub jays, chipmunks, tadpoles, rabbits, deer, etc."
What campers like
Secluded meadow settings: The natural openings in the forest provide unique camping experiences. Greg B. visited Groves Prairie Dispersed Camp and found it "well worth the effort to find. I've been 3 times and finally decided to add it to The Dyrt."
Creekside camping options: Many sites feature small waterways that enhance the camping experience. At East Fork Campground, Bryson B. notes the campground has "a creek running through it alongside the majority of the sites," where "at some points the creek gets deep enough to recline in."
Privacy between sites: Despite some campgrounds having sites in proximity, vegetation often creates natural separation. Nina M. at Elk Prairie Campground explains, "the sites on that loop are set up in a way that everyone has a private tree cubby so it didn't feel like you were camping by a bunch of people."
What you should know
Road conditions require preparation: Many forest service roads present challenges even for passenger vehicles. Heading to Lacks Creek, Marasha L. found "chunks of the gravel road were under construction; some blind, narrow turns, but nothing too intense; and dips, washouts, and big exposed rocks, so drive with care."
Seasonal operations limit options: Most Six Rivers National Forest campsites follow typical mountain schedules. When Paul T. attempted to visit Burnt Ranch Campground in early June, he found the "gate is locked" since many sites remain closed until late spring.
Cell coverage varies significantly: Connectivity cannot be counted on throughout the forest. At East Fork Campground, Bryson B. reports that "the cell service gets patchy as this site is in somewhat of a cleft in the mountains," creating "a difficult time getting signal" deeper in the campground.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with shallow water features: Children can safely enjoy creek exploration at certain locations. East Fork Campground offers water that's "not fast or deep enough to be unsafe for anyone older than a toddler."
Consider noise levels for sleeping: Highway proximity affects some sites more than others. James C. at Boise Creek notes "the highway noise but it is not obnoxious," though others find it more disruptive.
Look for educational opportunities: Happy Camp Campground offers unique learning experiences according to George A., who found it "awesome and just beautiful and the town of willow creek it great too" when he "went to look for big foot just for food but great place to bring family."
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions carefully: Even small trailers can face challenges at some campgrounds. Patrick M. notes that at Elk Prairie, "Even with a small (16') camper, we had to unhitch to fit" due to "tight turns and smallish sites."
Consider river access requirements: Some sites require walking or driving to reach water features. At Sugar Pine Camp & Cabin, proximity to water activities remains convenient without being directly on the water.
Watch for low clearance entrances: Some forest roads have overhanging vegetation that can damage taller vehicles. Jules S. attempted Lacks Creek with a travel trailer but "turned around before I even made it to the gravel road. Road is narrow and steep with low hanging trees."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Six Rivers National Forest?
What camping is available near Six Rivers National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, Six Rivers National Forest offers a wide range of camping options, with 199 campgrounds and RV parks near Six Rivers National Forest and 11 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Six Rivers National Forest?
Which is the most popular campground near Six Rivers National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Six Rivers National Forest is Lacks Creek BLM with a 4.3-star rating from 22 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Six Rivers National Forest?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Six Rivers National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 free dispersed camping spots near Six Rivers National Forest.
What parks are near Six Rivers National Forest?
What parks are near Six Rivers National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 parks near Six Rivers National Forest that allow camping, notably Klamath National Forest and Redwood National Park.
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