Camping opportunities near Smith River, California provide direct access to the ancient coastal forest ecosystem where fog-nourished redwoods meet the Pacific. The region maintains mild temperatures year-round, averaging 45°F-65°F, with frequent fog and rain contributing to the lush forest environment. Tent sites, cabins, and yurt camping at Smith River accommodate visitors seeking proximity to both forest and coastal attractions.
What to Do
River swimming access: At AtRivers Edge RV Resort, visitors can enjoy refreshing dips in the Chetco River. "There are a few trails around the campground, and a wonderful walk along the river," notes David & Sue C., who enjoyed the riverside location and nearby beaches.
Redwood hikes: The region offers hiking trails from beginner to advanced among ancient trees. "The redwoods are right down the road. Crescent City is super close for beach adventures. A short drive up the road for a river day," explains Kristen F. from Redwood Meadows RV Resort, highlighting the central location for different outdoor activities.
Tidepooling opportunities: Visit Harris Beach State Park during low tide to observe marine ecosystems. "During low tide, you can explore the tide pools. We saw hundreds of hermit crabs, anemone, starfish, sculpin, and more," reports Chanel C., noting the accessible coastal exploration options suitable for all ages.
Beachcombing: The meeting point of the Klamath River and Pacific Ocean creates excellent conditions for beachcombing. "The ocean is about 1 mile away right at the mouth of the Klamath river with an awesome beach. Good fishing, beach combing, kite flying etc," shares Tammy H. from Kamp Klamath.
What Campers Like
Old-growth forest settings: Jedidiah Smith Campground offers camping beneath ancient trees. "What an amazing place to stay! It's our favorite place so far. Stunning trails, trees older than the pyramids, friendly people and grand views," writes Jason L., emphasizing the historical significance of the forest.
Riverside yurt accommodations: Yurt camping near Smith River provides comfortable shelter with river views. "Great cabins overlooking the river! This site is close enough to make day trips to the beach and Brookings for any forgotten supplies or for dinner if you do not feel like cooking," notes Kelly N. about Alfred A. Loeb State Park's riverside accommodations.
Clean facilities: Many visitors appreciate the well-maintained bathrooms and showers. "The restroom and shower facilities are probably the best I've ever seen. Super new, well maintained, clean, and spacious. The Rangers do such a good job of cleaning them daily," writes Chanel C. about Harris Beach State Park's amenities.
Proximity to multiple attractions: The region allows easy access to diverse environments. "Super close to Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park with easy access to the Smith River. Very clean and medium spacious RV sites," Michael reports about Redwood Meadows RV Resort's convenient location for exploring multiple attractions.
What You Should Know
Weather considerations: The coastal climate brings frequent rain and fog. "We've been here both in summer and winter, and the winter months is by far better in our opinion. Summers are too hot, when you have the coast and the town of Brookings so close," advises Laura M. about Alfred A. Loeb State Park.
Site selection matters: At Florence Keller Regional Park, campsite quality varies significantly. "Sites are very clean, fairly level and of varying sizes. We were able to find a spot we fit in with our 26ft RV. I suggest driving around first before picking a spot as some are better than others," recommends Laura M.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies throughout the area. "There is reliable and usable Wi-Fi. It was incredibly close to Jedediah state park," notes Amy & Stu B. about Redwood Meadows, though they also mention "No Verizon and ATT went in and out" at their location.
Noise factors: Some campgrounds have unexpected noise sources. "There is a large lumber processing mill nearby so you hear loud noises (mechanical beeping and lumber falling) all hours of the night and day, 6 days a week (off Sundays). They start at 5am and end around midnight," Chanel C. mentions about one local campground.
Tips for Camping with Families
Playground access: Harris Beach State Park Campground offers dedicated children's areas. "Great campsite for kids and family. There is a fantastic playground and the Rangers hold Junior Ranger activities twice a day," shares Chanel C., highlighting the organized activities for younger visitors.
River swimming safety: The Chetco River provides safe swimming options for children. "The fresh water river leading to the ocean is awesome and kids can swim across with no problem," explains Randall A. about Alfred A. Loeb State Park's water access points.
Plant awareness: Watch for thorny plants when exploring with children. "Careful of wild blackberry bushes everywhere! Lots of children and adults were scraped up by thorns when exploring the terrain," warns Chanel C., noting this natural hazard at Harris Beach State Park.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer ranger programs suitable for children. "The amphitheater also has frequent ranger programs," mentions Leonard H. about Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park's interpretive offerings.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing considerations: Kamp Klamath RV Park accommodates larger vehicles with varying site options. "We typically stay in the meadow, however their are more improved RV campsites near the road," notes Tammy H., explaining the campground's different RV accommodation options.
Hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer partial hookups but not full services. "Electric and water hook ups. No sewer. Worth every penny. Close to the river without being in the middle of the day use business," Scott H. shares about Alfred A. Loeb State Park's amenities.
Leveling challenges: Some sites require additional effort for comfortable parking. "The campgound road was paved but narrow in spots and the paved parking spots at each site varied in length. Bigger rigs would have a problem in this park," Laura M. notes about Florence Keller Regional Park's limitations for larger vehicles.
Limited capacity: Advance reservations are recommended for larger RVs. "New fifth wheel with a sliding hitch was giving me issues with a back in site. The staff escorted the took the time to work with me to get the rig parked perfectly in the spot," shares Michael A. about assistance received at Kamp Klamath.
