Smith River, California sits at the confluence of the Smith River and the Pacific Ocean, with an elevation ranging from sea level to about 150 feet. The region experiences a moderate coastal climate with summer temperatures typically ranging between 50-70°F, making it ideal for camping year-round. Rain is common from November through March, creating lush conditions for the surrounding redwood forests.
What to do
River swimming spots: 8-mile drive from most campgrounds, the Chetco River offers excellent swimming opportunities. At Alfred A. Loeb State Park Campground, visitors can access "super-clean Chetco River for swimming and salamander-camping. Twenty minute drive to the ocean beaches," according to Sue M.
Coastal exploration: 15-minute walk from Beachfront RV Park lets you experience miles of coastline. "Whether it is being in the beach, watching the sunset, seeing boats come in, or building forts out of driftwood, this campground is just great," notes Julie.
Tide pool discovery: 30-minute trip to find marine life during low tide. "We saw hundreds of hermit crabs, anemone, starfish, sculpin, and more," shares Chanel C. from Harris Beach State Park, making it perfect for nature enthusiasts with children.
What campers like
Redwood hiking access: 5-minute drive to old-growth forests from Florence Keller Regional Park. "Camping amidst redwoods is an experience not soon forgotten. The towering redwoods make you feel like you've been transported to an alien planet," writes Colin S.
River recreation: Walking distance to water activities at Panther Flat Campground. A camper noted it offers "access to some awesome water holes on the Smith" and is "central to most things yet far enough away that we got a site around 1:30 pm during August."
Ocean wildlife viewing: Daily sightings common from waterfront locations. "We saw so many otters, sea lions, osprey, pelicans, and even a herd of elk one early morning," reports Laura M. at Howonquet Village and Resort, providing excellent wildlife photography opportunities.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer crowding can impact experience. One camper at Alfred A. Loeb State Park noted, "We've been here both in summer and winter, and the winter months is by far better in our opinion. Summers are too hot."
Facilities vary widely: Shower availability ranges from none to coin-operated. At Crescent City/Redwoods KOA, "The facilities were also excellent" according to Lah S., but other campgrounds might have limited amenities.
Cell service challenges: Coverage varies by location and carrier. Laura M. reported "Cell service is good here" at one location, while others mentioned spotty service requiring planning ahead for communication needs.
Reservation timing: Book 3-6 months ahead for summer visits. "We got lucky and got a premium ocean spot" with same-day booking at one location, but this is uncommon during peak season.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Multiple options for children to burn energy. Florence Keller Regional Park has "a big playground for the youngsters" and "a day use area with horseshoe pits, including horseshoes, and volleyball or badminton grass court."
Junior Ranger activities: Twice daily programs at some state parks engage children in learning about local ecology. One visitor at Harris Beach State Park mentioned "the Rangers hold Junior Ranger activities twice a day" making it "a fantastic playground and the Rangers do such a good job."
Beach fort building: Unlimited possibilities using driftwood along shorelines. Julie from Beachfront RV Park enjoyed "building forts out of driftwood" as a family activity that keeps children entertained for hours while parents relax.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: Drive around first before choosing your spot. At Florence Keller Regional Park, campers advise "driving around first before picking a spot as some are better than others" since "the paved parking spots at each site varied in length."
Level site challenges: Bring extra blocks for stabilization at waterfront sites. One RVer at Howonquet Village and Resort found their spot "was not level at all and was tricky to get ourselves situated even with our little 16' travel trailer," suggesting preparation is essential.
Pet-friendly accommodations: Water stations available at select locations. Ramblin' Redwoods Campground & RV Park offers "a dog wash area for your furry friends" which proves "especially useful after muddy trail explorations" according to a satisfied pet owner.
