Somes Bar, California sits at the confluence of several distinct camping ecosystems within the Klamath National Forest and Six Rivers National Forest. Campgrounds like Pearch Creek and Dillon Creek operate seasonally from May through October, offering both tent and RV accommodations with basic amenities including drinking water and vault toilets. The Nordheimer Group Sites in Six Rivers National Forest provide options for larger gatherings, while Klamath Riverside RV Park caters to those seeking full hookups. Most established campgrounds in the area are situated along rivers, particularly the Klamath and Trinity Rivers, providing opportunities for fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing within a landscape dominated by dense forests and mountainous terrain.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with many campgrounds accessible only via narrow, winding forest roads that may challenge larger vehicles. As one camper noted, "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 as no stores or supplies are close by." Cell service is limited or nonexistent at most sites, particularly those deeper in the forests. The camping season typically runs from late May through mid-October, with some facilities closing earlier depending on weather conditions. Bear activity is common throughout the area, requiring proper food storage in all camping locations.
Riverside campsites receive consistently positive reviews, with the Smith River and Klamath River locations being particularly popular. "The campground was nice and clean, we were situated on the river side with the Smith River in our backyard," reported one visitor. Many campgrounds feature coin-operated showers, with rates typically around $1.50 for 6 minutes. Campers frequently mention the helpful nature of camp hosts, with one noting that hosts were "so amazingly nice, even gave me wood for a fire to keep the mosquitos at bay." Privacy between sites varies considerably, with some campgrounds offering well-separated sites while others place campers in closer proximity. Wildlife sightings, particularly elk and deer, are commonly reported throughout the region's campgrounds.
$35 - $80 / 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."
$10 / night
"Nice site that are a little too close together, but that seems the norm in California. The camp hosts were so amazingly nice. Even gave me wood for a fire to keep the mosquitos at bay."
"The creek runs next to the campground which provides wonderful water sounds all night. Swimming in the nearby Salmon River is a great way to spend a hot July day."
$10 / night
"The lakeside sites are off the road and a short walk from the parking area. Be sure to get a cart from the camp host or you'll have to hand carry everything in. Cell coverage was excellent here."
"Whiskytown Lake is a great recreation lake, from boating, swimming to fishing. Oak Bottom is shores are surrounded by pines and manzanita. It has a pretty large campground with tent and dry RV sites."
"The park had a little bit of everything… river views, wooded trails, huge fire pits, full hookups, etc."
"One of the best campsites in California. You should start at the Prairie Creek Visitor Center and hike out to this campground."
"Redwoods State Park is beautiful with campgrounds that are basically next to the trails, secluded and surrounded by trees. There is nothing not to like about this place. Worth the drive."
$50 / night
$10 / night
"There is access to the stream which has a nice swimming hole, if you don’t mind the cold. The campground is quite with absolutely no cell service, which is great if that’s what you are looking for."
$40 - $70 / night
"Once set up, the camp side was very close to our neighbors. Expect no privacy. Perhaps they should put up a patrician of lattice or something between the sites. The utilities are somewhat confusing."
"Location, location, location. "
$35 - $65 / night
"It’s a great location and close to parks/trails. Full hookup, riverfront sites available, clean bathrooms/showers, camp store, camp cafe open on weekends for breakfast, group fire pits."
"It is right off of the highway so you do have traffic noise. This park is super close to Trees of Mystery which we explored for a couple of hours. Overall, we would stay here again."
RangerThis campground has nice clean bathrooms with hot showers. The showers do require quarters. Each campsite has a fire pit and a table and is very level. There were a few pull through sites but lots of smaller sites. there are trails, viewing points, and asked to see nearby
TravelerI stopped here in mid-January during a road trip to California, and it was the perfect choice for traveling with my five dogs. I was so grateful to find a well-maintained campground open during the winter season. It was incredibly quiet with only a few other campers around. Even though I only stayed for one night, I found the facilities to be impressively clean. My campsite was close enough to hear the river, which was a lovely touch. For only$15, this is a fantastic value. I’ll definitely be back!
LegendIt was late and almost dark when we pulled in after the days exploring it the Redwoods. Nice campground. There were trails throughout to explore. Great day use area. We were able to fill our water tank as well.
LegendWe stopped here so we could see Wedding Rock, Sue-Meg Village and Agate Beach. We also enjoyed a campfire after walking the park trails. Friendly staff and clean facilities. The trails were a bit rough but it is winter hiking.
LegendWe stayed two nights while exploring the Redwoods. The drive back is a bit rough but it was great to park and listen to the ocean waves crashing all night. It was a short walk over some dunes to get to the beach. Facilities were clean. Showers hot and free!
GuideGreat camping spot, very quiet, nice fire pit and picnic table. Beautiful trail nearby the river. Bathrooms are the nicest I have ever seen at any state or national park in my life.
ScoutMy best friend came to Camp Trinidad last August and we met them there on are way back home to Oregon. When we pulled up to the park it was amazing, My best friend had never been there before either and we both fell in love with the place and there staff. Their maintenance guy went above and beyond and loaned us some of his tools out of his own truck and let my husband use his truck to go to the auto parts store because are car broke down right when we got there. Not only is he a hard worker and he keeps that park looking so amazingly beautiful, but so considerate and helpful. He gave us the shirt off his back. We tried to give him some money and wouldn't take it. He kept checking on us and asking if everything was ok. What a nice man. And the young woman in the camp store was just as nice. We will be going back there for sure this summer..I'm trying to talk my family into having are family reunion there now. We usually have it at a different park but Camp Trinidad is so much cleaner and there staff is number 1. Thanks Gary see you in July
Thanks for all ur help, we would've been in deep trouble without it..
ScoutOpen year round. Good quiet site. $30 per car so you'd think you'd get facilities.
ScoutThere are no toilets or showers at this site. You must use whatever you have in your vehicle. There is water and electric, and the spots are level. Parks and trails all require a vehicle to get to, walking along the very narrow high-traffic road can be dangerous.
Campgrounds near Somes Bar, California range from riverfront locations to forested retreats with elevations varying from 450 to 1,200 feet. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F from June through September, while winter brings significant rainfall. Most sites don't offer cell service, requiring campers to prepare for digital disconnection during their stay.
Hike through redwood forests: Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park offers trails directly accessible from Elk Prairie Campground. As one camper noted, "We were able to hike a bunch on the campground (very accessible), drive to Fern Canyon, and visit Jedediah Smith all in 3 days."
Wildlife viewing: The region hosts diverse wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly at dawn and dusk. "We saw so many animals: elk, a bear, scrub jays, chipmunks, tadpoles, rabbits, deer, etc." reported a visitor at Elk Prairie Campground.
River swimming: Pearch Creek Campground provides excellent swimming options during summer months. "Swimming in the nearby Salmon River is a great way to spend a hot July day," one camper mentioned. Another added, "Great place to cool off with the river near the sites and plenty of pools to splash in."
Riverside camping: The confluence of rivers creates prime waterfront camping. At Klamath River RV Park, "Spring for a river view site and you'll have the most gorgeous view of the river and mountains," one visitor advised. Another mentioned you can "Fish from the bluff."
Secluded settings: Most campgrounds offer a sense of isolation despite varying site spacing. At Kamp Klamath, "Really loved how quiet it was here, lots of foliage creates a very secluded feel. Easy walk to where the Klamath River meets the Pacific Ocean."
Cooling water features: Cold, clear creeks provide relief during hot summer days. At Pearch Creek, campers appreciate that "the creek runs next to the campground which provides wonderful water sounds all night." Another visitor described the water as "very clear and cold, its amazing feeling when its hot out."
Remote location challenges: Campgrounds require preparation due to isolation. At Gold Bluffs Beach Campground, visitors warned, "Hellish road to get there but worth the trip... 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 as no stores or supplies are close by."
Fire restrictions: Fire regulations vary by season and location. At Dillon Creek Campground, while fires may be permitted during certain periods, summer fire restrictions often apply due to high wildfire risk.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be prevalent, especially near water sources at dusk. One Pearch Creek visitor mentioned camp hosts "gave me wood for a fire to keep the mosquitos at bay." Another camper at Dillon Creek noted, "The mosquitoes are abundant in the early evening."
Kid-friendly water play: Several campsites offer safe water access for children. At Dillon Creek Campground, "There is access to the stream which has a nice swimming hole, if you don't mind the cold." The creek provides shallow areas appropriate for supervised children.
Playground access: Some campgrounds include play equipment. Klamath River RV Park offers "a small play structure with swings for the kiddos. Which my daughter enjoyed."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy animal sightings common throughout the area. At Elk Prairie Campground, "We saw so many animals... We were able to hike a bunch on the campground (very accessible)," making it suitable for families with varying hiking abilities.
Site access considerations: RV sites vary significantly in accessibility and size. At Elk Prairie Campground, one RVer cautioned, "Well shaded campground, but with tight turns and smallish sites relatively close together. Even with a small (16') camper, we had to unhitch to fit."
Service limitations: Limited hookups require self-sufficiency. One visitor to Klamath River RV Park appreciated that despite limitations, the park offers "Full hookup, riverfront sites available, clean bathrooms/showers, camp store, camp cafe open on weekends for breakfast."
Weather preparation: The region's climate demands proper equipment. An RVer at Kamp Klamath warned, "Beware this is considered a rain forest so your rig will really get a water test at the right times of the year."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Somes Bar, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Somes Bar, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 204 campgrounds and RV parks near Somes Bar, CA and 15 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Somes Bar, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Somes Bar, CA is Elk Prairie Campground — Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park with a 4.6-star rating from 73 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Somes Bar, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 15 free dispersed camping spots near Somes Bar, CA.
What parks are near Somes Bar, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Somes Bar, CA that allow camping, notably Six Rivers National Forest and Redwood National Park.
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