Tent campsites near Somes Bar, California occupy remote sections of Six Rivers and Klamath National Forests, positioned in a region where elevations range from 900 to 4,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F during daytime hours with cooler 50-60°F nights. Several primitive camping locations sit near creek confluences, requiring visitors to carefully navigate forest service roads that become increasingly challenging after rain events.
What to do
Backpacking trails: The Lovers Camp Trailhead serves as a gateway to extensive wilderness hiking. "We just finished a backpacking trip in marble valley and sky high lakes area, both accessible about 5+ miles from the Lovers Camp Trailhead. It was absolutely beautiful! So much to do in that area and such great views," notes one camper who gave the area a 5-star rating.
Creek exploration: Many forest service campsites position visitors near seasonal creeks for swimming and fishing opportunities during summer months. At Groves Prairie Dispersed Camp, campers appreciate "a beautiful little creek right next to the campsite" that provides both water access and natural scenery.
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution in this remote region creates exceptional night sky viewing. One visitor specifically came to "see the Perseids Meteor Shower" at Groves Prairie, mentioning the complete lack of other campers contributed to the unobstructed dark sky experience.
What campers like
Secluded locations: Many tent sites offer significant privacy from other campers. "This secluded camp is well worth the effort to find," reports a visitor to Groves Prairie who appreciated the remoteness despite the challenging access road.
Wildlife viewing: The forested setting provides natural habitat for various animals. At Flint Ridge Backcountry Site, campers mention "a few deer walking through our campsite through the middle of the night," showing how wildlife encounters are common throughout the region.
Ocean-forest combination: Some sites uniquely blend coastal and forest environments. At Flint Ridge, campers appreciate this unusual combination: "We parked right along the coast and easily walked all of our gear to camp. Could see the ocean from our tent while among the GIANT trees."
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest Service roads leading to most tent campsites require careful navigation. "Both ways are via forest service roads that are 'fair'," notes one Groves Prairie camper, while another mentions "the road to get up there is a bit overgrown and there's a lot of potholes."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping areas provide only basic amenities. At Etna City Park, facilities include "a shower room behind the restrooms. You need to get tokens at the grocery store," and many forest campsites have only vault toilets or no facilities at all.
Cell coverage: Connectivity remains extremely limited throughout the region. One Groves Prairie visitor reports "There is MAYBE one (1) bar of Verizon service, but it is extremely unreliable," which reflects the connectivity situation at most remote tent campsites near Somes Bar.
Water sources: Potable water remains scarce at primitive sites. A Groves Prairie camper specifically mentions "NO POTABLE WATER" and advises "There is a tiny creek running nearby if needed" for those willing to treat natural water sources.
Tips for camping with families
Safety considerations: Some areas require additional vigilance. At Flint Ridge Backcountry Site, campers report "signs warning us to not leave valuables in the car bc of thieves" and security cameras in use at parking areas.
Plant hazards: Children should be monitored around vegetation. "Be careful of ticks" warns one Flint Ridge camper, while another notes "there is tons of poison ivy even in the campground" and "stinging nettles" growing throughout the sites.
Alternative options: For families wanting more amenities, established town facilities can serve as better base camps. Etna City Park offers "a playground and restrooms" plus "a community pool for free public use" within walking distance of restaurants and shops.
Tips from RVers
Limited access: Most tent camping areas near Somes Bar cannot accommodate recreational vehicles due to narrow, rough forest roads. Even smaller RVs struggle with access, as most sites are described as "NO big-rig-friendly" in forest service listings.
Town alternatives: RVers seeking facilities should consider established locations in nearby communities. One visitor to Etna notes it has "restrooms open to the public" and "a charging station" with "a nice picnic shelter and plenty of space," though the camping area itself has "no room for RVs."
