Cabin options near Somes Bar range from primitive sites in old-growth forests to glamping accommodations with amenities. The region sits at approximately 1,100 feet elevation in Klamath National Forest, where summer temperatures average 80-90°F and winter lows reach 30°F. Access to most sites requires travel on mountainous roads that can become difficult to navigate during winter months.
What to do
Creek swimming spots: Dillon Creek Campground offers clear, cold water swimming. According to Marina, "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."
Horseback riding tours: Several options exist within 45 minutes of Redwood Meadows RV Resort. One visitor noted, "We drove Howland hill road and did short hikes and did a horseback ride up into the redwoods with Crescent Trail rides."
Smith River access: Multiple sites provide river access for fishing, swimming, and kayaking. A visitor to Jedidiah Smith Campground observed, "This campground has lush green trees, a flowing rice and the good system of paths through the campsites but still affords privacy."
Backpacking trails: Lovers Camp Trailhead serves as a starting point for longer wilderness trips. As one backpacker explained, "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!"
What campers like
Rustic isolation: Many visitors appreciate the disconnected nature of camping near Somes Bar. A camper at Dillon Creek mentioned, "The best part is theres no cell service to distract you." This reflects a common theme throughout the region's camping areas.
Ancient trees: The redwood ecosystem creates unique glamping in Somes Bar experiences. A visitor to Florence Keller Regional Park commented, "This campground is absolutely breathtaking. If you're looking to stay in the Redwoods, this is the place to be."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Marine and forest wildlife sightings are common. A camper noted that Kamp Klamath is "within walking distance to the mouth of the Klamath River and centrally located within the Redwood region."
Seasonal events: Campgrounds frequently host community gatherings during peak months. A visitor to Kamp Klamath mentioned, "Saturday nights in the summer are the best as they do a salmon cook out with live music."
What you should know
Highway noise: Some sites experience road noise. One visitor to Boise Creek warned, "Once night falls, beware, or bring very good earplugs. This is a precise point where due to the grade of the road, every single passing semi downshifts, and there are plenty that go by all night."
Fire restrictions: Rules vary by location and season. Sites near Somes Bar often implement complete fire bans during late summer and fall months when wildfire risk increases.
Limited facilities: Many sites have minimal amenities. A camper at East Fork Campground reported, "No running water (unless you filter from the river) and no trash services, just a pit toilet."
Weather variability: Conditions change rapidly in mountain settings. A visitor to Dillon Creek warned, "Unfortunately, fire season can take its toll and the whole river valley will be covered in smoke. We try to go earlier in the summer to avoid the risk when possible."
Tips for camping with families
Toilet access planning: Some campgrounds have limited facilities. At Agate Campground, a visitor noted, "Bathrooms well maintained. This is a perfect little campground, strong reco."
Bug protection: Insect activity increases in early evening. Marina at Dillon Creek advised, "A small warning, the mosquitoes are abundant in the early evening."
Playground availability: Several campgrounds offer play equipment. A visitor to Florence Keller mentioned, "There is a day use area with horseshoe pits, including horseshoes, and volleyball or badminton grass court with no net and a playground."
Beach access considerations: Ocean sites require planning. At Agate Campground, "Campsites are up high on the bluff over the beach. Nice trail down. Each site has fire place, picnic table. Water within steps to each site."
Tips from RVers
Site selection process: Visit campground before choosing a spot. At Florence Keller, one RVer advised, "I suggest driving around first before picking a spot as some are better than others. Each site has a picnic table and a fire pit and there were water spigots throughout the park."
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds have limited space. At Jedidiah Smith, a camper noted, "The sites are decently sized, accommodating two to three tents, but the roads would be tough to navigate in a large RV or with a long trailer."
Hook-up availability: Full-service sites are limited. At Emerald Forest Cabins & RV, a reviewer commented, "They sell propane & there's a dump station. They have a camp store/gift shop at the office."
Solar considerations: Tree cover affects power generation. One camper at Florence Keller observed, "You are surrounded by redwoods with very little sunshine so if you rely on solar this will be a problem."
