Managed by the US Forest Service within Six Rivers National Forest, Smith River National Recreation Area sits near Gasquet in the far northwest corner of California, where redwood forest meets creek and river corridors. Access comes with a rough road warning, so high-clearance vehicles are worth considering before the trip. Reviewers note clean sites and old-growth redwood cover. Nearby alternatives include Panther Flat Campground and Grassy Flat Campground, both within a few miles along the same corridor. This spot suits campers who prioritize forest and water access over developed amenities.
Description
Recreational activities abound in the Smith River NRA. The beautiful Smith River offers fishing for steelhead, trout, and salmon. During the summer months, the pure, clean waters of the Smith River are perfect for swimming, rafting, or fishing and the forested mountainsides present occasions for hiking, bird watching, wildflower walks, or perhaps just lounging in the sun. Winter temperatures drop into the 40s and 50s, with an occasional snow storm. The rainy season normally runs from October through April with an average annual rainfall of 92.55 inches. Summers are dry with highs in the 80-100 degree range. Contact the National Recreation Area Headquarters at the Gasquet Ranger Station for current weather conditions. Camping Guide - Smith River NRA, rev. 4/2015 - PDF Campsite Spur Dimensions - Smith River NRA, rev. 1-2015 - PDF Trail Guide - Smith River NRA, rev. 2-2002 - PDF River Access Trails - Smith River NRA, rev. 8-2014 - PDF River Access Trails - Smith River NRA, rev. 8-2014 - Word Lakes - Smith River NRA, rev. 3-2003 - PDF Things to Do in an Hour or Two - Smith River NRA, rev. 2-2003 - PDF Darlingtonia Trail - Smith River NRA, rev. 3-2003 - PDF Myrtle Creek Trail - Smith River NRA, rev. 2-2000 - PDF Bear Basin Lookout and Pierson Cabin Brochure, rev. 2-2015 - PDF Fish of the Smith River, rev. 12/2002 - PDF
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsSmith River National Recreation Area is located in California near Gasquet
Coordinates
41.79385634 N
123.89694236 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
Features
Drive Time
- 1 hr 52 min from Grants Pass, OR
- 2 hrs 19 min from Medford, OR
- 5 hrs 11 min from Redding, CA


