Pit River Campground
4.3813 reviewsBureau of Land Management, Applegate Field Office, 708 West 12th Street, Alturas, CA 96101, USA
Quick Facts
Price
$8 - $12/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
8 campsites
Season
Open as of May 1, 20...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
$8 - $12/night
Booking
First-Come
Sites
8 campsites
Season
Open as of May 1, 20...
Cell
Has Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsPit River Campground
$8.00 - $12.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The campground charges $8 per night for individual sites and $12 per night for the group site. Extra vehicles are $2 per night (first two vehicles...
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Standard Site Fee$8.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$12.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$20.00
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider530-233-4666BLM_CA_Web_AL@blm.gov
What Campers Say
4.38
Recommended
Based on 13 reviews
41 Google reviews
Most mentioned
quietcleanfriendlysites
"The campground is highly regarded for its cleanliness, affordability, and natural beauty. Visitors appreciate the quiet, well-maintained environment and the helpful camp host."
Fees & Passes at Pit River Campground
$8 - $12/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Group Site
For large groups
Stay Limit: 14 days
Cancellation: No reservation system is used; sites are first-come, first-served.
Prices verified November 27, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Bureau of Land Management website.
Best Time to Camp at Pit River Campground
Summer nights at Pit River Campground are a stargazer's dream, with crystal-clear skies revealing spectacular celestial displays. During peak season, temperatures hover comfortably around 62°F during the day, cooling to a refreshing 49°F at night—ideal sleeping weather for tent camping. The region enjoys predominantly dry conditions with gentle to moderate breezes that whisper through the canopy. While California's fire season occasionally brings smoky conditions, most summer days offer pristine air quality. Late summer visitors should note that yellow jackets can be more active, though they're easily managed with proper food storage.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: Peak season is not explicitly mentioned but likely during summer months based on user reviews and weather suitability.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open as of May 1, 2025. Seasonal closures are not mentioned.
- Current Alerts: No active alerts were noted.
About Pit River Campground
Nestled along the banks of the pristine Pit River, this intimate eight-site campground offers an authentic wilderness experience without sacrificing essential amenities. Each thoughtfully positioned campsite comes equipped with a sturdy picnic table, fire ring, and barbecue pit, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. The campground features two fully accessible restrooms and maintains a clean, welcoming environment with regular trash removal service. Adventure seekers will appreciate the convenient kayak launch ramp, while anglers can cast their lines from the wheelchair-accessible fishing pier. Though the campground embraces a back-to-basics approach without potable water, visitors find this adds to the authentic outdoor experience—just remember to bring your own supply.
Pit River Campground offers various types of camping accommodations, including tent camping, RV-friendly sites, and a group camping site.
Weather and SeasonsSummer nights at Pit River Campground are a stargazer's dream, with crystal-clear skies revealing spectacular celestial displays. During peak season, temperatures hover comfortably around 62°F during the day, cooling to a refreshing 49°F at night—ideal sleeping weather for tent camping. The region enjoys predominantly dry conditions with gentle to moderate breezes that whisper through the canopy. While California's fire season occasionally brings smoky conditions, most summer days offer pristine air quality. Late summer visitors should note that yellow jackets can be more active, though they're easily managed with proper food storage.
Natural Features and SceneryTowering giants create a living cathedral above Pit River Campground, where ancient trees stretch skyward, their broad canopies filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The Pit River itself serves as the campground's centerpiece—its cool, clear waters inviting swimmers to take a refreshing dip, kayakers to explore hidden coves, and anglers to try their luck at landing dinner. Winding trails beckon hikers to discover groves of old-growth trees, where time seems to slow among these centuries-old sentinels. The interplay of water, forest, and sky creates an ever-changing tableau that photographers and nature enthusiasts find endlessly captivating.
Geological RegionSet within the remarkable Pit River Recreation Area, the campground occupies a unique ecological niche where river corridor meets forest ecosystem. This diverse landscape showcases Northern California's natural splendor, from the meandering river channel carved over millennia to the varied forest communities that thrive in the rich riverside soils. The surrounding terrain offers a masterclass in riparian ecology, where water-loving vegetation transitions to upland forest species, creating multiple habitats that support abundant wildlife and provide endless opportunities for nature observation and outdoor recreation.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityTwo wheelchair-accessible restrooms, an accessible fishing pier, and a kayak launch ramp are present.
Sites SizeSites range from 40 to 60 feet in length and 16 to 20 feet in width. Most sites are designed to accommodate up to a 32-foot trailer and one vehicle.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are described as small but well-spaced, offering shade and some level of privacy.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites offer shade and are well-spaced. For tent campers, prepare for gravel ground surfaces.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
14 days
Guests Allowed Per Site
Individual sites fit small RVs and up to 1-2 small tents. Group site accommodates up to 8 people.
Groups
The group site accommodates up to 8 people and can fit several vehicles or smaller RVs.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground comprises seven individual sites and one group site. Sites are well-shaded and spaced apart, ensuring privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen as of May 1, 2025. Seasonal closures are not mentioned.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations; first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservation system is used; sites are first-come, first-served.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Campers at Pit River Campground can enjoy a small but rewarding range of activities, including fishing, kayaking, exploring trails, and swimming. The campground is also described as a peaceful spot for nature lovers.
Hiking
"Great little trails to wander on and explore really big old trees," one review highlights.Fishing
The accessible fishing pier provides opportunities for anglers. "Great location for the angler," noted another reviewer.Swimming
A nearby swimming hole with cool, comfortable water is easily accessible. "This is a beautiful place to swim with no hiking required to get to the water," one user explained.Boating
A kayak launch ramp is available, and the Pit River offers opportunities for kayaking or rafting.Wildlife viewing
The natural, quiet environment is ideal for observing local wildlife.Winter Activities
No information available on winter recreation options.Water Sports
Kayaking is mentioned as a popular water sport activity.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings.
Hazards
General hazardsNo potable water is available, and yellow jackets may be an issue in warmer months. Campers are advised to prepare accordingly.
Active alertsNo active alerts were noted.
Weather at Pit River Campground
32
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 62%
Moderately humid conditions
Wind: 1.1 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
Weather History
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are located in Burney, CA (~12 miles). Specific facilities were not mentioned.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season is not explicitly mentioned but likely during summer months based on user reviews and weather suitability.
Trash and recyclingTrash removal services are available, and there are bear-proof garbage cans on-site.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to the Pit River, with direct access to fishing and a kayak launch ramp.
Common complaintsSome reviewers mention that the campground is 'run-down' and noted the absence of potable water as a downside. Tent campers were asked to set up tents on pea gravel driveways rather than on grass.
HostA camp host is on-site. Reviews frequently praise the host's kindness and attentiveness.
Campground Map
Bureau of Land Management, Applegate Field Office, 708 West 12th Street, Alturas, CA 96101, USA
Driving directionsFrom Redding, California, take Highway 299 East toward Burney, California. After Burney, go 12 miles east until you see the sign 'Pit Power House' road. Follow the signs downhill to the campground.
The campground is accessible from major roads via Highway 299 East, but the final access requires following signs to 'Pit Power House' road and descending downhill to the campground.Nearby places
Burney, CA (~12 miles, ~20 minutes).
Nearby supplies
The nearest supplies, including groceries and camping gear, are available in Burney, CA (~12 miles). Options include Safeway, Grocery Outlet, and sporting goods stores.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.4
13 reviews
Pit River Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is highly regarded for its cleanliness, affordability, and natural beauty. Visitors appreciate the quiet, well-maintained environment and the helpful camp host.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
- Clean and quiet campground
- Affordable pricing ($8 per night for individual sites, $12 for group sites)
- Beautiful natural surroundings
- Very clean vault toilets with hand sanitizers
- Camp host...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- Campsites are described as small and not very tent-friendly due to pea gravel surfaces.
- Lack of potable water on-site.
- Some users noted that the campground is 'run-down' and not manicured.
Based on 13 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring plenty of water as there is no potable water on-site.
- Plan for yellow jackets during the summer.
- Use small or medium-sized tents as the sites are on the smaller side.
- Be aware that...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is generally quiet and clean year-round. Summer features clear skies and warm water for swimming, but yellow jackets may pose a challenge during this season.
Based on 13 reviewsCamper Quotes
- "This is a beautiful place to swim with no hiking required to get to the water."
- "The bathrooms are immaculate and by far the cleanest campsite bathrooms I have ever seen."
- "Great location for...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- The group site was praised for its spaciousness, with some reviewers noting it fit 6 people, 5 tents, and 4 cars comfortably.
- Some individual sites were noted as small but shaded and...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The campground features two wheelchair-accessible restrooms, an accessible fishing pier, and a kayak launch ramp, making it accommodating to individuals with disabilities.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address pet policies or pet-friendly features.
Based on 13 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 27, 2025
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