Matthews Creek Campground

Star4.44
12 reviews
Matthews Creek Campground, Klamath National Forest, California
SwimmingSummer Destination

Quick Facts

1,760 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Open May 1 through O...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Klamath National Forest site

Official Website
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Matthews Creek Campground
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The fee for overnight use is $10 per night for a single site. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Pass holders receive a 50% discount for single...
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Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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What Campers Say

4.44

Recommended

Based on 12 reviews

8 Google reviews

Most mentioned

peaceful

"The campground is appreciated for its riverfront setting, swimming holes, and natural ambiance. However, it lacks potable water and modern amenities."

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Campground Map

Matthews Creek Campground, Klamath National Forest, California

Matthews Creek Campground

Matthews Creek Campground, Klamath National Forest, California

Driving directionsFrom Etna, CA, take State Rt. 3 south 11.5 miles to Cecilville sign. Turn right at sign, crossing a bridge, and go 37.7 miles to campground sign. Turn left at sign into the campground. NOTE: The last 8 miles is a narrow single-lane road and for some, a white-knuckle experience.
The road to the campground includes a narrow single-lane section for the last 8 miles, which may be stressful for some drivers. The road conditions are challenging but passable.
Nearby places
Callahan (37 miles), Etna (approximately 49 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be obtained in Etna or Callahan, though exact locations are not specified.

Best Time to Camp at Matthews Creek Campground

Experience the full spectrum of California's mountain seasons at Matthews Creek. Summer transforms the campground into a sun-drenched paradise, with warm days perfect for river swimming and cool nights ideal for stargazing. Spring awakens the forest with fresh greenery and occasional refreshing showers, while autumn paints the oaks in golden hues accompanied by crisp air and morning mist. The campground closes for winter when snow and cold temperatures make the mountain roads impassable.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Summer is ideal: warm days for river swimming; campground open May–Oct (peak season).

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.0 / 5

Open through Oct 15; cooler weather but still accessible into early fall.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Opens May 1 (late spring); limited spring season and conditions vary.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Closed outside May 1–Oct 15; winter season not available.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 1 through October 15. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open May 1 through October 15

About Matthews Creek Campground

Tucked away on a scenic bluff above the South Fork of the Salmon River, Matthews Creek Campground offers an intimate escape into nature with just 10 secluded tent-only sites. This pristine wilderness retreat invites you to leave the modern world behind—no RV hookups or pull-through sites here, just pure camping beneath ancient oak trees draped in ethereal moss. Steps from your tent, discover hidden swimming holes and easy river access where the crystal-clear waters of the South Fork beckon on warm summer days.
Matthews Creek Campground is focused on tent camping, with no facilities for RVs or glamping. Group camping is not explicitly supported, and there are no cabins or luxury accommodations.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Open 24 hours/day
Check-out
Open 24 hours/day
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit at this campground is 14 consecutive days.

Amenities available

Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Recreational activities at Matthews Creek Campground include swimming in nearby swimming holes along the South Fork of the Salmon River, fishing for rainbow trout in the river, wildlife viewing, and boating (non-motorized). There is also an informal trail leading to the river for hiking and exploration.
HikingAn informal 'beater' trail leads from the campground down to the river, offering easy access to the waterway.
FishingFishing is available in the South Fork of the Salmon River, with rainbow trout being the primary catch.
SwimmingThe campground is near several swimming holes along the river, providing opportunities for water-based recreation.
BoatingNon-motorized boating is supported, although there are no boat ramps or docks available.
Wildlife viewingThe surrounding area is suitable for wildlife viewing, though specific species are not detailed.
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThis is bear country, so campers need to use safe food storage techniques. The narrow single-lane road leading to the campground may also pose hazards for drivers.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Matthews Creek Campground

Reviews

4.4
12 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Matthews Creek Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground is appreciated for its riverfront setting, swimming holes, and natural ambiance. However, it lacks potable water and modern amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews

What Campers Love

Users noted that the campground is 'a great place to camp' and ideal for families looking for a peaceful outing.
Based on 12 reviews

Common Concerns

Lack of potable water and minimal amenities are the main issues noted, along with the narrow, single-lane road leading to the site.
Based on 12 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own potable water, as there is none available on-site. Prepare for a narrow and challenging drive to access the campground.
Based on 12 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is open seasonally from May 1 to October 15. Visitors note that summer months are ideal for swimming and outdoor activities, while access is limited in colder seasons.
Based on 12 reviews

Camper Quotes

'My favorite place to take my family for a weekend camping trip.' - K.W. 'Good place to camp.' - Arlene Parle
Based on 12 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No specific site numbers or site-specific reviews were available.
Based on 12 reviews

Accessibility Features

There are no reviews specifically addressing accessibility features.
Based on 12 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

There were no comments about pets or pet-related experiences.
Based on 12 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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