How much does camping cost at Matthews Creek Campground?

Camping fees at Matthews Creek Campground range from $10/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Is Matthews Creek Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Matthews Creek Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. All sites are walk-up only; reservations are not accepted.

Can I see photos of campsites at Matthews Creek Campground before I book?

Yes! Matthews Creek Campground has 5 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Matthews Creek Campground?

Matthews Creek Campground is open May 1 through October 15. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Matthews Creek Campground?

Matthews Creek Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Matthews Creek Campground?

Fire policies at Matthews Creek Campground: Campfires are allowed but require adherence to fire safety protocols. No grilles are available at the campsites.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Matthews Creek Campground have?

Matthews Creek Campground has 10 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Matthews Creek Campground?

Pets are not allowed at Matthews Creek Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Matthews Creek Campground?

Matthews Creek Campground offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Matthews Creek Campground?

Popular activities at Matthews Creek Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Matthews Creek Campground

3.75

12 reviews

Matthews Creek Campground, Klamath National Forest, California

SwimmingSummer Destination

Featured in:Fall Camping California

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

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

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

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

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...

Standard Site Fee$10.00

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USFS

Provider

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Matthews Creek Campground, Klamath National Forest, California

Matthews Creek Campground

Matthews Creek Campground, Klamath National Forest, California

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.

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.

Weather at Matthews Creek Campground

Current alert: Open May 1 - All water non-potable until further notice

Best Time to Camp at Matthews Creek Campground

Summer is the sweet spot here. Daytime highs run mid-70s to low-90s°F, nights drop to the mid-40s to mid-50s°F. River flows settle by late July and August, warming the water enough for swimming and making fishing more productive. Wildlife activity peaks at dawn and dusk in the riparian zones. Spring brings occasional rain and higher water. The campground closes in winter when snow makes the access road impassable.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer is 'sweet spot' for swimming and warm pools; campground open May–Oct.

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

Matthews Creek Campground sits on a bluff above the South Fork of the Salmon River in Klamath National Forest, offering 10 primitive tent sites at $10 per night. The campground delivers a stripped-down experience with vault toilets and picnic tables but no potable water or hookups. Moss-covered oaks shade the sites, and the river sits close enough for swimming and fishing.

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.

Weather and SeasonsSummer is the sweet spot here. Daytime highs run mid-70s to low-90s°F, nights drop to the mid-40s to mid-50s°F. River flows settle by late July and August, warming the water enough for swimming and making fishing more productive. Wildlife activity peaks at dawn and dusk in the riparian zones. Spring brings occasional rain and higher water. The campground closes in winter when snow makes the access road impassable.

ElevationPerched at 1,760 feet above sea level, Matthews Creek enjoys a goldilocks elevation—high enough to escape the valley's scorching summer heat, yet low enough to remain accessible and comfortable throughout the camping season. This sweet spot creates perfect conditions for both relaxation and adventure.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground perches on ancient bedrock at 1,760 feet elevation, where the South Fork of the Salmon River has carved its valley over millennia. Oaks draped in moss and lichen create dense shade above the sites. Below the bluff, the river offers clear pools and gentle runs. The riparian corridor draws wildlife, especially visible in early mornings and evenings. The setting is rugged and undeveloped. This is forest more than manicured park.

Geological RegionMatthews Creek Campground rests within the rugged embrace of the Klamath National Forest, where ancient geological forces have carved dramatic river valleys and towering ridgelines. Your camping spot on this river bluff tells a million-year story—from the weathered bedrock beneath your feet to the moss-festooned oaks that have stood sentinel here for centuries, all overlooking the ever-flowing South Fork of the Salmon River as it continues its timeless journey to the sea.

Scenic ViewsThe campground offers views of the South Fork of the Salmon River and is surrounded by mossy oak trees, creating a serene and picturesque environment.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodging options or similar accommodations available within the campground.

Programs & ActivitiesThere is no information about cultural or educational programs at this campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

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.

Groups

There are no designated group camping sites available.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutOne loop on a river bluff. The drive in is narrow and challenging. Reviews mention this consistently. Sites are tent-only, standard size, close to each other.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up only; reservations are not accepted.

AccessibilityThere are no wheelchair-friendly toilets or specific accessibility features mentioned for this campground.

Site SizeStandard-sized campsites suitable for tent camping.

PrivacyCampsites are situated in a single loop, and while they overlook the river, there is no specific mention of privacy levels between sites.

Total Campsites10 campsites

Recommended SitesSites closer to the river are recommended for easy access to swimming and scenic views.

Amenities available

Matthews Creek Campground offers 10 campsites on a bluff overlooking the South Fork of the Salmon River. The area features moss-covered oak trees that create a whimsical atmosphere and provides easy access to the river with nearby swimming holes. Some sites have a 'Klamath Oven.' No potable water is available, and campers are advised to bring their own drinking water. Restroom facilities are present, but showers are not provided.

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

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.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

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.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available at this campground.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

3.8

12 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Matthews Creek Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% 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

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

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Families and anglers who want a cheap, low-key summer base camp on the South Fork of the Salmon River. Late July and August hit the sweet spot: water's warm enough to swim, trout fishing picks up, and the moss-draped oaks keep sites shaded.

Skip if

The single-lane access road genuinely rattles reviewers, RVs can't come at all, there's no potable water on-site (and none coming soon per current alerts), and the nearest emergency room is roughly 49 miles away in Etna. Weekend spontaneity is also risky with only 10 first-come s

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