Shadow Creek Campground

Klamath National Forest

Tucked away along the pristine waters of the South Fork Salmon River, Hotelling Campground offers an intimate retreat with just four riverside campsites. This hidden gem, beloved by locals who return summer after summer, provides effortless access to both relaxation and adventure. Whether you're seeking a peaceful weekend escape or a basecamp for river exploration, these coveted sites offer the perfect blend of accessibility and natural beauty that keeps families coming back year after year.

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Escape to the untamed wilderness at Eagle Creek Campground, where the rhythmic sounds of rushing water from Trinity River and Eagle Creek create nature's soundtrack. This primitive sanctuary offers adventurers a genuine back-to-basics experience with vault restrooms, sturdy picnic tables, and fire rings for evening gatherings under starlit skies. The journey here requires navigating a rugged road that filters out the casual traveler, rewarding those who venture forth with an authentic wilderness retreat. Without running water or modern amenities, Eagle Creek delivers the pure, undeveloped camping experience that reconnects you with the raw beauty of Northern California's backcountry.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Nestled along the gentle banks of Swift Creek, Preacher Meadow Campground offers an authentic wilderness experience with 44 intimate campsites perfect for those seeking a back-to-basics adventure. This rustic horse camp welcomes equestrians and traditional campers alike, with sites featuring 16-foot back-in spaces equipped with sturdy picnic tables and fire rings complete with grills for memorable outdoor cooking. While the campground embraces its primitive charm with vault toilets and no potable water (so bring your own!), it compensates with tranquil creekside ambiance and first-come, first-served flexibility. At just $16 per night, payable via convenient drop post or the modern Scan & Pay system, this hidden gem delivers an affordable escape into nature's embrace.

11263 North Highway 3, Fort Jones, California, 96032, United States

Nestled at the southern gateway to the majestic Klamath National Forest, Hidden Horse Equestrian Campground beckons riders and their faithful companions to experience the untamed beauty of Northern California. This intimate haven features six thoughtfully designed equestrian campsites, where the rhythmic sounds of hoofbeats blend with the whispers of the wilderness. The crown jewel is Site #6, available for reservation, complete with four sturdy iron horse corrals (12' x 12') that promise comfort and security for your equine partners after a day of trail adventures.

14538 Wonderland Blvd, Redding, CA 96019, USA

Discover your perfect lakeside retreat at Hayward Flat, where towering Ponderosa pines and majestic Douglas firs create a natural canopy over this beloved Trinity Lake campground. Step directly from your shaded campsite to the sparkling waters, where endless adventures await. As you explore the grounds, you'll encounter fascinating remnants of the area's gold rush past, making every walk a journey through time. Whether you're launching your boat at dawn or simply relaxing by the water's edge, Hayward Flat seamlessly blends outdoor recreation with glimpses of California's mining heritage.

14538 Wonderland Blvd, Redding, CA, 96019, USA

Where Stoney Creek whispers its way into the Stuart Fork Arm of Trinity Lake, you'll discover Stoney Group Campground—a hidden gem designed for memorable group adventures. This scenic retreat serves as your gateway to crystal-clear swimming holes at Stoney Creek Swim Area and the expansive waters of Trinity Lake, where days are measured in laughter, campfire stories, and the gentle lapping of waves against the shore.

14538 Wonderland Blvd, Redding, CA, 96019, USA

Discover your perfect basecamp at Bushytail Campground, where towering Douglas firs and majestic Ponderosa pines create a natural cathedral along the shores of Trinity Lake. This versatile mountain retreat offers everything from intimate single sites to spacious quad configurations, making it a haven for solo adventurers, families seeking connection, and water sports enthusiasts ready to explore one of Northern California's most pristine alpine lakes.

P.O. Box 1190, Reading, CA, 96003, USA

Nestled among towering Douglas firs and ancient cedars at 2,400 feet, Alpine View Campground offers an enchanting escape into the heart of the Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area. This mountain retreat serves as your gateway to adventure, where mornings begin with the scent of pine and days unfold with endless possibilities for exploration. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear waters of Trinity Lake, navigating scenic hiking trails, or launching your boat for a day on the water, this campground places you at the center of Northern California's outdoor playground.

P.O. Box 1190, Weaverville, CA, 96093, USA

Escape to Minersville Campground, a hidden gem tucked away 17 miles north of Weaverville, California, where the shimmering waters of Trinity Lake meet the dramatic peaks of the Trinity Alps. Whether you prefer the comfort of developed sites with paved parking and modern amenities like flush toilets and bear-proof containers, or seek the solitude of primitive camping, this versatile destination delivers. Days here unfold with endless possibilities – cast a line into the crystal-clear lake, explore winding trails through towering forests, or launch your kayak for an afternoon of paddling against a backdrop of snow-capped mountains.

11263 N. HWY. 3, FORT JONES, CA 96032, USA

Saddle up for an unforgettable adventure at Carter Meadows Horse Group Campground, where the spirit of the Old West meets modern trail riding. This equestrian paradise welcomes groups of up to 25 riders and their horses, offering dispersed camping that lets you choose between cozy tent sites or spacious spots for your trailer. Positioned at the gateway to the legendary Trinity Alps Wilderness, you'll find yourself just hoofbeats away from the iconic Pacific Crest Trail, with endless ribbons of trail stretching in every direction.

PO BOX 410, ORLEANS, CA 95556

Nestled along the pristine waters of the Salmon River, Nordheimer Group Sites offers an unforgettable wilderness retreat deep within Klamath National Forest. This secluded campground invites groups to gather beneath towering Douglas firs and native hardwoods, where days are filled with thrilling whitewater rafting adventures, peaceful fishing excursions, and scenic hikes through ancient forests. Whether you're planning a family reunion, scout trip, or outdoor celebration with friends, Nordheimer provides the perfect basecamp for exploring one of Northern California's most spectacular river corridors.

P.O. BOX 410, ORLEANS, CA 95556, USA

Tucked away in the serene depths of Six Rivers National Forest, Oak Bottom Campground offers an authentic escape into nature's embrace. This tranquil retreat features thoughtfully spaced single-family sites, each equipped with sturdy picnic tables and fire grills for memorable outdoor meals. Modern vault toilets and fresh drinking water ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience. A friendly campground host often resides on-site, ready to share local insights and ensure your stay is nothing short of perfect.

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Tucked away in the heart of the Trinity Alps Wilderness, Big Flat Campground serves as your gateway to alpine adventure. This intimate campground features 9 secluded sites, each offering a perfect blend of wilderness solitude and essential amenities. While you'll find clean vault toilets and a charming small corral for equestrian adventurers, the campground embraces a back-to-basics approach—pack your own water and plan to carry out what you bring in. From here, the spectacular Caribou Lakes trail system beckons, promising crystal-clear alpine waters and breathtaking mountain vistas.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Escape to Ridgeville Boat-In Campground, where your adventure begins the moment you push off from shore. This hidden gem, nestled on the eastern point of Mule Creek Cove in the majestic Shasta-Trinity National Forest, offers 21 secluded camping spots accessible only by water. Here, you'll trade the convenience of piped water for the pure serenity of a true wilderness experience, where the journey is as memorable as the destination itself.

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Nestled within a tranquil Douglas-fir and hardwood forest, Nordheimer Group Campground offers the perfect basecamp for your next riverside adventure along the Wild and Scenic California Salmon River. This spacious group camping destination features four distinct sites, each with its own character. Sites A, B, and C welcome you with expansive grassy meadows encircled by towering forest, creating natural gathering spaces perfect for group activities and evening campfire stories. Site D takes the experience to another level, perched above the Salmon River with effortless access to crystal-clear waters that beckon swimmers and paddlers alike. Each site comes equipped with combination fire ring grills and picnic tables, while gravel roads and parking areas ensure easy access. Sites A, B, and C feature portable restroom facilities, while Site D boasts its own accessible vault restroom. Whether you're seeking heart-pumping whitewater rafting, peaceful kayaking excursions, scenic hiking trails, exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities, or thrilling mountain biking adventures, Nordheimer delivers an authentic Northern California outdoor experience.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Nestled in a secluded natural setting, this intimate campground offers five thoughtfully spaced sites perfect for those seeking a genuine back-to-basics camping experience. While the facility welcomes RVs and trailers up to 22 feet, its rustic charm shines through with a minimalist approach—visitors should come prepared with their own water supplies, as the campground maintains its primitive character without potable water connections. This small, peaceful retreat provides just enough amenities to make your stay comfortable while preserving the authentic wilderness atmosphere that draws adventurers seeking solitude and simplicity.

14538 WONDERLAND BLVD, Redding, CA 96003, USA

Escape to Mary Smith Campground, where the gentle lapping of Lewiston Lake creates the perfect soundtrack for your wilderness retreat. This tent-only sanctuary seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern comfort, offering six thoughtfully designed glamping units complete with plush furnishings and private decks overlooking the water. Traditional tent campers will find their own slice of paradise among the well-spaced sites, each positioned to maximize lake views and privacy. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, gliding across glassy waters in your kayak, or quietly observing the abundant wildlife that calls this area home, Mary Smith delivers an authentic outdoor experience that rejuvenates the soul.

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Nestled along the tranquil waters of Stuart Forts Creek, Bridge Camp Campground offers an authentic wilderness retreat designed with equestrian adventurers in mind. This secluded horse camp provides the perfect basecamp for riders seeking solitude and natural beauty, featuring 10 thoughtfully spaced single sites that blend seamlessly into the forest landscape. Each site comes equipped with essential amenities including vault toilets, seasonal water spigots, sturdy picnic tables, and fire rings complete with grills for evening cookouts under the stars. While the compact 16-foot back-in sites keep the campground intimate and preserve its remote character, they provide just enough space for a cozy camp setup after a day of trail riding.

P.O. Box 410, Orleans, CA, 95556, USA

Tucked away in the heart of the Klamath River Valley near Orleans, California, Pearch Creek Campground offers an enchanting escape into nature's embrace. This hidden gem provides campers with a tranquil retreat where towering trees create a natural cathedral overhead, the gentle murmur of Pearch Creek provides a soothing soundtrack, and the world slows down to nature's peaceful rhythm. Whether you're casting a line in nearby waters or simply savoring the serenity of this shaded sanctuary, Pearch Creek delivers an authentic wilderness experience that feels worlds away from everyday life.

14538 Wonderland Blvd, Redding, CA, 96019, USA

Nestled along the pristine shores of Trinity Lake's Stuart Fork Arm, Fawn Group Campground beckons as the crown jewel of lakeside group camping destinations. Here, beneath a magnificent canopy of towering oaks, fragrant Douglas firs, and majestic pines, your group will discover the perfect basecamp for endless aquatic adventures and woodland exploration. With direct lake access just steps from your campsite, this beloved retreat seamlessly blends the tranquility of forest camping with the excitement of waterfront recreation.

360 Main Street Weaverville, CA 96093

Nestled in the heart of the Trinity Alps Wilderness, Horse Flat Campground beckons adventurers with 13 pristine campsites and the promise of authentic wilderness experiences—all without any camping fees. This rustic retreat serves as a perfect basecamp for equestrian enthusiasts, with dedicated horse corrals and direct access to the Eagle Creek Trailhead. Whether you arrive on horseback or on foot, you'll discover two distinct camping areas: a spacious main section designed for horse camping and a tranquil walk-in area tucked alongside the melodic waters of Eagle Creek. From casting lines in crystal-clear waters to tracking game through ancient forests, this wilderness sanctuary offers endless opportunities for outdoor pursuits.

360 Main Street, Weaverville, CA 96093

Perched on a scenic ridge high above the sparkling waters of Trinity Lake, Jackass Springs Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape within the Trinity Unit of the Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area. This intimate, rustic campground features 10 thoughtfully spaced sites that welcome trailers up to 32 feet, perfect for those seeking solitude among towering conifers. As a pack-it-in, pack-it-out destination, Jackass Springs invites responsible adventurers to experience the raw beauty of Northern California's backcountry while treading lightly on the land.

Idlewild Campground, Etna, CA

Tucked away in the heart of the Klamath National Forest, Idlewild Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This intimate retreat features 11 thoughtfully spaced campsites along the melodious North Fork of the Salmon River, where the gentle rush of water creates nature's perfect soundtrack. Open from May through mid-October, this hidden gem serves as your gateway to endless exploration—from dawn fishing expeditions to sunset hikes through ancient forests. While the amenities remain refreshingly simple, the campground delivers exactly what wilderness enthusiasts crave: a genuine connection with the untamed beauty of Northern California's backcountry.

Clark Springs Campground, State Route 3, 17 miles north of Weaverville, California

Escape to Clark Springs Campground, where the gentle sounds of a babbling brook welcome you to one of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest's most peaceful retreats. This intimate 20-site campground celebrates the authentic tent camping experience, with four special walk-in sites nestled alongside the creek that give you the feeling of having discovered your own private wilderness sanctuary. Just moments away, Trinity Lake beckons with its boat ramp, inviting swimming areas, and sandy beaches, offering the perfect balance of secluded forest camping and lakeside recreation.

Two miles north of the Coffee Creek area on State Route 3

Tucked away just two miles north of Coffee Creek along scenic State Route 3, Trinity River Campground offers an intimate riverside retreat where the rushing waters provide a natural soundtrack to your camping experience. This hidden gem features just seven thoughtfully designed sites, each equipped with sturdy concrete tables and warming fireplaces that invite evening gatherings under the stars. The campground's well-maintained paved roads and spacious spurs welcome everything from cozy tents to full-size trailers, ensuring every type of adventurer finds their perfect spot along the riverbank.

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Nestled where the crystal-clear waters of the East and South Forks merge into the mighty Salmon River, East Fork Campground offers an authentic back-to-basics camping experience. This intimate hideaway features just 6 secluded campsites, perfect for those seeking solitude and a genuine connection with nature. While you won't find running water or garbage services here, a well-maintained vault toilet ensures basic comfort. Pack in what you need and carry out what you bring – this is camping as it was meant to be, where the absence of modern amenities amplifies the presence of natural wonder.

Rail Creek Rd, Klamath National Forest, California

Escape to the pristine wilderness of Kangaroo Lake Campground, where 18 thoughtfully placed sites await at 6,100 feet among towering conifers and fragrant manzanita. Choose from 13 convenient drive-in sites or venture to one of 5 secluded walk-in tent sites for a more intimate connection with nature. The crown jewel is the crystal-clear, 25-acre lake that plunges to depths of 110 feet—a tranquil haven for paddlers and anglers pursuing rainbow trout in its cool waters. A gentle, quarter-mile paved trail winds through the forest to the lake's edge, making this mountain paradise accessible to all. As you settle into this bear country sanctuary, proper food storage becomes part of the authentic wilderness experience under star-filled skies.

Klamath National Forest

Tucked away along the pristine North Fork of the Salmon River, Mule Bridge Campground beckons adventurers with its intimate collection of four riverside campsites. This hidden gem serves as your gateway to the spectacular North Fork Trail, offering free camping in a setting where simplicity meets natural splendor. While amenities remain refreshingly minimal, the authentic wilderness experience and direct trail access make this an ideal basecamp for those seeking genuine backcountry immersion.

Matthews Creek Campground, Klamath National Forest, California

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.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Tucked away in the heart of the Trinity Alps Wilderness, Hobo Gulch Campground beckons those who yearn for authentic wilderness experiences. This tent-only sanctuary sits alongside the crystalline waters of the North Fork Trinity River, where towering Douglas firs and ancient cedars create a natural cathedral overhead. Here, the modern world fades away, replaced by the gentle murmur of the river and the whisper of wind through evergreen boughs. It's a place where solitude isn't just possible—it's practically guaranteed.

360 Main Street Weaverville, CA 96093

Perched atop Scott Mountain, this intimate wilderness retreat offers five peaceful campsites where adventurers can disconnect from the modern world and embrace the simplicity of dry camping. This no-fee gem welcomes tent campers and those with compact trailers up to 15 feet, providing a rustic basecamp for exploring the surrounding wilderness. While you'll need to bring your own water supply, the reward is an authentic backcountry experience without the crowds or fees of more developed campgrounds.

360 Main Street Weaverville, CA 96093

Escape the crowds and discover your own private paradise at Captains Point Boat-In Campground, where adventure begins the moment you push off from shore. This exclusive boat-access sanctuary features three intimate campsites tucked along Trinity Lake's pristine western shoreline. With only a vault toilet and the natural world as your amenities, this is camping stripped down to its pure essence—just you, your boat, and the breathtaking wilderness that surrounds you.

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Tucked away in the wilderness where the North Fork of the Salmon River whispers through ancient forests, Red Bank Campground offers an authentic escape for those seeking solitude and simplicity. This intimate, no-fee campground welcomes adventurers with just five peaceful sites positioned steps from the river's edge. Here, you'll trade modern amenities for the raw beauty of nature—no running water or garbage service means you'll pack light and leave only footprints in this pristine riverside retreat.

360 Main Street, Weaverville, CA 96093

Nestled beside the crystal-clear waters of Canyon Creek, Ripstein Campground offers an intimate escape into nature with just 10 tent-only sites. This hidden gem serves as your gateway to refreshing mountain swims and the breathtaking Canyon Creek Trail system. Each site comes equipped with bear-proof food lockers, ensuring peaceful coexistence with the local black bear population. Operating on a first-come, first-served basis with no fees, Ripstein rewards early arrivals with prime spots along this pristine waterway.

Coffee Creek Road, off State Hwy 3, Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Escape to the tranquil embrace of Goldfield Campground, a rustic dry camping retreat nestled deep within the majestic Shasta-Trinity National Forest. This peaceful sanctuary offers adventurers the perfect basecamp for exploring the wilderness, complete with cozy picnic tables for outdoor dining under towering trees, traditional fire rings for evening gatherings and s'mores, and convenient vault toilet facilities. While embracing the authentic camping experience means bringing your own water supply, the reward is an unspoiled connection with nature in one of California's most pristine forest settings.

Two miles north of the Coffee Creek area on State Route 3

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Matthews Creek Campground, Klamath National Forest, California

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Shasta-Trinity National Forest

360 Main Street Weaverville, CA 96093

Rail Creek Rd, Klamath National Forest, California

Idlewild Campground, Etna, CA

Klamath National Forest

Coffee Creek Road, off State Hwy 3, Shasta-Trinity National Forest

360 Main Street Weaverville, CA 96093

360 Main Street, Weaverville, CA 96093

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

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P.O. BOX 410, ORLEANS, CA 95556, USA

P.O. Box 410, Orleans, CA, 95556, USA

11263 North Highway 3, Fort Jones, California, 96032, United States

Klamath National Forest

Bishop Creek, South Lake Road, near Four Jeffrey Campground, CA

Escape to Mountain Glen Campground, where just five secluded sites await beneath a canopy of quaking aspens and graceful willows. This hidden gem along the melodic waters of Bishop Creek offers the perfect basecamp for tomorrow's alpine adventure or a tranquil week-long retreat from the demands of modern life. Here, intimacy meets wilderness, creating an atmosphere where every camper becomes part of the mountain's quiet rhythm.

1 Visitor Center Dr Lee Vining, CA 93541

Tucked into a scenic bend along the melodious Lee Vining Creek, Big Bend Campground invites adventurers to claim one of its 17 intimate campsites within the majestic Inyo National Forest. This hidden gem serves as the perfect basecamp for those drawn to both Yosemite's stunning Tuolumne Meadows entrance and the otherworldly landscapes of Mono Basin Scenic Area. Each site comes equipped with essential amenities including vault toilets, fresh potable water, and bear-proof food storage lockers to ensure both comfort and wildlife safety during your stay.

INYO, CA, USA

Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Sierra, Big Pine Canyon offers adventurers a gateway to some of California's most dramatic alpine wilderness. This stunning canyon serves as your basecamp for exploring ancient glaciers, crystal-clear mountain lakes, and towering granite peaks that pierce the sky at over 14,000 feet. Whether you're seeking challenging mountaineering routes or peaceful streamside camping, Big Pine Canyon delivers an authentic High Sierra experience that will leave you breathless—both from the altitude and the sheer beauty surrounding you.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Gather your favorite people at Camp 4 Group Campsite, where up to 35 adventurers can create lasting memories together in the heart of nature. This thoughtfully developed campground welcomes groups with everything needed for the perfect outdoor gathering – spacious picnic tables for shared meals under towering trees, crackling fire pits for evening storytelling, convenient vault toilets, and regular garbage collection that lets you focus on what matters most: quality time with friends and family.

Six Rivers National Forest

Tucked away in the vast wilderness of Six Rivers National Forest, Bailey Canyon Campground offers an authentic back-to-nature experience for those seeking solitude and simplicity. This hidden gem provides all the essentials for a comfortable stay, including vault toilets and fresh drinking water, while each thoughtfully arranged campsite comes complete with a sturdy table for meals under the stars and a campfire ring where stories and s'mores come to life after dark.

13652 Highway 79 Julian, CA 92036

Saddle up for an unforgettable equestrian adventure at Los Vaqueros Group Horse Campground, where the spirit of the Old West meets modern camping comfort. This specialized horse-friendly retreat beckons riders and their four-legged companions with direct access to the legendary California Riding and Hiking Trail. Well-appointed horse corrals ensure your equine partners rest as comfortably as you do, making this the perfect basecamp for exploring miles of scenic trails that wind through California's stunning backcountry.

Eldorado National Forest

Tucked away in the heart of Eldorado National Forest, Northwind Campground beckons those seeking solitude amid towering pines and whispering aspens. This hidden gem rewards visitors who venture off the beaten path with pristine natural beauty and the kind of peaceful atmosphere that's increasingly rare in today's busy world. The smooth paved roads leading to this intimate campground make it an accessible retreat where the only sounds you'll hear are birdsong and wind through the trees.

Sequoia National Forest

Perched at an impressive 7,800 feet elevation, this mountain retreat features 73 thoughtfully designed campsites nestled among towering pines and crisp mountain air. The campground welcomes RVs up to 24 feet, with each site featuring a paved parking spur for easy setup and bear-proof storage boxes for peace of mind. Adventure seekers will love the direct access to thrilling OHV trails right from camp, while fresh drinking water is available throughout the season. Whether you're seeking adrenaline-pumping off-road adventures or simply yearning to wake up above the clouds, this high-elevation haven offers the perfect basecamp for your mountain escape.

Sequoia National Forest

Rail Creek Rd, Klamath National Forest, California

Escape to the pristine wilderness of Kangaroo Lake Campground, where 18 thoughtfully placed sites await at 6,100 feet among towering conifers and fragrant manzanita. Choose from 13 convenient drive-in sites or venture to one of 5 secluded walk-in tent sites for a more intimate connection with nature. The crown jewel is the crystal-clear, 25-acre lake that plunges to depths of 110 feet—a tranquil haven for paddlers and anglers pursuing rainbow trout in its cool waters. A gentle, quarter-mile paved trail winds through the forest to the lake's edge, making this mountain paradise accessible to all. As you settle into this bear country sanctuary, proper food storage becomes part of the authentic wilderness experience under star-filled skies.