Red Bridge Campground

3.88

29 reviews

Red Bridge Campground, Mt. Hough Ranger District, Plumas National Forest

Quick Facts

6,706 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

5 campsites

Season

User misty mcdivitt ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

6,706 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

5 campsites

Season

User misty mcdivitt ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Red Bridge Campground

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Red Bridge Campground is free, as stated in multiple authoritative sources and user reviews.

Standard Site Fee$0.00

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

3.88

Mixed Reviews

Based on 29 reviews

24 Google reviews

Most mentioned

hiking

Some mention

bugs

"User reviews for Red Bridge Campground are mixed. Many appreciate the beautiful location and free access, but some raise concerns about bugs, noise, and lack of maintenance."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Red Bridge Campground, Mt. Hough Ranger District, Plumas National Forest

Red Bridge Campground

Red Bridge Campground, Mt. Hough Ranger District, Plumas National Forest

Driving directionsTraveling east from Quincy on Hwy 70, turn south on La Porte Road. The campground is 7 miles out.

Road is accessible but review by misty mcdivitt states: 'Rd closed during winter months.' Larger rigs have access to the campground above the bridge, while smaller rigs can use the campground below on the river, as described by user matt fisher.

Nearby places

Quincy (approximately 7 miles, about 15-20 minutes drive)

Nearby supplies

Likely available in Quincy, 7 miles away, but specific locations for groceries or camping supplies are null.

Best Time to Camp at Red Bridge Campground

Red Bridge reveals different personalities throughout the year, with ideal camping conditions typically occurring during weeks of low precipitation and moderate temperatures hovering between 35-40°F. The clearest skies—exceeding 60% clarity—create perfect stargazing opportunities that complement the campground's remote atmosphere. Winter adventurers should note that seasonal road closures can transform this accessible retreat into an isolated wonderland, making advance planning essential for cold-weather camping enthusiasts.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.5 / 5

Open and good for swimming/fishing but can be busy and noisy in summer.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Lower precipitation and moderate temps make fall ideal; quieter and scenic foliage likely.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Spring offers river activities and scenery but can be chilly; limited specific review detail.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground closed in winter; road closures reported by users.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Null.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: User misty mcdivitt mentions road closure during winter months, suggesting seasonal access limitations.
Current Alerts: No current alerts or warnings referenced in authoritative sources.

About Red Bridge Campground

Tucked away in the heart of Plumas National Forest, Red Bridge Campground offers a rare gem for adventurous souls seeking an authentic wilderness experience without the price tag. This intimate, Forest Service-managed retreat features just five first-come, first-served campsites nestled alongside the pristine waters of the Middle Fork Feather River—the forest's only federally designated Wild and Scenic River. With two vault toilets and no fees required, this rustic escape attracts those who value simplicity and natural beauty. Past visitors paint a varied picture: some revel in the 'quiet, beautiful' setting with no phone service and access to a wonderful beach, while others caution about seasonal bugs and road noise. Whether you're seeking digital detox or riverside relaxation, Red Bridge delivers an unfiltered taste of California's wild spaces.

Red Bridge Campground provides primitive camping opportunities with basic facilities. It is suitable for both tent and RV camping.

Historical SignificanceRed Bridge Campground stands as a gateway to one of California's most treasured waterways—the Middle Fork Feather River. This liquid ribbon earned federal Wild and Scenic River designation, recognizing its outstanding natural, cultural, and recreational values. The campground serves as a humble steward of this protected corridor, offering visitors a chance to connect with a landscape that has captivated Native peoples, gold seekers, and modern adventurers alike.

Weather and SeasonsRed Bridge reveals different personalities throughout the year, with ideal camping conditions typically occurring during weeks of low precipitation and moderate temperatures hovering between 35-40°F. The clearest skies—exceeding 60% clarity—create perfect stargazing opportunities that complement the campground's remote atmosphere. Winter adventurers should note that seasonal road closures can transform this accessible retreat into an isolated wonderland, making advance planning essential for cold-weather camping enthusiasts.

ElevationInformation not currently available.

Natural Features and SceneryThe Middle Fork Feather River serves as Red Bridge's centerpiece, its federally protected waters creating a stunning backdrop for camping adventures. Visitors consistently praise the area's natural splendor—from the 'quiet, beautiful' ambiance noted by early visitors to recent guests who describe the setting as 'absolutely beautiful.' The river's gentle curves and pristine beaches invite exploration, while the surrounding forest creates a natural amphitheater of towering pines and diverse wildlife, offering campers front-row seats to nature's daily performances.

Geological RegionRed Bridge Campground rests within the dramatic landscape of Plumas National Forest, where the Middle Fork Feather River has carved its course through ancient Sierra Nevada terrain. This federally designated Wild and Scenic River corridor showcases the region's geological story—from volcanic origins to glacial sculpting—creating a diverse ecosystem where mountain meadows meet rushing waters and granite outcroppings frame distant peaks.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Null.

Check-out

Null.

Stay Limit

First-come, first-serve basis.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Varies by site size.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutSites are situated on both sides of the river and are described as small (4-5 spots) by Emma Ptak and Ryan Ho.

Reservation PlatformsNo reservations are needed. Operates on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-up and first-come, first-serve, per authoritative sources.

Cancellation PolicyNull, as reservations are not available.

AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the sources.

Site SizeThe campground consists of five campsites, suitable for both smaller and larger rigs depending on the location. According to a review, 'One area above the bridge is suitable for larger rigs, while the area below the bridge is better for smaller rigs.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary; some users have reported it being busy and not very quiet, while others describe it as 'remote.

Total Campsites5 campsites

Recommended SitesMatt Fisher advises: 'Walk it first' for rigs aiming to access sites below the bridge.

Amenities available

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The campground is positioned along the Middle Fork of the Feather River, facilitating activities like fishing, swimming, and gold panning. There are also opportunities for hiking and wildlife exploration.

HikingReviewers highlight the natural beauty of the area and describe it as 'a wonderful area to hike around in.' Specific trails or difficulty levels are not mentioned.

FishingFishing is available, with one reviewer stating, 'Great fishing, small minimal gold.'

SwimmingSwimming is possible in the river, with mentions of 'decent swimming areas' and 'a great beach.' Some areas have cliff jumps when water levels are high.

Wildlife viewingThe area offers opportunities to observe nature and wildlife, although no specific species or viewing spots are mentioned.

Beach activitiesThere is a small river beach, described as 'great' and suitable for activities like sunbathing or enjoying the scenery.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsUser Steve F. highlights 'lots of bugs' and 'ticks,' while others note trash left behind by occupants (Emma Ptak) and a stripped-out car near the bathroom (Jason Lister).

Active AlertsNo current alerts or warnings referenced in authoritative sources.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Fire PolicyNull.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Null.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services likely available in Quincy, 7 miles away (hospital, police, etc.), but precise facilities are null.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling services are not provided. Several reviewers emphasized, 'If you pack it in, then pack it out.'

Water FeaturesThe campground is situated directly on the Middle Fork of the Feather River, providing access to fishing, swimming, and gold panning ('Great fishing, small minimal gold' - Matt Fisher).

Camp HostNull.

Weather at Red Bridge Campground

Reviews

3.9

29 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Red Bridge Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Red Bridge Campground are mixed. Many appreciate the beautiful location and free access, but some raise concerns about bugs, noise, and lack of maintenance.

Review Summaries

Based on 29 reviews

What Campers Love

Free campground, beautiful setting by the Middle Fork of the Feather River, good fishing and swimming opportunities, and a great spot for gold panning and hiking.

Based on 29 reviews

Common Concerns

Reports of bugs, ticks, trash left behind, loud music from groups, and a lack of trash services. One reviewer mentioned, 'Unfortunately, you get what you pay for.'

Based on 29 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Reviewers emphasize bringing your own water and packing out trash. One reviewer advised, 'Walk the area first if you have a larger rig.'

Based on 29 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is closed in winter. In summer, some users report it being busy and noisy due to groups gathering by the river.

Based on 29 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Great spot with a wonderful area to hike around in.' 2. 'Unfortunately, you’ll get what you pay for.' 3. 'Quiet, beautiful, no phone service.' 4. 'Leave it cleaner than when you came, please.'

Based on 29 reviews