Tomhead Saddle Campground

4 reviews

Quick Facts

5,673 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

5 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Shasta-Trinity National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

5,673 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

5 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Shasta-Trinity National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Tomhead Saddle Campground

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Campsite Fees

No fees are required for this site.

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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USFS

Provider

530-628-5227

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What Campers Say

N/A

Limited Reviews

Based on 4 reviews

2 Google reviews

"No specific user reviews provided, but the campground is mentioned in context with basic tent facilities and proximity to wilderness areas."

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Campground Map

Tomhead Saddle Campground

40.1405, -122.8291

Driving directionsFrom I-5, exit to Hwy 36 and travel west. Go 13.2 miles west on 36 to the Cannon Road. Turn left and travel approximately 23.5 miles on this gravel road (the name will change to Pettijohn Road and stay on this road to the National Forest Boundary sign. Continue another 1.6 miles to road 27N06. Turn left and travel about 1 mile to Saddle Camp.

The campground is accessible via a 23.5-mile-long gravel road and requires additional travel on smaller roads, which may present challenges for some vehicles.

Best Time to Camp at Tomhead Saddle Campground

Experience nature's full spectrum at Tomhead Saddle, where each season paints the wilderness in dramatically different hues. Winter transforms this mountain retreat into a crystalline wonderland, with snow blanketing the landscape and temperatures that demand warm sleeping bags and proper cold-weather gear. As spring emerges, the thaw brings renewed life to the wilderness, while summer offers those perfect mild mountain days that make every sunrise worth witnessing. Fall arrives with crisp air and golden light, though temperatures can plummet quickly as evening approaches. Smart campers check conditions before arriving, as this high-country destination can surprise even seasoned outdoor enthusiasts with its mercurial mountain weather.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.5 / 5

Likely best access season for hiking and solitude; potable water lacking year‑round.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

3.5 / 5

Fall hues and solitude likely attractive, but no seasonal reviews or trail details provided.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Spring regrowth after fires may be scenic and biologically active; specifics unconfirmed.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Described as a 'crystalline wonderland' in winter; access and services likely limited.

Planning Tips

Current Alerts: "Some areas in and near the Yolla Bolly-Middle Eel Wilderness have been affected by recent wildfires; for more information, please call the Hayfork Ranger Station (530) 628-5227."

About Tomhead Saddle Campground

Escape to the pristine wilderness at Tomhead Saddle Campground, where tent camping takes on its purest form. Tucked away in the breathtaking Shasta-Trinity National Forest, this remote sanctuary lies within the legendary Yolla Bolly-Middle Eel Wilderness—one of California's most untouched natural treasures. While you'll find restroom facilities for your convenience, the absence of potable water reminds campers to come prepared for a true backcountry experience. This is camping as it was meant to be: just you, your tent, and the vast wilderness stretching endlessly before you.

This campground is designed exclusively for tent camping. It is limited in facilities and services.

Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's full spectrum at Tomhead Saddle, where each season paints the wilderness in dramatically different hues. Winter transforms this mountain retreat into a crystalline wonderland, with snow blanketing the landscape and temperatures that demand warm sleeping bags and proper cold-weather gear. As spring emerges, the thaw brings renewed life to the wilderness, while summer offers those perfect mild mountain days that make every sunrise worth witnessing. Fall arrives with crisp air and golden light, though temperatures can plummet quickly as evening approaches. Smart campers check conditions before arriving, as this high-country destination can surprise even seasoned outdoor enthusiasts with its mercurial mountain weather.

Natural Features and SceneryRecent wildfires have sculpted this landscape into something hauntingly beautiful—a testament to nature's power of destruction and renewal. The charred sentinels of former forest giants stand alongside vibrant new growth, creating a mosaic of life and rebirth that tells the ongoing story of wilderness resilience. This rugged, remote environment offers visitors a rare glimpse into the raw, unfiltered face of nature. Here, the absence of crowds means wildlife sightings are more common, and the night sky reveals itself in all its star-studded glory, unmarred by light pollution from distant cities.

Geological RegionNestled within the majestic Yolla Bolly-Middle Eel Wilderness, part of the expansive Shasta-Trinity National Forest, Tomhead Saddle occupies a special place in Northern California's geological tapestry. This wilderness area, encompassing over 180,000 acres of untamed terrain, represents one of the largest protected wildlands in the state. The dramatic landscape bears witness to millions of years of geological forces—ancient seafloors thrust skyward, volcanic activity, and the patient work of wind and water carving valleys and ridges that challenge and inspire those who venture into this remarkable backcountry.

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Amenities available

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

The campground offers an opportunity to engage with the Yolla Bolly-Middle Eel Wilderness, which may include hiking and wildlife viewing. Limited specific activity infrastructure.

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotable water is not available at this site, making it essential for campers to plan accordingly. Additionally, the area has been affected by recent wildfires, and visitors should contact the Hayfork Ranger Station for updates.

Active Alerts"Some areas in and near the Yolla Bolly-Middle Eel Wilderness have been affected by recent wildfires; for more information, please call the Hayfork Ranger Station (530) 628-5227."

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