How much does camping cost at Tomhead Saddle Campground?

Camping at Tomhead Saddle Campground is free. Confirm current rules and whether separate reservation, entrance, parking, or amenity fees apply.

Is Tomhead Saddle Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Tomhead Saddle Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a spot.

Are there showers at Tomhead Saddle Campground?

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

How many campsites does Tomhead Saddle Campground have?

Tomhead Saddle Campground has 5 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Tomhead Saddle Campground?

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

What amenities are available at Tomhead Saddle Campground?

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

Tomhead Saddle Campground

4 reviews

Peace & Quiet

Featured in:Mountain Camping California

Quick Facts

5,673 ft

Price

Free

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

5 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Check Availability 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

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Tomhead Saddle Campground

Free

Campsite Fees

No fees are required for this site.

No campsite fee categories listed.

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USFS

Provider

530-628-5227

I manage this campground

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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.

Weather at Tomhead Saddle Campground

Current alert: "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."

Best Time to Camp at Tomhead Saddle Campground

Summer provides the most reliable snow-free access, with daytime highs in the 60s to 80s°F and cool nights in the 40s to 50s. Trails and ridge walks are best during this window for day trips, backpacking, and wildlife viewing. Late summer brings higher fire danger and very limited services, so self-sufficiency is essential. Winter brings snow and cold temperatures that require proper gear. The wilderness stays quiet even in peak season due to its remoteness.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer is most reliable for snow-free access; highs in the 60s–80s°F make it the prime season.

Planning Tips

About Tomhead Saddle Campground

Tomhead Saddle Campground sits at 5,673 feet in the Yolla Bolly-Middle Eel Wilderness, a 180,000-acre protected area within Shasta-Trinity National Forest. The campground has 5 primitive tent sites and vault toilets, but no potable water. Summer is the most reliable season for access.

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

Weather and SeasonsSummer provides the most reliable snow-free access, with daytime highs in the 60s to 80s°F and cool nights in the 40s to 50s. Trails and ridge walks are best during this window for day trips, backpacking, and wildlife viewing. Late summer brings higher fire danger and very limited services, so self-sufficiency is essential. Winter brings snow and cold temperatures that require proper gear. The wilderness stays quiet even in peak season due to its remoteness.

Natural Features and SceneryThe Yolla Bolly-Middle Eel Wilderness covers some of Northern California's most rugged backcountry. Ancient seafloors thrust upward by geological forces form the ridges and valleys here, shaped over millions of years by volcanic activity, wind, and water. The remote location means fewer crowds and better chances for wildlife sightings. At night, the lack of light pollution reveals clear views of the stars.

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.

Lodging & AccommodationsThis campground is tent-only, and no lodge or alternative accommodations exist.

Programs & ActivitiesNo programs or educational activities mentioned.

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Amenities available

Tomhead Saddle Campground provides basic amenities suitable for tent camping but is limited in infrastructure. It offers restrooms but lacks potable water. Campground is open 24 hours a day.

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Things to do at Tomhead Saddle Campground

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.

Hiking4.0/5

Located in the Yolla Bolly-Middle Eel Wilderness; rugged backcountry supports day hikes/backpacking.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Remote wilderness setting implies good wildlife viewing, though specifics aren't provided.

Winter Activities1.0/5

Winter access limited by snow; site best in summer—not suited for developed winter recreation.

Water Sports

Signature experiences

Stargazing4.0/5High elevation, remote location and few lights favor dark skies and stargazing.

Photography4.0/5Dramatic ridges, unique geology and dark skies provide strong photo opportunities.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

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.

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

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

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

0.0

4 reviews

Limited Reviews

Tomhead Saddle Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews

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

Review Summaries

Based on 4 reviews

What Campers Love

Its proximity to the Yolla Bolly-Middle Eel Wilderness may appeal to wilderness enthusiasts.

Based on 4 reviews

Common Concerns

The lack of potable water and minimal amenities may deter some campers.

Based on 4 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No reviews targeting specific sites within the campground.

Based on 4 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Carry sufficient water as there is no potable water available on-site.

Based on 4 reviews

Seasonal Insights

No user reviews are available to provide insights into seasonal trends.

Based on 4 reviews

Camper Quotes

No direct user quotes are provided.

Based on 4 reviews

Accessibility Features

No accessibility-specific reviews are provided.

Based on 4 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews related to pet policies or pet-friendly features.

Based on 4 reviews

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Tomhead Saddle Campground

Free

Campsite Fees

No fees are required for this site.

No campsite fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

USFS

Provider

530-628-5227

Go if

Self-sufficient backpackers or ridge-hikers who carry all their water and want a free base camp deep in Northern California wilderness with almost no competition for sites, even in peak summer.

Skip if

No potable water on-site is a hard stop for anyone not hauling enough from home, and active wildfire impacts in the area mean a call to Hayfork Ranger Station at (530) 628-5227 is mandatory before you drive out here.

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