East Fork Campground – Six Rivers Nf (Ca)

4.28

29 reviews

Featured in:Camping Near Redwood National Park

Quick Facts

680 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Six Rivers National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

680 ft

Price

$8/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Six Rivers National Forest site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

East Fork Campground – Six Rivers Nf (Ca)

$8.00 - $8.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Camping fees are stated to be $8 per night as per one user review. Additional fees for reservations may apply: $8 online or via app, $9 through the...

Standard Site Fee$8.00

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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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

530-629-2118

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What Campers Say

4.28

Satisfactory

Based on 29 reviews

24 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanshadelocation

Some mention

mosquitoescell service

"User reviews highlight the campground's serene and shaded environment, clean bathrooms, and proximity to outdoor activities. Complaints include noise disturbances from late arrivals and groups that lack campground etiquette."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

East Fork Campground – Six Rivers Nf (Ca)

40.9046, -123.7061

Driving directionsApproximately 32 miles east of Arcata and approximately 105 miles west of Redding on Hwy 299, four miles west of Willow Creek.

Access is via paved roads and highways. The campground can be reached four miles west of Willow Creek on Hwy 299.

Nearby places

Arcata (32 miles), Redding (105 miles), Willow Creek (5 miles)

Nearby supplies

Willow Creek, less than 5 miles away, offers basic supplies, groceries, and camping essentials.

Best Time to Camp at East Fork Campground – Six Rivers Nf (Ca)

The campground enjoys the mild temperament of Northern California's coastal mountains, where temperatures typically hover between a crisp 39°F on cool mornings and a comfortable 53°F during afternoon peaks. The region's generous rainfall—sometimes reaching nearly 2 inches per week during winter months—keeps the forest lush and the creek flowing strong. While misty mornings and gentle rains are part of the area's charm, patient visitors are rewarded with brilliant sunny days that illuminate the forest canopy and create perfect conditions for outdoor adventures.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

3.0 / 5

Good swimming and rafting access but summer reviews note increased activity and noise issues.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Mild temps and crisp mornings make fall appealing; fewer explicit reviews on fall specifics.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.5 / 5

Mild coastal-mountain climate and creek access suit spring visits; limited explicit spring details.

Best

Winter(Dec-Feb)

4.0 / 5

Open year-round; winter reviews highlight solitude and nature exploration opportunities.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Labor Day weekend noted for Bigfoot Daze celebration in Willow Creek. Peak season dates not explicitly defined.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round.
Current Alerts: No current alerts are documented.

About East Fork Campground – Six Rivers Nf (Ca)

Tucked away in the enchanting Six Rivers National Forest, East Fork Campground offers an intimate escape where towering Big Leaf Maples, Douglas Firs, and rare Port Orford Cedars create a natural cathedral overhead. This cozy riverside retreat beckons adventurers with pristine fishing holes, refreshing swimming spots, and miles of trails perfect for hiking and mountain biking. Forest roads wind through the surrounding wilderness, where local legend suggests you might catch a glimpse of the elusive Bigfoot. While the campground provides essential amenities including well-maintained vault toilets, sturdy picnic tables, and fire rings for evening gatherings, visitors should pack their own water supply for this authentic backcountry experience.

East Fork Campground caters to group camping but also accommodates tents and smaller RVs. The sites are shaded, quiet, and located near the creek, providing an intimate camping experience.

Historical SignificanceEast Fork Campground sits at the heart of one of America's most intriguing mysteries—just minutes from Willow Creek, proudly proclaimed as the 'Bigfoot capital of the world.' This legendary status comes alive through the fascinating exhibits at the nearby Hoopa Tribal Museum, where centuries of indigenous culture blend with contemporary cryptozoology. Each Labor Day weekend, the entire region transforms during Bigfoot Daze, a celebration that brings together believers, skeptics, and curious visitors for a uniquely Northern California cultural experience.

Weather and SeasonsThe campground enjoys the mild temperament of Northern California's coastal mountains, where temperatures typically hover between a crisp 39°F on cool mornings and a comfortable 53°F during afternoon peaks. The region's generous rainfall—sometimes reaching nearly 2 inches per week during winter months—keeps the forest lush and the creek flowing strong. While misty mornings and gentle rains are part of the area's charm, patient visitors are rewarded with brilliant sunny days that illuminate the forest canopy and create perfect conditions for outdoor adventures.

ElevationPerched at a gentle 680 feet above sea level, East Fork Campground occupies the sweet spot of Northern California's elevation range. This moderate altitude creates ideal conditions year-round—high enough to escape the valley heat in summer, yet low enough to remain accessible and comfortable during cooler months. The elevation perfectly suits families, casual hikers, and seasoned outdoor enthusiasts alike, offering the benefits of mountain camping without the challenges of high-altitude adjustment.

Natural Features and SceneryThe melodic babble of East Fork Willow Creek provides the soundtrack to your stay at this creekside haven, where crystalline waters invite refreshing dips and quiet contemplation. Majestic hardwoods mingle with towering conifers to create a diverse forest ecosystem that serves as home to magnificent bald eagles soaring overhead and swift peregrine falcons hunting along the canyon walls. The interplay of dappled sunlight through the varied canopy creates an ever-changing tableau of light and shadow, while the creek's gentle pools and riffles offer endless opportunities for wading, swimming, and simply soaking in the tranquil beauty of this 680-foot elevation paradise.

Geological RegionEast Fork Campground showcases the remarkable geological diversity of Six Rivers National Forest in Northern California's rugged northwest corner. Here, ancient tectonic forces have sculpted a landscape where pristine creeks carve through valleys adorned with magnificent Big Leaf Maples and centuries-old conifers. The surrounding oak woodlands and mixed conifer forests tell the story of a unique bioregion where coastal influences meet mountain ecosystems. At 680 feet along the East Fork of Willow Creek, the campground occupies a geological sweet spot where water, stone, and forest converge to create one of the region's most captivating natural sanctuaries.

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

11:00 AM

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay is 14 days per visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 25 people at group sites. Individual site guest limits are not specified.

Groups

The group site, located at the end of the campground, accommodates up to 25 people in a tent-friendly area with limited turnaround space. RVs or trailers over 25 feet are discouraged.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSmall campground layout featuring creekside campsites with ample shade.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online, via app, through recreation.gov call center, or in-person.

Walk-in AvailabilityUser reviews suggest availability for first-come, first-served camping but specifics are unclear.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival for a refund minus a $10 cancellation fee, reservation fees, and any change fees. Late cancellations may incur additional penalties, including forfeiting the first night's fees for group facilities.

AccessibilityVault toilets are accessible.

Site SizeSmall and intimate campsites.

PrivacySites are shaded, quiet, and located near the creek, offering a beautiful and secluded atmosphere.

Total Campsites10 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose shaded sites next to the creek for intimacy and quiet. Site 1 is noted to accommodate trailers.

Amenities available

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

Activities you can enjoy

East Fork Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities, including fishing, swimming, wading, hiking, biking, horseback riding, and whitewater rafting in the nearby Trinity River. The area also provides opportunities for exploring the rich biodiversity, including spotting threatened and endangered species, such as bald eagles and peregrine falcons.

HikingHiking opportunities are available near the campground, including a trail of approximately 2.5 hours uphill, according to one review.

FishingFishing is popular in the Trinity River, with opportunities to catch migratory salmon and steelhead trout.

SwimmingSwimming and wading are possible in spots along the creek adjacent to the campground.

BikingBiking is mentioned as a recreational option in the vicinity of the campground.

Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is a highlight of the campground, with species such as bald eagles and peregrine falcons inhabiting the area.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquitoes are a recurring concern per user reviews. Potential hazards include limited cell service and restricted space for large vehicles.

Active AlertsNo current alerts are documented.

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 PolicyFire rings are provided at campsites. Campfire restrictions are not explicitly mentioned.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are Quietness is appreciated by reviewers but formal hours are not noted.

Emergency ServicesLower Trinity Ranger Districts office at 50 Hwy 96 in Willow Creek for forest-related emergencies. Hospitals and larger emergency services are likely in Redding or Arcata, but precise locations are not confirmed.

Trash & RecyclingTrash collection is available at the campground.

Water FeaturesEast Fork of Willow Creek runs through the campground, providing opportunities for wading and swimming. Nearby Trinity River offers fishing and whitewater rafting.

Camp HostHost availability is mentioned but contact information or specific services provided are not included.

Weather at East Fork Campground – Six Rivers Nf (Ca)

Reviews

4.3

29 reviews

Satisfactory

East Fork Campground – Six Rivers Nf (Ca) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the campground's serene and shaded environment, clean bathrooms, and proximity to outdoor activities. Complaints include noise disturbances from late arrivals and groups that lack campground etiquette.

Review Summaries

Based on 29 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive reviews praise the intimate campsites, ample shade, clean vault toilets, beautiful creekside location, and affordability.

Based on 29 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include late-night disturbances from groups with multiple cars arriving after 5 PM, lack of cell phone service, and seasonal mosquito presence.

Based on 29 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring plenty of water for drinking and cooking as none is available on-site. Avoid camping during mid-July if seeking quieter experiences. Check for late check-ins during the evening.

Based on 29 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews note increased activity and occasional disturbances from groups. Winter reviews highlight solitude and opportunities for nature exploration.

Based on 29 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The campground is lovely. Shaded spots right by the river. Clean bathrooms." - TA O'Neal "August 3rd this place is beautiful hardly anyone there. And the kicker is, only $8 a night!! Are you kidding...

Based on 29 reviews