R. Independence Rest Area /River Access
Facilities at the Independence Rest Area are on Hwy 96 with a short, graded gravel road on the southwest side of the bridge to take you down to the river. There are tables, restrooms and an information board. While enjoying your stay, you can be entertained by the flock of at least 200 cliff swallows that claim the bridge as a nest site. In the late evening hours, you may catch a glimpse of a herd of Roosevelt elk across the river in the open meadow.
At a Glance
Fees: | No fee |
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Permit Info: | A current California Campfire Permit is required to use a camp stove, barbecue or have a campfire outside of developed areas. Local fire restrictions supersede the campfire permit. Inquire at the Ranger Station before having a fire. |
Usage: | Light |
Restrictions: | This area subject to closure during Karuk Tribal Ceremonies each summer. See list of dates and restrictions. Water and garbage service are not provided. Bring enough water for drinking, cooking and washing as well as extra water to drown campfires each day. Please take all trash, garbage, fish guts and dog droppings with you when you leave. Dogs on leash only. Camping limit 14 days. |
Closest Towns: | Happy Camp 13.7 miles |
Water: | None |
Restroom: | Vault |
Operated By: | US Forest Service |
General Information
Directions:From Happy Camp west on Hwy 96 approx. 13.7 miles to the Rest Area on the left.
Activities
River and Stream Fishing
Fishing on the Klamath River is regulated by the CA Dept of Fish & Game.
Special Designations | Regulations for the Salmon, Scott and Klamath Rivers are published by the CA Dept of Fish & Game in May each year in the "Freshwater & Ocean Sport Fishing Supplement". |
Fish Species | Trout and Salmon |
Water Temperature | Water temperature fluctuates with seasons, flow level and water depth. |
Water/Flow Level | Water flow in creeks and rivers fluctuates with seasons, rainfall and snow pack. |
Permit: | All anglers over the age of 16 must have a current CA Fishing License in possession. |
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Viewing Wildlife
Bird watching is good here. Elk often seen across the river.
Picnicking
Facilities at the Independence Rest Area are on Hwy 96 with a short, graded gravel road on the southwest side of the bridge to take you down to the river. There are tables, restrooms and an information board. While enjoying your stay, you can be entertained by the flock of at least 200 cliff swallows that claim the bridge as a nest site. In the late evening hours, you may catch a glimpse of a herd of Roosevelt elk across the river in the open meadow.
No. of Sites | 1 |
Reservation Info | Reservations not available. All sites are first come, first served. |
Fire Information | Campfires are permitted in fire rings and stoves provided, subject to local restrictions. |
No. of Accessible sites | Some |
Fees: | No fee |
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Permit: | A current California Campfire Permit is required to use a camp stove, barbecue or have a campfire outside of developed areas. Local fire restrictions supersede the campfire permit. Inquire at the Ranger Station before having a fire. |
Gold Panning
Gold Panning on the Klamath River is regulated by CA Dept of Fish & Game.
Scenic Driving
Klamath River access off the Big Foot Scenic Byway. This popular fishing access has a gravel road to the water's edge. Dispersed camping is allowed and there is some shade. There is an information bulletin board and some facilities at the rest area.
Pavement Type for Parking | Sand & gravel parking down by the river. Large graded gravel parking lot up on the highway. |
Boating - Non-Motorized
Facilities at the Independence Rest Area are on Hwy 96 with a short, graded gravel road on the southwest side of the bridge to take you down to the river. There are tables, restrooms and an information board. A graded gravel road leads to the water's edge. Some facilities at the rest area are accessible with assistance.
Launch Ramps | None |
Trailer Parking | Parking available. |
Class of rapids | Water level, flow and class of rapids can change seasonally. Contact the District Office in advance for information on rapids. |
Type of Craft | All portable boats capable of being carried. |
Water/Flow Level | Water flow in creeks and rivers fluctuate with seasons, rainfall and snow pack. |
Rental info: | The Klamath River is a designated Wild and Scenic River. There are numerous rapids, cascades and waterfalls along the river. The difficulty of the rapids changes with the seasons, the water levels and flow rates. Boaters and rafters should research the river thoroughly before attempting to navigate on their own. For a list of outfitters and guides permitted by the US Forest Service to operate on the Klamath National Forest click here. |
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Swimming
Swimming, wading and water play off the gravel bar in the Klamath River.
Clothing Requirements | Swimming attire required. |
Water Temperature | Water temperature fluctuates with seasons, flow level and water depth. |
Water/Flow Level | Water flow in creeks and rivers fluctuates with seasons, rainfall and snow pack. |