Camping & Cabins
The forest offers nearly one million acres for your enjoyment, relaxation, and exploration. Within a six-hour drive north of the Bay Area, you can get some fresh air on 250 miles of trails, enjoy camping near others in developed campgrounds, or the solitude of camping in the backcountry. The forest is also a prime location for world-class fishing, as well as home to one of most barrier-free fishing locations in the nation. The forest’s recreation regions offices from north to south include:
- Smith River National Recreation Area
- Ukonom
- Orleans
- Lower Trinity
- Mad River
2026 Camping Guide
For a full list of campgrounds, season dates, and other information check out our 2026 camping guide.
Aikens Creek West Campground
Site Open
There is a 14-day limit for occupying a campground, and pets on leashes are permitted. Picnic tables and fire rings are provided. Trailer spaces available up to 35'.
Bailey Canyon Campground
Site Open
Pristine campground on the shores of Ruth Lake. Mixed conifer forest with some understory. 4 campsites along waterfront, others are in the shade of tall oaks, ponderosa and Douglas fir trees. There…
Bear Basin Butte Lookout / Pierson Cabin
Site Open
Are you seeking solitude, awe-inspiring views, a quiet haven away from crowds, or perhaps you've wondered what life would be like for a fire spotter in the Forest Service? While fire lookouts may be…
Big Flat Campground
Site Open
Big Flat Campground is a small, quiet campground bordered by Hurdygurdy Creek. Since it is far from towns and highways, it’s the perfect place to “get away from it all.” The campground is…
Boise Creek Campground
Site Open
The campground offers several single-family campsites, three of which are for tent camping only. All campsites are furnished with tables and campfire rings with grills. Vault toilets and drinking…
Dillon Creek Campground
Site Open
This campground has several single-family campsites, all equipped with picnic tables and campfire rings with grills. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided. A host may be on-site. Roads…
E-Ne-Nuck Campground
Site Open
A popular spot for fishing enthusiasts alike, this small campground offers 10 campsites for those desiring to stay at a prime location to get their catch. It is conveniently located by some of the…
East Fork Campground
Site Open
Nestled in a mixed conifer, oak and maple trees, most sites offer creekside campsites. Trailer space available. Max trailer length of 20'.Â
Fir Cove Campground
Site Open
Delightful campground, partly shaded under a canopy of oaks, maples, ponderosa pine and Douglas-fir trees. Short walk from campsites to Ruth Lake waters edge. There is a 14-day limit for occupying…
Fish Lake Campground
Site Open
Most sites are suitable for both tent and RV camping. Vault toilets, drinking water, tables and combination fire ring grills are provided. There are no electric/water/sewer hookups nor showers at…