I. Portuguese Creek River Access
Because of the unique geology of this area, early miners in the mid to late 1800's used a method called hydraulic mining. Large monitors (metal nozzles) were connected to hoses and pipes that gradually got smaller and smaller. This created great pressure that, when aimed at the hillside, washed tons of dirt, rock and gold into the miners sluice boxes where the gold was collected. The river access here has an information board and a gravel ramp to the water's edge. The Ft. Goff Campground is less than 1 mile downstream on Hwy 96. It has 5 walk-in campsites, a vault toilet, tables and fireplaces.
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: | For all boating on the Klamath, please read the restrictions on the Karuk Ceremonial dates. 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: | Seiad 2 miles |
Water: | None |
Restroom: | None |
Operated By: | US Forest Service |
General Information
Directions:From I-5 west on Hwy 96 approx. 50 miles to the access on the left.
Activities
Dispersed Camping
The river access here has an information board and a gravel ramp to the water's edge. There is room for dispersed camping here, however, the Ft. Goff Campground is less than 1 mile downstream on Hwy 96. It has 5 walk-in campsites, a vault toilet, tables and fireplaces. There is a 14 day limit here for dispersed camping.
Fees: | No fee |
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Usage: | Please choose a camping spot where you will leave a minimal impact. Always plan ahead for accumulation and storage of your garbage and take it with you when you leave. Never burn or bury garbage in the forest. Likewise, it is your responsibility to manage human waste. There are many commercial products on the market to deal with human waste. If you must bury it, be sure to dig a hole at least 6 inches or more down into soil and stay at least 100 feet away from any river, lake, stream, spring or trail. Never bury toilet paper or sanitary products. Animals will dig it up and scatter it around the area. |
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 | Chinook Salmon, Coho Salmon, Steelhead and Trout |
Water Temperature | Water temperature fluctuates with seasons, flow level and water depth. |
Water/Flow Level | Water flow in creeks and rivers fluctuate with seasons, rainfall and snow pack. For realtime flow data please click on the following link: waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv |
Permit: | All anglers over the age of 16 must have a current CA Fishing License in possession. |
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Day Hiking
The hiking trail along Portuguese Creek starts across the road and just east of the river access. It follows the creek north for several miles through old growth forest then turns east to connect with the PCT.
Fire Information | 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. |
Backpacking
The hiking trail along Portuguese Creek starts across the road and just east of the river access. It follows the creek north for several miles through old growth forest then turns east to connect with the PCT.
Fire Information | 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. |
Viewing Wildlife
A good area for riparian wildlife.
Gold Panning
Gold Panning on the Klamath River is regulated by CA Dept of Fish & Game.
Rockhounding
Small quantities of rocks may be taken for personal use only. Rocks may not be taken on posted mining claims. You must fill in all holes made in the river or on shore.
Scenic Driving
Klamath River access off the State of Jefferson Scenic Byway.
Pavement Type for Parking | Sand & gravel parking. |
Boating - Non-Motorized
The river access here has an information board and a gravel ramp to the water's edge. There is a parking area adjacent.
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 | For realtime flow data please click on the following link: waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv |
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. |