Welcome to Six Rivers National Forest

Six Rivers National Forest stretches in a narrow 140-mile band of Northwestern California from the Oregon border southward. Our namesake rivers include the Smith, Klamath, Trinity, Eel, Van Duzen, and Mad. The landscape boasts extensive stands of conifers in a rugged mountain setting.

The forest offers outstanding water recreation and uncrowded backcountry. Elevations range from sea level to just under 7,000 feet. Popular river activities include angling for trout, steelhead and salmon, or one can canoe, raft, kayak, or swim.

Visitors can enjoy 2,500 miles of roads, 250 miles of trails, three national scenic byways, six botanical areas, four wilderness areas, and 365 miles of wild and scenic rivers. Wander around several lakes, check out 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps architecture, and historic mining and logging. Plus, 16 family campgrounds, rustic camps, and historic Bear Basin Butte Lookout and Pierson Rental Cabin.

Three wildland firefighters standing in front of flames

We're looking for a committed, hardworking, highly skilled workforce. Our Fire and Aviation Management Program gathers talented people who working safely and swiftly as part of a team.

Have you ever dreamed of calling Six Rivers National Forest your home for a season? This is your opportunity to live, play, and volunteer in the forest. Right now, we are looking for hosts for the campground season of May 14 - October 14.

Forest staff in front of fire truck presenting to group of students

Are you a school in the greater Eureka area or neighboring costal town? Then sign up to help stop human-caused wildfires before they start. Our in-person presentations are offered from mid-April to mid-May.

A map showing the entirety of the west coast of the United States.

Be prepared for your next visit to the forest.

A wooden forest service signs greets drivers along a highway. The surrounding area is full of trees. Sky is clear and blue.

The forest is divided into four ranger districts: Gasquet, Orleans/Ukonom, Lower Trinity, and Mad River.

A person looking at a wilderness map while laying down on a mountain side.

Explore our offering of brochures, maps and Recreational Opportunity Guides on subjects like recreation, sightseeing, wilderness, travel management, and vegetation.