The Six Rivers National Forest lies east of Eureka in northwestern California, and stretches southward from the Oregon border for about 140 miles. U.S. 101, the famed "Redwood Highway," parallels the inland Forest in a north-south direction on the coastside. The Forest is just east of the Redwood National Park. There are 372 camping units available in 15 primary campgrounds. Many more camps are scattered throughout the Forest for those who seek isolation in remote areas away from the rivers and popular lakes. Outdoor recreation is, with the exception of hunting, mostly river oriented. Swimming and float trips on any of the main rivers are popular activities. Fishing for salmon and steelhead during the fall and early winter months is considered the finest in California. Hunting in Six Rivers country is primarily for Columbian blacktail deer, black bear, blue grouse, and valley and mountain quail. The Hoopa Indian Reservation is located in the area. Other attractions to the Six Rivers National Forest are wildflowers in late April and May, water sports at Ruth Reservoir, and the elusive "Bigfoot," a legendary ape-like creature.

Six Rivers National Forest was established by President Truman on June 3, 1947, from parts of the Siskiyou, Klamath, and Trinity National Forests. When it became obvious that the growth and development of the coastal area of Humboldt and Del Norte counties would create a demand and a need for the development and use of the natural resources of these lands, the administration of the area was transferred from the inland cities to Eureka. The noted author Peter B. Kyne suggested the name Six Rivers, which refers to the six major waterways which drain or pass through the Forest: the Smith, Klamath, Trinity, Mad, Van Duzen, and Eel Rivers.

Six Rivers National Forest offers nearly one million acres for your enjoyment, relaxation, and exploration. Within a six-hour drive from the Bay Area, you can experience the solitude of the wilderness or enjoy camping near others in developed campgrounds. Camp in densely forested woodlands, in open meadows, discover secluded flats along river banks or enjoy panoramic views of the majestic mountains.

Six Rivers has developed campgrounds on each Ranger District. Campgrounds vary in amenities, location, restrictions, etc. Below are links to the developed campgrounds on Six Rivers National Forest.

Lower Trinity Campgrounds

Mad River Campgrounds

Orleans Campgrounds

Smith River Campgrounds

Ukonom Campgrounds

Wilderness Camping:

If you prefer undeveloped camping areas, most of the forest is open for camping unless specifically prohibited. Dispersed camping is free of charge and is limited to 30 days per year, per district. Your site must be at least 1/4 mile from developed sites. No vehicles may be driven to undeveloped sites unless via a Forest Service maintained road.

Fire permits are required for all uses of fire, gas lanterns, barbecues, and capstones outside developed campgrounds.