Idlewild Campground

Very brief description:  Campground is located along the North Fork of the Salmon River in medium to dense forest setting.  Nearby to Marble Mountain wilderness and Russian wilderness.

Open Dates:  May to October

Number of Campsites:  11 family campsites in tent camping area.  15 campsites in RV area.  Max spur 24’.  Watch for overhanging branches.  No hook-ups for power, water, or sewer.

Length of Stay:  14 days

Fees:  $10 per day at last report

Affiliation:  National Forest Service

Pets:  Dogs on leash only.

A current California Campfire Permit is required to use a camp stove, barbecue or have a campfire outside the developed campground. Local fire restrictions supersede the campfire permit. Inquire at the Ranger Station before having a fire.

Location/Address:  Idlewild Campground is located approximately 6 miles east of the small town Sawyers Bar on county route 1C01.  From Yreka, California (from Interstate 5) take the exit to Highway 3 going west towards Ft. Jones.  Travel through Ft. Jones to Etna, California.  At Etna divert from Highway 3 to Collier Lane to center of town.  Turn west on (Main St) Sawyers Bar Road.  Travel approximately 20 miles to Forest Route 41N37 the campground will be 1/10^th of a mile.

Elevation:  2,500 ft.

Contact Information:

Klamath National Forest ~ Supervisor’s Office

1711 South Main Street

Yreka, CA  96097

(530) 842-6131

Amenities:

• Drinking water in summer months
• Vault toilets
• Garbage service in summer
• Campfire rings (be sure to check local ordinances for fire safety)
• Gravel parking
• River and stream fishing
• Hiking ~ intermediate to difficult, Mulebridge trailhead is within 2 miles.
• Backpacking ~ North Fork Trail to Marble Mountain Wilderness
• Gold Panning on the Salmon River is regulated by the California Dept. of Fish and Game
• Swimming and wading along the gravel bar of the North Fork of the Salmon River, water flow and temperature fluctuate with the seasons.

General Description:  In medium to dense forest area setting.  Near the North Fork of the Salmon River.  Supplies in Etna or possibly Sawyers Bar.  Campers may be allowed to gather firewood, inquire at nearest ranger station.  Deer, Bears, and birds are common to the area.

Nearby Services:  (groceries, medical, etc.)  Groceries in Etna approximately 20 miles; Callahan Emporium approximately 15 miles (minimum supplies); Ft. Jones approximately 25 miles; Yreka approximately 50 miles.  Full service in Yreka.   Nearest emergency medical services:  Scott Valley Rural Health Center, Etna (530) 467-5393; full service ER at Yreka, Fairchild Hospital.  (530) 841-6211. 

Nordheimer Flat Campground and River Access

Entrance to Nordheimer Campground, sign is visible adjacent to Salmon River Road.

Brief description:  Campground is located in mixed forest with Conifers, Oak and Madrone.  Some sites have creek views.  Salmon fishing in Nordheimer Creek and Salmon River.

Open Dates:  May to October for campground usage.  River access available year round.

Number of Campsites:  Approximately 12 single sites, and 4 group sites.  Individual sites first come, first served.  Reservations only possible for group sites.  By reservation only at www.recreation.gov or 1-877-444-6777.

Length of Stay:   14 days

Fees:  Approximately $10 per day, check current rates as they may change for new season.

Affiliation:  National Forest Campground.  Campground is administered by the Six Rivers National Forest.

Location/Address:  Nordheimer Flat Campground is approximately 12-14 miles East of Somes Bar on Forest Route 93 (Salmon River Road).  ~ Traveling from Orleans on Hwy 96 travel north about 8 miles to Somes Bar turn on Salmon River Road going east.  ~ Traveling from Happy Camp on Hwy 96 along the Klamath River Drive south approximately 38 miles to Somes Bar and turn on Salmon River Road going east.

Elevation:  approximately 1,000 ft.

Contact Information:

Klamath National Forest

Supervisor’s Office

1711 South Main Street

Yreka, CA  96097

(530) 842-6131

Amenities: 

• Campfire rings ~ A current California Campfire Permit is required to use a camp stove, barbecue or have a campfire.  Local fire restrictions supersede the campfire permit. Inquire at the Ranger Station before having a fire.
• Vault toilets
• Drinking water in summer months is generally available
• Fishing
• Boat access (non-motorized) to river’s edge (Salmon River) is possible with 4 x 4 vehicles, level is intermediate to difficult.  Quagga and Zebra Mussel Alert.
• Remnants from historic mining operations can still be seen in this remote but beautiful camping area. A few fruit trees remain from past homesteading activities.
• Gold panning is regulated on the Salmon River by the California Department of Fish and Game.

General Description:  Somewhat remote camping area, but access is easily available by automobile.  The campground has large flat areas, some areas sunny others in wooded areas with Conifers, Oak and Madrone.  Deer, foxes, raccoons, and squirrels in the area.   Riparian wildlife. Can be busy during holidays, but generally light usage.

Nearby Services:  (groceries, medical, etc.)  Limited supplies available at Somes Bar 12+ miles.  Also at Orleans approximately 20 miles.  Full service groceries available at Willow Creek 40+ miles or at Happy Camp approximately 50 miles.  Urgent care available at Curry General Hospital at Orick, California.    Emergency services (25 miles south west from Somes Bar) from Hoopa-Willow Creek Ambulance, 1200 Airport Rd., Hoopa, CA.  (530) 625-4180.   Gasoline available at Willow Creek and possibly other areas depending on day and time. 

Brown Bear River Access/Camping

Brown Bear River Access is also available for camping, Free! Up to 14 days. Fire permits are required, but are also free.

Affiliation: National Forest Service/Cal Trans
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Number of campsites: Approximately 6

Open Dates: Year Round, or roads permitting

Location/address: Klamath National Forest along Klamath River

Elevation: approximately 1600 feet.

Fee: None. 14 day limit. Max Spur approximately 30 feet for some spaces.

Klamath National Forest Alerts

Location: Alongside Highway 96 (State of Jefferson Highway) approximately 2 miles east of the small settlement of Horse Creek, CA or approximately 30 miles from Yreka on Hwy 96.

Directions from Yreka: Accessible off of Interstate 5 at Yreka, CA. From Yreka take Main Street going north. Main Street is Historic Highway 99, currently known as Highway 263 or Hwy 3. Travel about 7 miles to intersect Highway 96 (State of Jefferson Highway). Take a hard left and travel approximately 30 miles west. Look for signs for river access (easily visible when heading East). The river access/camping area will be on the river side of the road.

Contacts: Klamath National Forest Headquarters

1711 South Main Street

Yreka, CA 96097
(530) 842-6131

Amenities: Primitive

• Fire rings
• River access
• Fire permit required for campfire, barbeque, or portable camp stove (free and available at Klamath National Forest Headquarters in Yreka or satellite ranger stations)
• No water
• No restroom facilities
• No trash services, pack it out

General description: Nicely situated along side Klamath River. Good trout fishing. Dirt/Gravel parking, but several nice flat spaces. Easy entrance. Good shade and good river access.

Nearby Services: Groceries at Quigley's Store (Hwy 96 going East, or Yreka ~ going West, Happy Camp.) Full service hospital in Yreka.

Along the I-5 Corridor

Things to do and see along the I-5 Corridor from Dunsmuir to the Oregon Border:

For a brochure/map on all the museums of Siskiyou County please see download here at the Siskiyou County Historical Society website. (look for box on lower left of first page for .pdf file.)


You will also find the route from Dunsmuir to the Oregon Border filled with stunning photographic opportunities, please stop and take a photo or two!

Dunsmuir:

• Dunsmuir Railroad Depot Museum. 4103 Pine Street, Dunsmuir, CA (530) 235-0929. Open 3rd Saturday of each month. 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
• Dunsmuir Botanical Gardens. A wonderful place to stop and stretch your legs or have a picnic. The gardens are set in a lovely wooded area, with picnic sites and a playground and all near the Upper Sacramento River.
• Tauhindauli Park. Right under the bridge that crosses the Sacramento River in Dunsmuir is this great park named after a Wintu Indian. You will find multi-use trails, and handicap accessible picnic areas and restrooms.

Mt. Shasta City:

• Sisson Museum. 1 North Old Stage Road, Mt. Shasta, CA (530) 926-5508. Also located right next to the State Fish Hatchery. Feed the fish!
• Stop at the Headwaters of the Sacramento River at Mt. Shasta City Park. Picnic, take a nice walk along the waters, fill up your water container with the best water on earth!
• Places to eat in Mt. Shasta City:

1. Lily's Restaurant. 1013 South Mt. Shasta Blvd., Mt. Shasta. (530) 926-3372.
2. Mike & Tony's Italian Restaurant.  501 South Mt. Shasta Blvd., Mt. Shasta.  (530) 926-4792.

Weed:

• Lumberman Historical Museum. 303 Gilman Ave., Weed, CA (530) 938-0550 Open end of May-September.
• Climb Black Butte. Stop at the Ranger Station in Mt. Shasta City for details, maps, directions. The climb takes from 2 to 3 hours depending on your condition. This is a "hike" not a stroll up the mountain! You will ascend something like 1800 feet! The view at the top is a great 360 and Mt. Shasta can be viewed in a spectacular way!
• Play Frisbee Golf. College of the Siskiyous has a Frisbee golf course adjacent to the campus. The course threads through the trees... bring your own Frisbees and get both exercise and have fun!
• Mt. Shasta Brewing Company. Tour this small brewery that advertises to "try Legal Weed'. Weed Ale House and Bistro, open 7 days a week beginning at noon.

Grenada: (Small town between Weed and Yreka)

• Take a little drive (about 15+ miles) out to the Mt. Shasta Lavender Farms. Open in July when flowers are in bloom. 9:00 - 4:00 daily. Truly worth a visit, be sure and take your camera! Mt. Shasta Lavender Farms, 9706 Harry Cash Road, Montague, CA Phone: (530) 926-2651

Yreka:

• St. Mark's Preservation Square, 300-304 Lane Street, right across from the county courthouse! Take a tour of the former church built in 1880, get lots of local history information, what to see and do in the area, and pick up a walking brochure of Courthouse Square! Yreka Preservation.  While in the area also ask at St. Mark's Preservation Square about special events.  Yreka Preservation hosts numerous musical events during the year appealing to a wide variety of folks!  Find details at the website under Special Events/Classes section, or the Calendar of Events!
• Genealogical Society of Siskiyou County Research Center.  Located next to the Siskiyou County Museum.  912 S. Main Street, Yreka, CA.  Stop in and learn about local history, find ancestors and learn about genealogy research.  A great place to get Siskiyou County information! Call for hours:  (530) 842-0277.  
• National Historic District, Yreka, CA. Take Yreka Central Exit, turn West, follow sign to "Old Town". Visit the Yreka Chamber of Commerce to pick up a walking or driving tour map of homes and the business district. A real treat! Yreka Chamber of Commerce, 117 West Miner St., Yreka, CA. (530) 842-1649. Parking for RV and Trailers is available nearby, signage is skimpy... see downtown map with parking areas here.

• View RV and Trailer Parking ~ Yreka, Ca in a larger map
• Yreka Chamber of Commerce.  Stop in and find maps, brochures, and information on our wonderful Gold Rush town!
• Ley Station Fire Museum. A small museum with vintage fire truck and accessories. Go to the corner of Miner Street and Oregon Streets in Yreka at the west end of the National Historic business area.
• Art Galleries, Gift Shops, Antiques, Book Stores, Restaurants: Visit Old Town Yreka and also travel down Broadway to find interesting shops! Be sure not to miss Shoppe Serendipity for local handcrafted items and gifts.
• Visit Greenhorn Park. Relax, fish, picnic, or let the kids play in the kids area. Greenhorn Road, Yreka. Take the first exit off of I-5, go West, turn right at first stoplight (Main St.) and drive North to Greenhorn Road. (3rd road going left) Turn left. Drive past businesses until you see the lake and entrance.
• Places to Eat in Yreka: Below are some of the places I recommend as a "local".

1. Linda's Soup Cafe ~ 1812 Fort Jones Road, Yreka. (530) 842-5236. Great place for sandwiches and soup! Located in the Raley's Shopping Center at the first (Southernmost) Exit from I-5. Just past McDonald's and the other fast food places. It is in the corner of the shopping center. Great alternative to "fast food", lots of parking in parking lot.
2. Nature's Kitchen ~ Bakery, Cafe and Natural Foods Store. Old Bottling Works Shopping Mall, 412 South Main Street (old Hwy 99) Yreka, California. (530) 842-1136.
3. Klander's Deli ~ 211 South Oregon Street, Yreka, California 96097. (530) 842-3806. Just one block off of Miner Street, Great Sandwiches! This is one of those great "Mom and Pop" type places.
4. Strings ~ Italian and American Food. West Miner Street in the National Historic District. Brand new to Yreka, moved from Mt. Shasta City.

Shasta Valley Wildlife Viewing Area: This Wildlife Area contains 4,657 acres of Great Basin juniper woodland, riparian forest, seasonal wetlands and crop lands, with Mt. Shasta as a backdrop. Three lakes within this area provide trout fishing. Map available at DFG website. Approximately 8 miles east of Yreka on State Highway 3, 1 1/2 miles east of Montague on Ball Mountain Road.

Collier Rest Area (California Welcome Center) off of Interstate 5:

• If traveling from the north and heading south, be sure and stop here, it is a great place to have a picnic, and visit the Collier Interpretative Center and pick up brochures and information about things to do in Siskiyou County! It is also a great place to get a nice view of the Klamath River.

Things to See and Do Along Hwy 97

From the intersection of I-5 at Weed, California to the Oregon State Line

For a brochure/map on all the museums of Siskiyou County please see download here at the Siskiyou County Historical Society website. (look for box on lower left of first page for .pdf file.)

Be sure and take advantage of the wonderful scenery you will view and stop and take some wonderful photographs!

• Weed, California ~ Skatepark ~ A large skateboard park is open to the public in Weed, CA. Stop and take a break and get a little exercise! Take Hwy 97 out of Weed going North, just before leaving town look for a Mini Mart, just past the Mini Mart you should see signs turning right. Here is a link to a website that provides photos and directions: Weed's Skateboard Park

• Visit Windamere Arabians ~ Learn the history and lure of this fascinating breed of horses. See the beauty of these magnificent animals. (530) 938-3558

• Golf at Weed's Tricky 9 ~ The Weed Golf Club is right off the north I-5 exit at Weed. A lovely 9 hole course follows a creek right under the shadow of Mt. Shasta. (530) 938-9971.
  

• Pluto's Cave ~ Pluto's Cave was formed by an eruption of basaltic lava and is one of the main feeder tubes that carried lava into Shasta Valley. This cave has a large diameter and an established trail. Contact the Klamath National Forest, Goosenest Ranger District at 37805 Highway 97, Macdoel, California 96058 or call (530) 398-4391. This cave is located near Road A-12 about 3.3 miles from Highway 97. Be sure you follow good caving rules, stay on the trail, bring extra flashlights, protect the cave's delicate ecosystem.

• Mt. Shasta Lavender Farms ~ Open during mid-June to mid-July. (530) 926-2651 Pick Lavender, walk the Lavender Labyrinth, visit the unique Lavender Shop. Take Road A-12 to the west off of Hwy 97 a few miles north of Weed, Turn on Harry Cash Road, go about 1 1/2 miles, entrance will be at the east. For more details view their web page at: Mt. Shasta Lavender Farms.

• Visit the Living Memorial Sculpture Garden ~ One will find the Sculpture Garden about 13 miles North of Weed on Hwy 97. It was created by Vietnam veteran, Dennis Smith. It is just past the road A-12 that takes one to the Lavender Farms. See it on the west side of the road. Parking and restrooms are available. Free admission.

• Play at Deer Mountain Snowmobile Park during the winter months. Contact the Fun Factory Rentals for snowmobile rentals and tours. Also ask them about summer activities! Information: (530) 926-5387 or (530) 926-Lets Ride
  

• Fish at Juanita Lake. Boat launch or walk the shore of this secluded lake only a few miles off of Hwy 97. See the NFS website for directions.

• Visit Butte Valley Wildlife Area. Take Meiss Lake Road west of Macdoel. Butte Valley Wildlife Area information.
  

• Visit Butte Valley Museum ~ Located at 500 Butte Street, Dorris, CA. (530) 397-2707. Open seasonally. Call first for hours.

• See the Tallest Flagpole West of the Mississippi ~ Located on the Volcanic Legacy Scenic Byway in Dorris, the pole is 200 feet tall!
  

• See Bald Eagles at Wildlife Refuges ~ From December through February the Klamath Basin is host to the largest population of bald eagles in the 48 states. The lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge was named the first waterfowl refuge in the U.S. by President Teddy Roosevelt. There is a 10 mile auto tour and photo-blinds available for public use for the photographer enthusiast. See more information here at the Lower Klamath National Wildlife Refuge website.