Matthews Creek Campground

California's Best Camping

Klamath River, CA
Klamath River, CA

Matthews Creek Campground

Klamath National Forest


Matthews Creek Campground

Matthews Creek Campground overlooks the South Fork Salmon River canyon in the Klamath National Forest, 37 miles west of Callahan and Highway 3. Portions of the Cecilville Road leading to the campground are narrow and winding, not recommended for large RVs or trailers. Many visitors to the campground take advantage of the whitewater rafting and kayaking. Convenient access points are found all along the river.

Other campers are attracted by the dramatic beauty of the area and not to mention the good fishing. Wading and swimming are possible in stunning emerald pools near the campground when water levels are safe. A trail leads down from the campground to a pebble beach.

Matthews Creek Campground has 10 campsites beneath pines and oaks for RVs, trailers, and tents. All campsites are first-come, first-served.

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Matthews Creek Campground Basics
Matthews Creek Campground Location: Cecilville Road, 37 miles west of Callahan
Elevation: 1,765 feet
Mileage and driving time from gateway cities: Yreka - 79 miles, 1:55
Redding - 146 miles, 3:01
Number of Sites: 10
Camping Season: Open May through October
Max. People per Site: 6 (including children)
Vehicles per Site: 2
Pets: on leash, always attended
Salmon River Ranger District: (530) 468-5351

Reservations
No Reservations All campsites at Matthews Creek Campground are first-come, first-served.
Maximum RV/trailer Length: 24 feet
Wheelchair Accessible Sites: Some facilities are accessible
Fees: $10 per night
Check-in, check-out: 2:00 PM, 11:00 AM

Matthews Creek Campground Amenities
Campsites: Picnic table, fire ring with grill; no hook-ups
Campground: Vault toilets, tap water
Showers: No
Dump station: No
Attractions near Matthews Creek Campground: Fish the Salmon River. Whitewater rafting and kayaking are popular at certain times of the year. By midsummer the river flow usually has subsided enough to invite swimming and tubing. Drop by the Salmon River Saloon in Cecilville.



General Camping Information

Opening and closing dates of campgrounds are only estimates, usually dependent on weather conditions. Not all campsites can accommodate trailers or RVs of all lengths.

In order to prevent the spread of invasive insects, obtain firewood locally.

Accessible Sites

Designated Accessible sites are usually reserved for people with disabilities who have a vehicle displaying an accessible parking placard or license plate.


Nearby
Attractions and Activities

Visitors to the Klamath National Forest find many scenic places to enjoy. Those camped at Matthews Creek Campground are on the South Fork Salmon River and near many popular attractions in the area.

  • Fish along the beautiful Klamath River.
  • Get your thrills river rafting on the On the Klamath River with an experienced rafting company: River Country Rafting, Klamath River Rafting
  • Visit the historic Fort Goff Cemetery along the Klamath River near Seiad Valley.
  • Hike on the famous Pacific Crest Trail using the Seiad Trailhead.
  • Hike from the Happy Camp Town Trailhead for views of the local area.
  • Saddle up for a trail ride starting at the Grider Creek Trailhead. The trail follows Grider Creek south for approximately 12 miles through old growth forest and eventually crosses the Kelsey National Recreation Trail.
  • Enjoy a picnic at the covered shelter at Grouse Gap Picnic Area. Take in views of Mt. Shasta.
  • Spend time touring some of the local botanical areas such as Sutcliffe Creek (featuring old growth Port Orford-cedar), Rhododendron Patch, and Preston Peak Botanical Area (featuring a variety of conifers).
  • Head out to the Humbug OHV Recreation Area.

Key Matthews Creek Campground Regulations

  1. Obtain firewood locally to avoid the spread of invasive pests.
  2. Secure food and scented items so that bears cannot get to them.
  3. Dogs must be on leash and attended at all times.
  4. Fires are only permitted in provided fire rings.

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