Preacher Meadow Cg-f

For Californians seeking a genuine escape into the tranquility of the wilderness, Preacher Meadow Campground, nestled in the vast expanse of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, offers an ideal destination. Located near Trinity Center, CA, this serene campground provides a perfect blend of rustic charm and essential amenities, making it a compelling choice for those looking to disconnect from the daily grind and reconnect with nature. It’s a place where the sounds of the forest replace city noise, and starry nights are the primary source of illumination.

This article is designed to be a comprehensive guide for local Californians interested in discovering Preacher Meadow Campground. We will explore its precise location and how to access this hidden gem, detail the services and facilities it offers, highlight its unique features and recreational opportunities, and provide essential contact information. Our aim is to provide you with all the factual information needed to plan an informed and enjoyable trip, ensuring you make the most of this peaceful Northern California retreat. Whether you’re an avid hiker, an equestrian enthusiast, or simply seeking a quiet family getaway, Preacher Meadow promises an authentic outdoor experience.

Preacher Meadow Campground is located near Trinity Center, CA 96091, USA, within the beautiful Shasta-Trinity National Forest. This puts it in a prime position to offer access to the diverse landscapes and recreational opportunities of Northern California's mountain regions. Specifically, the campground is situated on a hill above Swift Creek, approximately one mile south of Trinity Center, just off Highway 3. It's about 30 miles north of Weaverville, a significant hub in the Trinity area. The elevation of the campground is approximately 2,911 feet, providing a pleasant climate during its operating season.

Accessibility to Preacher Meadow Campground is primarily by vehicle. From Weaverville, visitors typically take Highway 3 north for about 27 miles before turning left at the campground sign. The campground has two large, unnamed loops that meander through mature cedar, ponderosa pine, and some deciduous trees. The roads within the campground are paved, and campsites have unsurfaced spurs, which are generally suitable for cars, trailers, and RVs up to 45 feet in length. While the highway (State Route 3) traffic noise can be heard in some parts of the campground, it generally maintains a quiet and serene atmosphere.

Given its forested and somewhat remote location, cell service is generally not available in the area around Preacher Meadow Campground. This is an important consideration for planning, as visitors should download maps or important information beforehand. For fee payment, visitors can use the Recreation.gov app (downloaded prior to arrival) to utilize the Scan & Pay option, or use the Iron Ranger on-site for cash or check payments. While the exact access roads are typically well-maintained Forest Service routes, it is always wise for Californians to check current road conditions, especially during the shoulder seasons (late spring or early fall) or after significant weather events, to ensure a smooth journey. Parking is available at each individual campsite.

Preacher Meadow Campground, managed by a concessionaire to the Forest Service, provides a range of essential services designed to facilitate a comfortable and enjoyable stay in a natural setting. The campground operates seasonally, typically from late May to mid-September, so it's advisable for potential visitors to confirm the exact opening and closing dates for their planned visit.

• Campsites: The campground features 45 single-family campsites. These sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not accepted. Each campsite is spacious and can accommodate tents, trailers, and RVs up to 45 feet.
• Picnic Tables: Every campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation and dining.
• Fire Rings and Klamath Ovens: Each site includes a stone fire ring for campfires (subject to current fire restrictions) and a Klamath oven, offering versatile options for outdoor cooking.
• Potable (Drinking) Water: Drinking water is available at various points within the campground, a critical amenity for all campers.
• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are provided for visitor use.
• Trash Collection: Designated trash receptacles are available for waste disposal, promoting cleanliness and environmental preservation within the campground.
• Camp Host: A camp host is typically on-site during the operating season, available to answer questions, provide assistance, and ensure regulations are followed, contributing to a safe and pleasant environment.
• Firewood for Sale: Firewood is often available for purchase from the camp host, making it convenient for campers to enjoy campfires without needing to bring their own or gather wood from the forest.
• Equestrian Camping: A portion of the campground is also open for equestrian camping, catering to visitors who wish to bring their horses.
• Fee Collection: Payments can be made via the Scan & Pay option through the Recreation.gov app (downloaded prior to arrival) or with cash or check at the Iron Ranger on site. The fee is $20 per day, with an additional $10 per day for extra vehicles.

Preacher Meadow Campground offers several appealing features and highlights that draw Californian outdoor enthusiasts seeking a serene and active retreat.

• Quiet and Serene Atmosphere: The campground is widely noted for its peaceful ambiance, providing a perfect environment for relaxation and escaping urban noise. This tranquility is a significant draw for those looking to truly unwind in nature.
• Forested Setting: Campsites are set within a mature forest of cedar, ponderosa pine, and deciduous trees, offering ample shade and a natural, immersive camping experience. The middle story of deciduous trees provides fair privacy between campsites.
• Proximity to Swift Creek Trailhead: A major highlight for hikers and backpackers, the campground is located near the popular Swift Creek trailhead. Many visitors use Preacher Meadow as a basecamp before and after their hiking excursions into the wilderness.
• Access to Trinity Lake: Trinity Lake is approximately 6 miles from the campground, offering a wide array of water-based activities.
  • Fishing: The lake provides excellent fishing opportunities.
  • Boating & Water Sports: Ideal for boating, kayaking, paddle-boarding, and swimming. A public boat ramp is approximately 6 miles away at Bowerman, though water levels should be checked.
• Equestrian Friendly: The designation of a portion of the campground for equestrian camping, along with nearby trails suitable for horse riding, makes it a unique and attractive destination for horse owners.
• Wildlife Viewing: The diverse natural environment surrounding the campground, including the swift creek and forested areas, provides opportunities for observing local wildlife.
• Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, Preacher Meadow offers clear night skies, making it an excellent spot for stargazing and appreciating celestial wonders.
• Spacious Campsites: The campsites are noted for being spacious, allowing for comfortable setups for tents, trailers, and RVs, and offering a sense of personal space.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding Preacher Meadow Campground, including operating status, current fire restrictions, and any changes in fees or policies, it is best to contact the managing agency, the U.S. Forest Service, Shasta-Trinity National Forest.

Address: Trinity Center, CA 96091, USA (Physical location within Shasta-Trinity National Forest)

General Information Center / Weaverville Ranger Station:

P.O. Box 1190, Weaverville, CA 96093

Phone: (530) 623-2121

It is highly recommended for all potential visitors, especially those from California, to call ahead or check the official Shasta-Trinity National Forest website before embarking on their trip. This will ensure you have the latest details on road conditions, current alerts, and availability, particularly since the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and cell service is limited at the site.

For Californians yearning for an authentic and rejuvenating outdoor experience, Preacher Meadow Campground presents itself as an ideal local escape within the majestic Shasta-Trinity National Forest. Its suitability for residents across the Golden State stems from a combination of its serene environment, accessible amenities, and abundant recreational opportunities.

Firstly, the campground’s tranquil and quiet atmosphere offers a much-needed respite from the fast pace of urban and suburban life. Unlike more crowded recreational areas, Preacher Meadow provides a genuine sense of peace, allowing visitors to truly unwind amidst the mature forest and the gentle sounds of Swift Creek. This natural serenity is a powerful draw for anyone looking to de-stress and reconnect with the simpler rhythms of nature, without venturing too far from home.

Despite its rustic charm, the campground provides essential services that ensure a comfortable stay. The availability of potable water, clean vault toilets, and individual picnic tables and fire rings at each spacious campsite means that campers can enjoy a traditional outdoor experience with necessary conveniences. The presence of a camp host and the option to purchase firewood on-site further enhance the visitor experience, making it manageable even for those newer to forest camping.

The rich array of activities available nearby is another significant advantage for local Californians. As a gateway to the popular Swift Creek trailhead, it’s a prime location for hikers and backpackers to embark on adventures into the surrounding wilderness. The proximity to Trinity Lake opens up a world of water sports, from fishing and swimming to kayaking and boating, catering to a wide range of interests. Furthermore, the unique offering of equestrian camping makes it a perfect destination for horse owners looking to explore the forest on horseback. This diversity ensures that whether you’re seeking an adrenaline rush or peaceful contemplation, Preacher Meadow can accommodate your preferences.

Finally, its seasonal operation during the warmer months makes it a reliable choice for summer and early fall excursions, easily fitting into weekend plans or longer vacations for Californian families and individuals. For those seeking to embrace the natural beauty and adventurous spirit of Northern California, Preacher Meadow Campground offers an accessible, serene, and richly rewarding experience, truly a local treasure waiting to be explored.

Preacher Meadow Cg-f

Trinity Center, CA 96091, USA