Red Bank Campground

Introduction / Overview

For Californians seeking a true escape into the wild, far from the crowds and urban sprawl, Red Bank Campground near Etna offers a unique and highly cherished primitive camping experience. This isn't a resort-style park with endless amenities; instead, it's a testament to the raw, untamed beauty of Northern California's mountains. Red Bank Campground is beloved by those who value peace, solitude, and direct access to nature's purest offerings. It's a place where the sounds of the North Fork of the Salmon River become your lullaby, and the vast, starlit sky serves as your ceiling. This small, first-come, first-served campground provides a back-to-basics approach to camping, encouraging visitors to embrace self-sufficiency and the profound quiet that comes with being "tucked in way WAY in them mountains." It embodies the spirit of genuine outdoor adventure, inviting you to unplug and immerse yourself in the majestic Klamath National Forest. If your idea of a perfect getaway involves unspoiled natural surroundings, ample opportunities for stream-side activities, and the chance to truly disconnect, then Red Bank Campground is a destination that will quickly become one of your "very favorite little spots."

Location and Accessibility

Red Bank Campground is located near Etna, CA 96027, USA, deep within the Klamath National Forest. While its address might seem straightforward, reaching this secluded gem requires a bit of an adventurous spirit. The campground is approximately 7 miles northeast of Forks of Salmon on county route 1C01. For those traveling from Yreka, California, the journey involves taking Highway 3 to Fort Jones, then continuing on Highway 3 to Etna. From Etna, the route continues on Sawyers Bar Road for approximately 32 miles. It's important to note that "part of this route is on a very narrow winding road with steep cliffs," so cautious driving is advised. The campground will be on your left if you are traveling in a westerly direction. Alternatively, it can be accessed from Happy Camp, California, on Highway 96, then driving approximately 38 miles to Salmon River Road, and continuing for 17 miles to Sawyers Bar Road, followed by 7 miles to the campground. This remote location is precisely what contributes to its appeal, as one reviewer noted, "We had it to ourselves." The elevation of approximately 2200 feet means forested terrain, with temperatures that can range from highs in the 80s°F during summer to lows in the 30s°F in winter. This remote accessibility ensures a truly off-the-beaten-path experience, perfect for Californians seeking genuine wilderness. While the drive is part of the adventure, the reward is a tranquil spot far removed from typical tourist routes.

Services Offered

• Primitive Camping: Red Bank Campground offers a primitive camping experience, meaning there are no hookups or modern amenities.
• Outhouse / Vault Toilets: Basic restroom facilities are provided in the form of an outhouse or vault toilet, ensuring essential sanitation.
• Fire Pits: Each campsite is equipped with a designated fire pit for campfires, though campers should always check for current fire restrictions before lighting a fire.
• Picnic Tables: A few picnic tables are available at campsites for convenient outdoor dining.
• No Potable Water: It is crucial for campers to "pack it in, pack it out" when it comes to water, as there is no potable water source at the campground other than what might be flowing in the nearby creek (which would require purification).
• No Showers: There are no shower facilities available, consistent with its primitive nature.
• First-Come, First-Served: All 5 campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are taken.
• Pet-Friendly: Well-behaved pets are generally welcome, allowing furry family members to join the adventure, though specific regulations should be confirmed.
• Pack It In, Pack It Out: Campers are strictly required to pack out all garbage and waste, emphasizing responsible wilderness ethics.
• Limited Stay: A typical stay limit of 14 days applies, allowing for extended enjoyment of the area.

Features / Highlights

• Secluded Mountain Setting: As highlighted by reviewers, this is an "amazing little place, tucked in way WAY in them mountains," offering unparalleled solitude and a true escape from civilization.
• Direct River Access: Situated on the North Fork of the Salmon River, the campground provides direct access to the water, perfect for various activities.
• Swimming and Wading: The river offers opportunities for swimming, wading, and water play, providing a refreshing respite during warmer months.
• Trout Fishing: The North Fork of the Salmon River is known for trout fishing, making it an excellent spot for anglers to "fish for trout from the banks."
• Gold Panning: A unique highlight is the opportunity to "pan for gold in the river," adding an exciting, historical dimension to your camping trip (visitors should check regulations).
• Wildlife Viewing: The forested area provides opportunities to observe various wildlife, including deer, bears, and diverse bird species.
• Stargazing: Being far removed from light pollution, Red Bank Campground offers incredible views of the night sky, perfect for stargazing.
• Forested Environment: Surrounded by a dense mix of pine, madrone, and fir trees, providing ample shade and a true forest camping experience.
• Hiking Opportunities: While there are "no designated trails in area," the surrounding Klamath National Forest offers vast opportunities for off-trail exploration and nature walks.
• Free Camping: A significant benefit for locals, making it an accessible and affordable outdoor option.

Contact Information

Address: Etna, CA 96027, USA

As Red Bank Campground is a primitive, first-come, first-served site managed by the U.S. Forest Service (Klamath National Forest), there isn't a direct phone number specifically for the campground itself. For general inquiries regarding the Klamath National Forest, including current conditions, fire restrictions, and regulations, you can contact the Supervisor's Office:

Phone: (530) 842-6131 (Klamath National Forest Supervisor's Office)

It's always recommended to check the Klamath National Forest website or call their office for the most up-to-date information before planning your trip, especially concerning fire restrictions and road conditions.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Californians, Red Bank Campground near Etna represents the quintessential remote escape, perfectly suited for those who truly appreciate raw nature and a no-frills outdoor experience. As locals, we often seek places that offer a genuine break from the fast pace of life, and this campground delivers precisely that. Its "tucked in way WAY in them mountains" location ensures unparalleled solitude, allowing you to "pack it in, pack it out" and immerse yourself fully in the wilderness. The simple amenities – an outhouse, fire pits, and picnic tables – underscore its primitive charm, appealing to the self-reliant spirit of many California adventurers. The unique opportunities for activities like swimming, fishing for trout, and even panning for gold in the North Fork of the Salmon River provide an enriching and memorable experience that goes beyond typical camping. Reviews from fellow campers who have had the entire place to themselves highlight the rare tranquility this spot offers. While you do need to bring your own water and be prepared for a rustic setting, these minor considerations are a small price to pay for such a pristine and secluded natural paradise, especially given that it is a free campground. For Californians eager to explore the less-traveled paths of their magnificent state, to unplug, listen to the river, and gaze at unpolluted night skies, Red Bank Campground is an ideal and authentic choice that will undoubtedly become a treasured "favorite little spot."

Red Bank Campground

Etna, CA 96027, USA