About NORDHEIMER GROUP SITES
Overview Nordheimer Group Sites are in a Douglas-fir and hardwood forest close to the Wild and Scenic California Salmon River. Roads and parking areas are gravel. Group sites A, B, and C have large grassy meadows surrounded by forest. Site D overlooks the Salmon River with a short hike access for boaters and swimmers. Sites A, B and C all have accessible double vault restrooms, while Site D has one accessible vault restroom. Picnic tables and fire rings with grills are provided at each site. Popular activities include swimming, sunbathing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking, wildlife and scenery viewing, fishing, and biking.Nordheimer is in the heart of the Salmon River whitewater area. Rafting activities begin in the spring and continue until the water levels drop in early summer. 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. Nordheimer is a must for those seeking beauty and seclusion. Boat trailer access to the river’s edge is available through the main campground for 4x4 vehicles. The main campground also offers spacious single fee sites on a first-come first-served basis.See the "Getting Here" section for road information.Recreation The Salmon River is a popular area for swimming and sunbathing, rafting and kayaking. The region is also popular for hiking and biking. The Orleans Mountain Trail begins nearby. Facilities The campground offers four group sites, each able to accommodate up to 50 guests. The sites are equipped with vault toilets, picnic tables, and campfire rings with grills. The main campground offers single fee sites on a first-come first-served basis. Roads and parking areas are gravel. A courtesy local or prepaid landline telephone is located at the entrance to the main campground. There is no cellular service near this remote site.Natural Features The campground is located in a Douglas fir and hardwood forest, which provides parti
How to Get There
From California State Highway 96, turn onto Salmon River Road/Forest Highway 93 and continue about 13 miles to the campground. The first 7 miles are a narrow winding two lane road. At Butler Creek, the second half of this route narrows further to one lane with tight corners and sheer cliffs high above the river. Fallen rocks on the roadway are common. Long trailers, RVs, and large trucks are discouraged. There is no cellular service near this remote area.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to NORDHEIMER GROUP SITES
Heading to NORDHEIMER GROUP SITES? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for NORDHEIMER GROUP SITES?
No central reservation system listed for NORDHEIMER GROUP SITES. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234348) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to NORDHEIMER GROUP SITES?
From California State Highway 96, turn onto Salmon River Road/Forest Highway 93 and continue about 13 miles to the campground. The first 7 miles are a narrow winding two lane road. At Butler Creek, the second half of this route narrows further to one lane with tight corners and sheer cliffs high above the river. Fallen rocks on the roadway are common. Long trailers, RVs, and large trucks are disco…
How do I contact NORDHEIMER GROUP SITES?
You can reach the park at phone: 530-627-3291.
References & Official Resources
