About CURLY JACK CAMPGROUND
Overview Curly Jack Campground is situated along the Klamath Wild and Scenic River near the town of Happy Camp. Visitors enjoy whitewater boating and fishing on the river, and exploring local hiking trails.Recreation Fishing, birding, hiking and whitewater boating are popular options, as is scenic driving along the State of Jefferson Scenic Byway. Visitors can access a Class III section of the Klamath River from the campground. The campsite is a put-in and take-out point for whitewater rafting - boats must be carried across a gravel bar.Facilities The campground offers shaded single family sites, as well as four group sites that can accommodate up to 30 people each. Many sites have a view of the river. Group sites feature a general area for dispersed tent camping and a large gravel parking area for extra vehicles and trailers.Natural Features The campsground sits at an elevation of 1,075 feet on the banks of the Klamath River opposite the town of Happy Camp. The Klamath National Forest is comprised of a vast array of mountains, streams and lakes straddling the California and Oregon border. The nearly 2-million acre forest includes five wilderness areas, one scenic byway, 200 miles of wild and scenic river and 1,100 miles of hiking and equestrian trails. Elevations range from 450 to 8,900 feet, making for varied topography and diverse plant and animal life. Nearby Attractions The campground is within walking distance to the town of Happy Camp, where there are restaurants and a grocery store. A whitewater rafting outfitter and several fishing guides are based in Happy Camp.
How to Get There
From CA State Highway 96 in Happy Camp, turn south on to Elk Creek Road. Drive across the river bridge then follow Elk Creek Rd approx. .5 mile to Curly Jack Rd. Turn right on to Curly Jack Rd., and drive .3 miles to campground entrance.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
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
- 💧
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 CURLY JACK CAMPGROUND
Heading to CURLY JACK CAMPGROUND? 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 CURLY JACK CAMPGROUND?
No central reservation system listed for CURLY JACK CAMPGROUND. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234401) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to CURLY JACK CAMPGROUND?
From CA State Highway 96 in Happy Camp, turn south on to Elk Creek Road. Drive across the river bridge then follow Elk Creek Rd approx. .5 mile to Curly Jack Rd. Turn right on to Curly Jack Rd., and drive .3 miles to campground entrance.
How do I contact CURLY JACK CAMPGROUND?
You can reach the park at phone: 530-493-2243.
References & Official Resources
