About OAK BOTTOM CAMPGROUND
Overview PLEASE NOTE THIS IS NOT OAK BOTTOM CAMPGROUND AT WHISKEYTOWN LAKE. FOR THAT SITE NEAR REDDING, CALL 530-359-2269Open from mid-May through mid-October, this Oak Bottom Campground is on the Salmon River at Somes Bar, California. It is situated on a shaded and gently sloping hillside in the expansive Six Rivers and Klamath National Forests, far from highway noise and city distractions. NEW: Each reservable campsite now has its own bear-resistant food storage locker, as do most of the first-come first-served campsites. Campsite List calendar starts at the next available reservation dates.Recreation Located near California's Salmon River, the campground is popular with whitewater enthusiasts in the spring. Many challenging rapids ranging from class 3 to 5 are available. Swimming is also popular in the summer and numerous river access areas are a short drive or walk from the campground. In the fall, salmon and steelhead trout fishing in the nearby Klamath River is known to be some of the best in the state. Facilities The campground offers 25 single-family sites. Each site is equipped with a bear-resistant food storage locker, picnic table, and fire ring with grill. Some sites have vintage rock stoves as well. Vault toilets and drinking water are provided. A campground host may be available.Natural Features The campground loops around a forested hillside of mixed Douglas fir and hardwood forest at a 700-foot elevation. Large deciduous trees provide ample shading for multiple sites within the campground, and a variety of wildlife makes its home in the area. Nearby Attractions The small town of Somes Bar is 2.5 miles from the campground. Propane, groceries, and tackle are available at a general store.
How to Get There
From Highway 96, take Salmon River Road/Forest Highway 93 for 2.3 miles to Oak Bottom Campground.
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).
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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.
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High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
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Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
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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 OAK BOTTOM CAMPGROUND
Heading to OAK BOTTOM 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 OAK BOTTOM CAMPGROUND?
No central reservation system listed for OAK BOTTOM CAMPGROUND. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234608) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to OAK BOTTOM CAMPGROUND?
From Highway 96, take Salmon River Road/Forest Highway 93 for 2.3 miles to Oak Bottom Campground.
References & Official Resources
