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Smith River National Recreation Area

Gasquet, California · Del Norte County · Facility

Recreational activities abound in the Smith River NRA. The beautiful Smith River offers fishing for steelhead, trout, and salmon. During the summer months, the pure, clean waters of the Smith River are perfect for swimming, rafting, or fishing and the forested mountainsides present occasions for hiking, bird watching, …

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About Smith River National Recreation Area

Recreational activities abound in the Smith River NRA. The beautiful Smith River offers fishing for steelhead, trout, and salmon. During the summer months, the pure, clean waters of the Smith River are perfect for swimming, rafting, or fishing and the forested mountainsides present occasions for hiking, bird watching, wildflower walks, or perhaps just lounging in the sun.Winter temperatures drop into the 40s and 50s, with an occasional snow storm. The rainy season normally runs from October through April with an average annual rainfall of 92.55 inches. Summers are dry with highs in the 80-100 degree range. Contact the National Recreation Area Headquarters at the Gasquet Ranger Station for current weather conditions.Camping Guide - Smith River NRA, rev. 4/2015 - PDFCampsite Spur Dimensions - Smith River NRA, rev. 1-2015 - PDFTrail Guide - Smith River NRA, rev. 2-2002 - PDFRiver Access Trails - Smith River NRA, rev. 8-2014 - PDFRiver Access Trails - Smith River NRA, rev. 8-2014 - WordLakes - Smith River NRA, rev. 3-2003 - PDFThings to Do in an Hour or Two - Smith River NRA, rev. 2-2003 - PDFDarlingtonia Trail - Smith River NRA, rev. 3-2003 - PDFMyrtle Creek Trail - Smith River NRA, rev. 2-2000 - PDFBear Basin Lookout and Pierson Cabin Brochure, rev. 2-2015 - PDFFish of the Smith River, rev. 12/2002 - PDF

Plan Your Visit to Smith River National Recreation Area

Heading to Smith River National Recreation Area? 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 Smith River National Recreation Area?

No central reservation system listed for Smith River National Recreation Area. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/239616) for the latest entry policy and availability.