Curly Jack Campground
4.0810 reviewsHAPPY CAMP OAK KNOLL RANGER STATION, P.O. BOX 377, HAPPY CAMP, CA 96039, USA
Curly Jack Campground
$15.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Two fee categories: $15 per night for standard nonelectric campsites, and $50 per night for group standard area non-electric sites.
About this campground
Tucked away along the pristine waters of the Klamath Wild and Scenic River, Curly Jack Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape just outside Happy Camp. This hidden gem beckons adventurers seeking solitude and natural beauty, where days are filled with the rush of whitewater rafting, refreshing river swims, and peaceful moments watching birds dance above the water. Whether you're casting a line for the day's catch or exploring riverside trails, this tranquil retreat provides the perfect basecamp for experiencing the untamed beauty of Northern California.
Curly Jack Campground offers various accommodation options, including tent and group camping sites. "Large sites with multiple tent sites. River access and plenty of shade," describes one user, highlighting the campground's suitability for tent camping. Group sites accommodate up to 30 people and offer dispersed tent areas and gravel parking spaces.
Historical SignificanceNestled within the legendary Klamath National Forest, this campground sits on lands that have witnessed centuries of natural and human history. The forest itself stands as a testament to conservation efforts along the California-Oregon border, preserving one of the West's most ecologically significant landscapes. These ancient forests and rivers have sustained indigenous peoples for millennia and later became vital corridors for miners, loggers, and settlers—each leaving their mark on this storied landscape while nature ultimately reclaimed its dominion.
Weather and SeasonsBlessed with a mild climate that makes outdoor adventures comfortable year-round, Curly Jack enjoys refreshing temperatures that hover around a pleasant 63°F during the day, cooling to a crisp 41°F at night—perfect for campfire gatherings and restful sleep under the stars. The remarkably dry conditions, with dew points matching the nighttime lows, create that perfect camping weather where morning fog lifts early and equipment stays dry. While rain graces the area about a quarter of the time, these occasional showers only enhance the forest's emerald vibrancy and fill the air with the sweet scent of pine and earth.
ElevationPerched at an ideal 1,075 feet above sea level, Curly Jack occupies a sweet spot in the Klamath's varied terrain. This moderate elevation creates a unique microclimate where mountain and river ecosystems converge, supporting an incredible diversity of plant and animal life. Here, you'll experience the best of both worlds—the cooling influence of mountain breezes without the thin air of higher elevations, and the lush riverside environment without the oppressive heat of lower valleys.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to dappled sunlight filtering through a canopy of ancient conifers, the melodic rush of the Klamath River serving as nature's soundtrack. Curly Jack's campsites nestle beneath towering trees that provide welcome shade and frame stunning river views. This enchanting landscape showcases the Klamath National Forest at its finest—where crystal-clear waters carve through rugged mountains, creating a mosaic of habitats that support everything from majestic eagles soaring overhead to delicate wildflowers carpeting the forest floor. Each site offers its own window into this remarkable ecosystem, where every season paints the scenery in new colors.
Geological RegionCurly Jack Campground rests within the geological wonderland of the Klamath National Forest, where nature has sculpted a dramatic landscape of peaks and valleys spanning from 450 to nearly 9,000 feet. This incredible elevation range has created one of the most diverse ecosystems in California, where ancient geological forces have left their mark in the form of granite outcroppings, serpentine soils, and gold-bearing quartz veins. The campground's riverside location at 1,075 feet places you at the heart of this geological story, where the mighty Klamath River continues its age-old work of carving through mountains, creating the spectacular Wild and Scenic corridor that defines this remarkable region.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe campground offers large individual and group sites. Group sites can accommodate up to 30 people each.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are described as spacious and shaded, providing privacy. However, some user reviews mention road noise.
Total Campsites30 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites near the road if sensitive to noise. Group sites are most suitable for larger gatherings.
Best CampsitesGroup site 004 has been positively reviewed for accommodating large groups.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum stay allowed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Standard family sites accommodate typical numbers for small groups, while group sites allow a maximum of 30 people.
Groups
Group sites at Curly Jack Campground can accommodate up to 30 people each. These sites feature a dispersed tent camping area and a large gravel parking section for extra vehicles and trailers.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampground includes individual sites and four group sites, with areas for dispersed tent camping and gravel parking spaces.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season starts May 15 and closes September 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov mobile app, online platform, and contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityIndividual sites are available on a first-come-first-served basis; group sites require reservation.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled ahead of arrival; a $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations (from midnight 1 calendar day before check-in) incur additional penalties including forfeiting the first night's fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Curly Jack Campground offers various recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, whitewater rafting, birding, and swimming. "Its a good place to camp away from the city if u wanna just relax and enjoy nature at its finest and want to swim or go tubing/rafting," says a user review, emphasizing the range of activities available.
Hiking
The campground is near hiking trails within the Klamath National Forest, which features 1,100 miles of hiking and equestrian trails. Specific trail lengths or difficulty levels are not mentioned.Fishing
Fishing on the Klamath Wild and Scenic River is a popular activity at the campground. Specific types of fish or fishing conditions are not detailed.Swimming
Swimming is available in the Klamath River near the campground. User reviews mention swimming and tubing as enjoyable activities.Boating
Whitewater rafting and boating are popular activities. Visitors can access a Class III section of the Klamath River from the campground. Boats must be carried across a gravel bar to launch.Wildlife viewing
Birding is highlighted as a popular activity, though specific wildlife species or viewing areas are not detailed.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned, as the campground's peak season is during warmer months.Water Sports
Whitewater rafting and tubing are popular water sports at the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated rings; firewood must be purchased locally to prevent the spread of pests.
- Quiet hours are implemented, but specific timings are missing.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is prevalent; all food must be stored in approved containers to prevent encounters.
Weather forecast
103
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 16%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Happy Camp Ranger District (within walking distance), nearest hospital located in Yreka (approximately 110 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15, 2025 - September 30, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is directly adjacent to the Klamath River, with accessible points for rafting and fishing.
Common complaintsRoad noise has been reported by users, and concerns over group site reservation exclusivity were shared. Additionally, water availability from Happy Camp's supply has been inconsistent at times.
HostRangers are described as friendly and informative, based at the Happy Camp Ranger District.
Campground Map
HAPPY CAMP OAK KNOLL RANGER STATION, P.O. BOX 377, HAPPY CAMP, CA 96039, USA
Driving directionsFrom 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.
The route to the campground is accessible via paved roads, with approximately 0.8 miles of travel required beyond the Elk Creek Road and Curly Jack Road junction.Nearby places
Happy Camp (within walking distance, approximately 0.8 miles), Yreka (110 miles, approximately 2 hours driving).
Nearby supplies
Happy Camp (within walking distance) offers restaurants, a grocery store, whitewater rafting outfitters, and fishing guides.
Camper Reviews
4.1
10 reviews
Curly Jack Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Curly Jack Campground are generally positive, emphasizing its spacious sites, clean facilities, and proximity to the river. However, some users note road noise and the lack of utilities.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciate the campground's large and shaded sites, clean vault toilets, potable water availability, and proximity to the river for activities like swimming and rafting. "Nice. Secluded...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include road noise and the reservation policy. "Only group sites could be reserved, all others were first-come-first-serve," notes one user. Another mentions, "We had been warned to...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing additional water due to potential issues with the Happy Camp town water supply and planning visits around large group events in summer to avoid noise. "Reservation cards are...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews often mention large groups, which can lead to increased noise levels. The campground's proximity to the river is particularly appreciated during warmer months.
Based on 10 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Large sites with multiple tent sites. River access and plenty of shade. Fire pits. Potable water at each site," "Nice. Secluded campground. No utilities but water and outhouse. But really nice,"...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite "004" is highlighted for accommodating large groups, while campsite "009" receives praise for its spaciousness and clean bathrooms. Site-specific reviews often note group site reservations.
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not specifically mentioned in user reviews.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
User reviews do not provide specific feedback on pet-related policies or amenities.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025