Sulphur Springs Campground
03 reviewsSulphur Springs Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
No fees are required to camp at Sulphur Springs Campground.
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About this campground
Nestled at the gateway to the magnificent Marble Mountain Wilderness, Sulphur Springs Campground offers an intimate escape for adventurous souls seeking solitude and natural wonder. Six secluded walk-in sites await just a scenic 50-yard stroll from the parking area, each offering a private slice of wilderness paradise. The crown jewel of this hidden gem is its namesake natural warm spring, where crystal-clear waters maintain a soothing 75-degree temperature year-round—a perfect reward after a day exploring the legendary Elk Creek Trail that begins right at your doorstep.
Sulphur Springs Campground offers six walk-in campsites located approximately 50 yards from the parking area.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this tranquil spot remains shrouded in the mists of time, the enduring presence of the natural warm springs hints at centuries of travelers who have found respite in these healing waters.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic dance of seasons at Sulphur Springs, where Mother Nature showcases her full repertoire. Winter nights can dip to a crisp 31°F, painting frost on tent flies and creating magical morning mists over the warm springs. As summer unfolds, temperatures can soar to a toasty 95°F, making those refreshing dips in nearby creeks and the temperate spring waters all the more inviting. This diverse climate creates an ever-changing wilderness canvas that rewards visitors in every season.
ElevationTucked away in the folds of the mountainous terrain, this campground's precise elevation remains one of its well-kept secrets, adding to the sense of discovery that awaits each visitor.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the raw beauty of the Marble Mountain Wilderness, where ancient forests cloak dramatic peaks and hidden valleys harbor pristine streams. The campground sits cradled in this rugged landscape, where towering conifers provide natural cathedral ceilings and Elk Creek's melodic waters serve as nature's soundtrack. The warm spring emerges like a gift from the earth itself, its mineral-rich waters creating a unique microclimate where delicate ferns and moss thrive year-round.
Geological RegionSet within the legendary Marble Mountain Wilderness, this campground occupies a fascinating geological crossroads where ancient volcanic activity has blessed the landscape with therapeutic warm springs. The rugged terrain tells a story millions of years in the making, with dramatic rock formations and mineral deposits creating a natural wonderland that captivates geologists and casual observers alike.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo information is available about accessibility features for disabled campers.
Sites SizeAll campsites are walk-in and located approximately 50 yards from the parking area. Specific sizes of campsites are not mentioned.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy level of campsites is not discussed in the provided information.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAll sites are walk-in, about 50 yards from parking.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open 24 hours.
Check-out
Open 24 hours.
Stay Limit
Camping limit is 14 days.
Groups
No group camping sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSix walk-in campsites, approximately 50 yards from the parking area.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platforms, as all sites are walk-in.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are walk-in and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservation system is in place.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations are required; cancellation policy does not apply.
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Sulphur Springs Campground include hiking, backpacking, picnicking, swimming, and wildlife viewing. The campground serves as a starting point for the Elk Creek Trail, leading into the Marble Mountain Wilderness.
Hiking
The campground is the starting point of the Elk Creek Trail, a major route into the Marble Mountain Wilderness. Reviewers highlight the area as great for hikes despite past wildfires.Swimming
A natural warm spring along Elk Creek is a major attraction, with a temperature of approximately 75 degrees. It can accommodate five to six people at a time.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is explicitly listed as an activity in the authoritative sources.Winter Activities
Winter activities include sledding and tubing, as referenced in the authoritative content.Water Sports
Swimming in the warm springs along Elk Creek is the only water activity described.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire permits are required. Campers should bring extra water to extinguish fires.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include rugged terrain. Campers should ensure they are on National Forest land and not private mining claims.
Weather forecast
97
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 17%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Closest emergency services are likely in Happy Camp, approximately 12 miles away.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingCampers are required to take all garbage, trash, and waste with them when they leave. No on-site trash or recycling services are available.
Proximity to water featuresA warm spring along Elk Creek is located nearby.
Common complaintsNo garbage or water services provided.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Happy Camp south on Forest Road 16N05 (locally known as Elk Creek Rd) approx 12 miles to the campground. Portions of the road are improved gravel. Brown Forest Service signs direct the way.
Portions of the road are improved gravel. Accessibility may be limited for certain vehicles due to road conditions.Nearby places
Happy Camp: Approximately 12 miles away.
Nearby supplies
Supplies likely available in Happy Camp, approximately 12 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Sulphur Springs Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews praise the campground for its remote location, stunning natural beauty, and the warm springs as a key attraction. Some reviewers note its rustic nature and the absence of large crowds, particularly in fall and winter.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the natural beauty, remoteness, and warm springs. One reviewer stated, 'While there I was trying to remember a more beautiful place, and this area was in steep competition with my...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
No specific complaints were noted in the reviews. However, the rustic nature of the campground and absence of water or trash facilities could be considered drawbacks by some campers.
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Ensure to bring sufficient water for all purposes and pack out all trash. Another user advised, 'Remember to get your campfire permit and don't let the mining claims dissuade you.'
Based on 3 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is noted for being less crowded in fall and winter, making these seasons particularly appealing for solitude-seeking campers. No reviews differentiated experiences by summer or spring.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'While there I was trying to remember a more beautiful place, and this area was in steep competition with my favorite places within the continental U.S.' - Diana April. 2. 'I love camping here. It...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No reviews are tied to specific campsite numbers or areas.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
There are no reviews addressing accessibility for disabled visitors.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are permitted but must be leashed, as stated in the campground rules. No user reviews elaborate on pet-related experiences.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025