Boise Creek
3.9738 reviewsP.O. Box 68, Willow Creek, CA, 95573, USA
Boise Creek
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
Camping fees are $10 per night for all site types (standard electric, standard non-electric, and tent-only non-electric). Discounts may apply for eligible interagency passes.
About this campground
Tucked into a peaceful valley where Brush Mountain meets Brannan Mountain, Boise Creek Campground offers an intimate escape within Six Rivers National Forest. This hidden gem provides the perfect basecamp for adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts alike, with crystal-clear swimming holes, prime fishing spots along the Trinity River, and scenic hiking trails all within easy reach. The campground's towering canopy creates a naturally air-conditioned retreat, making it an ideal sanctuary even during the warmest summer days.
The campground offers multiple camping options, including tent-only sites and sites suitable for RVs. Some sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, and three sites are designated for tent camping only.
Historical SignificanceYour stay at Boise Creek puts you at the doorstep of one of America's most intriguing mysteries. The nearby town of Willow Creek proudly wears its crown as the 'Bigfoot capital of the world,' where local legend meets community celebration. Time your visit for Labor Day weekend and you'll find yourself swept up in the famous Bigfoot Days festival, where believers and skeptics alike gather to celebrate the region's most elusive resident with parades, live music, and plenty of Sasquatch-themed fun.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's full spectrum throughout the year at Boise Creek. Summer brings warm days that can climb to 104°F, though the ancient forest canopy works its magic, creating cool, dappled shade that makes even the hottest afternoons comfortable. Winter transforms the campground into a mild retreat with pleasant 53°F highs perfect for crisp morning hikes. While August tends toward the humid side, spring and fall emerge as the golden seasons here, offering those perfect camping days with gentle breezes and comfortable temperatures that invite endless outdoor exploration.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable 680 feet above sea level, Boise Creek Campground strikes the perfect balance between mountain ambiance and accessible terrain. This gentle elevation creates an ideal microclimate where cooling mountain breezes meet the warmth of the valley, while the mature forest canopy overhead provides natural shelter and shade throughout your stay.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where towering conifers mingle with graceful oak woodlands, creating a diverse tapestry of green at 680 feet elevation. This remarkable ecosystem serves as a sanctuary for some of nature's most magnificent creatures, including soaring bald eagles and swift peregrine falcons that patrol the skies above. The star of the show is Boise Creek itself, which has carved out inviting swimming holes perfect for cooling off after a day of exploration. Each bend in the creek reveals another scenic surprise, from moss-covered boulders to crystal-clear pools that beckon on warm afternoons.
Geological RegionBoise Creek Campground sits within the magnificent Six Rivers National Forest, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of remarkable diversity. Here, dense coniferous forests give way to sun-dappled oak woodlands, all sustained by the life-giving waters of the nearby Trinity River. This unique convergence of forest types and waterways creates a geological crossroads that supports an extraordinarily rich variety of plant and animal life, making every hike an opportunity for discovery.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere are no specific accessibility features mentioned for Boise Creek Campground.
Sites SizeMost campsites are medium to large, with adequate space for tents and small RVs. The campground has a maximum trailer length of 35 feet.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites provide decent privacy, with shaded areas from large trees. However, some sites near the road are less private due to highway noise.
Total Campsites17 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites further from the highway for reduced noise. Sites 001 and 007 are noted for shade and creek access.
Best CampsitesHighly rated sites include 001, 003, 007, and 010 for proximity to creek views and shade.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limits are not specified.
Groups
No specific details were provided about group sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSmall campground with 17 sites, including three tent-only sites. The layout is compact with sites spaced for moderate privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: May 14, 2025 - October 14, 2025. Reservations begin June 23, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov and its app.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. Changes to reservations outside the original stay dates incur a $10 fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Boise Creek Campground offers a variety of recreational activities including hiking, swimming, fishing, biking, wildlife viewing, and water sports. The trail to the nearby creek is popular among visitors, offering a swimming hole and access to native wildlife. The Trinity Scenic Byway provides opportunities for scenic driving and exploration of the broader Six Rivers National Forest.
Hiking
The campground features a short, steep trail to Boise Creek, where campers can find a swimming hole and explore native plants and wildlife.Fishing
Fishing opportunities in the Trinity River include migratory salmon and steelhead trout. The creek is also a popular spot for casual fishing, though it is not lavish.Swimming
A swimming hole is accessible via a steep trail down to Boise Creek. The creek is a popular spot for visitors to cool off during hot days.Biking
Biking is available in the surrounding areas of Six Rivers National Forest.Boating
Whitewater rafting is available on the nearby Trinity River.Wildlife viewing
The campground is home to eight threatened and endangered species, including bald eagles and peregrine falcons. Wildlife viewing is a recommended activity.Cultural and Educational Programs
Visitors can engage in cultural events such as the Bigfoot Days on Labor Day weekend in nearby Willow Creek.Winter Activities
Winter activities were not mentioned in the source materials.Water Sports
Whitewater rafting is available in the nearby Trinity River.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire rings and grills are available at all sites. Firewood must be sourced locally as per regulations.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated, but user reviews mention noise complaints from Highway 299 and other guests.
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent poison oak in the area poses a hazard, especially for allergy-sensitive individuals. Traffic noise from Highway 299 is significant.
Active alertsNo current advisories.
Weather forecast
97
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 24%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 10.7 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Emergency services are available in Willow Creek, which includes medical facilities and a fire station.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 14, 2025 - October 14, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash collection and recycling services are available at the campground, as confirmed in the official description.
Proximity to water featuresNear Boise Creek, which offers a swimming hole accessible by a short but steep trail. Two miles west of the Trinity River.
Common complaintsFrequent complaints include poison oak presence, road noise, and lack of child-friendly amenities. Some reviews criticize unclean restrooms and lack of maintenance.
HostUser reviews mention friendly hosts named Trevor and Mike, although some reports note inconsistent service such as intoxicated behavior or rudeness.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 68, Willow Creek, CA, 95573, USA
Driving directionsFrom Willow Creek, California, take State Route 299 for 2 miles west. Enter the campground directly from the highway.
Road access is straightforward via Highway 299 west from Willow Creek. The campground entrance is directly off the highway. However, be prepared for road noise.Nearby places
Willow Creek (2 miles
5 minutes), Eureka (approximately 52 miles
1 hour 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Willow Creek provides fuel, groceries, propane, restaurants, and laundry facilities, all within 2 miles of the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.0
38 reviews
Boise Creek has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews for Boise Creek Campground reflect mixed experiences. While many appreciate the shaded sites, creek access, and welcoming camp hosts, others criticize the highway noise, poison oak, and occasional maintenance issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 38 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects frequently mentioned include clean vault toilets, shaded campsites, proximity to Willow Creek, and a beautiful swimming hole. Many users praised the camp hosts for being welcoming...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues raised by users include highway noise, the prevalence of poison oak, and the steep trail to the creek, which may not be suitable for young children or those with mobility challenges....
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring bug spray and pants to avoid poison oak.
- Check with the camp host for hiking tips.
- Use creek access for cooling off during hot days.
- Avoid sites near the highway if noise is a concern.
Based on 38 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that summer can be very hot, with temperatures reaching 104°F, but the shaded campsites and creek access make it manageable. Visitors during September and October often note quieter...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "Lovely, quiet campground. Most sites are large with plenty of privacy."
2. "The restroom is not flush toilet but it’s so clean. Free firewood are bonus."
3. "Vault toilets were clean, but the...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Some specific campsites mentioned in reviews include:
- Campsite 007: "The hike down to the creek and dip in the swimming hole made Boise Creek a hit in my book!"
- Campsite 003: "Good facilities...
Based on 38 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are not specifically addressed in user reviews.
Based on 38 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but no specific reviews focus exclusively on the pet policies or pet-friendly features.
Based on 38 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025