Oak Bottom Campground
4.8026 reviewsP.O. BOX 410, ORLEANS, CA 95556, USA
Oak Bottom Campground
$10.00 - $10.00 / 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
Recreation Use Fee varies by location and activity. Reservation fees may include $8 for online, $9 for contact center, or $3 for in-person.
Share this campground
Recreation.govProvider
About this campground
Tucked away in the serene depths of Six Rivers National Forest, Oak Bottom Campground offers an authentic escape into nature's embrace. This tranquil retreat features thoughtfully spaced single-family sites, each equipped with sturdy picnic tables and fire grills for memorable outdoor meals. Modern vault toilets and fresh drinking water ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience. A friendly campground host often resides on-site, ready to share local insights and ensure your stay is nothing short of perfect.
Oak Bottom Campground caters to single-family sites and is open to tent and RV camping. Primitive camping is noted, and some sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Historical SignificanceWhile Oak Bottom Campground serves primarily as a gateway to natural wonder, its location within Six Rivers National Forest connects visitors to a landscape that has sustained communities and cultures for generations. The surrounding forest represents a living testament to conservation efforts and the enduring relationship between people and these ancient woodlands.
Weather and SeasonsOak Bottom Campground enjoys a climate that rewards visitors with comfortable camping conditions throughout much of the year. The area experiences distinct seasonal shifts, from crisp, invigorating mornings to warm, golden afternoons. Prime camping weeks typically feature mild temperatures ideal for hiking and outdoor activities, with minimal rainfall allowing for uninterrupted adventures under star-filled skies. The dry conditions characteristic of the region create perfect campfire weather and reliable conditions for outdoor exploration.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable 700 feet above sea level, Oak Bottom Campground occupies a sweet spot on the forested hillside where cool mountain air meets the warmth of lower elevations. This modest elevation creates an ideal microclimate that supports abundant wildlife and ensures pleasant temperatures for camping. The gentle slopes and varied terrain offer both accessibility and the authentic feel of mountain camping without the challenges of high-altitude environments.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living cathedral of towering Douglas firs interspersed with graceful hardwoods that paint the landscape in ever-changing hues. The campground's hillside setting creates intimate pockets of shade beneath massive deciduous trees, their canopies forming natural umbrellas over campsites. Wildlife thrives in this diverse ecosystem—expect to share your mornings with birdsong and perhaps catch glimpses of deer browsing through the understory. The nearby Salmon River adds its voice to the forest symphony, its waters reflecting the surrounding greenery and providing a refreshing backdrop to your wilderness adventure.
Geological RegionOak Bottom Campground rests within the remarkable Six Rivers National Forest, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of forested hillsides and river valleys. The terrain showcases nature's artistry through its blend of Douglas fir forests and diverse hardwood groves, all thriving on slopes shaped by millennia of natural processes. The proximity to the Salmon River reveals the ongoing story of water carving through stone, creating the rich riparian habitat that makes this region a haven for wildlife and a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Campsite details
AccessibilityInformation on accessibility features is unavailable, though the host is noted for being accommodating to campers' needs.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, with one reviewer noting, 'Camp sites are well spaced and our 20’ travel trailer fit nicely in several of the sites.'
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are described as well-spaced and offer privacy. A reviewer mentioned, 'Each site has good distance so you don’t worry too much about noise or privacy.'
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites with shaded areas and proximity to the Salmon River are highly recommended. Visitors should bring bug spray and be prepared for remote conditions.
Best CampsitesCampsites 001, 023, and 024 are noted in user reviews as spacious and conveniently located near the Salmon River.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Information on check-in time is not specified.
Check-out
Information on check-out time is not specified.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Information on guest limits per site is not provided.
Groups
No group camping facilities are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized in loops around a hillside. Sites are well-spaced for privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online, contact center, or app.
Walk-in AvailabilitySome sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations will forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. Changes to reservations may incur a $10 change fee. No refunds for no-shows.
Amenities available
Potable water
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Oak Bottom Campground provides a range of activities including swimming, fishing, wildlife viewing, and water sports. The nearby Salmon River is frequently mentioned as a key feature for recreation. User reviews praise the swimming holes and the fishing opportunities, with one stating, 'The Salmon River is nearby. It is a good place for fly fishing or boating here,' while another noted, 'Best swimming holes around!'
Hiking
Hiking is available in the surrounding Six Rivers National Forest area, though specific trail details are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is noted as excellent, especially in the fall for salmon and steelhead trout in the nearby Klamath River. One reviewer stated, 'Salmon and steelhead trout fishing in the nearby Klamath River is known to be some of the best in the state.'Swimming
Swimming is popular during the summer, with many river access points nearby. A reviewer mentioned, 'The river across the street is lovely to swim in. Best swimming holes around!'Boating
Boating activities are supported by the nearby Salmon River. One reviewer noted, 'Oak Bottom can be used as a put-in or take-out if you’re interested in whitewater rafting.'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is highlighted with mentions of deer, bears, and various bird species like quail. A user noted, 'A lot of bear activity and wildlife. The host is doing a GREAT job working on the place.'Winter Activities
Winter recreation is not mentioned.Water Sports
Water sports activities like whitewater rafting are popular in the spring on the nearby Salmon River, which offers challenging rapids ranging from Class 3 to 5.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed, but firewood must be bought locally to prevent the spread of pests.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include bear activity, poison oak, and mosquitoes. Users suggest bringing bear canisters and bug spray.
Active alertsNo active alerts are reported.
Weather forecast
104
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 16%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.9 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
Somes Bar, 2.5 miles away, provides propane, groceries, and a post office. No explicit mention of hospitals or police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesSpecific peak season dates are not listed.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available. One user stated, 'There’s water and trash/recycling but otherwise there’s not much out here which is the whole point.'
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is near the Salmon River, with multiple access points for swimming, fishing, and whitewater activities.
Common complaintsSome user complaints mention trash left by previous campers, mosquitoes, and poison oak.
HostThe camp host, Face, is frequently praised for her helpfulness and friendliness. Her efforts are noted in keeping the site clean and providing information.
Campground Map
P.O. BOX 410, ORLEANS, CA 95556, USA
Driving directionsFrom Highway 96, take Salmon River Road/Forest Highway 93 for 2.3 miles to Oak Bottom Campground.
The campground is accessible via paved roads up to Salmon River Road, followed by Forest Highway 93. Seasonal access and road conditions are not explicitly mentioned.Nearby places
Somes Bar is located 2.5 miles away.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, propane, tackle supplies, and other essentials can be found at a general store in Somes Bar, 2.5 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.8
26 reviews
Oak Bottom Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the peaceful and remote nature of the campground, the cleanliness of the facilities, and the helpfulness of the camp host, who is affectionately nicknamed 'Face.' Many reviews emphasize the natural beauty and the variety of wildlife present. Negative points include occasional trash left by previous campers and the presence of mosquitos.
Review Summaries
Based on 26 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean bathrooms, spacious and shaded campsites, potable water availability, and proximity to the Salmon River. The host is repeatedly praised for her excellent service and...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include occasional trash left by previous campers, the presence of mosquitos and poison oak, and the lack of cell phone service.
Based on 26 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray and a bear canister for food storage. Be prepared for the remote location by bringing all necessary supplies. Visit the nearby general store for groceries, propane, and tackle.
Based on 26 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews suggest swimming and whitewater rafting are popular during summer and spring. Fishing is highlighted as a key activity for the fall season.
Based on 26 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms are the cleanest on the Salmon River!' 2. 'Face, the host, was a sweet, helpful, informative person and we will come back.' 3. 'The campground was beautiful and the river is so close by...
Based on 26 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001: 'Plenty of trees for hammocks and much-needed shade.' Site 017: 'Beautiful, clean, and shaded.' Site 024: 'Easy access to the river, saw deer and even a bear meander through the woods.'
Based on 26 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are not specifically reviewed, though the host is noted for accommodating campers' needs.
Based on 26 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Reviewers do not frequently mention pets, though one notes the host's threatened duck variety as a notable feature.
Based on 26 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025