Panther Flat Campground
4.19105 reviewsPO BOX 228
Panther Flat Campground
$15.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
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
Fees range from $15 to $30 per night depending on site type and season. Peak season rates apply from May to September.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Six Rivers National Forest, Panther Flat Campground invites you to disconnect from the world and reconnect with nature along the pristine Smith River. This hidden gem combines the comforts of modern amenities—including flush toilets and refreshing coin-operated showers—with the raw beauty of ancient forest surroundings. Each campsite is thoughtfully nestled beneath a canopy of towering trees, offering cool shade and the gentle sounds of the nearby river.
Panther Flat Campground accommodates tent and RV camping, offering options for single-family and double sites. Some sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, while others are reservable.
Historical SignificancePanther Flat serves as your gateway to two of California's most treasured natural sanctuaries. Just a short drive away, the legendary Redwood National Park beckons with its cathedral-like groves of ancient giants, while Jedediah Smith State Park preserves some of the world's most magnificent old-growth redwood forests. These neighboring parks tell the story of conservation triumph and offer visitors a chance to walk among trees that have stood for centuries, witnessing the passage of time in this remarkable corner of the Pacific Northwest.
Weather and SeasonsThe campground's microclimate creates a refreshing retreat where morning mist dances through the trees and afternoon sunshine filters through the forest canopy. While the region's signature cool, humid conditions bring occasional rain showers that nourish the lush landscape, summer emerges as the perfect season for camping adventures. During these golden months, clear skies prevail, temperatures remain comfortable, and the weather sets an ideal stage for riverside relaxation and forest exploration.
ElevationNestled in a peaceful forest valley that gently slopes toward the Smith River below, Panther Flat occupies a perfect sweet spot in the landscape. This riverside setting creates a natural amphitheater of towering trees and flowing water, where the campground's position above the river provides both easy access to the water's edge and protection from seasonal flooding.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where towering Douglas firs stretch skyward alongside aromatic cedars and the distinctive red-barked Pacific madrone trees. The forest floor comes alive with wild huckleberry bushes that offer seasonal treats for both wildlife and observant hikers. But the true star of this natural theater is the Smith River—California's last major undammed river—whose crystal-clear waters rush over smooth stones, creating everything from gentle swimming holes to exhilarating Class 5 rapids that challenge even experienced rafters.
Geological RegionPanther Flat Campground sits within the remarkable ecosystem of Six Rivers National Forest, where millions of years of geological activity have created a landscape of stunning diversity. The mature forest showcases nature's perfect balance, with majestic Douglas firs and fragrant cedars sharing space with the smooth-barked Pacific madrone and understory huckleberry shrubs. Below, the Smith River has carved its path through ancient bedrock, creating a corridor of pristine waters and dramatic Class 5 whitewater rapids that make this region a mecca for both nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible flush toilets and showers are available. Some users mentioned that the terrain might be challenging for individuals with mobility issues, particularly the steep trail to the river.
Sites SizeSites are reportedly large and can accommodate multiple tents or large RVs. Specific sites were noted to have spacious parking aprons.
Sites PrivacyReviews indicate mixed privacy levels. While some sites are well-spaced with vegetation providing privacy, others are near public areas like the river trail, reducing privacy.
Total Campsites33 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose odd-numbered campsites (1-17) for proximity to slopes and the river trail. Avoid sites near the highway for reduced noise.
Best CampsitesSite 016 praised for its proximity to the river, spaciousness, and access to bathrooms; Site 033 noted for privacy and cleanliness.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in available at any time, but recommended during daylight hours.
Check-out
Sites must be vacated by noon on departure day.
Stay Limit
Stay limit of 14 consecutive nights enforced year-round.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Varies by site
- no explicit maximum stated.
Groups
No group camping details provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites arranged in loops with huckleberry shrubs between for privacy. Sites vary in size and accessibility.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 19 to September 8 annually for reservations; first-come, first-served season runs September 9 through May 18.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov and its mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served sites available during non-peak seasons from September 9 to May 18.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival for a $10 fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Panther Flat Campground offers a variety of recreational activities centered around its proximity to the Smith River and the surrounding forest. Popular activities include fishing, swimming, sunbathing, rafting, and hiking. The campground also serves as a convenient base for exploring nearby attractions like Redwood National Park.
Hiking
No trailheads are located within the campground, but hiking opportunities are abundant nearby. Elk Camp Ridge, High Dome, and French Hill trailheads are within 10 miles. A botanical trail leading to a Darlingtonia bog is just one mile away.Fishing
Fishing in the Smith River is a highlight, with opportunities to catch salmon, steelhead, and cutthroat trout. User reviews frequently praise the quality of fishing.Swimming
The Smith River provides swimming opportunities, though some users mentioned that the available 'pool' and small sandy beach can get crowded. Snakes were reported in the water by some visitors.Biking
Biking is listed among the activities, though no specific trails or paths at the campground are detailed.Boating
Rafting is popular on the Smith River, which features up to Class 5 rapids. No specific details about boat rentals or docking facilities were provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are available, though no specific species were highlighted in the materials provided.Beach activities
A small sandy beach along the Smith River is available for sunbathing and relaxation, though it can become crowded. The beach is more suited for small groups.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities were outlined, suggesting the campground may be less suited for cold-season recreation.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like rafting and swimming are popular at the nearby Smith River.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed within designated fire rings. Visitors must buy firewood locally to prevent pest spread.
- Quiet hours enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as snakes have been noted near the river. Seasonal wildfires and theft have also been reported.
Active alertsWildfire-related closures and road maintenance interruptions are possible.
Weather forecast
85
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 41%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 6.4 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 include the Gasquet Ranger Station Visitor Center (within 2 miles) for minor assistance and Crescent City's Sutter Coast Hospital (16 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 19 - September 8 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available; recycling bins for aluminum and glass were specifically mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresShort walk to Smith River for swimming, rafting, and fishing. A day-use area near the river offers limited beach access.
Common complaintsNoise from nearby Highway 199, theft issues, overcrowded river access, and generators running late into the night noted across reviews.
HostHosts described as helpful, attentive, and maintaining clean facilities. Some reviews report inconsistent service.
Campground Map
PO BOX 228
Driving directionsFrom Highway 101 north of Crescent City, California, take highway 199 east for 16 miles to the campground.
The campground is accessible via Highway 199 (paved), which offers year-round access. Seasonal maintenance work can occasionally block road access, as noted in user reviews.Nearby places
Gasquet (2 miles, 5 min drive)
Crescent City (16 miles, 20 min drive)
Eureka (approx. 70 miles, 90 min drive)
Medford, Oregon (approx. 60 miles, 75 min drive).
Nearby supplies
Gasquet has a small grocery store offering canned and dry goods but no produce. Crescent City (16 miles away) offers major retailers, fuel stations, and camping supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.2
105 reviews
Panther Flat Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Panther Flat Campground receives generally favorable reviews, with many praising its natural beauty, clean facilities, and proximity to the Smith River. However, there are recurring issues with noise, overcrowding, and occasional staff unresponsiveness.
Review Summaries
Based on 105 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently highlight the campground’s cleanliness, spacious sites, helpful staff, and proximity to the river. Many describe the setting as peaceful and beautiful, with excellent access to...
Based on 105 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include noise from generators and neighbors, overcrowding at the river and beach areas, and occasional issues with campsite reservations being incorrectly handled. Some also noted...
Based on 105 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring quarters for the showers, and consider visiting in the offseason to avoid crowds. Sites near the entrance offer easier access to the river. Avoid sites close to Highway 199 if noise is a...
Based on 105 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews frequently mention overcrowding and noise, while offseason reviews describe a quieter experience. Some users noted increased cleanliness challenges during busier periods.
Based on 105 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Showers are $0.50 for 3-4 minutes of hot water." "The Smith River access is fantastic, but the small beach gets crowded." "Great campground for families, but noise levels can be high."
Based on 105 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 016 is noted for its spaciousness and proximity to the river trail, though it lacks privacy. Site 023 received mixed reviews due to its location near noisy neighbors. Site 032 is described as...
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Accessibility Features
Some users noted that while facilities are accessible, the steep trail to the river may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues.
Based on 105 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews focused on pet-related experiences.
Based on 105 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025