Peltier Bridge Primitive Campground
4.3262 reviewsPO Box 188, Whiskeytown, CA 96095, USA
Peltier Bridge Primitive Campground
$20.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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
The nightly fee for tent-only sites is $20, valid for the entire 2025 and 2026 seasons. Additional fees may apply for vehicle entrance to the Whiskeytown NRA.
About this campground
Escape to Peltier Bridge Primitive Campground, where canvas walls replace cabin doors and the whisper of Clear Creek provides your nightly soundtrack. Nestled within Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, this tent-only sanctuary invites adventurers to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with nature. Towering alders and ancient canyon live oaks create a natural canopy over intimate campsites, while endless trails and crystalline waters promise days filled with exploration in this serene mountain hideaway.
Peltier Bridge Primitive Campground is a tent-only site that accommodates basic camping setups. It is not suitable for RVs, motorhomes, or vehicles towing trailers. Group camping is available in designated areas.
Historical SignificanceCamp where fortune seekers once panned for gold, their dreams echoing through these hills since California's legendary gold rush era. The very ground beneath your tent holds stories of prospectors, pioneers, and Native peoples who traversed these mountains long before modern trails were carved. This landscape whispers tales of boom and bust, of communities that sprouted overnight and vanished just as quickly, leaving behind a rich tapestry of California's most transformative period.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the campground's dramatic seasonal transformations, from winter's crisp mountain mornings wrapped in gentle mists to summer's warm golden afternoons. While cooler months offer comfortable temperatures perfect for hiking and exploring, summer brings intense heat that makes Clear Creek's refreshing waters irresistible. Come prepared for nature's smaller residents – mosquitoes and yellow jackets make their presence known during warmer months, adding authenticity to your wilderness experience.
Natural Features and SceneryBeneath a protective canopy of graceful alders and majestic canyon live oaks, Peltier Bridge reveals nature's resilience at every turn. Clear Creek meanders alongside the campground, its gentle murmur punctuating days filled with hiking mountain trails and cooling off in pristine swimming holes. The surrounding landscape tells a powerful story of renewal, as native vegetation reclaims the hillsides following the 2018 Carr Fire, creating a living testament to nature's remarkable ability to heal and transform.
Geological RegionDiscover camping at nature's crossroads, where three of California's great mountain systems converge in spectacular fashion. The Klamath Mountains, Cascade Range, and Coast Mountains meet here with the Sacramento Valley, creating an ecological wonderland that supports an extraordinary diversity of plant and animal life. This unique geological junction within Whiskeytown National Recreation Area offers visitors the rare opportunity to experience multiple California ecosystems in a single adventure, from oak woodlands to coniferous forests, each supporting its own community of wildlife.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features for people with disabilities were not specifically noted.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with some noted to be small and awkwardly shaped, while others (like site 6) offer more space and level ground.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. Sites 6 and 7 are noted as more secluded, while sites 4, 5, 8, and 9 are closer together.
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites 6 and 7 offer more secluded experiences. Avoid Site 5 due to proximity to vault toilets and full sun exposure. Sites 8 and 9 are ideal for privacy and access to the creek.
Best CampsitesSites 6 and 9 are frequently praised for their seclusion, shade, and proximity to Clear Creek.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Camping is limited to 14 aggregate days between April 1 and October 31 and no more than 30 days per person per calendar year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy is 6 people per site.
Groups
Group campsites 1, 2, and 3 are located near each other, and visitors must walk approximately 25-35 feet to reach them. These sites are ideal for larger gatherings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutNine sites with varying layouts. Sites 6 and 9 are praised for seclusion. Sites 1-3 are group-oriented.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, with peak season from January 1 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be modified or canceled online. A $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiting the first night's fee if canceled late.
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
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a range of recreational activities both on-site and nearby. Clear Creek flows next to the campground, making it a popular spot for fly fishing. Nearby Whiskeytown Lake provides opportunities for swimming, kayaking, paddleboarding, water skiing, and more. Hiking, mountain biking, and gold panning are also popular year-round activities.
Hiking
The campground is near several hiking trails, including trails that lead to waterfalls. Some paths may be affected by post-fire conditions, and the area features historical sites related to the California Gold Rush.Fishing
Fishing in Clear Creek is available; however, it is catch-and-release only, and barbless hooks are required from May to September. The creek is accessible at certain points near the campsites.Swimming
Swimming is available nearby in Whiskeytown Lake, which features sandy beaches and a designated swimming area at Brandy Creek Beach.Biking
Mountain biking trails are accessible from the campground. These trails cater to various skill levels and are a significant draw for biking enthusiasts.Boating
Boating activities are available at Whiskeytown Lake, including kayaking, sailing, and paddleboarding. Rentals are offered at Brandy Creek Beach during summer.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include sightings of birds, small mammals, and riparian species. Bears are known to frequent the area, so food storage precautions are necessary.Beach activities
Beach activities are available at Brandy Creek Beach, 3.5 miles from the campground. Facilities include picnicking areas, barbecue setups, and sandy beaches.Winter Activities
Winter activities were not specifically noted.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as paddleboarding and kayaking are popular on Whiskeytown Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed but must be attended and extinguished completely when leaving or going to bed.
- Quiet hours are not specified, but noise complaints from user reviews suggest enforcement may rely on ranger intervention.
Hazards
General hazardsHazards include black bears, yellow jackets, mosquitos, falling trees, and branches due to post-fire conditions.
Active alertsThe campground was severely impacted by the 2018 Carr Fire, leading to warnings about post-fire hazards like falling trees.
Weather forecast
104
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 17%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.9 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
Emergency services are available in Redding, CA, approximately 13.5 miles away. This includes hospitals, fire departments, and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31
Trash and recyclingTrash collection facilities are provided on-site and well-maintained. Recycling options were not specified.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Clear Creek, which flows past the campground and offers opportunities for fishing and wading.
Common complaintsComplaints include loud groups, lack of level tent sites, yellow jackets, mosquitos, and damaged facilities due to fire impact.
HostNo campground host is available; occasional ranger visits occur.
Campground Map
PO Box 188, Whiskeytown, CA 96095, USA
Driving directionsFrom Redding, CA, drive 10 miles west on Highway 299. Turn left on Kennedy Memorial Drive and follow it for 1.6 miles to Paige Bar Road. Turn left onto Paige Bar Road at the dam and drive 1.2 miles to Peltier Valley Road. Turn right and follow Peltier Valley Road .7 mile to the campground.
The road leading to the campground is a narrow gravel road with some potholes and a steep drop to the side, as described in user reviews. It is relatively short, and its small size means unlikely encounters with other campers on the road.Nearby places
Redding, CA - 13.5 miles
Sacramento, CA - 3.5 hours
Nearby supplies
The visitor center for Whiskeytown National Recreation Area offers drinking water, and supplies are available at Brandy Creek Beach during Memorial Day through Labor Day. Additionally, general stores in Redding are approximately 13.5 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
62 reviews
Peltier Bridge Primitive Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User feedback on Peltier Bridge Primitive Campground is mixed, with positive comments highlighting its serene setting by Clear Creek, clean facilities, and proximity to various recreational activities. Criticisms include issues with insects, the aftermath of the 2018 Carr Fire, and occasional disturbances from neighboring campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 62 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praised the peaceful and secluded atmosphere, proximity to Clear Creek, and well-maintained vault toilets. Many appreciated the campground's shaded environment and access to nearby hiking and...
Based on 62 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints involved the prevalence of yellow jackets, ticks, and other insects. Some visitors criticized the lack of potable water and the uneven or small campsite layouts. Noise from other...
Based on 62 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring ample water as there is no potable water on-site. Consider citronella candles or strong insect repellents to deal with yellow jackets and mosquitoes. Sites 6 and 7 are recommended for better...
Based on 62 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
In summer, the campground is popular for water-based activities but has issues with insects and heat. In winter, it is less crowded but more affected by cold weather and limited access.
Based on 62 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Great, secluded hidden gem of a campground!" - Kristy Wray. "Vault toilets are quite ripe. Other than that it was awesome." - Kip B. "Campground is well-maintained and has cell service." - Julia S.
Based on 62 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site 6 is frequently praised for its seclusion and level ground. Sites 1, 2, and 3 are noted as ideal for groups but less private. Site 9 is at a dead end, providing additional privacy.
Based on 62 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features were provided.
Based on 62 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and several reviews mentioned that their dogs enjoyed the area. However, owners should ensure pets are leashed at all times.
Based on 62 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025