39
Total Campsites
Campground
27
Reservable Sites
Mixed (reservable + first-come)
—
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About PANTHER FLAT CAMPGROUND
Overview Panther Flat Campground sits in the vast Six Rivers National Forest in northern California. This shady, secluded campground is just steps from the Smith River, which is famous for its bright blue waters and scenic pathway through the forest. Recreation Popular activities include swimming, sunbathing, rafting and fishing in the Smith River. Anglers enjoy healthy fishing populations of salmon, steelhead and cutthroat trout. Visitors also enjoy hiking, horseback riding and biking in the area. There are no trailheads in the campground, but Elk Camp Ridge, High Dome and French Hill trailheads are all within 10 miles of the site. A Botanical trail to a unique Darlingtonia bog is just a mile away. Facilities Popular activities include swimming, sunbathing, rafting and fishing in the Smith River. Anglers enjoy healthy fishing populations of salmon, steelhead and cutthroat trout. Visitors also enjoy hiking, horseback riding and biking in the area. There are no trailheads in the campground, but Elk Camp Ridge, High Dome and French Hill trailheads are all within 10 miles of the site. A Botanical trail to a unique Darlingtonia bog is just a mile away. Natural Features Set in a mature forest of Douglas fir, cedar and Pacific madrone trees, the campground is a short walk from the pristine Smith River. The river boasts up to Class 5 whitewater rapids. The region, thick with vegetation, is also freckled with huckleberry shrubs. The Six Rivers National Forest lies east of Eureka in northwestern California, stretching southward from the Oregon border for about 140 miles. U.S. 101, the famed "Redwood Highway," parallels the inland Forest along the coastline. The Forest is just east of the Redwood National Park. Nearby Attractions California's Redwood National Park and the Pacific Ocean are within 20 miles of the campground. Annual events include Gasquet Raft Race in July and Del Norte County Fair in August.
- 39 total campsites listed.
- 27 reservable sites plus first-come options.
- Most common site type: standard nonelectric (38).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.
Our Take
What makes PANTHER FLAT CAMPGROUND special
Shaded beneath a thick canopy of old-growth conifers and just steps from the legendary Smith River, Panther Flat Campground is a secluded gem in the Six Rivers National Forest near Gasquet, California. The campground hugs the riverbank in a lush, fern-carpeted forest setting where the air smells of damp earth and cedar, and the sound of flowing water is ever-present. The Smith River is the star here. As the last major undammed river in California, it runs remarkably clean and clear, offering world-class swimming, kayaking, and fishing. Steelhead and salmon runs draw serious anglers during the cooler months, while summer visitors wade into turquoise pools framed by smooth river boulders. Hiking trails in the surrounding forest lead to old-growth groves and wildflower meadows, and the nearby Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park adds towering coastal redwoods to the list of natural wonders within easy reach. Panther Flat offers around 40 well-spaced sites suitable for tents and RVs, each with a picnic table and fire ring. Flush toilets and potable water are available, a step up from many forest campgrounds. The campground operates roughly from May through September, with summer weekends requiring advance reservations. For a quieter experience, visit in late spring or early fall when the forest feels especially tranquil and the river runs at its most inviting.
Campsite Inventory
39 sites to choose from
STANDARD NONELECTRIC
27
Reservable
0
Accessible
MANAGEMENT
0
Reservable
0
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
Campfire Allowed
Yes
Site capacity
Double, Single
Check-in time
2:00 PM
Check-out time
2:00 PM
Double Driveway
Yes
Driveway entry
Back-In
Driveway surface
Paved
Max guests
12, 8
Max vehicle length (ft)
30, 35, 40, 45
Minimum guests
Yes
Pets allowed
Yes
Picnic Table
Yes
Shade
Full, Yes
Site length (ft)
35, 40
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
707-457-3131
Getting There
From Highway 101 north of Crescent City, California, take highway 199 east for 16 miles to the campground.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to PANTHER FLAT CAMPGROUND.
How do reservations work for PANTHER FLAT CAMPGROUND?
Reservation availability for PANTHER FLAT CAMPGROUND can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at PANTHER FLAT CAMPGROUND?
PANTHER FLAT CAMPGROUND currently lists STANDARD NONELECTRIC (38), MANAGEMENT (1).
Where is PANTHER FLAT CAMPGROUND located?
PANTHER FLAT CAMPGROUND is in California near GASQUET. Coordinates: 41.8431, -123.9306.
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