KLAMATH NATIONAL FOREST
Located in Siskiyou County, California. Siskiyou County is one of three counties that border Oregon. The Klamath National Forest is approximately one million acres with a little bit of everything and a lot of some things. I was born and raised right here in the middle of the Klamath National Forest in a very small town nestled on the Klamath River. I learned how to swim, hunt, track, trap, fish, climb, drive and log to make a living, right here in the KNF. I have seen the forest from one end to the other so I believe I can share some of the things you can see and do here.
The KNF has over 200 miles of wild and scenic rivers The main river located here is the Klamath River. There are several other smaller rivers as well, such as; the Shasta, Russian, Salmon and Scott River. The creeks are too many to list, there are thousands. Some of the creeks in the KNF are small rivers. During the salmon run they will go miles and miles up these tributaries. Some of the better known creeks are Beaver creek, Cottonwood creek, Martins Dairy, Bogus Creek, Coffee Creek, Elk Creek, Shovel Creek and Cherry creek. The things you can do on these rivers and creeks are fish, hike, hunt, photograph, raft, tube and gold dredge.
Planning A Trip To Klamath National Forest
For the general hikers, campers and fisherman you should stop by the Klamath National Forest Headquarters located in Yreka at 1312 Fairlane Road and get a map. Also ask about any restrictions, campfire permits or recent forest fires. The town of Yreka is also a good place to stay if you do not intend to camp out. Yreka is within an hour driving to all five ranger districts (listed below). Also make sure you have the proper hunting, fishing or dredging licenses. There are several decent places to stay in Yreka. I would recommend the AmeriHost Inn. Furthermore if you are not camping and choose to see the sights driving from town make sure to bring plenty of food, water first-aid supplies and a cell phone. Most of the sights are very remote so be prepared.
On the other hand if you are camping I would suggest Beaver Creek on the Klamath River. This place is beautiful. There are several camp grounds along Beaver Creek. I have always been able to find a camping spot. There are no fees. Beaver Creek would be for someone who fishes, hikes, enjoys wildlife and naturists.
Located in the Happy Camp Ranger District. Approximately one hour drive, south down highway 96 off of Interstate 5. Another similar place is Martins Dairy located in the Goosenest District. You can find all of the camp grounds once you get your map.
If hunting and fishing are what blows your hair back you'd be very busy around here. There is hunting and fishing in all five districts. I'd advise getting a guide if you want to hunt here. Getting someone to show you around would be very hard. Would you show people you hunting and fishing spots? "Yeah, head right over Secret Ridge and you'll find Notell creek, great fishin there". If you are interested in some serious hunting or fishing trips there are guides. There are a hundred guides around here. I'd recommend Ron Denardi or the McBrooms. They have been around here a long time and always manage to catch some fish. read more