The best river, stream, or creek camping near French Gulch

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In French Gulch, river camping isn’t just an option—it’s a way to spend the weekend. With over 1,300 riverfront sites, you can pitch your tent where the water’s close and the air smells of pine. Average nights run about $75, but you’ll spot places as low as $20 if you’re quick. The most-loved sites here pull in hundreds of reviews, like Trinity Outpost Wilderness Resort (334 reviews), Camp Stoney Meadows (165 reviews), and ShastaView (107 reviews). Showers, campfires, and pet-friendly rules come standard at most spots. Bring your rod—anglers love the easy fishing—and keep your boots handy for hiking and climbing straight from camp. You’ll find plenty of places where you can hear the river from your sleeping bag.

95% (1.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Wonderland RV And Camping

2. Wonderland RV And Camping

94%
(53)
16mi from French Gulch · 69 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Redding, CA
Wonderland RV and Camping is a popular destination just minutes from Downtown Redding, Shasta Lake, Shasta Caverns, and much more! Nestled away just off of Interstate 5, our stunning park features 33 spacious RV sites, and a large open field for those wanting to pitch a tent, play some games or to let your children and dogs frolic in the sunshine. Wonderland is surrounded by a forest with a relaxing stream running alongside it. We have 30 amp and 50 amp electrical hookups available, water, sewer, WIFI and cable, ensuring a comfortable stay. Additionally, our laundry facility, showers and bathrooms are available 24 hours a day for your convenience. Come discover the beauty of Wonderland! Also, there is a goat and a pig who live on property! In addition to Redding and Shasta, there are several attractions that should be on your itinerary while in the region. The mountain hamlet of Dunsmuir, home of top fly-fishing streams, a railroad museum, and the nearby Castle Crags State Park. Farther away but worth the drive, especially in the warmer months, is Whiskeytown Lake, a 3,000 surface-acre reservoir of crystal-clear water that’s perfect for sailing, kayaking, fishing, and windsurfing. If you prefer to stay dry, admire it from the shore and hike to the 220-foot Whiskeytown Falls. A drive to the east are the fascinating steam vents, mud pots, fumaroles, and Sulphur Works of Lassen Volcanic National Park.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
Lakehead Creek Retreat

6. Lakehead Creek Retreat

20mi from French Gulch · 1 site · Tent, RV · Lakehead, CA
The campsite is about 3 miles from the river, however the campsite connects to a creek that flows into the river. These creeks run year round and are perfect for taking a dip! This is a 253 Acre property near the Sacramento River that flows through the area of Lakehead near Redding and Shasta lake. There are a couple of really good fishing spots along the river . On the property itself there is 3 year round flowing creeks. Lots of Deer on the property since we don’t hunt and so they come on our land as a little sanctuary. Beautiful view of the Shasta area mountains. Multiple places to hike and find water holes. There is Poison Oak on the property, please be mindful. There are bears, but will normally stay away from the campsite. Please put your food away to prevent wildlife from coming into your camp. There are fish in the Sacramento River that can be fished for. This is the wilderness, there are mosquitos, flys, and other bugs. Please bring bug spray.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Radio Ranch Camp

8. Radio Ranch Camp

99%
(100)
45mi from French Gulch · 10 sites · Tents, Lodging · Burnt Ranch, CA
  Welcome nature lovers, adventurers, foragers, outdoor-enthusiasts, rock hounds, bird watchers, and tree huggers. If you love to fish, hike, forage, raft, swim, kayak, camp, go tubing, or explore, Radio Ranch is a must-experience respite in the woods. We are conveniently located between Portland, OR and San Francisco, CA, between Eureka, CA and Redding, CA. We are 15 minutes from Willow Creek, 1 hour from HWY 101 and 2.5 hours from I-5. Our one of a kind, 100% off-grid luxury campsites offer complete privacy and views you can't get anywhere else!   Each site is located near one of our creeks so you can enjoy the sounds of flowing water. Visit our *two* large waterfalls on a hike through 30 beautiful acres. Our light show at dusk lasts approximately 3 hours each evening because we believe that nighttime should be just as beautiful as the day. Breathtaking views of Ironside Mountain make a gorgeous backdrop for weddings, events, and photoshoots. Ask about whole property rental! Each site rental comes with shared access to modern off-grid showers, restrooms (including our very popular clawfoot tub), and an outdoor kitchen with BBQs and a wood-fired pizza oven plus public space that is Instagram worthy. Free WIFI is also included, so it is perfect for remote workers.  Check-in is contactless and simple. We only allow 2-10 guests on the property at once, so it's peaceful and quiet and feels like it's all yours! Don't wait to book because space is very limited. Treat yourself to a stay with us. Radio Ranch is the perfect place to get away from it all, while still having it all. Relax and rejuvenate at Radio Ranch. *Recommended for ages 21+. Children under 21 must be accompanied by a guardian. Pets are welcome for a small pet fee! This is an off-grid experience, meaning there are no electrical outlets. We recommend bringing a backup battery to charge devices. This experience may not be suitable for those who need electricity for medical equipment.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort

9. Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort

93%
(15)
9.6mi from French Gulch · 65 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lewiston, CA
The Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort is located in the small mining town of Lewiston, California in Trinity County. We are within walking distance of the old single lane bridge which spans the scenic Trinity River and the historic part of Lewiston. The picturesque surroundings are one our guests enjoy immensely. Wildlife flourishes in this area, deer graciously journey through the terrain on a regular basis, eagles soar above our forested mountains, ducks, blue heron and osprey are seen regularly. For the angular enthusiast, the Trinity River provides excellent fishing opportunities for steelhead, salmon and German browns. To name a few of the pleasures that visitors can enjoy - fishing, rafting, canoeing, swimming, bicycling, hiking, gold panning, golf in Weaverville, boat rentals on Lewiston and Trinity Lake, Moose lodge, hunting, guide service which includes floating river trips, walk-in and high mountain lake wilderness trips or simply sightseeing and shopping for arts, crafts and antiques in old Historic Lewiston.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Swimming hole up Kosk Creek. "Deliciously cool" on a hot day.

13. Camp Stoney Meadows

100%
(353)
43mi from French Gulch · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Big Bend, CA
Our 120 remote acres are adjacent to Shasta Trinity National Forest in the beautiful Cascade Range between Mt. Lassen and Mt. Shasta in Northern California. It's a working ranch with tree farms, animals, hydroelectric power, sawmill, gardens, orchards, creeks, springs, trails, and our camp alongside Kosk Creek. We're 54 miles from Redding off of 299E, (about 1-1/2 hour drive). DO NOT TAKE ROAD 11 FROM THE NORTH, IT IS CLOSED! PIease try to ignore the "car art" in the Pit River Tribe's Rancheria as you're coming here. Drive right through it, it's no reflection on us. The last mile or so of the road here can be pretty rough, but on arrival, you'll know it's worth the trip! No Cell phone service available here, so it's the perfect opportunity to unplug. We do have a land line up at the house in case of an emergency. Also, if you really need it, WiFi is available at the house.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
Trinity Outpost Wilderness Resort

17. Trinity Outpost Wilderness Resort

98%
(507)
23mi from French Gulch · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · 122.928142, CA
Private Tent Camping: under the stars. Park at your campsite! Community areas, swimming holes, creek running through ALL campsites, shared lodge & rustic accommodations. No fee for children or dogs~ Follow for updates on IG or X @ResortTrinity Trinity Outpost Wilderness is a private campground that is committed to the land-sharing ethos of Hipcamp preserving ecology and defending habitat for wildlife and pollinators. The mineral springs and trails are open to the public during the daytime. We also host with WWOOF, we have many cultural exchange volunteers helping us bring life back to this historic land building an organic farm and sustainable community. Campground is yours to book but is also surrounded by National Forest Land which belongs to everyone. We expect zero exceptions to the leave no trace standards we have put forward for our private land share. Fall asleep stargazing under a dark sky, surrounded by trees, water and wildlife. Wake up to birds chirping then a 10 min hike to visit the Cold mineral springs bubbling out of the mountainside, attracting many types of wildlife along with people seeking out the healing properties of the sulfur scented spring water. Sacred healing mineral spring "Deadshot" named by the native peoples for its ability to cure all ailments with 'one shot'. Nipisum or 'health water' was later bottled by the California Medicinal Springs Co. after the land was homesteaded in 1886. This historic retreat rests at the foot of lower Chanchelulla 'black rock' Mountain. Bordering a Wilderness Area this land is pristine and wild inhabited by many animals and incredible bio-diversity such as Pileated Woodpeckers, Golden Eagle, Bald Eagle, Blackhawk, Goshawk, Great Horned Owl, Flying Squirrel, Pacific King Snake, Salamanders and Protected Spawning Rainbow Trout. 100+ acres with private hiking trails along the stream for easy trekking, and summit trails (climbing up to almost 6,000 ft.) to the peak. Our aim is to restore the land from the last 100 years of habitation using innovation to renovate the campground and baths for the next 100 years. With your help we hope to revitalize the community of Trinity County, as well as educate and generate support for WILDERNESS, public forest lands and the agencies that manage them.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Rock Farm Ranch

19. Rock Farm Ranch

92%
(31)
46mi from French Gulch · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Callahan, CA
IMPORTANT: I DON'T CHECK TEXTS; USE PHONE CALL: 541-301-3331 Beautiful Scott Valley, a hidden destination loved by stargazers. campers, hikers, bikers, hunters, fishers, nature lovers, rock climbers, and prospectors. Property straddles Hwy. 3 between Etna and Callahan. Hwy. 3 is not busy during the day and evening traffic drops off to almost nothing. Very rural farming/ranching area. No agricultural, ranching or spraying nearby, though. Lots of blue-green Serpentine stone here, hence the name "Rock Farm." We are an organic farm so we take care to use nontoxic agriculture. Fresh spring water provided, primitive camping and some more luxurious sites. We always make improvements. Bathroom available, haul water to flush toilet. Dark nights with no light pollution gives great sky watching. Mountain views in daytime. Very quiet at night,. Near beautiful Kangaroo Lake and Mount Shasta. Peaceful, pristine .Property for sale, all or part. Ask Nina for details. Private wooded area for primitive camping or RV. Improved sites with bathroom tables; chairs, firepit. 35 acres so you can choose the site you like. when you arrive. Mountain Views are amazing.  Swimming hole nearby.  Right off Hwy 3 between Etna and Callahan, California.  Or, camp across the street by the old wooden mill building for company. Small wetland nearby brings lots of birds to sing you awake in the morning. Open, level space great for nighttime stargazing. Property has a gate you can close at night.  One hour drive to Mt. Shasta or Ashland, Oregon. Groceries, massage, hardware store, laundry, bakery, showers, restaurants in Etna 8 miles away.  Farmer's market in Etna  Saturday morning. Not far from PCT trailhead outside of Callahan CA. If you need a ride from there, call and we'll pick you up if possible for $20. Firewood available, $1. a stick.  Near Kangaroo lake for fishing, swimming, hiking, boating. Bicycle groups and motorcycle groups going by every summer. We're at 3000 feet, so nights are cool even in summer.  Bright stars, Air fresh and clean.  Minimal mosquitos due to dry climate. We call it "RockFarm" because there's Serpentine rock here and you're welcome to collect some.  Even pan for gold and swim in Scott River nearby.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$16
 / night

In French Gulch, river camping isn’t just an option—it’s a way to spend the weekend. With over 1,300 riverfront sites, you can pitch your tent where the water’s close and the air smells of pine. Average nights run about $75, but you’ll spot places as low as $20 if you’re quick. The most-loved sites here pull in hundreds of reviews, like Trinity Outpost Wilderness Resort (334 reviews), Camp Stoney Meadows (165 reviews), and ShastaView (107 reviews). Showers, campfires, and pet-friendly rules come standard at most spots. Bring your rod—anglers love the easy fishing—and keep your boots handy for hiking and climbing straight from camp. You’ll find plenty of places where you can hear the river from your sleeping bag.

95% (1.5K)

Top-rated campgrounds

Wonderland RV And Camping

2. Wonderland RV And Camping

94%
(53)
16mi from French Gulch · 69 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Redding, CA
Wonderland RV and Camping is a popular destination just minutes from Downtown Redding, Shasta Lake, Shasta Caverns, and much more! Nestled away just off of Interstate 5, our stunning park features 33 spacious RV sites, and a large open field for those wanting to pitch a tent, play some games or to let your children and dogs frolic in the sunshine. Wonderland is surrounded by a forest with a relaxing stream running alongside it. We have 30 amp and 50 amp electrical hookups available, water, sewer, WIFI and cable, ensuring a comfortable stay. Additionally, our laundry facility, showers and bathrooms are available 24 hours a day for your convenience. Come discover the beauty of Wonderland! Also, there is a goat and a pig who live on property! In addition to Redding and Shasta, there are several attractions that should be on your itinerary while in the region. The mountain hamlet of Dunsmuir, home of top fly-fishing streams, a railroad museum, and the nearby Castle Crags State Park. Farther away but worth the drive, especially in the warmer months, is Whiskeytown Lake, a 3,000 surface-acre reservoir of crystal-clear water that’s perfect for sailing, kayaking, fishing, and windsurfing. If you prefer to stay dry, admire it from the shore and hike to the 220-foot Whiskeytown Falls. A drive to the east are the fascinating steam vents, mud pots, fumaroles, and Sulphur Works of Lassen Volcanic National Park.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
Lakehead Creek Retreat

6. Lakehead Creek Retreat

20mi from French Gulch · 1 site · Tent, RV · Lakehead, CA
The campsite is about 3 miles from the river, however the campsite connects to a creek that flows into the river. These creeks run year round and are perfect for taking a dip! This is a 253 Acre property near the Sacramento River that flows through the area of Lakehead near Redding and Shasta lake. There are a couple of really good fishing spots along the river . On the property itself there is 3 year round flowing creeks. Lots of Deer on the property since we don’t hunt and so they come on our land as a little sanctuary. Beautiful view of the Shasta area mountains. Multiple places to hike and find water holes. There is Poison Oak on the property, please be mindful. There are bears, but will normally stay away from the campsite. Please put your food away to prevent wildlife from coming into your camp. There are fish in the Sacramento River that can be fished for. This is the wilderness, there are mosquitos, flys, and other bugs. Please bring bug spray.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Radio Ranch Camp

8. Radio Ranch Camp

99%
(100)
45mi from French Gulch · 10 sites · Tents, Lodging · Burnt Ranch, CA
  Welcome nature lovers, adventurers, foragers, outdoor-enthusiasts, rock hounds, bird watchers, and tree huggers. If you love to fish, hike, forage, raft, swim, kayak, camp, go tubing, or explore, Radio Ranch is a must-experience respite in the woods. We are conveniently located between Portland, OR and San Francisco, CA, between Eureka, CA and Redding, CA. We are 15 minutes from Willow Creek, 1 hour from HWY 101 and 2.5 hours from I-5. Our one of a kind, 100% off-grid luxury campsites offer complete privacy and views you can't get anywhere else!   Each site is located near one of our creeks so you can enjoy the sounds of flowing water. Visit our *two* large waterfalls on a hike through 30 beautiful acres. Our light show at dusk lasts approximately 3 hours each evening because we believe that nighttime should be just as beautiful as the day. Breathtaking views of Ironside Mountain make a gorgeous backdrop for weddings, events, and photoshoots. Ask about whole property rental! Each site rental comes with shared access to modern off-grid showers, restrooms (including our very popular clawfoot tub), and an outdoor kitchen with BBQs and a wood-fired pizza oven plus public space that is Instagram worthy. Free WIFI is also included, so it is perfect for remote workers.  Check-in is contactless and simple. We only allow 2-10 guests on the property at once, so it's peaceful and quiet and feels like it's all yours! Don't wait to book because space is very limited. Treat yourself to a stay with us. Radio Ranch is the perfect place to get away from it all, while still having it all. Relax and rejuvenate at Radio Ranch. *Recommended for ages 21+. Children under 21 must be accompanied by a guardian. Pets are welcome for a small pet fee! This is an off-grid experience, meaning there are no electrical outlets. We recommend bringing a backup battery to charge devices. This experience may not be suitable for those who need electricity for medical equipment.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort

9. Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort

93%
(15)
9.6mi from French Gulch · 65 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Lewiston, CA
The Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort is located in the small mining town of Lewiston, California in Trinity County. We are within walking distance of the old single lane bridge which spans the scenic Trinity River and the historic part of Lewiston. The picturesque surroundings are one our guests enjoy immensely. Wildlife flourishes in this area, deer graciously journey through the terrain on a regular basis, eagles soar above our forested mountains, ducks, blue heron and osprey are seen regularly. For the angular enthusiast, the Trinity River provides excellent fishing opportunities for steelhead, salmon and German browns. To name a few of the pleasures that visitors can enjoy - fishing, rafting, canoeing, swimming, bicycling, hiking, gold panning, golf in Weaverville, boat rentals on Lewiston and Trinity Lake, Moose lodge, hunting, guide service which includes floating river trips, walk-in and high mountain lake wilderness trips or simply sightseeing and shopping for arts, crafts and antiques in old Historic Lewiston.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Swimming hole up Kosk Creek. "Deliciously cool" on a hot day.

13. Camp Stoney Meadows

100%
(353)
43mi from French Gulch · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Big Bend, CA
Our 120 remote acres are adjacent to Shasta Trinity National Forest in the beautiful Cascade Range between Mt. Lassen and Mt. Shasta in Northern California. It's a working ranch with tree farms, animals, hydroelectric power, sawmill, gardens, orchards, creeks, springs, trails, and our camp alongside Kosk Creek. We're 54 miles from Redding off of 299E, (about 1-1/2 hour drive). DO NOT TAKE ROAD 11 FROM THE NORTH, IT IS CLOSED! PIease try to ignore the "car art" in the Pit River Tribe's Rancheria as you're coming here. Drive right through it, it's no reflection on us. The last mile or so of the road here can be pretty rough, but on arrival, you'll know it's worth the trip! No Cell phone service available here, so it's the perfect opportunity to unplug. We do have a land line up at the house in case of an emergency. Also, if you really need it, WiFi is available at the house.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$45
 / night
Trinity Outpost Wilderness Resort

17. Trinity Outpost Wilderness Resort

98%
(507)
23mi from French Gulch · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · 122.928142, CA
Private Tent Camping: under the stars. Park at your campsite! Community areas, swimming holes, creek running through ALL campsites, shared lodge & rustic accommodations. No fee for children or dogs~ Follow for updates on IG or X @ResortTrinity Trinity Outpost Wilderness is a private campground that is committed to the land-sharing ethos of Hipcamp preserving ecology and defending habitat for wildlife and pollinators. The mineral springs and trails are open to the public during the daytime. We also host with WWOOF, we have many cultural exchange volunteers helping us bring life back to this historic land building an organic farm and sustainable community. Campground is yours to book but is also surrounded by National Forest Land which belongs to everyone. We expect zero exceptions to the leave no trace standards we have put forward for our private land share. Fall asleep stargazing under a dark sky, surrounded by trees, water and wildlife. Wake up to birds chirping then a 10 min hike to visit the Cold mineral springs bubbling out of the mountainside, attracting many types of wildlife along with people seeking out the healing properties of the sulfur scented spring water. Sacred healing mineral spring "Deadshot" named by the native peoples for its ability to cure all ailments with 'one shot'. Nipisum or 'health water' was later bottled by the California Medicinal Springs Co. after the land was homesteaded in 1886. This historic retreat rests at the foot of lower Chanchelulla 'black rock' Mountain. Bordering a Wilderness Area this land is pristine and wild inhabited by many animals and incredible bio-diversity such as Pileated Woodpeckers, Golden Eagle, Bald Eagle, Blackhawk, Goshawk, Great Horned Owl, Flying Squirrel, Pacific King Snake, Salamanders and Protected Spawning Rainbow Trout. 100+ acres with private hiking trails along the stream for easy trekking, and summit trails (climbing up to almost 6,000 ft.) to the peak. Our aim is to restore the land from the last 100 years of habitation using innovation to renovate the campground and baths for the next 100 years. With your help we hope to revitalize the community of Trinity County, as well as educate and generate support for WILDERNESS, public forest lands and the agencies that manage them.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Rock Farm Ranch

19. Rock Farm Ranch

92%
(31)
46mi from French Gulch · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Callahan, CA
IMPORTANT: I DON'T CHECK TEXTS; USE PHONE CALL: 541-301-3331 Beautiful Scott Valley, a hidden destination loved by stargazers. campers, hikers, bikers, hunters, fishers, nature lovers, rock climbers, and prospectors. Property straddles Hwy. 3 between Etna and Callahan. Hwy. 3 is not busy during the day and evening traffic drops off to almost nothing. Very rural farming/ranching area. No agricultural, ranching or spraying nearby, though. Lots of blue-green Serpentine stone here, hence the name "Rock Farm." We are an organic farm so we take care to use nontoxic agriculture. Fresh spring water provided, primitive camping and some more luxurious sites. We always make improvements. Bathroom available, haul water to flush toilet. Dark nights with no light pollution gives great sky watching. Mountain views in daytime. Very quiet at night,. Near beautiful Kangaroo Lake and Mount Shasta. Peaceful, pristine .Property for sale, all or part. Ask Nina for details. Private wooded area for primitive camping or RV. Improved sites with bathroom tables; chairs, firepit. 35 acres so you can choose the site you like. when you arrive. Mountain Views are amazing.  Swimming hole nearby.  Right off Hwy 3 between Etna and Callahan, California.  Or, camp across the street by the old wooden mill building for company. Small wetland nearby brings lots of birds to sing you awake in the morning. Open, level space great for nighttime stargazing. Property has a gate you can close at night.  One hour drive to Mt. Shasta or Ashland, Oregon. Groceries, massage, hardware store, laundry, bakery, showers, restaurants in Etna 8 miles away.  Farmer's market in Etna  Saturday morning. Not far from PCT trailhead outside of Callahan CA. If you need a ride from there, call and we'll pick you up if possible for $20. Firewood available, $1. a stick.  Near Kangaroo lake for fishing, swimming, hiking, boating. Bicycle groups and motorcycle groups going by every summer. We're at 3000 feet, so nights are cool even in summer.  Bright stars, Air fresh and clean.  Minimal mosquitos due to dry climate. We call it "RockFarm" because there's Serpentine rock here and you're welcome to collect some.  Even pan for gold and swim in Scott River nearby.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$16
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field