PANTHER FLAT CAMPGROUND
Six Rivers National Forest, CAPanther Flat sits along the Smith River deep in Six Rivers National Forest, where Douglas fir and cedar shade 38 sites just steps from bright blue water. This equestrian-friendly campground offers some of the area's largest parking aprons and most modern facilities, making it a solid base camp for river activities and forest exploration.
Campground Details
- 🏕️Total Sites
- 38
- 💵Fee per Night
- $15
- 📋Reservations
- Reservation Required
- 📍GPS
- 41.84306, -123.93056
- 🌤️Best Seasons
- spring, summer, fall, winter
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- No
- 📞Phone
- 707-457-3131
- 🗺️Address
- CA
Amenities
The Camp
Set in mature forest of Douglas fir, cedar, and Pacific madrone, Panther Flat keeps you close to the Smith River's famous blue waters. The campground handles both tents and RVs across multiple single-family sites plus at least one double site. Parking aprons here are notably larger than other area campgrounds, and facilities include flush toilets, coin-operated hot showers, and drinking water — amenities that make this one of the more developed options in the forest.
Each site comes with a picnic table and fire ring with grill. The forest canopy provides good shade, and huckleberry shrubs dot the understory throughout the area.
The River
The Smith River runs just a short walk from camp, offering swimming, sunbathing, and fishing opportunities. Anglers target salmon, steelhead, and cutthroat trout populations. The river also delivers whitewater action up to Class 5 rapids for those looking beyond the mellow stretches near camp.
What's Nearby
While no trailheads start directly from camp, Elk Camp Ridge, High Dome, and French Hill trailheads all sit within 10 miles. A botanical trail leads to a unique Darlingtonia bog just one mile away.
The location puts you 20 miles from both Redwood National Park and the Pacific Ocean. The Gasquet Ranger Station visitor center provides free maps and area information.
Planning Notes
Reservations are required, though some sites operate first-come, first-served. The campground runs $15 per night and stays open year-round. Summer brings the Gasquet Raft Race in July, while the Del Norte County Fair happens in August.