Panther Flat Campground

About

Panther Flat Campground sits in the vast Six Rivers National Forest in northern California, just steps from the Smith River, famous for its bright blue waters and scenic pathway through the forest. The campground is the largest and most popular in the Smith River National Recreation Area with 38 campsites located on a flat about 50 feet above the Middle Fork. Trees shade the campground and lush huckleberry bushes fill in the area between sites. While there are no views of the river from the campsites, a short three-minute walk down the trail leads to the Panther Flat Picnic Area for river viewing and access. The picnic area features grills, water, a horseshoe pit, and picnic tables with a view of the Smith River and excellent fishing. Two short paths lead from the picnic area to swimming holes, one with a small sandy beach. Popular activities include swimming, sunbathing, rafting, and fishing with healthy populations of salmon, steelhead, and cutthroat trout. Visitors also enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and biking in the area. A botanical trail to a unique Darlingtonia bog is just a mile away, and Redwood National Park and the Pacific Ocean are within 20 miles.

Directions

From Highway 101 north of Crescent City, California, take Highway 199 east for 16 miles to the campground. From the Visitor Center in Gasquet, turn left on Highway 199 and go 2.5 miles east.