Sam Brown Campground

About

Sam Brown Campground sits in the Briggs Valley area of the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest, surrounded by a meadow that once served miners and homesteaders. The 19 campsites each have a picnic table and fire pit, with three vault toilets serving the area. No potable water is available, so campers must bring their own supply. There is no trash service; pack out everything you pack in. The campground functions as a hub for backcountry exploration. Briggs Creek Trail #1132 begins at the campground, and nearby trails include Taylor Creek Trail #1142, Onion Way Trail #1157, Secret Way Trail #1282, and Dutchy Creek Trail #1154. The Elkhorn Mine Jeep Road offers motorized access to the surrounding area. Activities range from hiking and mountain biking to horseback riding and motorcycle riding. Two picnic shelters and an amphitheater accommodate group gatherings, making this a popular destination for organized outings. The meadow offers excellent wildlife watching, with deer, elk, and numerous bird species frequenting the area. Briggs Creek flows through before joining the Illinois River. The adjacent Sam Brown Horse Camp provides facilities specifically for equestrian campers.

Directions

From Interstate 5, take Exit 61 at Merlin. Follow Merlin-Galice Road approximately 12 miles to Briggs Valley Road (Forest Road 25). Continue on FR 25 approximately 15 miles to Forest Road 2512, turn right, and the campground is on the left about 0.5 miles up the road.