Tomhead Saddle Campground

About

Tomhead Saddle Campground sits at roughly 5,640 feet elevation on the edge of the Yolla Bolly-Middle Eel Wilderness in the South Fork Trinity River region of Shasta-Trinity National Forest. This small, primitive campground with just 5 tent-only sites is designed for wilderness explorers and equestrians who need a staging area before venturing into the backcountry. The campground features basic amenities including vault toilets, picnic tables at each site, and fire rings. No potable water is available, so campers must bring their own supply. A key feature for horse packers is the stock facilities, which include corrals and hitching areas. The Tomhead Saddle Trailhead provides direct access into the wilderness. This is a free, first-come first-served campground with no reservations accepted. Access requires navigating approximately 25 miles of gravel road from Highway 36, so a high-clearance vehicle is recommended. Due to elevation and road conditions, the campground is typically only accessible during summer and early fall months.

Directions

From I-5, exit to Highway 36 and travel west. Go 13.2 miles west on Highway 36 to Cannon Road. Turn left and travel approximately 23.5 miles on this gravel road (the name changes to Pettijohn Road). Continue past the National Forest boundary sign for another 1.6 miles to road 27N06. Turn left and travel about 1 mile to the campground.