Six Rivers National Forest

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General Information

The Six Rivers National Forest is located north-west of Sacramento north-west of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. The Forest gets its name from the fact that there are six major rivers that run within its boundaries: the Smith, Klamath, Trinity, Mad, Van Duzen, and EelSix Rivers. The forest encompasses approximately 950,000 acres of forest and 130,000 acres of private and state ownership.

There are seemingly endless number of possible recreational activities at the forest. Some of them include bicycling, camping, hiking, horseback riding, hunting, nature Viewing, outdoor Learning, picnicking, scenic driving, and many water based activities such as fishing, boating, kayaking, etc.

Trailheads

We currently do not have any record of trailheads in this park.

Routes and Trails You Can Travel

We currently do not have any record of good routes in this park.

Hiking

Trails

Climate and Weather

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History

Wildlife

Birds

Trees

Flowers

Other Plants

The forest is home to a few especially reserved botanical areas. Visitors are welcome in the botanical areas, but are asked to be very careful where they step,and not to pick any plants of flowers.

One of the botanical areas is at the North Fork Smith River. The forested area in the hills and ridges with higher elevation in the surroundings is made up largely of Jeffrey, Lodgepole and Knobcone pine stands.

Most of the low-lying area is made up of serpentine soils which are high in metals, low in nutrients, and therefore toxic to most plants. The plants that thrive in these soils have adapted to harsh environment.

Another botanical area is the Horse Mountain which is just over a thousand acres. This is an area of rolling hills and open forests. The trees do not grow very densely due to the very tough conditions of the area. The harsh California sun and the strong and constant winds coming from the ocean make it very difficult for vegetation to be able to thrive. Additionally, the soil of the area isn't optimal for growth of forests.

Visitors of the forests who love flowers should visit the Port Orford cedar communities. During spring, delicate fawn lilies emerge.

Camping Possibilities

Other Information

The Klamath River passes throught the Six River Forest. The Klamath River is a very big river. In fact, it is the second largest and longest river in California. The big river adds a great dimension to the forest as there are many water-based recreational activities that become possible, especially in nice weather. The river is popular for boating, kayaking, and simply hanging out on the beaches with the family and doing some nice swimming.

The Klamath River is also popular with people who enjoy fishing. Some of the fish in the river are Chinook (King Salmon), coho (Silver Salmon), and steelhead.

Parking

The forest is so big that it is difficult to account for all the parking areas that are available. There are different destinations to drive to. Fishing spots have not only parking, but also accesible ramps to unloads your boats.

Many of the trails at the forest have trailheads with parking lots and visitor centers. For people who are camping in the forest, the campgrounds have parking for a few cars per camp spot.

Driving Directions

Park Map