National Park Service
U.S. Department of the Interior
Primitive Camping General Information
Whiskeytown has six primitive campgrounds with a total of eighteen sites. They are considered
“primitive” because they do not offer such amenities as running water or flush toilets.
All of these sites are located at least one mile from the lake. All are adjacent to year-round creeks.
Sites are issued on a first come, first serve basis. No reservations are available.
Primitive camping permits are available ONLY at the Visitor Center.
Drinking water is available at the Visitor Center. There is a faucet on the outside of the building to the right of the men’s restroom. Water taken from the creek is not potable and must be purified before use.
These sites are accessible by most two-wheel drive vehicles. They are located on narrow dirt roads. You can drive onto each campsite, with the exception of Sites 1, 2, and 3 at Peltier Bridge.
Many of the sites are closed during the winter.
Recreational vehicles and large trailer units are not allowed at the primitive campgrounds. Only small, pop-up tent trailers are allowed.
Campgrounds
Peltier Bridge
7 sites, each with fire pit, tent pad, picnic table, bear-proof storage locker. Vault toilets. Sites # 1, 2, and 3 are a short walk from the parking lot and your gear will have to be carried in. Located below the dam, right on Clear Creek; good opportunities for catch-and-release fishing.
Sheep Camp
4 sites, each with fire pit, tent pad, picnic table, bear-proof storage locker. Vault toilets. View of Brandy Creek from cliff-top location.
Crystal Creek
2 sites, each with fire pit, tent pad, picnic table, bear-proof storage locker. Vault toilets. Cool, shady location right on the creek.
Brandy Creek
2 sites, each with fire pit, tent pad, picnic table, bear-proof storage locker. Vault toilets. Located well above the creek, but within walking distance on the lower part of
Brandy Creek Trail.
Coggins Park
1 site with fire ring, tent pad, picnic table, small bear-proof storage locker; no toilet.
Remote location, 4-wheel-drive vehicle recommended.
Horse Camp
2 sites, each with picnic table, fire pit, 2 bear-proof storage lockers. Vault toilet.
Spigot with potable water (shut off in winter). It is the only location where horse camping is allowed, although other campers can use it as well.
Located on a well-maintained dirt road, Horse Camp is accessible to vehicles pulling horse trailers. Special arrangements may be made for camping with horses by calling the Fee Program office at (530) 242-3412.
Fees
The primitive camping fee is $10.00 per night year round.
The following will be honored for a 50% discount: Golden Age and Access Passports, and the America
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