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BLM Camping

Steel Bridge Campground

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

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Steel Bridge Campground

Across California, the Bureau of Land Management protects roughly 10 million acres, conserving a wide range of the state’s most scenic landscapes. While there are numerous campgrounds throughout California, Bureau of Land Management campgrounds provide a rustic and affordable way to appreciate nature. As you search for BLM camping near me in the northern region of the state, Steel Bridge Campground is a stunning option to consider. This campground places you 84 miles from Lassen Volcanic National Park, 131 miles from Redwood National Park and 340 miles from Yosemite National Park. Steel Bridge Campground is located close to Douglas City in the Trinity National Forest along the banks of the Trinity River. In this area, the winters are often wet and mild, and the summers are usually dry and hot. Depending on the season when you visit, activities like rock climbing, backpacking, hiking, fishing, and boating are great ways to enjoy the landscape.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Pacific Crest Trail

The Pacific Crest Trail runs from Washington to Southern California, and a portion of the trail crosses through the Trinity National Forest. It is well-suited for hiking, biking, backpacking, and horseback riding. Length: 2,650 miles Intensity: Moderate

Sisson-Callahan National Recreation Trail

The Sisson-Callahan National Recreation Trail takes you by the Sacramento River and through Deadfall Lakes Basin. While portions of the trail are relatively flat and easy to pass, there are also dramatic elevation changes that make this an arduous yet rewarding trail to enjoy. Length: 12 miles Intensity: Difficult

South Fork National Recreation Trail

A portion of the South Fork National Recreation Trail follows an old wagon road and features several footbridges to navigate over the river. This section of the trail has a minimal elevation change and is suitable for both hiking and mountain biking. The other stretch of the South Fork National National Recreation Trail is not heavily used. Length: 21 miles Intensity: Easy

Fishing and Boating

Whether you are interested in fishing, kayaking, boating, rafting, or swimming, numerous waterways are located close to Steel Bridge Campground that can accommodate your plans. The Shasta River and the Trinity River are both popular destinations because of their long shorelines, smooth waters, and abundant wildlife. Other areas to consider are McCloud Reservoir and Iron Canyon Reservoir.

Climbing

While you enjoy Bureau of Land Management free camping at Steel Bridge Campground, you will be in a prime location for mountain climbing and rock climbing. Mt. Shasta Wilderness is home to both Mt. Shasta and Shastina. Many climbs are in the backcountry and are technical. Castle Crags Wilderness is also popular for climbing with both granite spires and canyons. You can also visit Pinnacles National Park to climb Machete Ridge.

Wildlife Viewing

Steel Bridge Campground and surrounding areas are teeming with wildlife. While you are hiking, climbing, or enjoying other outdoor activities, you may spot elk, bobcats, mountain lions, jackrabbits, squirrels, chipmunks, river otters, foxes, coyotes, skunks, black bears, and deer. There are several designated wildlife viewing areas in the Trinity National Forest, and these include Coots Roost, White’s Bar, Jones Valley, and Packers Bay.

Picnicking

At Steel Bridge Campground, many of the sites have a picnic table, so you can easily enjoy meals outdoors steps from your RV. There are also numerous popular picnicking areas throughout the region, including at the nearby state and national parks. Within the Trinity National Forest, Cedar Flat in the Big Bar area has several spots with proximity to the river. Bailey Cove is located on Shasta Lake’s McCloud River Arm and offers restrooms, picnic tables, and other amenities. One of the many other picnic spots in the area is Pine Cove, which is on Lewiston Lake. It has picnic tables, restrooms, and a boat ramp.

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

The 13 campsites available at Steel Bridge Campground are ideally located on the banks of the Trinity River. These sites are suitable for tents as well as trailers that are less than 20 feet long. The fee is $5 nightly, and reservations are not available. When RV camping at Steel Bridge Campground, you will have access to bear boxes and vault toilets. Hookups and potable water are not available.

Free Camping

In addition to Steel Bridge Campground and other Bureau of Land Management Campgrounds in the Trinity National Forest, dispersed camping is available in most areas throughout this protected area. When you take advantage of Bureau of Land Management free camping, you must be at least 200 feet from roads, trails, and designated campgrounds. You also must remove all of your trash and waste and pay attention to campfire restrictions.

RV Rentals Near Steel Bridge Campground Plan your next adventure

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Steel Bridge Campground BLM trip

With only a few campsites in the area and a riverfront location, Steel Bridge Campground is the perfect place for your home away from home. Before your arrival, ensure that your RV will meet the size restriction of 20 feet or less. Because no reservations are accepted, you should arrive early in the day and have a backup plan in the event the campground is full. There may be times when campfires are prohibited, so you should research this ahead of your arrival and plan your meal prep accordingly. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

One aspect of the Bureau of Land Management’s mission is to preserve the beauty and wildlife habitats of the lands that it protects. While the BLM offers dispersed camping throughout much of the Trinity National Forest and beyond, those who enjoy the serenity of the wilderness must comply with the BLM’s “Leave No Trace” ethical principle. Visitors and campers must avoid interacting with wildlife and disturbing natural habitats. They also must abide by camping rules for the specific area and remove all waste and trash before they leave.