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Del Norte County

Smith River National Recreation Area

Attractions and Places To See in Smith River National Recreation Area - Top 5

Best attractions and places to see in Smith River National Recreation Area include a diverse range of natural features. This region in California is characterized by its rivers, forests, and mountainous terrain. Visitors can explore various natural landscapes, from riverbanks to high-elevation viewpoints. The area provides opportunities to experience the local ecology and geological formations.

Best attractions and places to see in Smith River National Recreation Area

  • The most popular attractions is Myrtle Creek, a river that is located…

Last updated: April 26, 2026

Myrtle Creek

Highlight • River

Myrtle Creek is located between two major soil types providing a variety of conditions for plant life.
It's also the site of one of the earliest and most productive discoveries of gold in the area.

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Summit Valley Camp

Highlight • Rest Area

the camp area is located at a wonderful meadow with a variety of wild flowers, the camp has some old remains of a shelter so be careful with any glass or old rusted nails

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Harrington Lake

Highlight • Lake

Harrington Lake is at the base of Harrington Mountain and is well worth the hike. Pratically untouched, it's a place to disconnect from the world and appreciate nature.

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Prairie Creek Flowers

Highlight (Segment) • Forest

After the Gasquet complex fire much of the forest was lost, but new life comes afterwards. You can find all kinds of beautiful flora!

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Bear Basin Butte

Highlight • Viewpoint

At the end of this short hike there is a breath taking viewpoint from the lookout! You can see a lot of the forest down below!

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Popular around Smith River National Recreation Area

Hiking in Smith River National Recreation Area

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Scott
March 9, 2023, Harrington Lake

Harrington Lake is at the base of Harrington Mountain and is well worth the hike. Pratically untouched, it's a place to disconnect from the world and appreciate nature.

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the camp area is located at a wonderful meadow with a variety of wild flowers, the camp has some old remains of a shelter so be careful with any glass or old rusted nails

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Scott
March 8, 2023, Myrtle Creek

Myrtle Creek is located between two major soil types providing a variety of conditions for plant life. It's also the site of one of the earliest and most productive discoveries of gold in the area.

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0

Scott
March 3, 2023, Bear Basin Butte

At the end of this short hike there is a breath taking viewpoint from the lookout! You can see a lot of the forest down below!

0

0

After the Gasquet complex fire much of the forest was lost, but new life comes afterwards. You can find all kinds of beautiful flora!

0

0

Frequently Asked Questions

What natural features can I explore in Smith River National Recreation Area?

The region offers a diverse range of natural features, including rivers, forests, and mountainous terrain. You can visit Myrtle Creek, known for its varied plant life, or explore Harrington Lake, nestled at the base of Harrington Mountain. The area is rich in natural landscapes to discover.

Are there any historical sites or points of interest in the area?

Yes, Myrtle Creek is notable as the site of one of the earliest and most productive gold discoveries in the region, offering a glimpse into the area's past.

What are some family-friendly attractions in Smith River National Recreation Area?

Families can enjoy the meadow at Summit Valley Camp, which features a variety of wildflowers. Exploring the diverse flora at Prairie Creek Flowers can also be an engaging activity for all ages.

Where can I find scenic viewpoints in the region?

For breathtaking views, head to Bear Basin Butte. After a short hike, you'll reach a lookout offering expansive views of the forest below. Harrington Lake also provides a natural setting for appreciating the environment.

What kind of plant life can I expect to see?

The area is home to diverse flora. At Myrtle Creek, you'll find varied plant life due to its unique soil conditions. Summit Valley Camp boasts a meadow with a variety of wildflowers, and Prairie Creek Flowers is known for its beautiful flora that emerged after a past fire.

Are there opportunities for hiking near these attractions?

Yes, Smith River National Recreation Area offers various hiking opportunities. You can find easy trails like Stout Memorial Grove Trail or Hiouchi Trail, as well as moderate options such as Devil's Punchbowl Trail. For more details and routes, explore the hiking guide for Smith River National Recreation Area.

Can I go cycling in Smith River National Recreation Area?

Yes, there are cycling routes available. You can find options like the Oregon - California Border – Crescent City loop or a bike loop from Redwood National and State Parks. For detailed cycling routes and information, refer to the cycling guide for Smith River National Recreation Area.

What do visitors particularly enjoy about the attractions here?

Visitors appreciate the untouched natural beauty and the chance to disconnect. For instance, Harrington Lake is valued for its pristine environment, offering a place to truly appreciate nature. The diverse plant life and scenic viewpoints are also highly regarded.

Are there any less-known spots or "hidden gems" worth visiting?

Many consider Harrington Lake a hidden gem, being practically untouched and offering a serene escape. The new life and beautiful flora found at Prairie Creek Flowers after the Gasquet complex fire also present a unique and less-traveled experience.

When is the best time to visit Smith River National Recreation Area?

The Smith River National Recreation Area is generally pleasant during spring and summer when wildflowers are in bloom and the weather is mild, making it ideal for exploring the natural attractions and outdoor activities.

Are there any easy trails suitable for a relaxed walk?

Absolutely. The area offers several easy trails perfect for a relaxed walk, such as Stout Memorial Grove Trail, Hiouchi Trail, and Craigs Creek Trail. You can find more details on these and other easy routes in the Easy Hikes guide for Smith River National Recreation Area.

Most popular routes in Smith River National Recreation Area

Hiking in Smith River National Recreation Area

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