Sheep Camp and Brandy Creek Campgrounds- Whiskeytown National Recreation Area

I cruised through these 2 campgrounds a few days ago, scouting a potential trip for us. Sheep Camp (see right photo) is small- 4 sites, and though it is close to several trails, it lacks structure and privacy.  It looks as if campers have just driven through wherever, leaving the area denuded of vegetation, although the site could be pretty if there were actually some understory left. It is right on a dirt road, and the campsites get the dust cloud from vehicles driving by. The Brandy Creek trail is very close, and the trail to Brandy Creek Falls is just up the road.

We ended up camping later at Brandy Creek Campground (see left photo). It has just 2 sites, tucked peacefully back off the road. The 2 sites are not close together, so privacy is very good. In fact, site #2 is one of the most secluded campsites I have seen. The campground sits above the creek, and though access is possible, it is steep and inconvenient. The Brandy Creek Trail goes right through the campground, and it is also just a few miles from the Brandy Creek Falls Trail, which we hiked, and wow! It was really beautiful. Highly recommended. 

Once again, I have to add that Whiskeytown NRA is close to town, and is therefore subject to the effects of campers who come out to party. Our campsite, though nice and quiet, had some graffiti (which was scheduled to be painted over the next day), and there was plenty of broken glass around. Our kids like to collect bottle caps from each of our campsites, and we gathered more here than anywhere else!

Crystal Creek and Peltier Bridge Campgrounds-Whiskeytown National Recreation Area

Whiskeytown is our local outdoor adventure area, just a few miles from west Redding. A few years back we camped at Crystal Creek, which Whiskeytown defines as primitive camping. (There is no drinking water available.) With only 2 sites, Crystal Creek feels nice and secluded. It is right next to the creek, so it offers the kids hours of water play. There is plenty of shade, and in the summer it would be a great place to stay cool. We camped there in the fall, and it was pretty chilly in the morning without the sun to warm things up.

We have also been to Peltier Bridge several times. This is a great little campground with only 7 sites, 3 of which are walk-in (again no drinking water). It is also right on the creek, so swimming and water play are great activities. The blackberry picking can be awesome here. There are several hiking trails in the area.

That being said, it is a crap shoot as to the quality of your camping neighbors. This is close to town, and last year we had some loud, drunk neighbors that really colored the experience.

More information: http://www.nps.gov/whis/