For local information call Orleans Ranger District: (530) 627-3291
Note: If you plan to use a GPS navigation system or online mapping service, please use in conjunction with the driving directions we provide below.
All-Outdoors Cal-Salmon trips usually start at 9:00 am, but keep in mind that meet times may vary. Please refer to the information sent to you in your Trip Confirmation email, check with your group’s organizer, or contact our office. Plan to be on time; guests that arrive late may miss their trip.
The fastest route from the San Francisco Bay Area is I-5 to Hwy 299
Other possible routes:
From the coast - Hwy 101 to Hwy 299 East (at Arcata) to Hwy 96 East (at Willow Creek)
From Oregon - I-5 South to Hwy 96 West (north of Yreka)
We encourage you to print and use our driving directions and not rely strictly on GPS navigation. GPS / cellular service is limited to nonexistent in outlying areas.
Driving Distances and Times to Meeting Place From:
San Francisco to Redding: 220 mi/ 3.5 hrs
San Francisco to Arcata: 280 mi/ 5 hrs
Medford, OR to Hwy 96 jct near Yreka: 40 mi/ 40 min
Redding to Somes Bar: 145 mi/ 3 hrs
Arcata to Somes Bar: 85 mi/ 2 hrs
Yreka to Somes Bar: 105 mi/ 2.5 hrs
Happy Camp to Somes Bar: 40 mi/ 1 hr
Orleans to Somes Bar: 8 mi/12 min
These are approximate mileages and driving times and do not take into account any delays or stops. Please allow a little extra time to assure correct arrival time to the meeting place. Thank you!
Please note that due to the remote location of our meet place, the number and quality of nearby accommodations is limited.
Enjoy wilderness and seclusion at this Ranch located along the Klamath River. Cabin rentals are available which can accommodate up to four people. Each cabin has a covered outdoor deck and a fully equipped kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom. Enjoy their private sandy beach and swimming hole access on Pearch Creek. About 20 minutes from the AO meet place.
Enjoy luxury cabins in the small town of Willow Creek, about 70 minutes away from the AO meet place. The 6 cottages have modern accommodations including TV and wifi. Each cottage has its own private outdoor area with porches and BBQ area.
Situated on scenic Highway 96 just south of the town of Orleans, there are 3 cabins and 1 lodge apartment that can accommodate up to 8 people. Full kitchenette, pool, croquet, and fishing opportunities along the nearby Klamath River. About 20 minutes from the AO meet place.
This hotel is located near the Hwy 101 and Hwy 299 junction making it a convenient overnight spot for guests coming from the coast. You can enjoy their complimentary breakfast and beverage areas, snack shop, fitness center and indoor pool. About 1 hour and 45 minutes away from the AO meet place.
Located on the I-5 and Hwy 299 junction, about halfway between the Bay Area and the AO meet place, Redding is a good choice for those guests wanting to split their driving evenly between the day before and day off the rafting trip. This downtown hotel was recently renovated and offers large rooms with all the modern amenities. About 3 hours and 15 minutes from the AO meet place.
This beautiful and secluded campground is in the heart of the Salmon River whitewater area and is only about 20 minutes from the AO meet place. There are 12 first come, first served sites. Vault toilets and no potable water. Group sites require a reservation.
Located along the Salmon River and less than 5 minutes away from the AO meet place, this campground contains 26 reservable tent sites. Vault toilet and drinking water available. The small town of Somes Bar is only 2.5 miles away.
Real-time, up to the hour flow information is available for the California Salmon on our Updated River Conditions page.
The important thing to remember about the weather in the Sierra Foothills is that it can change on short notice. It is always best to be prepared for any kind of weather situation.
Seasonal patterns do exist. In April and May, days are generally breezy and warm (60-70 degrees). Nights can be in the 50's; generally cooler during the earlier spring trips. The summer months are usually hot and dry (85-100 degrees). Night temperatures can range from the low 60's to the low 70's.
Even though these patterns exist, it is not uncommon to get a 90 degree day in May and a breezy, rainy day in June or July. It is always important to bring sun protection and cold weather gear to the river. You can decide which is most appropriate once you have arrived
For specific questions, contact our Reservations office at (800) 247-2387.
California Salmon Somes Bar, CAGet season updates, latest rafting videos & blogs, plus enter to Win a Free Trip for Two! Learn more