Trinity River campgrounds, along State Route 299 in California, have opened for the summer camping season. These sites, which do not require reservations, operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
According to a press release, Jennifer Mata, manager of the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Redding Field Office, explained the recreational opportunities available at these locations. “These are beautiful spots with great river access for fishing, boating, swimming, and other water sports,” Mata said.
The Douglas City Campground, located just west of Douglas City, provides 23 sites suitable for tents and trailers. Campers have access to flush toilets, showers, drinking water, picnic tables, and campfire rings. A notable feature is its riverbank beach. Campsites are available at $20 per night for up to two vehicles, with each additional vehicle costing $6 per night, space permitting.
Mata added: “Camping along the Trinity River is a great way for families to connect with nature and learn about the natural wonders to be found on our public lands.
West of Junction City, the Junction City Campground offers 21 sites for tents and trailers. Nearby, the more secluded Steel Bridge Campground, situated about six miles east of Douglas City, features 11 campsites. Both locations are equipped with vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings, although they do not offer drinking water. The fee for both campgrounds is $15 per site per night for two vehicles, with an additional $6 nightly fee per extra vehicle.
In the Shasta Lake area, the Shasta Campground provides excellent access to the Chappie-Shasta Off-Highway Vehicle Area. This campground, which remains open year-round, includes 27 sites with vault toilets, drinking water, picnic tables, and campfire rings. The cost is $20 per site per night, accommodating up to two vehicles with a $6 fee for each additional vehicle.
This year, the BLM has increased the fees at these campgrounds. The additional revenue will be reinvested in the maintenance and operation of these sites.
RV owners and campground operators can glean important insights from BLM’s approach to customer service and facility management at the Trinity River campgrounds.
The BLM’s emphasis on maintaining amenities such as flush toilets, showers, and picnic areas, coupled with the strategic setting of fees to reinvest in these facilities, shows a commitment to enhancing the visitor experience. RV parks and private campgrounds can adopt similar practices by transparently reinvesting fees into their amenities, thereby ensuring guests receive value for their money and have compelling reasons to return.