Whiskeytown Campgrounds to open on March 1, 2014

Date: February 26, 2014
Contact: Tricia Ford, [phone]

All primitive campgrounds at Whiskeytown National Recreation will open on March 1, 2014.The park's group campground at Dry Creek will open on May 1. "We are excited to open all backcountry sites as well as the group campground at Dry Creek for the season," stated acting park superintendent Tom Garcia. "Many of the sites contain new amenities that will enhance the camping experience for park visitors."

Whiskeytown has six primitive campgrounds with a total of twenty sites, many just steps away from a stream, such as those at Peltier Bridge, Sheep Camp, Brandy Creek and Crystal Creek.They are considered "primitive" because they do not offer running water or flush toilets.However, most sites were recently upgraded and include these amenities: a picnic table, tent pad, bear-proof storage locker and garbage cans, a fire pit with a BBQ grill, and a permanent vault toilet.Vehicles can be parked close to each site so that it is easy to unload camping equipment.

Primitive sites are issued on a first-come, first-serve basis and permits must be purchased at the Whiskeytown visitor center for $10 per night per site.A fifty percent discount is available for holders of the Senior or Access passes.All vehicles must display valid park entrance passes as well.

The reopening of reservations on March 1 for Dry Creek Group Campground is highly anticipated by numerous families who have held reunions there for as many as twenty years or more.Reservations can be made by calling 1-877-444-6777 or going to the website www.recreation.gov.The available dates for Dry Creek will be May 1 through October 31.There are two sites at Dry Creek which hold up to 50 persons per site and cost $75 per night.

The Oak Bottom Campground, operated by park concessioner Forever Resorts, remains open all year for tent or RV camping.Call 530-359-2269 for more information or reservations.