Description - The community of Orleans is located along the Klamath river about 90 miles east of the Eureka / Arcata area via Highway 96 and 299. The District is one of four on the Six Rivers National Forest, encompassing approximately 500,000 acres. The district is about 30 miles from the Northern Coast of California and subsequently under a coastal influence that produces a long summer season.
Attractions
- Orleans Ranger District has a variety of outdoor recreations. There are six seasonal and two year-round campgrounds. Developed campgrounds are equipped with vault or flush toilets, fire rings and / or stoves, tables, parking for two vehicles, and drinking water (unless otherwise noted). Electrical hookups are not provided. Group sites at Crystal Springs are reservable by calling the District office (see Contact Information for phone number). All other sites and campgrounds are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. There is a 14-day limit for occupying a campground, and pets on leashes are permitted. Fishing opportunities abound on the Orleans District. Blue Lake lies in a beautiful mountain setting at an elevation of 2,700 feet surrounded by mature trees and ferns. Blue Lake is connected to Fish Lake via a 3.7-mile trail system. Blue Lake is stocked with rainbow trout. Fish Lake (via the linked trail system) joins with Blue Lake and Red Mountain Lake. Lying at an elevation of 1,712 feet, the 0.6-mile long lake is set in a pristine mountain setting. The lake is stocked with a variety of fish and a boat ramp can be found on the northeast side. Species include bluegill, brook and rainbow trout; smallmouth bass was introduced several years ago. The spectacular Klamath River is both the second largest and second longest river in California. The River makes its way through over 200 miles both the Cascade and Coast Mountain Ranges offering many recreation opportunities to its visitors. Summer months bring rafters and tubers to the area and jet boat rides are offered out of the town of Klamath. The river is renowned for its fishing opportunities of Chinook (King Salmon), and steelhead. The Orleans District has twenty documented trails to choose from. Trail destinations range from the scenic beauty of the Siskiyou Wilderness high country to short fishing trails leading to one of the many lakes and creeks in the Orleans District. Six Rivers National Forest is home to many beautiful botanical areas. These areas are protected contain rare and endangered plants and flowers. Please respect these areas during your visit.
Recreation - Paddle sports and fishing on the river and hiking in the neighboring forests and meadows provide recreation opportunities on Orleans Ranger District. Climate - Temperatures in the winter may drop into the 40s and 50s with occasional snow at the higher altitudes. The rainy season runs from October to April. Summers are dry with temperatures reaching 100 degrees. Location -
The community of Orleans is located along the Klamath River about 90 miles east of the Eureka / Arcata area via Highway 96 and 299. The Orleans Ranger District of Six Rivers National Forest is located directly east of Redwood National Park. Ranger Station: 38 miles northwest of Willow Creek off State Route 96.
Aikens Creek West: 5 miles northeast of Weitchpec off State Route 96.
Fish Lake: 17 miles southwest of Orleans off State Route 96.
Big Bar River Access: 7 miles southwest of Orleans off State Route 96.
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