Nordheimer Group Sites

Overview Nordheimer Group Sites are in a Douglas-fir and hardwood forest close to the Wild and Scenic California Salmon River. Roads and parking areas are gravel. Group sites A, B, and C have large grassy meadows surrounded by forest. Site D overlooks the Salmon River with a short hike access for boaters and swimmers. Sites A, B and C all have accessible double vault restrooms, while Site D has one accessible vault restroom. Picnic tables and fire rings with grills are provided at each site. Popular activities include swimming, sunbathing, whitewater rafting, kayaking, hiking, wildlife and scenery viewing, fishing, and biking.

Nordheimer is in the heart of the Salmon River whitewater area. Rafting activities begin in the spring and continue until the water levels drop in early summer. Remnants from historic mining operations can still be seen in this remote but beautiful camping area. A few fruit trees remain from past homesteading activities. Nordheimer is a must for those seeking beauty and seclusion. Boat trailer access to the river’s edge is available through the main campground for 4x4 vehicles. The main campground also offers spacious single fee sites on a first-come first-served basis.

See the "Getting Here" section for road information.

Recreation The Salmon River is a popular area for swimming and sunbathing, rafting and kayaking. The region is also popular for hiking and biking. The Orleans Mountain Trail begins nearby. Facilities The campground offers four group sites, each able to accommodate up to 50 guests. The sites are equipped with vault toilets, picnic tables, and campfire rings with grills. The main campground offers single fee sites on a first-come first-served basis. Roads and parking areas are gravel. A courtesy local or prepaid landline telephone is located at the entrance to the main campground. There is no cellular service near this remote site.

Natural Features The campground is located in a Douglas fir and hardwood forest, which provides partial shade throughout the day. A few fruit trees remain from past homesteading activities. A variety of wildlife makes its home around the Salmon River area. Sites A, B, and C have large grassy meadows, surrounded by forest. Site D overlooks the Salmon River with easy hiking access for boaters and swimmers. The Marble Mountain Wilderness is located nearby with beautiful views of the mountains and numerous trailheads to access them.

Nearby Attractions The Marble Mountain Wilderness Area is adjacent to the campground, with ample hiking and horseback riding opportunities available, as well as high country fishing in any of the area's 89 lakes.

From California State Highway 96, turn onto Salmon River Road/Forest Highway 93 and continue about 13 miles to the campground. The first 7 miles are a narrow winding two lane road. At Butler Creek, the second half of this route narrows further to one lane with tight corners and sheer cliffs high above the river. Fallen rocks on the roadway are common. Long trailers, RVs, and large trucks are discouraged. There is no cellular service near this remote area.