Klamath River Beach
Klamath, CA
Klamath River Beach sits where California's second largest river meets the Pacific, a dark sand beach shaped by whatever the river is doing that season. Salmon fishing draws the regulars here more than swimming does, and the view back up the gorge toward Requa is part of the draw.
A genuinely dramatic river mouth setting, though it's a fishing and scenery stop more than a beach day.
How we score beachesCome for the river mouth scenery and fishing more than a swim, the current and cold water here aren't built for casual wading.
Free parking is available; the CCC lists a lot here but doesn't specify its size.
The path from parking to the sand isn't documented in detail, so allow extra time and expect uneven ground near the river mouth.
Dogs are not permitted on the beach at the mouth of the Klamath River; leashed pets are only allowed at the nearby Klamath River Overlook viewpoint.
Fall brings the salmon run and the busiest fishing traffic, while summer keeps the usual north coast fog pattern. Water here is a mix of river and ocean currents, cold year round.
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