Redwood Empire Council · Est. 1949

The forest remembers every fire you built there.

For over 75 years, Camp Riggs Johnston has been the place where young leaders find their voice — on the banks of the Eel River, beneath old-growth redwoods, surrounded by sky.

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75+

Years of Service

400

Acres of Forest

Eel

River Frontage

Camp Riggs Johnston surrounded by redwood forest along the Eel River

Scout Leadership

Built on the job, earned in the field

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Our Story

A tradition of outdoor leadership that runs as deep as the redwoods

Named for Elk River Scout Camp, Camp Riggs Johnston sits on the banks of the Eel River in the heart of Northern California's redwood country. Operated by the Redwood Empire Council of the Boy Scouts of America, the camp has served generations of scouts and adult leaders since 1949.

The 400-acre campus offers a rare combination of river access, old-growth forest, and open meadows — the kind of landscape that turns a weekend into a turning point. Programs here are built around the Scout method: learning by doing, leading by example, and growing through shared challenge.

400

Acres of protected forest land

1949

Year established

Eel

River swimming & fishing

Redwood Empire Council

Camp Experiences

Programs that shape young leaders

From wilderness survival to river expeditions, every program at Camp Riggs is designed to challenge, inspire, and build confidence through real outdoor experience.

Backpacking trail through redwood forest

Outdoor

Backpacking & Wilderness

Multi-day treks through ancient redwood groves and coastal ranges. Scouts earn advancement requirements while learning Leave No Trace ethics.

Water

River Programs

Canoeing, kayaking, and fishing on the Eel River. Swim beach and waterfront activities teach water safety and teamwork on the water.

Tradition

Campfire & Ceremony

Evening programs around the campfire — skits, songs, and the closing ceremony that have been part of camp life for decades.

Outdoor crafting and knot-tying activity

Skills

Outdoor Skills

Knot tying, map and compass navigation, outdoor cooking, and first aid — hands-on skills that build independence and self-reliance.

Leadership

Leader Training

Adult leader training sessions and committee meetings held on campus. Develop the skills to run safer, more effective troop meetings and trips.

Cabin and campsite at Camp Riggs Johnston

Camping

Overnight Camping

Tent sites, cabin accommodations, and a central dining hall. Bring your troop, team, or group for a full weekend or week-long resident camp.

The Campus

Built for groups, designed for adventure

Camp Riggs Johnston is purpose-built for scout camping and group outdoor education. The campus layout keeps units organized while giving every group access to the natural features that make this camp special.

Multiple tent sites spread across forested and meadow areas
Central dining hall for group meals and indoor programs
Swim beach and waterfront program area on the Eel River
Campfire circle and amphitheater for evening programs
Access to hiking trails through old-growth redwood forest

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Camp Riggs Johnston dining hall and tent areas

Your next camp session starts with a conversation

Whether you're planning a troop camping trip, a leadership training event, or a summer resident camp, we'd love to hear from you. Reach out and we'll help you make it happen.

(707) 443-8345 Get Directions

Find Us

On the banks of the Eel River

Located just west of Fortuna in Humboldt County, Camp Riggs Johnston is accessible from U.S. Highway 101 and surrounded by some of Northern California's most scenic forest land.

Address

4200 Wrigley Rd
Fortuna, CA 95503

Phone

(707) 443-8345

Season

Year-round facility
Peak season: May – September

Note: Camp Riggs Johnston is operated by the Redwood Empire Council, BSA. Group reservations and program inquiries should be directed through the council office.