Cities and Towns in Del Norte County, California
Founded in 1857, Del Norte County is one of 58 counties in the state of California. Historically, Del Norte County was formed from Klamath. The city of Crescent City is the county seat. With FIPS code of 15, Del Norte County has a population of 28,100 and area of 1,008 square miles (2,611 km²).
List of all cities in Del Norte County, CA alphabetically
| City/Town | Postal Code | Area Code |
| Crescent City, CA | 95531 | 707 |
| 95532 | 707 | |
| 95538 | 707 | |
| Fort Dick, CA | 95538 | 707 |
| Gasquet, CA | 95543 | 707 |
| Klamath, CA | 95548 | 707 |
| Klamath Air Force Station, CA | 95548 | 707 |
| Northcrest, CA | 95531 | 707 |
| Pelican Bay State Prison, CA | 95532 | 707 |
| Smith River, CA | 95567 | 707 |
Major Cities and Towns in Del Norte County, California
Crescent City
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 2.4 square miles
- Population: Approximately 6,676 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 95531
- Latitude: 41.7558° N
- Longitude: 124.2026° W
Location and History
Crescent City is the county seat and largest city in Del Norte County, located on the rugged northern California coast near the Oregon border. The city was founded in 1853 and quickly developed into a key port for shipping timber, fish, and agricultural products. Crescent City’s harbor, protected by a naturally crescent-shaped sandy beach, became a vital hub for trade in the region. The town’s location along the Pacific coast made it vulnerable to tsunamis, with significant events occurring in 1964 and 2011. Despite these challenges, Crescent City has maintained its status as an important coastal community, with a strong emphasis on fishing, tourism, and its connection to the nearby Redwood National and State Parks.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Crescent City is served by the Del Norte County Unified School District, with Del Norte High School being the primary educational institution. The city’s major landmarks include the Battery Point Lighthouse, one of the oldest lighthouses on the West Coast, which is accessible during low tide and offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. The nearby Redwood National and State Parks, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are a major attraction, drawing visitors from around the world to see the towering coastal redwoods. Crescent City’s harbor, known for its commercial fishing fleet and seafood processing, is another key feature of the community. The city’s combination of historical significance, natural beauty, and maritime culture makes it a central part of Del Norte County.
Smith River
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 3.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 866 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 95567
- Latitude: 41.9282° N
- Longitude: 124.1434° W
Location and History
Smith River is a small, unincorporated community located in the northern part of Del Norte County, near the Oregon border. The town is named after the nearby Smith River, one of the last major undammed rivers in California, known for its crystal-clear waters and pristine environment. Smith River was originally settled by Native American tribes, particularly the Tolowa people, who have lived in the area for thousands of years. In the 19th century, the town grew as a center for agriculture, particularly dairy farming and later, lily bulb cultivation, which remains a significant part of the local economy today. Smith River is known for its scenic landscapes, outdoor recreational opportunities, and close-knit community.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Smith River is served by the Del Norte County Unified School District, with Smith River Elementary School providing education to local students. The town’s major landmarks include the Tolowa Dunes State Park, which offers access to coastal dunes, wetlands, and hiking trails that showcase the area’s natural beauty. The Smith River National Recreation Area, located nearby, provides opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and camping along the river’s wild and scenic stretches. The Lucky 7 Casino, operated by the Tolowa Dee-ni’ Nation, is another key attraction in the area, offering gaming, dining, and entertainment options. Smith River’s combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and outdoor activities make it a unique community in Del Norte County.
Gasquet
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 10.1 square miles
- Population: Approximately 661 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 95543
- Latitude: 41.8391° N
- Longitude: 123.9672° W
Location and History
Gasquet is a small, unincorporated community located along the Smith River in the eastern part of Del Norte County, within the Six Rivers National Forest. The town was founded in the mid-19th century by Horace Gasquet, a Frenchman who established a trading post and hotel to serve travelers and miners during the California Gold Rush. Gasquet’s remote location in the mountains made it an important stop for those heading to the goldfields in the interior of Northern California. The town has maintained its small, rural character, with a focus on outdoor recreation and tourism. Today, Gasquet is known for its proximity to the Smith River and the surrounding national forests, making it a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in nature.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Gasquet is part of the Del Norte County Unified School District, with students typically attending schools in Crescent City. The town’s major landmarks include the Patrick Creek Lodge, a historic inn that has served travelers since the early 1900s, offering lodging and dining in a rustic setting. The Six Rivers National Forest provides ample opportunities for hiking, fishing, and camping, with the Gasquet-Orleans Road offering scenic drives through the forested mountains. The nearby Siskiyou Wilderness Area is another attraction, offering rugged terrain and pristine wilderness for more adventurous visitors. Gasquet’s combination of historical significance, natural beauty, and outdoor activities make it an important community in Del Norte County.
Klamath
Area, Population, and Geographic Coordinates
- Area: 12.5 square miles
- Population: Approximately 779 (as of 2020)
- Zip Codes: 95548
- Latitude: 41.5230° N
- Longitude: 124.0342° W
Location and History
Klamath is a small, unincorporated community located along the Klamath River in the southern part of Del Norte County, near the Pacific Ocean. The town is named after the Klamath River, one of the most important rivers in the region, which has historically supported the local Native American tribes, particularly the Yurok people. Klamath was originally established as a fishing and logging community, with the river providing a vital transportation route for timber and other goods. The town has experienced significant challenges, including the devastating flood of 1964, which destroyed much of the original townsite. Despite these setbacks, Klamath has remained an important cultural and economic center for the Yurok Tribe and continues to attract visitors for its natural beauty and outdoor recreational opportunities.
Major Schools and Landmarks
Klamath is served by the Del Norte County Unified School District, with Margaret Keating Elementary School being the primary educational institution. The town’s major landmarks include the Trees of Mystery, a popular tourist attraction featuring towering redwoods, a gondola ride through the forest canopy, and the End of the Trail Museum, which showcases Native American artifacts and history. The Klamath River, known for its excellent fishing and scenic beauty, is another key attraction, offering opportunities for salmon and steelhead fishing, as well as rafting and kayaking. The nearby Redwood National and State Parks provide additional opportunities for hiking and exploring the ancient redwood forests. Klamath’s combination of cultural heritage, natural beauty, and recreational activities make it a significant community in Del Norte County.
Map of Cities in Del Norte County, CA
