Smith River’s emerald waters and deep canyons are the heart of the 305,000-acre Smith River National Recreation Area.

  The special designation was developed to protect the natural diversity, cultural and historical attributes, along with the wildlife and fisheries of the Smith River watershed. The 315-mile-long river is one of the longest undammed rivers in the country and the last undammed river in California.

  The town and river’s namesake was Jedediah Smith — a famed mountain man who crossed the area in 1828. Around 2,000 people call Smith River home, and some are direct descendants of the area’s founding families.

  Smith River is located just north of Crescent City and 13 miles south of the Oregon border. The weather in Smith River is a highly prized attribute because the town frequently experiences cooling coastal fog but also gets the summer warmth that rarely graces area beaches.

  The weather has helped Smith River get its name as being the Easter lily capital of the world. The Del Norte bulb farms are among the county’s largest employers.

  The wild river is a favored fishing and water recreation spot. Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park is also popular for year-round camping along the river and has great bike trails, guided tours, horseback trails and hiking trails.

  The Smith River Rancheria is located next to the mouth of the Smith. The rancheria has operated the Lucky 7 Casino in Smith River since 1996 and has gaming tables and machines, bingo, and a bar and restaurant.