This is one of the most scenic beginner runs in California, and would be more popular if it were closer to population centers. For the middle third of the trip there is no road anywhere near the river, and even in its upper and lower thirds, the river corridor retains a nice wilderness feel.
Trout fishing is good, and salmon and steelhead runs occur at certain times of the year.
The Douglas City BLM campground is superb, with flush toilets and spacious campsites among tall trees. Primitive camping is also available along the right bank downstream of put-in. The lumbering and resort town of Weaverville is along your shuttle route, and offers good restaurants and motels for those not inclined to camp. 0 Put in at the beach just downhill from the picnic parking area. Downstream, the river curves left around a ridged peninsula.