Camping in Shasta Lake, CA, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2025

United States
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California
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Shasta Lake

93% (1217 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Shasta Lake

Available this weekend

93%

(66)

Top camping destinations

Indian Valley Reservoir

825 campgrounds

Campfire serenade at Jughandle Beach, just a short walk from our campsite

Roseville

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Tahoe National Forest

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Prairie Creek Redwoods State Park

415 campgrounds

The best campsite among giant Redwoods and close to the river.

Jedediah Smith Redwoods State Park

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Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Star Hosts in Shasta Lake

95%

(39)

Blue Belly Cabin

1 site · Lodging12 acres · Manton, CA

We found our happy place and want to share it on HipCamp.Blue Belly Cabin is a contactless cabin on 12 acres of land that sleeps 4 comfortably. 1 bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and great room with sleeper sofa. There are fabulous sunrises, sunsets and panoramic mountain views for you to enjoy. It snows sometimes at our cabin but usually stays only a day. Many campers come to our cabin to work while simultaneously enjoying nature right outside the cabin. For the hot days we have a swamp cooler and portable A/C unit so you stay comfortable. For the cold days we have a wood burning stove that heats the big room and keeps you toasty and portable electric heaters for the bedroom and bathroom. We have a heated mattress pad on the bed and an electric blanket for the sleeper sofa and extra comforters. There is a propane fire pit and propane bbq outside for you to enjoy. Blue Belly Cabin is a huge slice of peace. There's a large area outside the cabin where you can pitch tent(s) for more people. Nearby, there are premier fishing spots, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, swimming, waterfalls, national forests, trails to hike, 6 wineries and much more. We are 35 mins from Lassen National Park, 45 mins from Shasta Lake and dam. MacCumber reservoir is 25 mins away. We are 30 mins east of Redbluff and the nearest small town with gas stations, grocery and hardware stores is 17 mins away.

100%

(17)

Alpen Vineyard Hideaway

6 sites · Lodging, Tents20 acres · Trinity Center, CA

Alpen Cellars Winery was established on a family ranch in the spring of 1984; it is situated in a picturesque mountain valley at the foot of towering craggy peaks in the rugged Trinity Lake region of Trinity County, California. Alpen Cellars is a family venture in which each of us take part in the long painstaking process of wine production. From pruning to harvest, crush to fermentation and bottling, we strive for fine wine and a connection to our customers. It may seem like an unlikely location to grow wine grapes, but the combination of high elevation and favorable microclimate provide the ideal conditions for early maturing grapes.

100%

(6)

Oak Trails Retreat

4 sites · RVs, Tents23 acres · Igo, CA

Discover the charm of our property, nestled amidst countless blue oak trees. Free-ranging cows contribute to the authentic rural setting, creating a unique ambiance. Explore a network of biking and walking trails that wind through the landscape, offering opportunities for both adventure and introspection. The pond, stocked with fish, adds a practical touch for fishing enthusiasts. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, our property provides a raw and genuine camping experience where the rugged beauty of nature takes center stage. Welcome to a no-frills retreat for those who appreciate the simplicity and authenticity of outdoor living.

Cave Springs Resort

63 sites · Lodging5 acres · Dunsmuir, CA

Welcome to Cave Springs, a mid-century modern resort in Dunsmuir, California. Located just off the I-5 freeway, our resort is an ideal basecamp for exploring the dynamic beauty of Northern California: nestled along the Sacramento River in premiere fly fishing territory, minutes away from countless waterfalls and hiking, and a 10 minute drive from stunning Mt. Shasta. Choose your adventure. We’ll take care of the rest. Our resort is designed with comfort and beauty in mind, and it’s this intentional atmosphere that will make your stay one to remember. Whatever brings you our way, we look forward to hosting you and yours.

100%

(30)

Trinity River FlyCamp

4 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Lewiston, CA

FlyCamp is Trinty River front property surrounded by BLM land and Salmon spawning pond, adjacent to a federally maintained drift boat launch and bathroom. This stretch of river is classified as Wild and Scenic and is legendary for its salmon, steelhead and Brown Trout fishing by drift boat starting from the Old Bridge in Lewiston or from the property ending at the Steel Bridge take out, or wading the more than 2 mile of river front. The natural beauty of the Trinity River has been one of the most popular sights for visitors to the north coast. Scenic Highway 299 makes easy access to many points of interest. Rafts, canoes and kayaks frequent the rapids in the springtime, and tubers enjoy summertime flows.

12 top campgrounds near Shasta Lake

96%

(12)

Cave Springs Resort

63 sites · Lodging5 acres · Dunsmuir, CA

Welcome to Cave Springs, a mid-century modern resort in Dunsmuir, California. Located just off the I-5 freeway, our resort is an ideal basecamp for exploring the dynamic beauty of Northern California: nestled along the Sacramento River in premiere fly fishing territory, minutes away from countless waterfalls and hiking, and a 10 minute drive from stunning Mt. Shasta. Choose your adventure. We’ll take care of the rest. Our resort is designed with comfort and beauty in mind, and it’s this intentional atmosphere that will make your stay one to remember. Whatever brings you our way, we look forward to hosting you and yours.

98%

(440)

Trinity Outpost Wilderness Resort

13 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · 122.928142, CA

Private Tent Camping: under the stars. Park at your campsite! Community areas, swimming holes, creek running through ALL campsites, shared lodge & rustic accommodations. No fee for children or dogs~ Follow for update tweets @ResortTrinity Trinity Outpost Wilderness is a private campground that is committed to the land-sharing ethos of Hipcamp preserving ecology and defending habitat for wildlife and pollinators. The mineral springs and trails are open to the public during the daytime. We also host with WWOOF, we have many cultural exchange volunteers helping us bring life back to this historic land building an organic farm and sustainable inclusive community. The campground is your to book but is also surrounded by National Forest Land which belongs to everyone. We expect zero exceptions to the leave no trace standards we have put forward for our private land share. Fall asleep stargazing under a dark sky, surrounded by trees, water and wildlife. Wake up to birds chirping then a 10 min hike to visit the Cold mineral springs bubbling out of the mountainside, attracting many types of wildlife along with people seeking out the healing properties of the sulfur scented spring water. Sacred healing mineral spring "Deadshot" named by the native peoples for its ability to cure all ailments with 'one shot'. Nipisum or 'health water' was later bottled by the California Medicinal Springs Co. after the land was homesteaded in 1886. This historic retreat rests at the foot of lower Chanchelulla 'black rock' Mountain. Bordering a Wilderness Area this land is pristine and wild inhabited by many animals and incredible bio-diversity such as Pileated Woodpeckers, Golden Eagle, Bald Eagle, Blackhawk, Goshawk, Great Horned Owl, Flying Squirrel, Pacific King Snake, Salamanders and Protected Spawning Rainbow Trout. 100+ acres with private hiking trails along the stream for easy trekking, and summit trails (climbing up to almost 6,000 ft.) to the peak. Our aim is to restore the land from the last 100 years of habitation using innovation to renovate the campground and baths for the next 100 years. With your help we hope to revitalize the community of Trinity County, as well as educate and generate support for WILDERNESS, public forest lands and the agencies that manage them.

Cabin Hideaway

3 sites · Lodging, RVs2 acres · Dunsmuir, CA

This little cabin is located in Cedar Pines Rv Resort.

Shasta Gardens

5 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Mount Shasta, CA

Nestled in the heart of Mt Shasta, walking distance from downtown Mt Shasta and only one block away from health food store. Pet and cannabis friendly. Outdoor bathrooms are available with many spaces available for 360* views of of our local mountains. Guests will receive additional 10% off from Elevate Shasta dispensary next door. Enjoy the best drinking waters.we are located close to the train railroad and can exiting and loud for some, if you are sensitive to horns please bring a ear plugs or it can be purchased here if needed.

Peter's Forest Vacation Rentals

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents18 acres · Shingletown, CA

Living Springs Resort, a peaceful campground nestled in the woods with majestic tall pine and cedar trees close to Lassen Volcanic National Park. There's also a lake and a year round creek with fish on the property where you can relax in the natural & peaceful wooded setting . Quiet and beautiful place to enjoy with your friends and family. Guests from all backgrounds are welcome.The "LIVE" well water is drinkable and extremely clean straight out of the volcanic ground without anything added to it, lab tested every month.Amazing attractions near by like Subway Lava Tube Cave, Burney Falls, Shasta Lake and Caverns, Whiskeytown Lake and all amazing lakes and hiking trails up on Lassen.About 15 miles from Lassen National Volcanic Park.

99%

(271)

Camp Stoney Meadows

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Big Bend, CA

Our 120 remote acres are adjacent to Shasta Trinity National Forest in the beautiful Cascade Range between Mt. Lassen and Mt. Shasta in Northern California. It's a working ranch with tree farms, animals, hydroelectric power, sawmill, gardens, orchards, creeks, springs, trails, and our camp alongside Kosk Creek. We're 54 miles from Redding off of 299E, (about 1-1/2 hour drive). DO NOT TAKE ROAD 11 FROM THE NORTH, IT IS CLOSED! PIease try to ignore the "car art" in the Pit River Tribe's Rancheria as you're coming here. Drive right through it, it's no reflection on us. The last mile or so of the road here can be pretty rough, but on arrival, you'll know it's worth the trip! No Cell phone service available here, so it's the perfect opportunity to unplug. We do have a land line up at the house in case of an emergency. Also, if you really need it, WiFi is available at the house.

Maren G.’s Land

2 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Bella Vista, CA

Beautiful 8 acres on a private pond that is fully stocked with large and small mouth bass, blue gill, carp and catfish. Different spots to choose from with different privacy levels and access to power and water at some camp spots. 10 minutes to Shasta Lake, 20 mins to Whiskeytown Lake, shooting range and dirt bike trails within 20 minutes. Right off the highway (heads up, you can hear the road from camp) so it's easy to find and quick access to Redding, 7 minutes away.

100%

(2)

Rise and Shine

4 sites · RVs2 acres · Mount Shasta, CA

Welcome to Spring Hill Nursery and Gardens. Experience nursery life as if you live on the property. We do! We have an affordable option that puts you in the fabulous town of Mount Shasta, adjacent to a source of the Sacramento River watershed. Guests will stay in the 20 space parking lot of our retail garden nursery. After hours, you’ll have roaming access to the entire nursery space , restrooms (SW corner), and water. After hours use gate to the right of entrance. It must remain closed at all times to keep the deer out. There is a maximum of 4 vehicles per night, with a max length is 24 ft. This allows guests to have plenty of space to themselves. Park on the right side of lot. Extension cords available with a Venmo code attached, for an additional $5. They will be hanging next to the after hours gate. Water hose bib is near entrance After the nursery closes you’ll have the entire retail space available to wander in. Porta Potties are located in the SW corner of the lot. Depending on when you stay with us, we could be closed for the season, or right in the middle of all the hustle and bustle. We will mark special event dates on our calender, yet still continue to offer camp space for those aware of a more “festy style” camping experience. Events at the nursery are quite special. We’ll offer you discounted tickets to concerts if you happen to be here during that time Please be mindful of the private home that shares the property Check in. March-June 5pm July-Feb 3pm Check out 10am Class B RV only No tents Pets allowed on leash or decent voice command. Clean Up after them Quiet time is 10pm (events 12AM) Nearby walking/biking distance Headwaters City Park-across street Spring Hill Trail-across the street Downtown-3/4 mile Caveats Late check in. Early checkout Railroad. Overnight activity is minimal No water available Dec-Feb Deliveries. They come without notice sometimes. We’ll compensate you in some way, if this is ever an issue. Booking far in advance is fine, but we may have an event that gets booked at the same time. If so we will contact you immediately to discuss options

100%

(4)

Whiskeytown Lake Getaway

2 sites · RVs6 acres · Redding, CA

6.5 acre property just 7 miles west of Whiskeytown Lake. Easy access to Sundial Bridge, Sacramento River & Lake Shasta. Available for fully self contained Motor Homes & Travel Trailers. Class C, B RV’s ok. No tent camping. Nice shady spot under mature Oak Tree with Picnic table and hammock stand. No water, sewer or electricity available.

Blue Belly Cabin

1 site · Lodging12 acres · Manton, CA

We found our happy place and want to share it on HipCamp.Blue Belly Cabin is a contactless cabin on 12 acres of land that sleeps 4 comfortably. 1 bedroom, bathroom, kitchen and great room with sleeper sofa. There are fabulous sunrises, sunsets and panoramic mountain views for you to enjoy. It snows sometimes at our cabin but usually stays only a day. Many campers come to our cabin to work while simultaneously enjoying nature right outside the cabin. For the hot days we have a swamp cooler and portable A/C unit so you stay comfortable. For the cold days we have a wood burning stove that heats the big room and keeps you toasty and portable electric heaters for the bedroom and bathroom. We have a heated mattress pad on the bed and an electric blanket for the sleeper sofa and extra comforters. There is a propane fire pit and propane bbq outside for you to enjoy. Blue Belly Cabin is a huge slice of peace. There's a large area outside the cabin where you can pitch tent(s) for more people. Nearby, there are premier fishing spots, cross country skiing, snowshoeing, swimming, waterfalls, national forests, trails to hike, 6 wineries and much more. We are 35 mins from Lassen National Park, 45 mins from Shasta Lake and dam. MacCumber reservoir is 25 mins away. We are 30 mins east of Redbluff and the nearest small town with gas stations, grocery and hardware stores is 17 mins away.

Trinity River FlyCamp

4 sites · RVs, Tents15 acres · Lewiston, CA

FlyCamp is Trinty River front property surrounded by BLM land and Salmon spawning pond, adjacent to a federally maintained drift boat launch and bathroom. This stretch of river is classified as Wild and Scenic and is legendary for its salmon, steelhead and Brown Trout fishing by drift boat starting from the Old Bridge in Lewiston or from the property ending at the Steel Bridge take out, or wading the more than 2 mile of river front. The natural beauty of the Trinity River has been one of the most popular sights for visitors to the north coast. Scenic Highway 299 makes easy access to many points of interest. Rafts, canoes and kayaks frequent the rapids in the springtime, and tubers enjoy summertime flows.

100%

(3)

Walker Mine Campground

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Redding, CA

Walker Mine Campground is surrounded by hundreds of acres of BLM land ready to be explored. Choose from a variety of secluded campsites perfect to rest and recharge for your next adventure. There are miles and miles of well maintained trails from Shasta Dam down to Keswick Reservoir and beyond.

Under $50

93%

(66)

Cabin Hideaway

3 sites · Lodging, RVs2 acres · Dunsmuir, CA

This little cabin is located in Cedar Pines Rv Resort.

Camp Stoney Meadows

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents120 acres · Big Bend, CA

Our 120 remote acres are adjacent to Shasta Trinity National Forest in the beautiful Cascade Range between Mt. Lassen and Mt. Shasta in Northern California. It's a working ranch with tree farms, animals, hydroelectric power, sawmill, gardens, orchards, creeks, springs, trails, and our camp alongside Kosk Creek. We're 54 miles from Redding off of 299E, (about 1-1/2 hour drive). DO NOT TAKE ROAD 11 FROM THE NORTH, IT IS CLOSED! PIease try to ignore the "car art" in the Pit River Tribe's Rancheria as you're coming here. Drive right through it, it's no reflection on us. The last mile or so of the road here can be pretty rough, but on arrival, you'll know it's worth the trip! No Cell phone service available here, so it's the perfect opportunity to unplug. We do have a land line up at the house in case of an emergency. Also, if you really need it, WiFi is available at the house.

Maren G.’s Land

2 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Bella Vista, CA

Beautiful 8 acres on a private pond that is fully stocked with large and small mouth bass, blue gill, carp and catfish. Different spots to choose from with different privacy levels and access to power and water at some camp spots. 10 minutes to Shasta Lake, 20 mins to Whiskeytown Lake, shooting range and dirt bike trails within 20 minutes. Right off the highway (heads up, you can hear the road from camp) so it's easy to find and quick access to Redding, 7 minutes away.

Trinity Outpost Wilderness Resort

13 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · 122.928142, CA

Private Tent Camping: under the stars. Park at your campsite! Community areas, swimming holes, creek running through ALL campsites, shared lodge & rustic accommodations. No fee for children or dogs~ Follow for update tweets @ResortTrinity Trinity Outpost Wilderness is a private campground that is committed to the land-sharing ethos of Hipcamp preserving ecology and defending habitat for wildlife and pollinators. The mineral springs and trails are open to the public during the daytime. We also host with WWOOF, we have many cultural exchange volunteers helping us bring life back to this historic land building an organic farm and sustainable inclusive community. The campground is your to book but is also surrounded by National Forest Land which belongs to everyone. We expect zero exceptions to the leave no trace standards we have put forward for our private land share. Fall asleep stargazing under a dark sky, surrounded by trees, water and wildlife. Wake up to birds chirping then a 10 min hike to visit the Cold mineral springs bubbling out of the mountainside, attracting many types of wildlife along with people seeking out the healing properties of the sulfur scented spring water. Sacred healing mineral spring "Deadshot" named by the native peoples for its ability to cure all ailments with 'one shot'. Nipisum or 'health water' was later bottled by the California Medicinal Springs Co. after the land was homesteaded in 1886. This historic retreat rests at the foot of lower Chanchelulla 'black rock' Mountain. Bordering a Wilderness Area this land is pristine and wild inhabited by many animals and incredible bio-diversity such as Pileated Woodpeckers, Golden Eagle, Bald Eagle, Blackhawk, Goshawk, Great Horned Owl, Flying Squirrel, Pacific King Snake, Salamanders and Protected Spawning Rainbow Trout. 100+ acres with private hiking trails along the stream for easy trekking, and summit trails (climbing up to almost 6,000 ft.) to the peak. Our aim is to restore the land from the last 100 years of habitation using innovation to renovate the campground and baths for the next 100 years. With your help we hope to revitalize the community of Trinity County, as well as educate and generate support for WILDERNESS, public forest lands and the agencies that manage them.

Rise and Shine

4 sites · RVs2 acres · Mount Shasta, CA

Welcome to Spring Hill Nursery and Gardens. Experience nursery life as if you live on the property. We do! We have an affordable option that puts you in the fabulous town of Mount Shasta, adjacent to a source of the Sacramento River watershed. Guests will stay in the 20 space parking lot of our retail garden nursery. After hours, you’ll have roaming access to the entire nursery space , restrooms (SW corner), and water. After hours use gate to the right of entrance. It must remain closed at all times to keep the deer out. There is a maximum of 4 vehicles per night, with a max length is 24 ft. This allows guests to have plenty of space to themselves. Park on the right side of lot. Extension cords available with a Venmo code attached, for an additional $5. They will be hanging next to the after hours gate. Water hose bib is near entrance After the nursery closes you’ll have the entire retail space available to wander in. Porta Potties are located in the SW corner of the lot. Depending on when you stay with us, we could be closed for the season, or right in the middle of all the hustle and bustle. We will mark special event dates on our calender, yet still continue to offer camp space for those aware of a more “festy style” camping experience. Events at the nursery are quite special. We’ll offer you discounted tickets to concerts if you happen to be here during that time Please be mindful of the private home that shares the property Check in. March-June 5pm July-Feb 3pm Check out 10am Class B RV only No tents Pets allowed on leash or decent voice command. Clean Up after them Quiet time is 10pm (events 12AM) Nearby walking/biking distance Headwaters City Park-across street Spring Hill Trail-across the street Downtown-3/4 mile Caveats Late check in. Early checkout Railroad. Overnight activity is minimal No water available Dec-Feb Deliveries. They come without notice sometimes. We’ll compensate you in some way, if this is ever an issue. Booking far in advance is fine, but we may have an event that gets booked at the same time. If so we will contact you immediately to discuss options

Dog-friendly getaways

94%

(134)

Peter's Forest Vacation Rentals

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents18 acres · Shingletown, CA

Living Springs Resort, a peaceful campground nestled in the woods with majestic tall pine and cedar trees close to Lassen Volcanic National Park. There's also a lake and a year round creek with fish on the property where you can relax in the natural & peaceful wooded setting . Quiet and beautiful place to enjoy with your friends and family. Guests from all backgrounds are welcome.The "LIVE" well water is drinkable and extremely clean straight out of the volcanic ground without anything added to it, lab tested every month.Amazing attractions near by like Subway Lava Tube Cave, Burney Falls, Shasta Lake and Caverns, Whiskeytown Lake and all amazing lakes and hiking trails up on Lassen.About 15 miles from Lassen National Volcanic Park.

Shasta Gardens

5 sites · RVs, Tents1 acre · Mount Shasta, CA

Nestled in the heart of Mt Shasta, walking distance from downtown Mt Shasta and only one block away from health food store. Pet and cannabis friendly. Outdoor bathrooms are available with many spaces available for 360* views of of our local mountains. Guests will receive additional 10% off from Elevate Shasta dispensary next door. Enjoy the best drinking waters.we are located close to the train railroad and can exiting and loud for some, if you are sensitive to horns please bring a ear plugs or it can be purchased here if needed.

Trinity Outpost Wilderness Resort

13 sites · RVs, Tents100 acres · 122.928142, CA

Private Tent Camping: under the stars. Park at your campsite! Community areas, swimming holes, creek running through ALL campsites, shared lodge & rustic accommodations. No fee for children or dogs~ Follow for update tweets @ResortTrinity Trinity Outpost Wilderness is a private campground that is committed to the land-sharing ethos of Hipcamp preserving ecology and defending habitat for wildlife and pollinators. The mineral springs and trails are open to the public during the daytime. We also host with WWOOF, we have many cultural exchange volunteers helping us bring life back to this historic land building an organic farm and sustainable inclusive community. The campground is your to book but is also surrounded by National Forest Land which belongs to everyone. We expect zero exceptions to the leave no trace standards we have put forward for our private land share. Fall asleep stargazing under a dark sky, surrounded by trees, water and wildlife. Wake up to birds chirping then a 10 min hike to visit the Cold mineral springs bubbling out of the mountainside, attracting many types of wildlife along with people seeking out the healing properties of the sulfur scented spring water. Sacred healing mineral spring "Deadshot" named by the native peoples for its ability to cure all ailments with 'one shot'. Nipisum or 'health water' was later bottled by the California Medicinal Springs Co. after the land was homesteaded in 1886. This historic retreat rests at the foot of lower Chanchelulla 'black rock' Mountain. Bordering a Wilderness Area this land is pristine and wild inhabited by many animals and incredible bio-diversity such as Pileated Woodpeckers, Golden Eagle, Bald Eagle, Blackhawk, Goshawk, Great Horned Owl, Flying Squirrel, Pacific King Snake, Salamanders and Protected Spawning Rainbow Trout. 100+ acres with private hiking trails along the stream for easy trekking, and summit trails (climbing up to almost 6,000 ft.) to the peak. Our aim is to restore the land from the last 100 years of habitation using innovation to renovate the campground and baths for the next 100 years. With your help we hope to revitalize the community of Trinity County, as well as educate and generate support for WILDERNESS, public forest lands and the agencies that manage them.

Cave Springs Resort

63 sites · Lodging5 acres · Dunsmuir, CA

Welcome to Cave Springs, a mid-century modern resort in Dunsmuir, California. Located just off the I-5 freeway, our resort is an ideal basecamp for exploring the dynamic beauty of Northern California: nestled along the Sacramento River in premiere fly fishing territory, minutes away from countless waterfalls and hiking, and a 10 minute drive from stunning Mt. Shasta. Choose your adventure. We’ll take care of the rest. Our resort is designed with comfort and beauty in mind, and it’s this intentional atmosphere that will make your stay one to remember. Whatever brings you our way, we look forward to hosting you and yours.

Cabin Hideaway

3 sites · Lodging, RVs2 acres · Dunsmuir, CA

This little cabin is located in Cedar Pines Rv Resort.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

93%

(130)

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Junction City, California

97%

(65)

Lassen Volcanic National Park

Mineral, California

93%

(32)

Mendocino National Forest

Elk Creek, California

McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park

96%

(15)

McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park

Cassel, California

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Lassen National Forest

Old Station, California

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Klamath National Forest

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Castle Crags State Park

Dunsmuir, California

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Shasta Lake guide

Overview

Spanning 30,000 acres, Northern California’s Shasta Lake is the largest man-made lake in the state. With more than 360 miles of winding and forested shoreline, dotted with hundreds of protected inlets, coves, and bays, it’s a boater’s paradise. Houseboats are especially popular, but all manner of watercraft can be found here, along with numerous boat ramps, marinas, and service docks. Fishing and water sports are also big draws. More than 30 developed, dispersed, and group campgrounds around the lake’s three major arms offer plenty of options for campers to enjoy the water and scenic views of snow-capped Mount Shasta nearby.

Where to go

Sacramento River Arm

With access from Interstate 5, the Sacramento River Arm is home to several private RV parks and more than a half dozen forest service campgrounds. Right by the town of Lakehead, the aptly named Lakeshore East Campground offers sites for tents, RVs, and yurts, while nearby Antlers Campground sits on a bluff overlooking the lake. Several dispersed campgrounds, including Beehive Point, Gregory Beach, and Salt Creek, sit along the shoreline. Boaters can head to the Gooseneck Cove Boat-in Campground, while groups have options at Gregory Creek and Nelson Point.

McCloud River Arm

Right off Interstate 5 and near the access point for the Lake Shasta Caverns, the year-round Bailey Cove Campground is a popular option, and offers its own boat ramp. Enjoy great lake views from the Hirz Bay Campground further up the river. The McCloud River Arm is a great destination for groups, with several group campgrounds located here, including at Hirz Bay, Dekkas Rock, Moore Creek, and Pine Point. Boaters can stay at the Greens Creek Boat-in Campground.

Pit River Arm

The Pit River Arm is home to two of the four boat-in campgrounds on the lake, including Arbuckle Flat and popular Ski Island, which can sometimes be accessed from Mariners Point Group campgrounds when the lake level is low. Just a few miles away from the Jones Valley Boat Ramp, the Lower and Upper Jones Valley campgrounds are great options for boaters, while the Jones Valley Inlet Dispersed Campground lets campers stay along the shoreline.