Within Shasta National Forest, Cattle Camp Campground operates as a US Forest Service facility that draws fewer crowds than its popular neighbor, Fowler's Campground. The campground sits along Highway 89, where some road noise filters through the tall pines, though most campers find it manageable rather than disruptive.
Sites spread out generously under mature forest canopy, providing more space between neighbors than many forest campgrounds offer. Camp hosts maintain the facilities diligently, sweeping between campers and keeping the pit toilets clean. The campground accommodates RVs up to 32 feet with water hookups available, though several sites also welcome walk-in tent campers seeking more secluded spots.
A 15-minute walk or two-minute drive leads to swimming holes along the McCloud River, complete with a rope swing that draws families during peak season. Marisa Y. notes the "trail to a gorgeous swimming hole" but warns the "water is very cold though." The swimming areas can become crowded during holidays, while fishing tends to be slower here compared to spots closer to other campgrounds near McCloud. McCloud Falls Trail sits just down the road for morning hikes.
Wildlife regularly passes through camp, with deer commonly spotted and chipmunks bold enough to snatch food from unattended plates. The campground often has availability when nearby Algoma Campground fills up, making it a reliable backup option. Todd B. found "an entire loop to ourselves" on a Thursday in mid-May.
The season runs Memorial Day through November, with reservations recommended for summer weekends despite typically having more availability than neighboring campgrounds.
Description
Description : At an elevation of 3700 feet, this is one of two developed campgrounds on the Upper McCloud River. There are 27 sites with tables and fire rings, vault toilets, and piped drinking water. Suitable for tents and larger RV's or trailers. Double sites for large families or small groups. 14 day limit. $15 per night. No reservations. Features : The Upper McCloud River is one of the primary attractions in the area. In addition to swimming and fishing, there is 15 miles of river-side trail to explore. Cattle Camp Swimming Hole is a Day Use Area, no Camping. Please do not dam up the river with rocks, this prevents the natural flow of the McCloud River and encourages algae growth in the swimming hole when the water is low.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsCattle Camp Campground is located in California near McCloud
Directions
From the McCloud Ranger Station, turn left on Hwy 89. Drive 10.5 miles and look for a sign on the left side of the highway for Cattle Camp Campground. At the sign, turn right and go approximately 1/3 mile and turn left into the campground.
Coordinates
41.25900026 N
121.94 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 5/8/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 5/8/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 11/19/25
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 3 usersLast on 5/8/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 5/8/26
- AT&TLTESome CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 11/19/25
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Firewood Available
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Showers
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
























