Best Camping near Bella Vista, CA

Bella Vista is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Bella Vista. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your California camping adventure.

Best Camping Sites Near Bella Vista, California (247)

    Camper-submitted photo at Beehive Point Shoreline Campground near Sugarloaf, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Beehive Point Shoreline Campground near Sugarloaf, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Beehive Point Shoreline Campground near Sugarloaf, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Beehive Point Shoreline Campground near Sugarloaf, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Beehive Point Shoreline Campground near Sugarloaf, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Beehive Point Shoreline Campground near Sugarloaf, CA

    1. Beehive Point Shoreline Campground

    14 Reviews
    46 Photos
    142 Saves
    Sugarloaf, California

    There are no permanent facilities at Beehive shoreline campground. Portable restrooms and trash receptacles are provided during the peak operating season.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo at Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park near Mineral, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park near Mineral, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park near Mineral, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park near Mineral, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park near Mineral, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park near Mineral, CA

    2. Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park

    36 Reviews
    181 Photos
    8 Saves
    Mineral, California

    Overview

    Manzanita Lake Campground (elevation 5,900 ft.) is the largest campground in Lassen Volcanic National Park. It is within walking distance of the scenic Manzanita Lake, a popular fishing and family destination, and offers impressive views of Lassen Peak, the largest volcano in the park at 10,457 feet. The facility is conveniently located one mile south of the park entrance, close to The Loomis Museum, Loomis Ranger Station and popular hiking trails. Educational programs are presented at the museum and amphitheater.

    Recreation

    Manzanita Lake is popular with fly fishermen, but the campground does maintain a catch-and-release policy. Non-motorized boating is also permitted and Kayak rentals are available nearby. The park boasts more than 150 miles of hiking trails, a variety of which can be accessed from the campground, including family-friendly hikes as well as those for more experienced hikers.

    Natural Features

    The national park is known for its volcanic history, as well as its diversity of plants and animals. It contains 300 active volcanic domes, as well as many hydrothermal features, such as mud pots and steam vents. Lassen Peak is the southernmost active volcano in the Cascades, and the second most recent to erupt in the lower 48 of the United States before Mount Saint Helens. Lassen National Park boasts over 700 species of flowering plants and 250 species of birds, mammals, reptiles and fish. The park is at the junction of the Cascade Mountains, the Sierra Nevada Mountains and the Great Basin, thus providing many unique habitats.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Cabins

    $26 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground near Cassel, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground near Cassel, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground near Cassel, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground near Cassel, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground near Cassel, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground near Cassel, CA

    3. McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground

    42 Reviews
    121 Photos
    456 Saves
    Cassel, California

    Pioneer Camp

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $35 - $143 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Peltier Bridge Primitive Campground — Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area near Whiskeytown, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Peltier Bridge Primitive Campground — Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area near Whiskeytown, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Peltier Bridge Primitive Campground — Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area near Whiskeytown, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Peltier Bridge Primitive Campground — Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area near Whiskeytown, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Peltier Bridge Primitive Campground — Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area near Whiskeytown, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Peltier Bridge Primitive Campground — Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area near Whiskeytown, CA

    4. Peltier Bridge Primitive Campground — Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area

    8 Reviews
    15 Photos
    65 Saves
    Whiskeytown, California

    Overview

    This tent-only campground is located in the southeast corner of Whiskeytown National Recreation Area, 13.5 miles west of Redding, California, and three and a half hours north of Sacramento. Clear Creek flows past the campground, making it a popular spot for fly fishing. The camp is shaded by alders and large canyon live oaks. The cool, clear waters of Whiskeytown Lake provide endless water activities. The picturesque mountain setting and extensive forested backcountry offer ample opportunities for hiking and biking.

    Recreation

    During the summer heat, swimming, kayaking, sailing, paddle boarding and water skiing are popular on the 3,200 acre lake. Year round, hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, gold panning, fishing and picnicking attract visitors. Hunting is allowed in the appropriate season.

    Natural Features

    Tall trees providing cooling shade make Peltier Bridge Primitive Campground a relaxing retreat. Whiskeytown National Recreation Area is located where the Klamath Mountains, Cascade and Coast Mountain Ranges, and the Sacramento Valley meet, creating a wide variety of wildlife and landscapes.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (530) 246-1225.

    Nearby Attractions

    Brandy Creek Beach is located three and a half miles from the campground and features sandy beaches, a large swimming area, picnicking and barbecuing facilities. From Memorial Day through Labor Day, there are showers, a store with food and supplies and rentals of paddle boards and kayaks.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Mountain Gate RV Park near Shasta Lake, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mountain Gate RV Park near Shasta Lake, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mountain Gate RV Park near Shasta Lake, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mountain Gate RV Park near Shasta Lake, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mountain Gate RV Park near Shasta Lake, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mountain Gate RV Park near Shasta Lake, CA

    5. Mountain Gate RV Park

    6 Reviews
    25 Photos
    13 Saves
    Shasta Lake, California

    Mountain Gate RV Park and Cabins is located in the foothills of The Shasta Cascades near magnificent Lake Shasta and the City of Redding.

    It boasts one of the most pristine, friendly, full service parks in Northern California. We are just a few miles from Lake Shasta and Redding -providing for all your big-city needs. Your recreational needs and wants while away from the hustle and bustle of the city will be all around you.

    We are a safe, secure park, surrounded by woods and grasslands.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo at Boulder Creek RV Redding near Shasta Lake, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Boulder Creek RV Redding near Shasta Lake, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Boulder Creek RV Redding near Shasta Lake, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Boulder Creek RV Redding near Shasta Lake, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Boulder Creek RV Redding near Shasta Lake, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Boulder Creek RV Redding near Shasta Lake, CA

    6. Boulder Creek RV Redding

    7 Reviews
    22 Photos
    41 Saves
    Shasta Lake, California

    Boulder Creek RV Resort is open year-round & located just outside the beautiful community of Redding, California. Located right off of I-5, just 15 minutes from Lake Shasta. Our Resort offers everything one could want in a pleasurable stay; From the tranquil setting, the meticulously landscaped grounds to our inviting pool area and fitness center. We are constantly striving to maintain and upgrade our amenities!

    Our park is quiet, nicely wooded with oak and maple trees. We pride ourselves on cleanliness, safety, responsiveness and integrity which ultimately ensures our guests a wonderful stay at Boulder Creek. The Resort is ideally located with quick access to shopping and outdoor activities including kayaking, hiking, fishing, golf, cycling, skiing, boating, sightseeing and more.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $50 - $70 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA near Shingletown, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA near Shingletown, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA near Shingletown, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA near Shingletown, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA near Shingletown, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA near Shingletown, CA

    7. Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA

    11 Reviews
    49 Photos
    59 Saves
    Shingletown, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort near Mount Shasta, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort near Mount Shasta, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort near Mount Shasta, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort near Mount Shasta, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort near Mount Shasta, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort near Mount Shasta, CA

    8. Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort

    33 Reviews
    65 Photos
    357 Saves
    Mount Shasta, California

    Welcome to Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort, located on the SW side of Lake Siskiyou, with panoramic views of Mt Shasta and the Shasta Trinity National Forest. Enjoy quiet fishing moments on the dock, quality family time on the lake, or kick back and relax on your cabin deck, Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort is the perfect place to take a break and enjoy the great outdoors.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo at Jones Valley Inlet Shoreline Campground near Bella Vista, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Jones Valley Inlet Shoreline Campground near Bella Vista, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Jones Valley Inlet Shoreline Campground near Bella Vista, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Jones Valley Inlet Shoreline Campground near Bella Vista, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Jones Valley Inlet Shoreline Campground near Bella Vista, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Jones Valley Inlet Shoreline Campground near Bella Vista, CA

    9. Jones Valley Inlet Shoreline Campground

    4 Reviews
    6 Photos
    35 Saves
    Bella Vista, California

    This facility is used on an "as needed basis" by the Shasta Recreation Company (Concessionaire to the Forest Service). There are 8 camping sites that can accomodate a trailer with an average max. size of 16'. All sites have a picnic table, campfire ring, and an unpaved parking spur.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo at Hirz Bay Campground near Sugarloaf, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Hirz Bay Campground near Sugarloaf, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Hirz Bay Campground near Sugarloaf, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Hirz Bay Campground near Sugarloaf, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Hirz Bay Campground near Sugarloaf, CA
    Camper-submitted photo at Hirz Bay Campground near Sugarloaf, CA

    10. Hirz Bay Campground

    5 Reviews
    15 Photos
    111 Saves
    Sugarloaf, California

    Overview

    Hirz Bay Campground is nestled among Manzanita and oak trees on a hilltop overlooking the McCloud Arm of Shasta Lake. The scenic location offers a variety of recreational activities, including a nearby boat ramp for water sports and a hiking trail.

    Recreation

    The nearest boat launch is about 1 mile away at Hirz Bay. Resorts on the lake have watercraft rentals and marinas with fuel. Popular water activities include power and non-motorized boating, fishing and water skiing. Lake Shasta offers excellent fishing for trout, catfish, Chinook salmon, crappie, bluegill, white sturgeon, brown bullhead and bass. Hikers can access the 2-mile Hirz Bay Trail from the campground.

    Natural Features

    Shasta-Trinity is the largest national forest in California with a diverse landscape encompassing five wilderness areas, hundreds of mountain lakes and 6,278 miles of streams and rivers. Lake Shasta sits at an elevation of 1,067 feet, with 365 miles of shoreline punctuated by steep mountains blanketed in manzanita and evergreens. A snow-capped Mount Shasta, the second-tallest mountain in the Cascade Range, looms in the distance.

    Nearby Attractions

    Lake Shasta Caverns are also located on the McCloud Arm of Shasta Lake in an area know as the Grey Rocks. Tours are given daily at this privately owned facility. The nearby Hirz Mountain Lookout offers panoramic views of Mt. Shasta, Mt. Lassen and the surrounding area at an elevation of 3,500 feet.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $30 - $60 / night

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 247 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Bella Vista, California

654 Reviews of 247 Bella Vista Campgrounds


  • GThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Trail In RV Park & Campground
    Jan. 3, 2025

    Trail In RV Park & Campground

    No Frills. Quiet. Easy Access. Good Amenities.

    Booked a site at the last minute after determining that we could travel across the Siskiyou summit on Interstate 5 in January. Found it to be nice, quiet, close to the highway buy not noisy. Office staff is very friendly and quick to answer phone/email inquiries.

  • michael D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from JGW RV Park
    Nov. 4, 2024

    JGW RV Park

    Well cared for and beautiful park

    Clean bathrooms and showers. Nice park. We stayed one night enroute to the bat area, but world have start much longer

  • Linda G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Trail In RV Park & Campground
    Oct. 27, 2024

    Trail In RV Park & Campground

    I stayed in late october with a fire ban. After a week they liftrd it.

    Syayed in #3. Kind of confusing to get a reservation. Couldnt buy a ticket at the visitors center. Online only. Once i figured it out it is easy. Once there i went hiking but something was missing THE CAMPFIRE. That was when i started having fun. This is a clean campsite that is only 9.4 miles to west redding.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Railroad Park Resort
    Oct. 23, 2024

    Railroad Park Resort

    Wonderful campground

    This campground has full hookups, a. WiFi that is good enough to stream and it’s not a parking lot, good for tents and rv’s

  • Kevin M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort
    Oct. 21, 2024

    Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort

    Lake Siskiyou RV Resort

    I have frequented this RV campground several times over many years.  It is sad to see it becoming run down. The once paved interior roads are now barely discernable dirt paths. They also have a fee for locking in your chosen campground site for an additional $35 fee?!?!? Once you have waited for a specific site/s to become available to reserve, under what circumstances would they deem it reasonable to move you to another site without your consent?  I luckily did not (will not) pay the additional fee, and 90% of the campground was vacant the week I was there. That guaranteed reservation fee is just a scam to get more money out of you. The costs of the sites are not cheap to begin with.

  • Tessa F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Peltier Bridge Primitive Campground — Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area
    Oct. 8, 2024

    Peltier Bridge Primitive Campground — Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area

    had a great time

    so far my experience has been great we're camping out for 3 Days got campsite 6 , nice little spot next to the water, first night was peaceful there's no other people reserving any of the campsites so we got lucky, I would definitely recommend camping here however sites four and five are directly next to each other six is separate 7 8 and 9 are a little more secluded in the back I didn't see sites one two and three

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Pine Dispersed Camping
    Oct. 5, 2024

    Big Pine Dispersed Camping

    Great Dispersed spots

    Plenty of dispersed camping along the creek just south of Big Pine Campground. We found a could spots that our 38ft fifth wheel could fit, and many spots for smaller rigs. Water, dump, and trash are available at Old Station Visitor Information Center just north (RV sewer dump closes mid October)

  • NThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from The Village at Highlands Ranch
    Sep. 26, 2024

    The Village at Highlands Ranch

    Perfect spot

    This was a perfect campsite. Came in late but everybody was eager and happy to help out. Met the hosts who took their time and explained about the park.

    Located only 10 minutes from Lassen and by the road and still an rv spot in the forest. Very nice.

    An upper class restaurant and a bar so something for everyone.

    Very recommandable

  • Greg N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave Campground
    Sep. 19, 2024

    Cave Campground

    Best of the USFS

    Flushing toilets, easy access, friendly host, gorgeous setting, level ground- can’t ask for any better at $8 a night (after interagency discount)!

  • Noel L.
    Camper-submitted photo from Mountain Gate RV Park
    Sep. 14, 2024

    Mountain Gate RV Park

    Nice campground

    Well maintained and clean park. Actually has grass, not all gravel. Sites level. Nice pool and laundry room. One night stay and arrived late so did self check in...no password for bathrooms were given, so asked a neighbor for a password. One of the restrooms was shut down for repairs. Too pricy.

  • Kelly V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Castle Lake Campground
    Sep. 13, 2024

    Castle Lake Campground

    Grand view

    Road dips down but rutted and I'm low clearance so can't tell what's down there. I'm in amthe o ly pullout off the side of the road before it Dios. Awesome view. Cannot hear water the other person mentioned but also haven't walked down the road yet. 3 or 4 rigs down close by. I am in a level spot but nowhere to walk except road from here. Again, great view.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Beehive Point Shoreline Campground
    Sep. 9, 2024

    Beehive Point Shoreline Campground

    Not what I expected

    We were the only ones there for the most part. Every night there would be a few cars that drive through, but they didn’t stay. Bring yellow jacket traps - there’s a reason it’s named beehive

  • Claire D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from 31N17N - North Manzanita Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 3, 2024

    31N17N - North Manzanita Dispersed Camping

    Convenient dispersed site near Lassen

    Same experience as the other reviews. Arrived late Friday night on Labor Day weekend and found a spot right at the beginning of the dirt road - coming from Redding direction, turned right off of 44 onto the dirt road then took the first right. The turnoff is on Google maps and was easy to find even in the dark. Nobody else around that we saw, even given the busy weekend! Agreed with others on the road noise but it was fine. Just a few minutes from Manzanita lake. Great find!

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort
    Aug. 20, 2024

    Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort

    Quiet, peaceful

    Great little park. Lots of shade and green grass, good management, Clean restrooms and well kept grounds. Close to river and lakes for boating and fishing. There is a great area for tent camping or a place to dry camp with your RV just below the main RV park. There are targets set up for bow hunters in the pines below the park.

    Our 35 foot fifth wheel easily navigated the space.

  • Casey B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Bunny Flats Camp
    Aug. 19, 2024

    Bunny Flats Camp

    Beautiful views and amazing hiking

    The views and hikes are incredible, but the camping is basically a place to sleep. No privacy and pretty busy. We ended up driving a bit further and sleeping in the parking lot at Panther Meadows (no amenities at all).

  • Casey B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Cline Gulch BLM Dispersed
    Aug. 19, 2024

    Cline Gulch BLM Dispersed

    A little sketchy and not much shade

    The first spot you come across is super cute with little stone sculptures in the creek and a little shelter with carpet...and then you realize it's most likely a locals party zone and homeless camp. There was a trash pile, bags of potato chips...and potatoes.

    The next spot was cleaner and near the water, but the circular "driveway" was tight and had very little space. This is where we stayed.

    The rest of the spots weren't near water and were just open fields directly in the sun.

  • Julie M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Olive Pit Dispersed Lot
    Aug. 16, 2024

    Olive Pit Dispersed Lot

    Large lot, tiny dog area

    The place itself has delicious food. It is also a little grocery store. The “dog area” is something they squeezed into the side of the lot. Not fenced in but there were dog poop bags when we stopped.

  • Alexis M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Panther Meadows Campground
    Aug. 12, 2024

    Panther Meadows Campground

    Just a big parking lot

    It’s a large parking lot where you can camp 3 days for free at the most. You can walk down from the parking lot and find a place to camp/set up a tent.

  • Michael O.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort
    Jul. 30, 2024

    Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort

    Large, clean & strict

    Large space with tons of camp sites. I took camp spot 28 and had plenty of space behind me and around me. Tons of rules here, but can tell the camp ground is well maintained and nothing unreasonable. Friendly staff, shoutout to Fernanda 🤙🏽

  • Jim B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Boulder Creek RV Redding
    Jul. 28, 2024

    Boulder Creek RV Redding

    Disgusting

    My family and I were recently evacuated from my home due to a wildfire. We are fortunate enough to have an RV and were able to get to an evacuation area. After staying a few days in the evacuation zone, we needed to refill our water and empty our tanks so I visited Boulder Creek.

    I offered to pay for some water and for use of their dump station. I was immediately met with the following statement by their front desk employee: “It’s 20 bucks to dump and I don’t do water fills.” 

    I’ve met some of the kindest and most gracious people during this incident, but I was disgusted as I walked out and noticed the freshly watered little planters full of flowers and the lack of humanity or even an attempt at kindness shown by Boulder Creek’s employees. 

    I highly recommend to anyone looking for a place to stay in Redding to find somewhere else.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Trinity Lake KOA Holiday
    Jul. 27, 2024

    Trinity Lake KOA Holiday

    Exactly what I needed!

    I started my journey up at Shasta lake, but was driven out by bees. I sought several other locations but decided Trinity was a worthwhile shot. I quickly made an online reservation, paid the holding fee, got there 4 hours early because I needed to just land instead of driving aimlessly, and the staff was so accommodating! They allowed me to stay in the parking lot while my site was being prepared, and they even let me in an hour and half earlier than check in! My spot was easy and accessible, close to bathrooms and showers, near the front store which had everything I needed, including coffee, a short walk to the lake, and a view of stars you don’t see very often. I came for solitude, but found comfort in neighbors who have a mutual love and respect for these great outdoors. I even shared a meal with my neighbor! This is an incredible place and very well maintained grounds. Staff are driving around quite literally into the night hours keeping things clean. Thanks Trinity KAO Holiday! I will be seeing you again!

  • jojo B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Hirz Bay Campground
    Jul. 26, 2024

    Hirz Bay Campground

    beautiful bear playground

    oh wow what a fantastic and gorgeous location. really well maintained when it comes to their bathrooms (flushing & sinks) and trash cans… but holy bear. around 4am a black bear (maybe 500lbs?) came through our site and pulled on the bear box and kept it moving to check neighboring sites (which were vacant) only to come back shortly later for a few sniffs. this would’ve been less scary had we been in an RV buuuut tent camping + bear is not the vibe guys. it definitely smelled us and knew exactly where we were & we’re incredibly fortunate but of course we were terrified. i’d definitely come back with different equipment and plenty of mace and really wish there were more signs about the likelihood of bears in this area at this time. there were a handful of signs but so small and easy to get lost amid all the other super valuable information.


Guide to Bella Vista

Camping near Bella Vista, California, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds nearby that cater to different needs.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the stunning trails around Lassen Volcanic National Park. One camper mentioned, "The hiking is incredible and there is a trail that goes around the lake" at Manzanita Lake Campground.
  • Water Sports: Enjoy kayaking or paddleboarding at Beehive Point Shoreline Campground. A reviewer noted, "Great for water sports powered or canoes and paddle boards."
  • Fishing: Try your luck at fishing in the nearby lakes and rivers. Campers have found spots that are perfect for casting a line, especially around Trinity Lake KOA Holiday.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. One visitor at Railroad Park Resort said, "The campsite was very clean and quiet."
  • Friendly Staff: Campers often mention the helpfulness of the staff. A reviewer at Castle Crags State Park Campground shared, "Rangers were friendly and courteous."
  • Scenic Views: The natural beauty of the area is a big draw. A camper at Peltier Bridge Primitive Campground remarked, "The creek is super beautiful."

What you should know:

  • Crowded Campgrounds: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially during peak season. A visitor at Manzanita Lake Campground noted, "This campground is huge and busy."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Beehive Point Shoreline Campground lacks drinking water and showers, so plan accordingly.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife, especially bees. One camper at Beehive Point Shoreline Campground warned, "Woke up to the BIGGEST swarm of wasps."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with amenities for kids. Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA is noted for being a great family spot, with plenty of activities for children.
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone entertained. A camper at Trinity Lake KOA Holiday mentioned, "There are plenty of games like bocci and ladder ball."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can make family camping more enjoyable. A reviewer at Railroad Park Resort appreciated the "clean bathrooms" and "great swimming holes on the river."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Castle Crags State Park Campground advised, "There are no sites for large RVs, or large trucks and 5th wheels."
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need full hookups, check the campground details. Durango RV Resort offers "clean sites, spacious, perfectly level sites."
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds are near highways, so expect some noise. A visitor at Castle Crags State Park Campground noted, "Loud highway is right there."

Camping near Bella Vista, California, provides a variety of experiences for everyone. Whether you're in a tent or an RV, there's something for every outdoor enthusiast.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Bella Vista, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Bella Vista, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 247 campgrounds and RV parks near Bella Vista, CA and 21 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Bella Vista, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Bella Vista, CA is Beehive Point Shoreline Campground with a 3.9-star rating from 14 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Bella Vista, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 21 free dispersed camping spots near Bella Vista, CA.

  • What parks are near Bella Vista, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 18 parks near Bella Vista, CA that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.