Bella Vista, California camping areas feature mostly valley terrain with a Mediterranean climate of hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F while winter lows hover around 35-40°F. Camping options around Bella Vista include both year-round operations and seasonal facilities, with most sites located within a 20-mile radius of town.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Mountain Gate RV Park provides convenient access to nearby fishing spots. "Close to the lake for skiing," notes Michael C., who also mentions the park's "beautiful" setting and proximity to multiple recreation areas.
River activities: The Sacramento River offers swimming and water recreation near several campgrounds. At Red Bluff KOA Journey, "sites along the River are beautiful. There is a great off leash dog area along a trail next to the river," according to Jennifer H.
Hiking trails: Trinity River access points near Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort provide natural exploration areas. "Just around the corner from the campground (walking distance) is access to the river. The whole family enjoyed dipping in when it's warm outside," writes Jason D.
What campers like
Peaceful settings: Campers appreciate quieter locations away from highway noise. At Trail In RV Park, Gil W. noted it's "nice, quiet, close to the highway but not noisy," and Elizabeth O. added there's "no traffic noise because of the thick buffer of trees."
Clean facilities: Boulder Creek RV Redding receives praise for its maintenance standards. "Great campsite. Nicely laid out, lovely landscaping, great amenities (including a small gym with free weights), super clean and functional bathrooms," reported priscilla M.
Helpful staff: Many reviewers highlight exceptional service at area campgrounds. At Mountain Gate RV Park, Lori W. shared that "Patti is super accommodating and helpful. It's nice for a stop over or a couple of weeks while exploring the Shasta area."
What you should know
Temperature extremes: Summer heat can be intense around Bella Vista. At JGW RV Park, Mike W. noted, "It was hot (it is summer Redding). Level site not crowded space."
Seasonal operations: Some campgrounds close during winter months. Shasta Lake RV Resort operates from May 15 to December 31, while most Redding facilities remain open year-round.
Site layouts: RV parks vary in layout and spacing. At Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort, Tara D. observed, "The spots are grassed, all clean and well maintained. The spaces are wide. Wider than any other places we have stayed."
Tips for camping with families
Pool availability: For families needing recreation during hot months, check pool status before booking. At Red Bluff KOA Journey, one camper noted, "Pool was refreshing in 95 degree heat," while another review mentioned, "We chose it for its convenient location on our route, and for its sparkling pool and hot tub, which was a huge win for our kids."
Kid-friendly amenities: Trail In RV Park & Campground offers rustic camping with creek access. Elizabeth O. described it as having "a creek, lots of trees, a quiet roadway and full hookups made for a nice break."
Access to activities: Some campgrounds offer on-site recreation. Red Bluff KOA Journey features "a pool, fountains, full hookups, trash pickup at your site," according to Theo A., while another reviewer mentioned additional amenities including "basketball court, horseshoe area, club house."
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges: Large RVs require careful planning at some locations. Jason D. noted about Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort, "Biggest I would put in here would be about a 30 foot trailer. You have to disconnect your tow vehicle."
Summer cooling needs: When camping at rv campgrounds near Bella Vista, California during summer, electrical reliability becomes crucial. Theo A. experienced issues at Marina RV Park where "our 30amp had issues, which meant the airconditioning unit could not run continuously in 100 degree heat."
Site selection: For optimal comfort at rv parks around Bella Vista, consider sun exposure. Eric J. advised about specific sites at Redding RV Park: "if you're in a Sprinter or van sites 30 & 31 have AM shade."
