Burney camping areas sit at elevations between 3,000-5,000 feet in northeastern Shasta County, where volcanic geology creates distinctive terrain. Camping season typically runs April through October, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during day and 45-55°F at night. Winter camping options remain limited to year-round facilities due to snowfall at higher elevations.
What to do
Explore lava tubes and caves: The Subway Cave near Old Station offers a unique geological adventure. "Subway cave lava tube, which was the destination for the quick trip, is not to be missed," notes Kyle G. from Cave Campground. The cave stays cool even during summer heat.
Visit Lassen Volcanic National Park: Located within driving distance from many Burney area campgrounds. "12 minute drive to Park entrance. Otherwise, you are in the middle of nowhere. 20 minutes to a grocery store. Beautiful spot!" says Kristi D. about Hat Creek Resort & RV Park.
Fishing at Lake Britton: Cast a line from shore at several locations. "Super clean lake! GREAT FISHING! Unfortunately only 9 campsites available at Dusty so its very hard to get one. Go midweek and pack your fishing gear," recommends Ann N. from Northshore Campground.
What campers like
Site positioning on water: Many campgrounds offer waterfront locations. "We got a spot right on the water. The spots had a bunch of space between them and you had a feeling of privacy," explains Jason D. about Hat Creek Resort & RV Park.
Proximity to railroad bridge: History buffs can visit a famous film location. "Another perk of this campground is the railroad/bridge that was featured in the old movie Stand By Me is walking distance from the campsites - it's closed off and no longer in use but cool to check out!" shares Laura H. from Dusty Campground.
Budget-friendly camping options: Several campgrounds offer economical rates. "Off season visit, September 12. I rolled in five minutes after 5pm, so the entrance staff had left, and the cafe closed. Bummer. But as I struggled to figure out where to look for a campsite on the park map, I found the hiker/biker site, and got excited about a potentially cheap night," says Jessica F. about staying at McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park.
What you should know
Campground terrain varies significantly: Prepare accordingly for your site type. "Most of the campsites are more like RV sites with no flat ground for a tent. I wish I would've known that," explains Autumn O. about Northshore Campground.
Limited cell service in most areas: Plan communications accordingly. "Absolutely no cell service!" reports Lee D. about McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground.
Summer insects require preparation: Mosquitos can be prevalent near water. "Mosquitos. Vast clouds of them, attacking you through the fabric of your tent. In the early morning, when you step outside, you often see a haze, a fog, on the water. It's not fog, it's mosquitos by the millions," warns Michael B. about camping at Dusty Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Natural air conditioning at waterfalls: During hot days, find relief at Burney Falls. "It was super hot but if you walk down to the bottom of the falls it's like a natural air conditioner," advises Rob M. about McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground.
Consider campground layout for safety: Some campgrounds have more kid-friendly layouts than others. "It's great seeing the kids ride around the loop on their bicycles and scooters. We had a perimeter site in the A loop, adjacent to the trail that runs to the lake. These sites feel particularly spacious," notes Celina M. about Manzanita Lake Campground.
Pack extra clothes and towels: Swimming opportunities abound but conditions vary. "The lake is beautiful and the campsite would be awesome if they paved the road and fixed up the bathroom. I'd recommend if you have a trailer or a small RV!" suggests Autumn O. about Dusty Campground.
Tips from RVers
Avoid peak crowds at pet-friendly sites: Dog-friendly campgrounds near Burney fill quickly in summer. "Very popular spot for fishing. Normally sites are hard to get on the weekends or holiday weekends," shares Drew H. about Cave Campground.
Level your equipment: Prepare for uneven terrain. "Be ready to level your camper," advises Kim G. about camping at Manzanita Lake. Many dog-accommodating campgrounds have natural terrain requiring adjustment.
Consider amenities carefully: Some pet-welcoming campgrounds offer more services than others. "Nice spot near the NP. Level spot, nice clean bath and shower area. Got a nice hot shower, thank you! We stumbled across it when all the campgrounds in the national forest and national park for closed for the season and what a nice surprise," shares Kristi D. about Hat Creek Resort & RV Park.