Camping options near Cassel, California feature diverse outdoor settings at elevations between 3,200 and 5,600 feet. The region experiences warm, dry summers with daytime temperatures averaging 75-85°F from June through September and cool evenings that often dip below 50°F. Winter camping availability varies by location, with most facilities closing from November through April due to snow accumulation and freezing temperatures.
What to do
Falls viewing: 5-minute walk from the main campground area at McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park. "The Falls are beautiful too cold to do any quality swimming but a nice hike around the falls and down to the lake," notes Kelly S., who visited during warmer months.
Fishing in hat creek: The creek runs directly through Hat Creek Resort & RV Park where multiple campers report catching trout. "We caught trout all morning. Wonderful place convenience store was great too!" shares Frank P., who enjoyed fishing steps from his trailer.
Lake activities: Lake Britton at McArthur-Burney Falls offers swimming and boating while Lake Siskiyou provides boat rentals. "The lake is refreshing and the campground itself is relaxing and peaceful. The sites aren't super cramped, there is a general store, clean facilities," reports Jen T., who visited during both summer and fall.
Hiking trails: Multiple trail options available from most campgrounds, including the Pacific Crest Trail which passes near Summit Lake North Campground in Lassen Volcanic National Park. "There are a number of hikes around the falls," mentions Jessica F., who enjoyed exploring the area.
What campers like
Private sites with mature trees: Many campgrounds offer wooded sites that provide natural shade and privacy. At Merrill Campground, "The sites are spread out and offer a lot of privacy. Full hookups $35, water and electric $30. Dry camp $20," according to James W., who appreciated the campground layout.
Water features: Creeks, lakes, and waterfalls enhance many camping locations. At McCloud RV Resort, "A stream that runs through the park (kids played in). Really enjoyable and we have been here before and had to return," shares Brian P., describing the natural water features.
Availability of supplies: Most larger campgrounds include on-site stores for basic provisions. "The store is well provisioned and grounds are very well maintained. We will be back here for sure!" reports Jason D. about Hat Creek Hereford Ranch, noting the convenience of having supplies available.
Natural cooling: Higher elevations provide relief from valley heat. "We were more than happy to escape the 110' temps down in the valley. The nights were cool - almost chilly," writes Steven H. about his McCloud RV Resort stay, highlighting the comfortable mountain temperatures.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds in the area operate from April through October, with limited winter access. "Open season visit, September 12. I rolled in five minutes after 5pm, so the entrance staff had left, and the cafe closed," reports Jessica F. about McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park.
Insect preparedness: Mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly near lakes and in early summer. "The bad - Tons of mosquitoes! The Good - Great campsite in a nice remote area to take in nature, go hiking, bike riding, and fishing for trout!" warns Will M. about his experience at Merrill Campground.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise despite their natural settings. "That night, the trucks on the adjacent highway were ridiculously loud. I think there was a particularly loud period from midnight to 1am, and then they started back up again around 5:30am," cautions Jessica F.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly during peak season. "This campground is super popular, so you will most likely need a reservation in advance. But it's so worth it!" advises Jen T. about Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly glamping options: Several campgrounds offer cabin and yurt rentals ideal for families new to glamping in Cassel, California. "The cabins were nice for 2 nights...good amount of trails...only few of them were closed due to a storm an fires...the falls are not even far to get too maybe 5 minute walk," shares Sergio T. about his family's McArthur-Burney Falls experience.
Swimming access: Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort features a sandy beach area popular with families seeking glamping alternatives. "Short walk with our water toys to the nice sandy beach and lake. We rented kayaks one day and the next we rented a pontoon boat and our friends joined us," describes Margo A., highlighting the family-friendly water activities.
Beginner fishing spots: Stocked ponds provide easy fishing opportunities for children. "My daughter caught her first fish(s) here in the pond. Store is well provisioned and grounds are very well maintained," reports Jason D. about Hat Creek Hereford Ranch, noting the family-friendly fishing.
On-site recreation: Look for campgrounds with built-in activities. "Pool, game room, shuffle board, basketball court and off leash dog park. Lots of trees in the sites great for hammocking (in the tent sites)," notes Suzanne P. about Mount Shasta City KOA, listing the family recreation options.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup availability: Many campgrounds offer electric, water, and sewer connections with varying amperage. "We stayed at a full hookup site in my 22 foot travel trailer. We got a spot right on the water. The spots had a bunch of space between them and you had a feeling of privacy," shares Jason D. about Hat Creek Resort.
Site spacing considerations: Some RV sites can be crowded, particularly during peak season. "My only complaint is the sites are way too close together!" notes Janice M. about McCloud RV Resort, highlighting a common concern for RVers.
Water pressure issues: Be prepared for variable water systems. "The water is great! Pure and cold. However, it is high pressure. It exploded our water hose! After that we learned to place our pressure regulator valve right on the faucet," advises Steven H. based on his McCloud RV Resort experience.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with partial hookups have on-site dump facilities. "Well whether you dry camp or partial hook-ups across from Merrill entrance is the RV dump station with full cleaning hoses at a reasonable price," notes Angela G., providing practical information for RV waste management.
