Dunsmuir camping options span elevations from 2,200 to 3,500 feet in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, creating varied microclimates throughout the camping season. Most dispersed camping areas open in late May after seasonal road closures end, while higher elevation sites at Castle Lake can remain inaccessible until mid-June. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, making water availability an important consideration for early and late season camping.
What to do
Fishing access points: Lower McCloud Falls at Fowlers Campground provides fishing spots along paved trails. "Big trees, wildlife, easy trails and waterfalls waterfalls waterfalls! The water was freezing in August. Perfect," notes one visitor. This location serves as a quieter alternative to more crowded fishing areas.
Hiking to mountain lakes: The trail from Castle Lake Campground to Heart Lake offers mountain views within a 2-mile round trip. "The hike up to Heart Lake and Castle Peak is one of my favorites in the area! On a clear day, you can see some of the mountains in Oregon!" A visitor recommends arriving early as the limited parking fills quickly during summer months.
Winter recreation: Several camping areas maintain winter accessibility. Mount Shasta KOA remains open year-round with tent sites available even in colder months. "We stayed here twice now, once in April and once in august. They have four tent camping sites with electric hookup and fancy seating among many other types of sites," explains a camper who visited in different seasons.
What campers like
Small campground experiences: Lower population density camping appeals to many visitors. "This is a great little campground located right near a beautiful lake and some great hiking. The campground itself is small and first-come first-serve, so arrive early in the day to get a spot at all," reports a Castle Lake camper.
Train-themed accommodations: Jubilee Railroad Wilderness Lodge & Campground offers unique lodging options beyond standard camping. "Great resort. Guests have the option of bringing their own RV, staying in a tent, or lodging in train cars that have been converted into hotel rooms. Large pool on site, along with a rustic restaurant with great steaks!" One visitor specifically recommends site #13 for "privacy" among the RV spots.
Waterfront options: Sites along the McCloud River provide direct water access. "I love that this campground is right by the river. The paved sites are nice," shares a Fowlers Campground visitor. Several campers mention enjoying wading in creeks during summer heat when temperatures frequently exceed 90°F.
What you should know
Bear activity: Bears regularly visit camping areas around Dunsmuir. "Personally I've camped there about half a dozen times and have seen bears more times then I haven't. Because too many campers aren't responsible with their food bears in the area have gotten pretty used to people and often come into camp," cautions a Castle Crags State Park visitor.
Seasonal closures: Many facilities have limited operation periods. "As of May 31st there isn't access to some areas as there is snow blocking the way, some areas are wet from the snow that has already melted. The toilets up at Castle Lake are still covered in snow and inaccessible," reports a dispersed camping visitor.
Road noise: Highway proximity affects several camping areas. "This campground is RIGHT next to I5 so be prepared for noise. I would honestly probably not stay here again, but make it a day trip to do hikes," explains a Castle Crags reviewer who found the traffic disruptive at night.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Shallow creeks provide safer play areas than rivers. "We took 2 small children in a rented camper and went to this lake in a recommendation from friends in Mt. Shasta... short walk with our water toys to the nice sandy beach and lake," reports a visitor to Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort.
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds provide structured activities. "The campground has full hookups, a WiFi that is good enough to stream and it's not a parking lot," mentions a Trailer Lane visitor. Another camper adds: "We took the kids down to see the trains by the motel and my parents went to dinner at The Dinning Car restaurant! There's lots to do."
Budget considerations: Price differences between locations can be substantial. "Lake Siskiyou is gorgeous and with its 5 mph boat speed limit, is incredible for swimming, paddling, and fishing," notes one visitor, though others mention it's "a bit pricey but for the convenience it was well worth it!" Free camping options exist at dispersed sites, but lack facilities.
Tips from RVers
Water system variations: McCloud RV Resort requires special equipment. "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. Then attach the hose and filter," advises a recent visitor.
Cell service limitations: Mobile coverage varies widely by location. "We have t-mobile and we did not have a signal on the campgrounds/resort, but as soon as you get on the I-5 signal picks back up," reports a Jubilee Railroad Wilderness Lodge camper, while another mentions: "I have Verizon and we didn't use it either time we visited."
Site selection strategy: Campground layouts affect experience quality. "We stayed pretty far away from the beach and we were all by ourselves!" mentions a Lake Siskiyou visitor who recommends requesting sites further from high-traffic areas when making reservations.
