Cabin camping near Dunsmuir, California offers lodging options nestled within Northern California's Shasta Cascade region at elevations between 2,200 and 3,500 feet. The area experiences distinct seasons with summer temperatures averaging 85°F and winter lows dropping to 30°F. Most cabins remain accessible year-round with several locations offering winter accommodations despite seasonal snowfall that can reach up to 25 inches annually.
What to do
Swimming at Lake Siskiyou: Less than 10 miles from Dunsmuir, the lake offers swimming areas with sandy beaches and rope swings. "We found a rope swing hanging on a tree and tied up and did some rope swing fun into the lake. We also enjoyed a short drive up to Castle lake at a higher elevation a lot less people not much sand but really nice for a picnic lunch," reports a visitor to Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort.
Fishing in local waters: The Sacramento River and nearby creeks provide fishing opportunities. "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," notes a Lake Siskiyou camper. Another visitor mentioned, "My cousins and I used to fish in the evenings after a day of playing in the water or hiking."
Explore historic trains: The railroad-themed accommodations provide educational opportunities. "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," reports a guest at Jubilee Railroad Wilderness Lodge & Campground. The property features converted train cars and cabooses that visitors can explore.
Hiking nearby trails: Multiple trail systems connect to campgrounds. "You can access the McCloud River trail from Camp which gave us the chance to stretch our legs and wear out the dogs. A quick jaunt down the road to access the McCloud River Falls Trail which was definitely worth the early morning visit," shares a visitor to Cattle Camp Campground.
What campers like
Spacious campsites with privacy: Sites at many campgrounds provide ample room between neighbors. "Tent sites are huge and so is the campground! We stayed pretty far away from the beach and we were all by ourselves," notes a Lake Siskiyou camper. Another mentioned, "We stayed in the Rim Camp; on a Monday the week before Memorial Day, we had our pick of sites as the park was nearly empty."
Access to natural features: Many cabins offer proximity to water features. "The RV Campground is beautiful and surrounded by trees and a creek that flows behind the main RV parking area. Check in is easy," shares a reviewer about Jubilee Railroad Wilderness Lodge & Campground. Another visitor noted, "Nice camp ground with a few fairly private sites. Some highway noise but not terrible."
Family-friendly amenities: Properties offer activities beyond basic camping. "Truly and amazing place! I'm looking forward to going back after Covid. We met our family half way and wanted a campground we could all find easily. It's a bit pricey but for the convenience it was well worth it," reports a visitor at Lake Siskiyou. A camper at McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park noted, "The campground is super popular, so you will most likely need a reservation in advance. But it's so worth it!"
Clean facilities: Many locations maintain well-kept bathrooms and showers. "Clean bathrooms and showers. 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)," reports a guest at Mount Shasta City KOA Holiday.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabins require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. "We love it here. However, it's super popular and we only go in the off season due to too many people booking in advance," shares a visitor to Lake Siskiyou. Another camper noted, "Siskiyou County campgrounds are currently full to brimming, and people are lining up at 6am for the few fcfs sites at the FS campgrounds."
Highway noise considerations: Some properties experience road noise. "Located just south of Dunsmuir at exit 728. Campground, with 45 sites (22 RV) at a Railroad themed resort that also has Caboose lodging, cabins, restaurant and bar, pool, much more," notes a visitor to Jubilee Railroad Wilderness Lodge. Another camper mentioned, "It is near the I5 - so there is some road noise."
Variable cell service: Coverage differs significantly between properties. "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 camper at Jubilee Railroad Wilderness Lodge. A visitor at Trinity Lake KOA Holiday noted, "There was no cell service. Correction to Dyrt description, wireless is only available at the KOA store."
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts accessibility and amenities. "Wifi at our spot was weak. Also we have t-mobile and we did not have a signal on the campgrounds/resort," notes a Jubilee Railroad visitor. A camper at Trinity Lake KOA Holiday mentioned, "Check in was a challenge, staff was grumpy, even with a reservation. They have a later check in (3pm) but will allow early check in for $25."
Tips for camping with families
Beach access options: Several properties offer water recreation for children. "We took 2 small children in a rented camper and went to this lake in a recommendation from friends in Mt. Shasta... we were not disappointed! They were plenty of trees in the campground everybody was friendly, short walk with our water toys to the nice sandy beach and lake," shares a Lake Siskiyou visitor.
Kid-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with recreation facilities. "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," notes a visitor at Trinity Lake KOA Holiday. Another camper reported, "Very family friendly!! Easy access of highway 3."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children enjoy spotting local animals. "The lovely red earth, thick green trees and uniquely beautiful blue/teal water makes for a welcoming lake day for all ages. My cousins and I used to fish in the evenings after a day of playing in the water or hiking. Have seen deer and bears here," shares a Lake Siskiyou visitor.
Budget considerations: Cabin pricing varies significantly between properties. "Nice campground in Northern California with lots of things to do from boating on low MPH lake - fishing - trails around lake and a swimming hole. We've been coming here for years," reports a visitor to Lake Siskiyou.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Choose locations based on your specific needs. "Best hook up site #13 due to privacy. Pretty trees and little creek for pups to splash around. The train cars are close by to visit via trail. It was quiet and very clean," shares an RVer at Jubilee Railroad Wilderness Lodge.
Hookup availability: RV sites offer various connection options. "We stayed at the Railroad Park Resort near Dunsmuir, CA for 5 nights. It was fine, with a couple small issues. The rv portion sort of felt like the red-headed stepchild," notes a visitor to Jubilee Railroad Wilderness Lodge. "Full hook-ups, pull through site (many were back-in only) and zero privacy, although the rv park is in a pretty stand of very thinned trees at the far end of the RRP property."
Parking considerations: Space limitations affect larger vehicles. "We stayed here for 4 nights in a towable trailer. I highly recommend getting a spot near the tents and exit to the river road if you are towing a trailer. We were on the end of Raccoon Rd and it was fantastic," reports an RVer at Cedar Pines Resort RV Park. Another camper noted, "The train follows the river so it is as quiet as can be expected in a train town."
