RV campgrounds near Etna, California can be found at elevations ranging from 2,200 to 3,000 feet in the Klamath National Forest area, where summer temperatures typically range from 75-95°F during the day and cool to 50-60°F at night. The region experiences seasonal road closures on forest service routes during winter months, with accessibility best from late spring through mid-fall. Cell service varies dramatically throughout the area, with stronger connections in established campgrounds than dispersed sites.
What to do
Fishing access points: Blue Heron RV Park in Hornbrook offers direct river access along the Klamath River with concrete pads and riverfront sites. "The riverfront sites cost a little more but are worth it," notes Elizabeth H., who stayed there for two nights while traveling to the Pacific Northwest.
Pool activities: Lakehead Campground & RV Park provides on-site recreation options including a pool and pool hall. "Owner occupied rustic campground lots of good campsites and also some RV sites to plug in... there's a pool a pool hall laundry services here also," explains Bobbi Lee H., who mentions being "a quarter mile from Shasta lake... lots of water sports everything you can imagine."
Mushroom foraging: Cedar Pines Resort RV Park offers insider knowledge on local foraging opportunities. "Welcoming on site couple gave us the low down on some nearby fishing and foraging spots," reports Jeremy H., who was so impressed they "extended our trip a week as we did not want to go home."
What campers like
Clean facilities: McCloud RV Resort maintains exceptional cleanliness standards throughout their property. "Bathrooms exceptionally clean and hosts friendly and helpful," writes Betsi B., who appreciates the "lovely, grassy campground not far from I5 and CA 89" despite noting "a bit of road noise that you can hear in the morning."
Wildlife viewing: Blue Heron RV Park offers opportunities to observe local fauna. "The wild horses were a treat to see. They frequently roam around the campground," writes Mike, who stayed at the park and noted that "the staff are working from 6:00 AM until evening to keep the park clean."
Rustic environment: Lakehead Campground provides a more natural setting with minimal development. "I really liked this rustic little campground. The owner was nice and the grounds were simple and naturally pretty," comments Jorah, who appreciates that "it was very quiet, and nice and dark for sleeping."
What you should know
Connectivity limitations: Most RV parks near Etna have limited internet options. At Blue Heron RV Park, "We did not have a Verizon signal in the campground. The free campground WiFi provides 1 Mbps download speed. We paid $12.00 for one week of upgraded WiFi which provides 3 Mbps download," explains Mike.
Advance booking requirements: McCloud RV Resort fills quickly during peak seasons. "Best advice: book this at least 2 months in advance," warns Steven H., who visited during a July holiday when "the campground was cramped."
Pet policies: Most campgrounds have specific pet areas and rules. Friendly RV Park in Weed offers "new pet areas" according to Alicia F., who notes the park has "gorgeous views of Mount Shasta" and is "within walking distance to restaurants and convenience store."
Tips for camping with families
Playground amenities: Many RV parks cater to families with dedicated play areas. At Waiiaka RV Park, "Dog park and playground were small, campsite were packed close together. It was generally nice but unremarkable," notes Rachel W., who stayed overnight while traveling.
Affordability considerations: Friendly RV Park offers reasonably priced stays with family-friendly features. Glen C. describes it as "pleasant, peaceful, and reasonably priced" and considers it "a great stopping point for anyone needing a restful night while passing through Northern California."
Shower facilities: Lakehead Campground provides practical amenities for family camping. "The showers weren't fancy but the water was hot, and there was a big sink for doing your dishes," mentions Jorah, highlighting features important for family camping.
Tips from RVers
Water pressure awareness: McCloud RV Resort has notably high water pressure that requires equipment protection. "The water is great! Pure and cold. However, it is high pressure. It exploded our water hose!" warns Steven H., who advises to "place our pressure regulator valve right on the faucet. Then attach the hose and filter."
Site spacing considerations: Many RV campgrounds near Etna have closely positioned sites. At Waiiaka RV Park, one camper notes "the sites are close together but we were only there for the night's sleep so we didn't mind," while at McCloud RV Resort, susan R. observed "the spaces in the 120's were very small your neighbors slide is in your space!"
Overnight stopover options: Yreka RV Park serves well for short stays while traveling through the region. "We stopped here when we were so tired we couldn't drive any further. Staff was wonderful and we had a shady spot," shares Jen H., who indicates they "didn't use the amenities other than the site" but "would stop again."
