Tent campsites near Etna, California range from primitive backcountry sites to established campsites that provide access to the Marble Mountain Wilderness. The Klamath National Forest terrain surrounding Etna features elevations from 2,900 feet in town to over 8,000 feet in the nearby mountains. Summer temperatures in higher elevation camping areas typically drop to the 40s at night, requiring campers to pack appropriate cold weather gear even during July and August.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at dawn/dusk: Toad Lake Campground offers excellent wildlife observation opportunities in a pristine mountain lake setting. "Beautiful flowers are everywhere. This is a very fragile ecosystem so please tread carefully," notes Adam H., who recommends bringing an inflatable kayak despite the difficult 15-minute hike to the lake.
Backpacking into wilderness: Lovers Camp Trailhead serves as a gateway to extended backcountry excursions. "We just finished a backpacking trip in marble valley and sky high lakes area, both accessible about 5+ miles from the Lovers Camp Trailhead. It was absolutely beautiful! So much to do in that area and such great views," reports Erin.
Stargazing on clear nights: The higher elevation sites around Mount Ashland provide exceptional night sky viewing. "The sunsets are GORGEOUS and stargazing is amazing but it is WINDY and I mean, drops 20 degrees windy," warns Abby M., suggesting campers prepare for significant temperature drops after sunset.
What campers like
Free camping options: Mount Ashland Campground requires no fee while offering basic amenities. "It is a marked campground that is FREE. Simply follow the road past the ski area and you will find it," explains Hannah H., though she notes that spots with fire rings fill quickly.
Scenic mountain views: The higher elevation campsites provide panoramic vistas across multiple states. "The view alone is worth it for at least a night, can see all the way to Mt. Shasta, truly spectacular!!" writes Ihasa G., who appreciates the primitive but reasonable free camping at Mount Ashland.
Swimming opportunities: Castle Lake Dispersed Camping provides access to nearby water features. One camper recommends, "If you camp here check out Siskiyou Lake right down the way to swim it was THE best view of Shasta and the most mellow and perfect swimming conditions!"
What you should know
Road conditions and vehicle requirements: Many primitive campsites require high-clearance vehicles. About Toad Lake, Adam H. advises, "Take this road only if you have a 4x4 or AWD vehicle with suitable clearance and are comfortable driving on such mountain roads... The road is very rough, so expect to bounce around for about 1.5 hours while traveling at an average speed of 5mph."
Site selection challenges: Castle Lake Dispersed offers varying site options based on vehicle capabilities. "I got in with a lil mazda, tho i did turn back from some of the lower section. it's a pull off to the left when going TO castle lake. spots splintering off along the main road," shares Shirah P.
Seasonal limitations: May and early June camping often encounters snow at higher elevations. One Castle Lake camper noted, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra layers: Temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night are common at mountain camping areas near Etna. "The cooler temperatures are great," notes Gary N. at Mount Ashland, but evening temperatures can drop unexpectedly even in summer.
Consider in-town options: Etna City Park provides convenient tent camping with amenities. One visitor who didn't camp overnight still appreciated that "This is a well-maintained city park that is friendly to tent camping. They ask for a $5 fee. Shower tokens can be purchased at Ray's Market, located a few blocks away."
Seek out swim-friendly locations: When camping during hot weather, identify nearby swimming spots. According to visitors, several lakes within 30-45 minutes of Etna offer swimming opportunities, with Siskiyou Lake receiving particular praise for family-friendly conditions.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations at forest campsites: Mule Bridge Campground and similar established forest service sites can accommodate smaller RVs but lack hookups. The primitive tent-focused campgrounds have limited parking and turning space for larger vehicles.
Challenging access roads: Most dispersed camping options near Etna have rough, narrow access roads. One camper at Castle Lake notes: "I would probably not recommend with a trailer. I made it down with my Tacoma and a 12ft travel trailer but it was a stretch. Super easy to get in, but took a long time to turn around and get back out. Anything bigger than and you're probably stuck."
Limited level sites: Finding level spots for RVs can be difficult at mountain camping areas. At Mount Ashland, a camper observed, "This campground is really only set up for tent campers. The place to park for vehicles is far from level. Even with camper jacks I was sleeping at an angle."
