215 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Cassel, California provides access to several established campgrounds nestled along rivers and lakes in Shasta County. Campgrounds like Pit River Campground and Cassel Campground offer tent and RV sites in forest settings near water features. McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground, approximately 15 miles northeast of Cassel, provides developed camping with cabin options, while Dusty Campground offers more rustic tent camping directly on Lake Britton. The region includes a mix of PG&E, BLM, and state park managed properties, with most offering basic amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets.
Camping in the Cassel area follows seasonal patterns, with most campgrounds operating from April through October. Winter conditions limit accessibility at higher elevations, while summer brings higher temperatures and increased visitor traffic. Most campgrounds feature gravel or dirt access roads of varying quality, with some sites requiring reservation and others operating on a first-come, first-served basis. The proximity to water bodies creates microclimate effects, particularly around Lake Britton and the Pit River. A camper described the conditions at Pit River Campground as "beautiful campsite, usually pretty empty on weekdays. We went in late May and it's lovely, across our campsite was the river which was also gorgeous. Super green."
Waterfront camping represents a significant draw throughout the region, with Lake Britton providing swimming and boating opportunities. Pit River sites receive consistently positive reviews for their fishing access and relative solitude. Several visitors noted the scenic value of camping near Burney Falls, considered one of the region's natural highlights. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, campers appreciate the mix of developed amenities at larger campgrounds and the simpler experience at smaller sites. Proximity to attractions like the railroad bridge featured in the movie "Stand By Me" adds cultural interest to the natural setting. Visitors should note that some areas experience significant mosquito activity during warmer months, particularly at sites directly adjacent to water features.
"This is one of my favorite campsites in California. There all the falls, which are beautiful, the lake for swimming and water sports and lots of hiking trails."
"Lake to swim and boat in, waterfall short walk, General store with everything you can imagine and firewood, close by a town where you can eat out."
from $35 - $70 / night
Check Availability"LOTS of poison oak surrounding area. Easy walk to a scenic river."
"8 camp spots sites are super close to the river. Great fishing, swimming lagoon, picnic tables, fire rings ( no fires right now ), vault toilets, and quiet."
from $6 - $12 / night
Check Availability"This campground is situated on the north shore of Lake Britton, CA. directly across the lake from the McArthur-Burney Falls campground."
"There is also a north campground called northshore on Lake Britton. This is a review of the very small but great Dusty Campground. on the south eastern side of the lake. "
"Great location on the way to many points north along with an excellent morning or evening adventure to the falls. Camp Host (owner/operator?) is awesome and worth the stay alone."
"The drives in the area are absolutely gorgeous!"
"Right next to the lake with a little beach available. A favored local spot."
from $16 - $20 / night
Check Availability"I live here in cassel and the fishing hear is just plain awesome, campground is real clean and everything you need is in burney and a great sporting goods store packed with your fishing gear, fly fishing"
"Stayed overnight here during a fishing trip to Baum Lake. The campground was almost empty. Unfortunately, the only other campsite was full of Jackwagons with no regard for other folks."
from $20 - $25 / night
Check Availability"Get out there and get your social distancing on folks!! Cheers!"
"We took an eight-day tour through Northern California and this was our first leg. Tent-camped three nights."
"California Hidden gems."
from $26 / night
Check Availability"The campsite is incredibly beautiful with views of Mount Shasta and several other mountain peaks from the edge of the campground."
"There are lots of trails I can take my dog for walks. Couple of the trails takes you to a cliff where you can sit and watch the sunset. Clean sites and campground. Washers and dryers."
from $42 - $75 / night
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ScoutPerfect location right along the beautiful McCloud River and just a short distance from Lower McCloud Falls. The campsite was comfortable, and the campground was clean and well-maintained. A great place to relax and enjoy the natural beauty of the area!
GuideWe took a chance coming since there weren’t any reviews yet. About a mile long dirt road in with some fallen trees so be on the lookout (burn scar area). We got the first spot by the water and from what I could tell, the only spot. It looks like the road goes further past the lake where other campers could go but we didn’t check. Also saw what could be dispersed campsites on the way in. There were a lot of birds to watch on the lake which was so still and peaceful. Only 2 cars went by while we were here. Only downfall is when the sun started to set the mosquitoes got really bad, which by the water isn’t too surprising. Overall we enjoyed it. Very clean and a little camp fire spot set up (which right now you need a permit for).
GuideSuch a beautiful spot next to the river. The trees were gorgeous and perfect for setting up our hammock. Falling asleep to the water was a bonus. Only downfall was the bugs but that’s to be expected. The sites were clean with fire pits too. Definitely would go back
TravelerOriginally we were at Salt flats i believe and had a bad experience there and came here. It is stunning and very spacious, there are fire pits around also. I will say the road coming in is a bit treacherous but we made it in and found a nice spot.
TravelerWe noticed there were a few people when we stopped but at first it was no big deal, this wasn't the first time camping with others. But as the sun was starting to set more people showed up, fireworks were going off, music was getting louder and we had to leave as we were not going to get any sleep.
GuideWe stayed in our self-contained rig for a night and it was easy, clean, and affordable.
RangerBeing right off the main road and so close to Lassen, this spot almost felt too good to be true. Sure enough, there were established fire pits, although I’m fairly certain there is a burn ban for much of the year. I didn’t want to risk it, so I skipped even using a Solo Stove.
This is a decent overnight spot, but not really a destination in itself. We spent the day exploring the nearby Manzanita Lake picnic area and driving the scenic road through Lassen, including the Bumpass Mountain area, before returning after dark to spend the night.
The campsite itself isn’t anything particularly special, but it serves its purpose well as a quick and easy overnight stop. The sites are tucked back among the pines and feel reasonably secluded.
In dry conditions, I think most two-wheel-drive vehicles would be fine getting here. The gravel road has some fairly deep ruts in places, but the campsites are located very close to the road, so there isn’t much driving required once you arrive.
Starlink worked surprisingly well, even with the surrounding pine trees.
There are no amenities here—no water, toilets, trash service, or hookups—but Lassen National Park is just a short drive away if you need facilities during the day.
Overall, it’s a convenient and quiet overnight stop for anyone exploring the Lassen area.
GuideSpent just one night. Great place to relax, soak up the lake view, and get a good night sleep.
GuideThe area has a lot to offer in terms of hiking and river based activities, ie fishing and kayaking. The river trail is beautiful. The campground facilities (toilets and showers) are basic and ok. Water was warm (after a minute of waiting). Some sites are very small, but generally not too close together. A few great sites across the river at first come first served area. The BIG downer is the noise from Highway 5 and the train which sounds its horn 5 or six times as it passes though each night (4 or more passes). Even with ear plugs it was tough to sleep inside an insulated van.
The Cassel area of northeastern Shasta County sits at approximately 3,200 feet elevation near the junction of Hat Creek and Pit River. The volcanic terrain creates a microclimate with relatively mild summers but significant temperature drops at night, even during peak camping season. Most campgrounds around Cassel operate on limited seasonal schedules, with the majority closing between late October and mid-April due to winter conditions.
Fishing access: Pit River Campground has prime fishing spots along the water. A camper noted, "We went in late May and it's lovely, across our campsite was the river which was also gorgeous." The camp host provides free firewood and fishing information about the area.
Swimming at Lake Britton: Northshore Campground has a designated swimming area with beach access. A visitor mentioned, "Beautiful spot right on the lake. Mosquitos and bees so bring bug spray." The campground features coin-operated showers ($1 bills only) and fire pits.
Hiking trails: Lassen RV Resort offers several marked trails through wooded areas. A reviewer shared, "There are lots of trails I can take my dog for walks. Couple of the trails takes you to a cliff where you can sit and watch the sunset." Many trails provide shade during hot summer days.
Easy lake access: Dusty Campground sits directly on Lake Britton with sites just 20 feet from the water. A camper explained, "The lake is maybe 20 feet from the site which is perfect for boat access and the lake britton is my favorite i've ever been to." The proximity allows for early morning and evening water activities.
Clean facilities: Cassel Campground maintains well-kept bathroom facilities despite its rustic setting. One visitor reported, "Good road to get there off 299, easy to find PG&E campground. All sites first come first serve only. No res. Bear boxes present tho would not be bear proof. Clean pit toilets. Good water."
Fall colors: For campers visiting in autumn, the deciduous trees around lake shores create vibrant displays. A camper at McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground noted, "We've been in July and late fall and both times were spectacular." Fall camping offers fewer crowds but requires warmer sleeping gear.
Dust conditions: Many campgrounds in the area have significant dust issues. A reviewer at Northshore Campground warned, "The roads were paved unlike dusty but the campgrounds were just as dusty as dusty campground. Be prepared for everything to be covered from head to toe."
First-come sites: Several campgrounds operate without reservations. At Pit River Campground, a visitor shared, "On a Monday afternoon in June there were several sites available but it mostly filled up by evening." Arriving mid-week significantly improves chances of securing a site.
Mosquito management: Insect activity increases near water, especially at dawn and dusk. One camper at Burney Falls Resort recommended, "Camp Host (owner/operator?) is awesome and worth the stay alone. Sites are a bit tight so might not be the solitude you'd want to a multi day stay."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Cassel, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Cassel, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 215 campgrounds and RV parks near Cassel, CA and 28 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Cassel, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Cassel, CA is McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 42 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cassel, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 28 free dispersed camping spots near Cassel, CA.
What parks are near Cassel, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 parks near Cassel, CA that allow camping, notably Lassen Volcanic National Park and Lassen National Forest.
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