Best Campgrounds near French Gulch, CA

Camping near French Gulch, California, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot by the river or a family-friendly campground, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

• Hiking: There are many trails nearby, perfect for a day of exploring. Campers have noted that the hiking trails around Castle Crags State Park Campground offer stunning views. One reviewer mentioned, "Many hiking trail options. And a 'vista point' that shows Mt. Shasta, Castle Crags and the Eddies (outstanding view, ADA accessible)."
• Water Sports: If you enjoy being on the water, Beehive Point Shoreline Campground is great for kayaking and paddleboarding. A visitor shared, "Great for water sports powered or canoes and paddle boards."
• Fishing: The area is known for its fishing spots. Campers at Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort have had success, with one saying, "We fished Lewiston lake less than 10 min. away and Whiskeytown Lake about 20-25 min. away with great luck."

What campers like:

• Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A guest at Railroad Park Resort noted, "The campsite was very clean and quiet. Beautiful scenery and easy to get to."
• Friendly Staff: Campers often mention helpful staff. One reviewer at Trinity Lake KOA Holiday said, "The staff was so accommodating! They allowed me to stay in the parking lot while my site was being prepared."
• Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy having room to spread out. A visitor at Hayward Flat remarked, "The sites are varied here. You have tent sites and RV sites and all are spacious."

What you should know:

• Noise Levels: Some campgrounds are close to highways, which can be noisy. A camper at Castle Crags State Park Campground mentioned, "Only downside was the proximity to the freeway. Freeway noise noted."
• Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. For example, Beehive Point Shoreline Campground lacks drinking water and showers, as noted by a visitor who said, "It’s likely that the heat draws the bees out, so you may have a different experience other times of the year."
• Reservations Recommended: During peak seasons, it's wise to book ahead. A reviewer at Trinity Lake KOA Holiday advised, "They charge for everything including an early check-in fee when we had to move sites due to reservation conflicts."

Tips for camping with families:

• Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with activities for kids. Railroad Park Resort has a pool and hot tub, making it a hit with families. One parent said, "It was quiet and clean. We had to move during our first stay because we were too close to the brook with our small kiddos."
• Pack Games and Activities: Bring along games to keep the kids entertained. A camper at Mountain Gate RV Park mentioned, "There are plenty of games like bocci and ladder ball."
• Plan for Quiet Hours: Be mindful of noise during the night. A family at Hayward Flat noted, "The quiet hours were not enforced as we were woken up by loud partying well after 2 am."

Tips from RVers:

• Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort said, "Biggest I would put in here would be about a 30-foot trailer."
• Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer campgrounds with full hookups. Mountain Gate RV Park offers these amenities, and one reviewer praised, "It’s probably one of the cleanest campgrounds and facilities I’ve ever been to."
• Be Prepared for Fees: Some campgrounds charge for extra services. A camper at Trinity Lake KOA Holiday mentioned, "They charge for everything including an early check-in fee."

Camping near French Gulch, California, has something for everyone, whether you're a family looking for fun or an RVer seeking comfort.