Tent campsites near Greenview, California provide access to high elevation camping with views of Mount Shasta from several locations. The region sits within Klamath National Forest where elevations range from 2,000 to 8,000 feet, creating significant temperature drops at night even during summer. Most dispersed camping areas remain open from late spring through early fall, with road access limited by seasonal conditions.
What to do
Swimming opportunities: Castle Lake Dispersed Camping offers access to nearby lakes for cooling off. One camper noted, "Siskiyou Lake right down the way to swim was THE best view of Shasta and the most mellow and perfect swimming conditions!"
Backpacking trails: Several established trails lead from Lovers Camp Trailhead into the wilderness. "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!" shared one hiker.
Mountain kayaking: Bring portable watercraft to access alpine lakes. At Toad Lake Campground, one visitor explained: "We carried one of our inflatable kayaks up the trail and to the lake. It was difficult but well worth it, it was such a peaceful ride."
Stargazing sessions: Clear mountain nights provide excellent astronomy opportunities. A camper at Mount Ashland Campground shared, "The sunsets are GORGEOUS and stargazing is amazing but it is WINDY and I mean, drops 20 degrees windy."
What campers like
Free camping options: Several free camping areas exist throughout the region. At Mount Ashland Campground, a camper reported: "It is a marked campground that is FREE. Simply follow the road past the ski area and you will find it."
Rustic amenities: Most campgrounds offer basic facilities. At Beaver Creek Campground, a visitor described: "Nice river running right next to the camp to cool off in and a wading pool has been made."
Solitude access: Many sites provide genuine wilderness experiences. One Castle Lake camper explained, "Great spot! I got one with a wonderful view, fire pit, privacy, and a good sitting rock."
Wildlife viewing: The area hosts diverse wildlife populations. At Toad Lake, a camper described: "The lake itself is small and surrounded with life! Beautiful flowers are everywhere. This is a very fragile ecosystem so please tread carefully."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many camping areas require navigating rough roads. A visitor to Castle Lake Dispersed Camping mentioned, "Road dips down but rutted and I'm low clearance so can't tell what's down there."
Water access limitations: Most sites lack running water. At Beaver Creek Campground, a camper advised: "This campground is nestled in the forest in a remote area about 30 minutes or so west of I-5. It's free to stay here, but there is no water or camp host."
Fire restrictions: Rules vary by season and location. A Toad Lake visitor cautioned: "DO NOT USE THE FIRE PIT - fires are not allowed and it is an illegal fire ring. Bring a gas stove to heat your food instead."
Snow impacts: Higher elevation areas retain snow later in season. One Castle Lake visitor reported: "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."
Tips for camping with families
Town-adjacent options: For families wanting amenities nearby, Etna City Park provides urban camping. "Town is very friendly towards hikers," noted one camper, adding "We didn't use it but heard there is a community pool for free public use."
Kid-friendly swimming: Look for lakes with shallow areas. At Beaver Creek, a camper described the setting as "a nice little site with 7 spots" where a "wading pool has been made" next to the camp.
Food planning: Limited shopping options mean advance preparation is essential. A Beaver Creek visitor advised: "There's no store nearby that I know of, so make sure you've got everything before you get there."
Weather preparation: Temperatures fluctuate significantly. At Mount Ashland, a visitor warned: "The views are STUNNING with Mt Shasta in the distance and forest land extending as far as the eye can see. Very quiet and peaceful even in the parking area."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most sites accommodate only smaller vehicles. About Castle Lake, one RVer advised: "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."
Leveling challenges: Terrain is often uneven. A Mount Ashland camper noted: "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."
Turning restrictions: Limited space makes maneuvering difficult. That same Castle Lake camper explained: "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."
Generator policies: Most wilderness sites prohibit generator use. At Mount Ashland, a visitor observed the benefit of tent-only areas: "Good hiking or biking and in winter snowshoeing and cross country skiing, not to mention the Mt Ashland Ski Area is right here as well."
