Best Tent Camping near Hat Creek, CA

Are you planning a tent camping trip to Hat Creek? We've got you covered. You can find tent campsites by type, including drive-in, walk-in, and even hike-in for a backpacking adventure. Each tent site offers quick access to one or more of Hat Creek, California's most popular destinations.

Best Tent Sites Near Hat Creek, California (47)

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Showing results 1-10 of 47 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews near Hat Creek, California

506 Reviews of 47 Hat Creek Campgrounds


  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Hat Creek Hereford Ranch RV Park & Campground
    Jul. 21, 2020

    Hat Creek Hereford Ranch RV Park & Campground

    Lawn camping!

    We absolutely loved our 3 days here tent camping in a grass covered site. We lucked out as there was a cancellation for the group site just minutes before we checked in. And we jumped at the chance to spread out! I will say we looked all over at each site and there were dirt sites in the pines that would have been nice too but once you have camped in the grass nothing else compares! Barefoot and clean! Amazing. The staff! Awesome! Very helpful and fun. Bathrooms and showers were clean and everything worked. Their little section of Hat Creek is beautiful. I didn't catch a thing but at least I wasn't working! I haven't covered it all but you get the idea! Get out there and get your social distancing on folks!!

    Cheers!

  • Renee W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeshore Villa RV Park
    Aug. 31, 2018

    Lakeshore Villa RV Park

    More RV Park than Campground

    We camped in a tent, but most others were in RVs. It was very rowdy and loud at night but the campgrounds are in a good location next to Shasta Lake.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mill Creek Resort
    Aug. 6, 2021

    Mill Creek Resort

    Nice Private Campground

    This campground is just south of Lassen Volcanic National Park.  It has two main sections, one for RVs and the other for tents.  There are a small number of RV sites with full hookups and then a larger number of tent sites.  The RV sites are fairly small, but felt separated enough to have some privacy.  The tent sites are a bit more rustic.

    The other slightly odd part is that most of the RV sites were filled with people who came and stayed for the entire summer, year after year.  We were the only not long-term camper in the RV section.  

    Pros:

    * Close to a lot of amazing scenery with Lassen

    * Well kept, clean, quiet campground

    * Camp store/restaurant is great

    * Laundry on site

    * Access to a nice little creek w/swimming hole

    Cons:

    * Camp store is open limited days

    * Tent sites only have pit toilets which are not the best maintained

    OK:

    * No fires in the RV sites

    * Showers were not always very clean

  • Corinna B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Summit Lake North — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Mar. 31, 2020

    Summit Lake North — Lassen Volcanic National Park

    Lovely campground on a nice mellow lake

    I like this campground a lot. Just the right size, maybe 40-50 camp sites total in two separate loops and it’s all very walkable. There’s a couple of pull-though spots for RVs and trailers and a decent mixture of small and medium RVs and tents.

    Camp sites aren’t huge, but enough room not to be completely on top of each other and lots and lots of trees. Some have more room behind them depending on whether they are facing in or out on the loop. Each spot has a fire grate and picnic table. Nice camp host when we were there and an amphitheater nearby.

    Totally awesome lake that’s safely swimmable for kiddos that’s also available for day-use. Flush toilets(always a plus). Enough to do either at the campground or nearby to keep kiddos busy for several days. And Lassen in general is a lovely park.

    Pros: Best part is the awesome lake. Fairly shallow overall but plenty of fun.

    Cons: Not many“extras” (like a store or playground), but I liked it just the way it is. Some spots better than others as far as privacy/space goes.

  • Corinna B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA
    Apr. 6, 2019

    Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA

    I Love This Campground! Fun, Clean, Lots to Do

    I loved this campground! Would go back in a heartbeat. This was the first KOA I've ever stayed in, and I was worried it would be too cheesy/boring (in comparison to the forest/state/national park ones I tend to love), but it was totally fun.

    Pros: Lots of clean bathrooms, warm swimming pool, lots to do including a whole forested area with swings, a fort, etc., games, ping pong, decent sized sites. Close to the entrance to Lassen Park.

    Cons: Some tent sites were better than others. My favorite tent sites were T6. T7, T8 and especially T13.

  • Jacquelynn W.
    Camper-submitted photo from Lake Cove Resort & Marina
    Aug. 16, 2019

    Lake Cove Resort & Marina

    Lake Cove

    Lake cove is always a good choice. Clean bathrooms and laundry facility on site. There are tent sites, even sites with and without hookups, cabins, and a trailer to rent. They also have a volleyball court, horse shoes, and arcade available.

  • Andrew D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Volcanic Country Camping & RV
    Jun. 15, 2018

    Volcanic Country Camping & RV

    Volcanic Country Camping

    There are 4 tent sites and 20+ RV sites.

    9 miles away from the Lassen Volcanic NP southwestern entrance.

    They have restrooms and showers (one stall and one shower for men and one and one for women).

    There are are two fire pits for the “community” but we were the only tent campers for two nights in the middle of June. Each site has a picnic table and charcoal only bbq also.

  • Matt D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Juniper Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Dec. 4, 2020

    Juniper Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park

    Juniper Lake (non group)

    The smaller sites at Juniper Lake are first come first serve, unlike the group sites that can be reserved.  Over the last few years the popularity of Juniper Lake has grown and it is difficult to find a spot on weekends, but early to mid week there's a pretty good chance you can find a spot. If you're lucky enough to get a spot on the lake you'll have one of the most beautiful camping spots in Northern California with an epic view of Mt. Lassen.  There are a couple of good day hikes nearby as well.  Typically camping here is tent camping, but if you have a smaller trailer like a tent trailer or Rpod you might be able to get it in. There are no RV hook ups.

  • Alison The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Aspen Grove Campground (CA)
    Jun. 8, 2021

    Aspen Grove Campground (CA)

    Just for Tents!

    This is one of several campground at Eagle Lake. The unique aspect of Aspen is it is set aside for Tent camping only. No RVs or cabovers are allowed here. It is set in shady pines just like the other campgrounds at the lake. All the usual amenities are here too. Picnic tables fire pits and nice bathrooms. A camp host is present. The campground sits near the water. Close by and to the east is the trail head for the beautiful Osprey Overlook trail. Overall a nice campground for the back to basics Tent camper.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Volcanic Country Camping & RV
    Jul. 16, 2020

    Volcanic Country Camping & RV

    This is a great campground

    Perfect RV and tent campground just outside of Lassen National Park. The RV sites are somewhat close to each other but there are plenty of trees around so you really have a forest feeling. There is a good restaurant and general store next door where you register. We would definitely stay here again.

  • Troy G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Roxie Peconom Campground
    Jun. 12, 2021

    Roxie Peconom Campground

    Great spot away from everything

    I stayed here numerous times as a young kid and teen with my family. We lived in Susanville and would go here to get out of the town and feel closer to nature and experience it all. The sites are walk in so be ready to pack what you need with you. The wildlife possibilities seem endless and it's a very tranquil spot to camp. You can head to thr river to fish as well, which is a plus. Overall, a food campground if you're not looking for any amenities and are tent camping.

  • Francis N.
    Camper-submitted photo from Beehive Point Shoreline Campground
    Aug. 12, 2019

    Beehive Point Shoreline Campground

    One of our favorite spots

    Beehive point offers camping right on the waters of Shasta Lake and has absolutely amazing views. We have been up there a few times and it has rarely been busy. Depending on the water level real estate on the beach can get tight, but there are spots off the beach that are wooded. You can tent camp or bring your travel trailer. The entrance is a little rutted so if you bring a trailer just be cautious. the beach has a ton of drift wood for fires, we have yet to bring our own. There are some small stores and boat launches near by.

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA
    Jun. 14, 2019

    Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA

    Clean and well run

    We spent a full week here and enjoyed it immensely.  Our tent site was large and spacious and even when full, the campground was quiet and peaceful. The hosts were very attentive to the needs of everyone staying there.  We had one night during which a nearby, private property had some dogs that barked all night.  We reported this concern the next morning, after which the hosts contacted the neighboring individuals and the dogs were quite for the remainder of our stay.  The bathrooms and showers were always clean and well maintained.  We will definitely stay there again.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from Burney Falls/Hat Creek KOA
    Jun. 5, 2018

    Burney Falls/Hat Creek KOA

    Rancheria RV park

    Spent a 3 night camping trip staying here. While it is mainly an RV park, it does have some tent camping. There is a central bathroom that is clean. One trouble that we did have one night was the door to the women's bathroom was broken and no one could get in. There is a small lake in the middle of the lot where people can have catch and release fishing. There is a small store and restaurant, but we didn't get anything there. Many of the RVs seem to have been there for some time, every one was very friendly. The camp site had electric and water nearby with a fire grill.

  • Brian C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Summit Lake North — Lassen Volcanic National Park
    Sep. 1, 2018

    Summit Lake North — Lassen Volcanic National Park

    Great National Park Campground

    Another great campsite within the gorgeous (and uncrowded) Lassen Volcanic National Park, this one is on the northern shore of a Summit Lake, a blue, pristine lake near 7000 feet. There are two camping loops with tent sites and small RV trailer sports available. No hook-ups, but flush toilets and sinks nearby.

    Sites can be further inland near the forest with a parking lot that separates you from the lakeshore. In the summer, the lake is great for swimming.

    There is another campsite on the southern side of the lake that is very similar, but we prefer the north campground in that the sites are closer to the lake itself. Numerous hikes are available within the area.

  • Melissa B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA
    Jun. 4, 2022

    Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA

    Really nice people and clean facilities

    I decided to go on a last minute solo trip and called this places for a one night reservation. Next time I definitely want to stay longer. It’s a great family spot and there were lots of dogs and kids running around. The tent camping spots are far enough from people and you don’t feel like you’re on top of each other. You can choose if you want to glamp or camp here, so it’s also a good place if you have friends that don’t like dirt but want to be around pine trees.

    One thing I will warn is google maps did tell me to turn too early and I was wondering around a neighborhood for a little bit. You turn right off of 44 to get to the site.

  • MarinMaverick
    Camper-submitted photo from McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground
    Aug. 17, 2020

    McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground

    Beautiful falls - Crowded Camping

    The falls sell the place.  They are beautiful.  The PCT trail goes right by on the opposite bank. Great fishing upstream from the falls. Great fun at Lake Britton.

    BUT this is one busy crowded campground.  It is large (many sites) has cabins, a visitor center and a store.  So for me a tent camper this can feel like a freeway.  So go in the off season - spring and fall.  All the camping areas are not open then, but there are no crowds.

    For tents some of the sites are open and not very private - meant for RVs. But you can hunt down a decent tent site.  They have all the amenities here.

    Beyond the falls and beyond the lake there is lots of hiking here. Hiking up the stream is magical.  There are fall colors to enjoy, especially around Lake Britton.  You can even strick out for the subway cave or Lassen or Mcloud from this central location.

  • Jordan & Julia
    Camper-submitted photo from Merrill Campground
    May. 30, 2022

    Merrill Campground

    Annual Eagle Lake Trip

    Our annual camping trip to Eagle Lake at the Merrill Campground in Lassen National Forest started as a family trip for a good friend about three generations ago. Ourselves and other friends have since tagged along for the last 6-8 years (some longer). We now routinely book 6 or more campsites, most with power for trailer hook ups though a couple of us still tent camp. Half the group are avid fisherman and go out every morning. The trout fishing is world class and makes for an out-of-this-world fish fry! This is one of the most pristine and quiet campgrounds we visit. The camp hosts and other campers are always extremely friendly and respectful. The facilities are clean and well maintained, the marina is well stocked (both fishing and daily food/drink essentials). We look forward to coming year after year.

  • jojo B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Hirz Bay Campground
    Jul. 26, 2024

    Hirz Bay Campground

    beautiful bear playground

    oh wow what a fantastic and gorgeous location. really well maintained when it comes to their bathrooms (flushing & sinks) and trash cans… but holy bear. around 4am a black bear (maybe 500lbs?) came through our site and pulled on the bear box and kept it moving to check neighboring sites (which were vacant) only to come back shortly later for a few sniffs. this would’ve been less scary had we been in an RV buuuut tent camping + bear is not the vibe guys. it definitely smelled us and knew exactly where we were & we’re incredibly fortunate but of course we were terrified. i’d definitely come back with different equipment and plenty of mace and really wish there were more signs about the likelihood of bears in this area at this time. there were a handful of signs but so small and easy to get lost amid all the other super valuable information.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Mill Creek Resort
    Jul. 11, 2023

    Mill Creek Resort

    Very Close to Lassen NP

    This campground was very close to Lassen NP, which is convenient. Check-In is simply looking at your name on the board and finding your campsite, which is not clear from the confirmation email. It would've been nice to speak to a host to get the lay of the land. The vault toilets in the tent area are very dark even during the day, and are not well maintained. The showers were also very dirty with dead bugs everywhere. The trail down to Mill Creek while short, is incredibly steep and narrow. The creek itself is beautiful and you can hear it while you fall asleep which is nice. The tent sites in the upper numbers are well spaced out. And there are deer in the area that come right by your site :) Mosquitoes were not bad at all even right next to the creek. I would maybe try another campground that came recommend from a fellow tent camper while at this one. Also, I couldn't get a cell signal for Verizon the whole time I was at the campground.

  • Kyle G.
    Camper-submitted photo from Cave Campground
    Jun. 10, 2019

    Cave Campground

    Great sites! Family friendly

    Found the camp and sites easily right off the highway across from the Subway Cave. Visited for the night with my oldest son’s Boy Scout troop, troop 16. Tent sites were flat and free of major debris and rocks. Fire ring was put to good use. The Camp Host, Gary was very friendly and introduced himself and offered to help in any way he could. We also enjoyed a very entertaining magic show by one of the camps frequent guest, Clancy. Flush toilets were clean and well stocked, minus hand soap or sanitizer. It was an easy walk from the site to the subway cave lava tube, which was the destination for the quick trip, is not to be missed. We neglected to bring fishing poles by observed many anglers returning with trout for their camp fires. Park Rangers we’re friendly and inviting.

    Will return again!

  • Mandi W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Beehive Point Shoreline Campground
    Jun. 30, 2023

    Beehive Point Shoreline Campground

    Beautiful spot!

    This spot is so incredibly scenic for a free campsite. Camp right on the lake/river. We stayed on a Thursday night until Friday morning and there were only a few other people there, we could see any of them from our spot so we felt totally isolated. High clearance helps to get to some spots but we did make it all the way through with our minivan after a little trial and error. Had like 1 bar of spotty service only enough for maybe a phone call (Verizon). Very hot during the day, not chilly at night but cool enough to tent camp and enjoy a fire. The kids loved playing and swimming in the river. One star off because there is quite a bit of trash at the entrance of this place, lots of broken glass so keep your shoes on, and the mosquitoes were bad when the sun started to go down but wasn’t a problem with a fire, thermacel and bug spray. Don’t forget to get a CA fire permit if you want a fire or to use a camping stove it only takes a few mins to obtain online

  • Tyler D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Gurnsey Creek
    Jun. 22, 2023

    Gurnsey Creek

    Solid basecamp for Lassen NP

    Why we booked: Came to see Lassen NP. Manzanita Lake Campground canceled on us, and we needed a spot with plenty of FCFS availability.

    Campground: Basic USFS campground. Heavily wooded with pine and sequoias, sites relatively spacious, vault toilets and threaded water spigots throughout. We were able to fill our tank by connecting a couple of hoses. Some spots for okay solar—we were getting 200W of a possible 400 after picking a sunny campsite in the summer. Being on a 55mph road, you do get road noise that dies down at night. Probably makes this a better campground for RVs than tent camping. Combining Verizon and T-Mobile with our router and booster let my wife and I work on video calls with few problems.

    Quirks: Huge stacks of free firewood due to work done since a huge fire swept through the area a couple of years ago.

    Site: Ours was one of a handful that can fit bigger rigs. Most folks should be able to get in here just fine—but if you're bigger, be good at backing.

    Nearby: The southwest Lassen NP entrance is about 20 minutes away. The town of Chester is 20 minutes the other way, with propane and diesel and some decent food.

    Value: Perfect!

  • Autumn O.
    Camper-submitted photo from Northshore Campground
    Jul. 14, 2022

    Northshore Campground

    Extreme Dust

    We have stayed on the lake before but at “dusty campground”, this time wanting to spend our trip in a little bit more of a civilized campground. 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. We went July 12-14th and I wouldn’t swim in the lake, blue/green foam on the shoreline. Most of the campsites are more like RV sites with no flat ground for a tent. I wish I would’ve known that. There’s vault toilets around with toilet paper and 1 big bathroom with showers that is open 8am-9pm and runs on “tokens” that you have to buy with $1 bills only, no quarters accepted. Just a heads up. The campground was really pretty but I wouldn’t suggest for tent camping, for RV’s or car camping it’s nice. The bathrooms all smelt really good and were for the most part clean, the shower trash cans were overflowing with feminine products and wasn’t changed the whole time we stayed, so I’m not sure how often the bathrooms get cleaned. The camp host was friendly and offered people wood. Seems like the kind of place that you can do about whatever you’d like, music was blasting till 10pm when quiet hours started, that’s okay we just played our music too but those that are looking for a “relaxing camping trip” also shouldn’t come here.


Guide to Hat Creek

Nestled in the scenic Lassen National Forest, Hat Creek, California, offers a variety of tent camping options that cater to outdoor enthusiasts looking for adventure and tranquility.

Tent campers should check out Dusty Campground

  • Located right next to Lake Britton, Dusty Campground provides easy boat access and a serene environment for tent camping.
  • This campground features picnic tables and allows campfires, making it perfect for evening gatherings under the stars.
  • With a private and spacious layout, it’s a favorite among campers who appreciate a calm atmosphere.

Some prices for tent camping range from $0 to $20

  • Hat Creek Dispersed offers free camping, allowing you to enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank.
  • At North Battle Creek Campground, you can reserve a site for a nominal fee, providing access to drinking water and picnic tables.
  • For a more private experience, Rocky Campground offers well-spaced sites with basic amenities at an affordable price.

Local activities to enjoy while tent camping

  • Explore the stunning landscapes and hiking trails near McCumber Reservoir Campground, which is just a short drive from Lassen Volcanic National Park.
  • Fishing and kayaking are popular activities at North Battle Creek Campground, where the reservoir provides ample opportunities for water sports.
  • Don’t miss the chance to visit the iconic railroad bridge featured in "Stand By Me," located near Dusty Campground.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Hat Creek, CA?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Hat Creek, CA is Dusty Campground with a 3.4-star rating from 5 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Hat Creek, CA?

    TheDyrt.com has all 47 tent camping locations near Hat Creek, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.