Camping spots around Klamath National Forest range from 1,000 to 8,000 feet in elevation, offering diverse camping experiences throughout the forest's 1.7 million acres. Summer temperatures typically stay between 70-90°F during the day, dropping into the 40s at night even in July. Many campgrounds feature ponderosa pine and cedar trees that provide natural shade during hot summer afternoons.
What to do
Water activities at Lake Siskiyou: The lake offers kayak rentals, swimming areas, and paddleboard opportunities. "We took 2 small children in a rented camper and went to this lake... we rented kayaks One day and the next we rented a pontoon boat and our friends joined us. We found a rope swing hanging on a tree and tied up and did some rope swing fun into the lake," shares one visitor at Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort.
River swimming and floating: Klamath River provides excellent swimming holes during summer months. A camper at Tree Of Heaven Campground explains, "The river itself is great to swim, float, or fish in. A number of groups drove upstream a couple miles and floated back down to the campground. You can also float downstream a couple of miles to a haul out point and get a ride back."
McCloud area waterfalls: Several accessible waterfalls are within driving distance of local campgrounds. "We also enjoyed a short drive up to Castle lake at a higher elevation a lot less people not much sand but really nice for a picnic lunch," notes a visitor who used Lake Siskiyou as their base camp.
Hiking and backpacking: The Marble Mountain Wilderness offers multi-day hiking routes. "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 a hiker at Lovers Camp.
What campers like
Peaceful water recreation: Many campers appreciate the quieter alternatives to crowded lakes. "We rented kayaks and the lake was so serene; the perfect way to spend an afternoon," reports a camper who visited Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort in summer.
Natural springs and streams: Several campgrounds feature running water through the property. At McCloud RV Resort, a reviewer mentioned, "Small creek runs through and also a good size pond. Clean well kept park with plenty of amenities. Great walk with the dog."
Dark night skies: The remote location provides excellent stargazing opportunities. "There is no light pollution nearby so I bet the star gazing would be fantastic," notes a visitor to Tree of Heaven Campground.
Access to local towns: Many campsites offer proximity to small towns for supplies. According to a camper at Mount Shasta City KOA Holiday, "Greg took care of us and was friendly and personable. There's a convenience store and the little town is super close and convenient. Nothing fancy schmancy, but roomy and woodsy, and convenient for our drive down California."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Fire regulations vary by season and location. A Toad Lake camper warns, "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."
Wildlife awareness: Bears are active throughout the region. "My cousins and I used to fish in the evenings after a day of playing in the water or hiking. Have seen deer and bears here," shares a camper who grew up visiting Lake Siskiyou regularly.
Road conditions to remote areas: Some of the best camping spots require difficult drives. One Toad Lake visitor cautions, "Take this road only if you have a 4x4 or AWD vehicle with suitable clearance and are comfortable driving on such mountain roads, there are very few places to turn around. The road is very rough, so expect to bounce around for about 1.5 hours while traveling at an average speed of 5mph."
Seasonal water availability: Some campgrounds experience water shortages. A camper at McBride Springs Campground reported, "There is no water right now because the spring/well is dried up. There are fire rings on about 1/2 the camp cites."
Tips for camping with families
Consider group sites: Some campgrounds offer specific areas for larger family gatherings. A visitor to McBride Springs notes, "It's one of the less expensive campgrounds in the state, has a group camp, and the sites are far enough apart to offer some privacy."
Seek family-friendly amenities: Certain campgrounds offer kid-focused facilities. "Very family friendly with clean facilities and easy access off highway," mentions a Trinity Lake KOA Holiday reviewer, who added it has "a small pool but nice. Can get noisy on the weekends with dirt bikes etc driving around. Great for kids. Lot's to do."
Water play options: Look for campgrounds with accessible water features. "The lake sits at the bottom of Mt. Shasta and has an inflatable waterpark, swimming area, and water recreation rentals," shares a Lake Siskiyou visitor.
Yurt camping options: For families seeking a middle ground between tent and cabin camping, yurt accommodations are available at McCloud RV Resort, making yurt camping near Klamath National Forest convenient with young children.
Tips from RVers
Pressure regulator needed: Water systems can have unusually high pressure. An RVer at McCloud RV Resort warns, "The water is great! Pure and cold. However, it is high pressure. It exploded our water hose! After that we learned to place our pressure regulator valve right on the faucet."
Site selection matters: Some RV parks have significant differences between sites. "The sites in the 120's were very small your neighbors slide is in your space! The sewer lines for your neighbor is in your site!" reports an RVer who stayed at McCloud.
Early reservations essential: Popular RV parks fill quickly in peak season. A Trinity Lake KOA visitor advises, "We go to this KOA every June or July for the last 10 years. It is a great place. Not your typical KOA as it is more like camping vs other KOA's we have stayed at. Lots of trees and shade."
