The Klamath National Forest spans over 1.7 million acres across northern California and southern Oregon, with elevations ranging from 1,700 to 8,900 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F in lower elevations while winter months often bring significant snowfall that limits access to many camping areas from November through April. Primitive camping options throughout the forest complement the established campgrounds.
What to do
Mountain lake swimming: At Kangaroo Lake Campground, visitors can enjoy swimming in a scenic mountain lake with ADA-accessible features. "A friend told me about this nearby mountain lake, and it did not disappoint!!! Because the water supply had not yet been activated, the USFS peeps just let me stay in a walk-in site. Had the place to myself & shared the lake with Bald Eagles," notes camper Greg B.
Golf course access: Campers at Trailer Lane Campground can play golf at the nearby Weed Golf Club. "With a golf course down the street and amazing views of Mt Shasta, Weed is a hidden gem," shares reviewer Allison A. The course offers a 9-hole option for casual players.
Fishing opportunities: The Trinity River and numerous lakes provide excellent fishing spots. Trail Creek Campground offers direct creek access. "Trail Creek runs through the back of the campground and is beautiful!" reports Connie H. Fish species include rainbow trout, brown trout, and salmon depending on the season.
What campers like
Accessible outdoor facilities: Many campgrounds in the region feature accommodations for visitors with mobility concerns. "It appears that a lot of the walkways and facilities are designed to accommodate people in wheelchairs or people with walkers. It looks like everything is maintained at a higher standard than I've seen at most Forest Service campgrounds," notes Joseph C. about Kangaroo Lake Campground.
Family amenities: Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort offers extensive recreation options beyond standard camping. "We took 2 small children in a rented camper and went to this lake... we were not disappointed! They were plenty of trees in the campground everybody was friendly, short walk with our water toys to the nice sandy beach and lake," shares Margo A.
Wildlife viewing: Several campsites provide opportunities to spot local wildlife. "Had the place to myself & shared the lake with Bald Eagles," reports Greg B. about Kangaroo Lake. Other campers report deer sightings and various bird species throughout the region's campgrounds.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds have difficult access roads. For Kangaroo Lake Campground, "The 7-mile-long winding access road is narrow with a sharp drop-off on one side. It can be a little nerve-racking to negotiate with 2-way traffic," warns Joseph C.
Early season limitations: Water systems may not be operational in early season. "Because the water supply had not yet been activated, the USFS peeps just let me stay in a walk-in site," mentions Greg B. regarding a spring visit to Kangaroo Lake Campground.
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds near major roads experience traffic noise. At Trailer Lane Campground, "Keep in mind that its close to the highway and yes, road noise is quite loud. We turned on our fan and that blocked most of it," advises marcus K.
Tips for camping with families
Look for accessible pathways: For families with strollers or mobility needs, consider campgrounds with paved access. "There is a paved path way from the campground/parking lot to the lake. The path leads to a fishing ramp that has a short wall that is right next to the lake," explains Lisa L. about Kangaroo Lake Campground.
Consider off-season visits: Popular sites can get crowded during peak season. "We love it here. However, it's super popular and we only go in the off season due to too many people booking in advance," advises Crystal K. about Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort.
Seek out kid-friendly activities: Mount Shasta City KOA Holiday provides numerous recreation options. "Pool, game room, shuffle board, basketball court and off leash dog park. Lots of trees in the sites great for hammocking (in the tent sites)," shares Suzanne P.
Tips from RVers
Level site considerations: For pet-friendly camping near Klamath National Forest with RVs, level sites are crucial. At Etna RV Park, sites are "grassy, partially shaded, quiet sites with a little store, huge clean laundry, and the nice little town of Etna and all of its ammenities right here," according to Mark D.
Fire restrictions: Some RV parks limit campfires despite allowing pets. "Nice place it there are no fires," notes Gary B. about Mount Shasta City KOA Holiday. Check current fire regulations before arrival as they change seasonally.
Electrical connections: For RVers traveling with pets in hot weather, electrical hookups are essential for climate control. "There are four tent camping sites with electric hookup and fancy seating among many other types of sites," mentions Jacob G. about Mount Shasta City KOA, which is useful for keeping pets comfortable.
