RV campgrounds around Klamath National Forest operate at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 5,000 feet, offering cooler summer temperatures than surrounding valley areas. Most campgrounds within the region experience seasonal closures from late October through April due to snow conditions, with only lower elevation facilities maintaining year-round operations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several lakes and streams near Lakehead Campground & RV Park provide excellent fishing access. Nearby Shasta Lake is just a quarter mile away and offers various water sports. One visitor noted, "We fished Lewiston lake less than 10 min. away and Whiskeytown Lake about 20-25 min. away with great luck."
Bow hunting practice: Designated target areas are available for bow hunters looking to maintain their skills. At Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort, guests can use the practice range set up in a wooded area. "There are targets set up for bow hunters in the pines below the park," mentions one reviewer who appreciated this unique amenity.
River activities: The Trinity River provides additional recreation options with swimming spots within walking distance of some campgrounds. A camper at Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort shared, "Just around the corner from the campground (walking distance) is access to the river. The whole family enjoyed dipping in when it's warm outside."
What campers like
Creek features: Running water features enhance the camping experience at several properties. At McCloud RV Resort, campers appreciate the natural water features. "A stream that runs through the park (kids played in). Really enjoyable and we have been here before and had to return," notes one visitor who found the water access particularly valuable during hot weather.
Foraging opportunities: The diverse ecosystems around Cedar Pines Resort RV Park support mushroom hunting and other foraging activities. "Welcoming on site couple gave us the low down on some nearby fishing and foraging spots. All in all were considering moving to the area and our visit at cedar pines was majestic," shared an enthusiastic guest who extended their stay.
Quiet atmosphere: Despite proximity to highways, many campgrounds maintain peaceful environments. Trail In RV Park stands out for its noise reduction features, with one camper noting, "Even though it's actually next to the I-5, no traffic noise because of the thick buffer of trees."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Mobile connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. At Friendly RV Park, visitors can expect reliable service due to the proximity to town, though this may not extend to more remote locations.
Reservation timing: Advance planning is essential, particularly for summer visits. One McCloud RV Resort visitor advised, "Best advice: book this at least 2 months in advance."
Water pressure considerations: Some campgrounds have unusually high water pressure that requires regulation. "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," reported a camper at McCloud RV Resort.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly areas: Most campgrounds welcome pets, with some offering designated exercise areas. Waiiaka RV Park includes a small dog park that impressed one visitor: "My dogs did love the dog run area, it wasn't too bad, nice for them to stretch out and run around a bit and it wasn't filled with dog poop."
Entertainment facilities: Some campgrounds provide communal recreation spaces. Trail In RV Park & Campground offers a "club house where you can get on the wifi, charge your phone, and watch a movie on the TV or play a board game," according to one camper who appreciated these amenities.
Bathroom accessibility: When camping with children, bathroom proximity matters. One visitor to Trail In RV Park noted, "My spot was very close to the bathroom and shower area. (You don't have to pay extra coins for the shower.)"
Tips from RVers
Site width considerations: Space between RV sites varies considerably across different rv campgrounds in Klamath National Forest. Friendly RV Park receives positive feedback for its layout: "The sites are close together however they are staggered to allow for a little more privacy."
Long-term stay options: Several campgrounds accommodate extended stays for those exploring multiple areas of the forest. Etna RV Park impresses visitors planning longer visits, with one noting they "Came for a week... stayed a month and a half!"
Pull-through availability: Larger rigs should target campgrounds with appropriate sites. One Waiiaka RV Park visitor noted, "Convenient pull through spot. Bathrooms are clean but they do charge for showers. I visit Yreka every year and will stay again."
