Glamping accommodations near Macdoel, California offer both full-service amenities and rustic experiences across various terrain types. Located in Siskiyou County at approximately 4,300 feet elevation, this region experiences significant temperature fluctuations with summer highs around 85°F and winter lows frequently below freezing. Several luxury camping options provide year-round access with seasonal availability restrictions from November through March due to snow conditions.
What to do
Wildlife photography: Sunrise and sunset hours at Indian Well Campground offer prime viewing opportunities. "Woke up to deer in my camp," reports one camper, noting the $10 daily fee provides "spacious camp sites, water, bathrooms, and peace."
Cave exploration: Pack headlamps and helmets when staying near the Lava Beds National Monument. "Explore the largest concentration of lava tubes in the whole world? Yes please! Headlamp and helmet are musts. Gloves and kneepads recommended if you're planning on crawling around," advises a visitor who appreciates that the caves maintain "virtually the same temperature year round."
River activities: Floating and swimming at Tree Of Heaven Campground provide refreshment during summer months. "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," describes one visitor who also mentions the campground's proximity to the Klamath River.
What campers like
Natural hot springs: Mineral-rich soaking options at Jackson Wellsprings complement glamping with therapeutic benefits. "Developed hot pool for day use, with a discount if you are staying there overnight. Sauna and steam room available," notes a visitor who paid $25 per night for van camping with access to on-site showers and bathrooms.
Family-friendly amenities: Recreation beyond accommodations near Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort enhances glamping experiences. "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," recounts a camper who visited with small children.
Value-focused options: Budget glamping still provides quality experiences. "Only $10 a day with spacious camp sites, water, bathrooms, and peace," reports a visitor to Indian Well Campground, while another notes the campground offers "everything you need except showers" and is "maintained and have beautiful views of the surrounding area."
What you should know
Seasonal closures affect access to several glamping sites. At Keno Camp, a visitor arrived to find "the entrance gated and the sign says 'Closed for the Season,'" highlighting the importance of checking operating dates before travel.
Water level fluctuations impact recreation options at reservoirs and lakes. "Howard Prairie is ran by Jackson county parks and rec but managed by the feds. They drain the lake for irrigation of lower fields and lakes. This causes muddy shores and sad views," explains a camper who still appreciates the "spacious campsites."
Temperature variations require layered clothing regardless of season. Even summer evenings can be chilly at Howard Prairie Lake Resort, with one visitor recommending to "pack a nice jacket, and maybe a thin pair of gloves. Wind comes off the lake and the gloves helped when fishing."
Tips for camping with families
Reserved sites fill quickly during school breaks at popular locations. "We only go in the off season due to too many people booking in advance," advises a Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort visitor who considers it their "happy place" despite the crowds during peak times.
Supervised water activities require preparation when glamping with children. "The lake is kinda muddy, store is closed due to Covid as well as the boat ramp, and water is really low," reports a Howard Prairie visitor, emphasizing the need to research current conditions before promising lake activities to children.
Wildlife education enhances experiences for younger campers at McCloud RV Resort. "A stream that runs through the park (kids played in)... Really enjoyable and we have been here before and had to return," notes a visitor who appreciated the natural features that entertained their children.
Tips from RVers
Pressure regulators protect equipment at certain campgrounds. "The water is great! Pure and cold. However, it is high pressure. It exploded our water hose!" warns a McCloud RV Resort visitor who learned to "place our pressure regulator valve right on the faucet" before attaching other equipment.
Site spacing varies significantly between glamping locations. "The spaces in the 120's were very small your neighbor's slide is in your space! The sewer lines for your neighbor is in your site!" cautions a McCloud RV Resort visitor, suggesting specific site requests when making reservations.
Advance reservations essential for vehicles over 25 feet. "Indian Well Campground is the only campground inside the Lava Beds National Monument Park. Go during the week to avoid not getting a spot," advises a visitor who notes that some RVs will not fit certain sites.
