RV parks near Macdoel, California offer camping options for travelers exploring the Klamath Basin region at elevations ranging from 2,600 to 4,200 feet. Located between Mount Shasta and the Oregon border, the area's campgrounds provide access to wildlife refuges, lava formations, and river recreation. Weather varies significantly by season with summer temperatures typically ranging from 50°F at night to 85°F during daytime.
What to do
Visit Lava Beds National Monument: Located about 45 minutes from Macdoel RV parks, this volcanic landscape features over 800 caves and Native American rock art. "Great proximity to Lava Beds National Monument," notes a visitor to Eagle's Nest RV Park.
Fish local waterways: The Klamath River and nearby streams offer fishing opportunities throughout the camping season. At Cedar Pines Resort RV Park, one camper shared that the "welcoming on site couple gave us the low down on some nearby fishing and foraging spots."
Wildlife viewing at refuges: The Tulelake Wildlife Refuge provides excellent bird-watching, particularly during migration seasons. "Close to the wildlife refuges," mentions a camper who stayed at Tulelake Butte Valley Fair RV park.
What campers like
Natural water features: Several campgrounds incorporate streams or river access directly on property. At McCloud RV Resort, campers appreciate that "a stream runs through and also a good size pond. Clean well kept park with plenty of amenities."
Peaceful settings: Many RV parks around Macdoel offer quiet surroundings away from highway noise. "It is a quiet campground located in a rural area with a wonderful setting along the Klamath River," according to Blue Heron RV Park reviews.
Proximity to small towns: Local communities provide additional services and dining options. As one visitor to Friendly RV Park stated, "Clean, friendly, and walking distance to food. We had full hook-ups including sewer. Easy access off the I-5."
What you should know
Seasonal operation variations: Some smaller RV parks have limited seasonal hours. At Hi-Lo Motel & RV Park, a visitor noted the RV area consists of "16-space RV parking with 30 AMP, water, and sewer utilities" behind the motel property.
Cell service and connectivity: Internet access varies widely between campgrounds. One camper mentioned "we paid $12.00 for one week of upgraded WiFi which provides 3 Mbps download" at a local park, while others rely on personal hotspots.
Water pressure differences: Some parks have unusually high water pressure. A McCloud RV Resort visitor warned, "the water is great! Pure and cold. However, it is high pressure. It exploded our water hose!"
Reservation timing: Northern California RV parks fill quickly during peak season. "It is a lovely, grassy campground not far from I5 and CA 89... best advice: book this at least 2 months in advance," advised one McCloud visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Look for kid-friendly water access: Streams and small ponds provide safe play areas. "The micro-canal that runs through it was great for our lab. He just loved tramping in and out," noted a McCloud visitor, adding that many children also enjoyed playing in the water.
Check for playground availability: Some RV parks have dedicated play areas. One Waiiaka RV Park visitor mentioned, "Dog park and playground were small, campsite were packed close together. It was generally nice but unremarkable."
Consider spacing between sites: Family groups may need more room. "The spaces in the 120's were very small your neighbors slide is in your space!" warned a McCloud RV Resort visitor about certain site numbers to avoid with families.
Tips from RVers
Confirm appropriate site size: Many RV parks offer various site dimensions. A Friendly RV Park visitor explained, "I actually ended up taking two spaces, but they only charge me for one," when their larger rig couldn't fit in standard spaces.
Check for pull-through availability: Several campgrounds offer easy-access sites. "We stayed in a grassy spot with no neighbours, so it was quite lovely," mentioned a McCloud visitor, while another noted "convenient pull-through spot" at Waiiaka.
Verify utility specifications: Power, water pressure, and hookup locations vary between parks. "We had requested a pull-through and at first I was a little disappointed to find that our spot was right next to the entry road. However, the traffic was minimal and it turned out to be a very peaceful evening," shared a Friendly RV Park camper about unexpected benefits of certain sites.
