The McArthur area of northeastern California sits at approximately 3,300 feet elevation with varied terrain ranging from sagebrush flats to pine forests. Temperatures in this high desert region can fluctuate dramatically, with summer days reaching the 90s and nights dropping into the 40s. Winter camping options remain available at select RV campgrounds near McArthur, California, though seasonal closures affect many facilities from November through April.
What to do
Hiking at Lava Beds National Monument: Located within driving distance of Eagle's Nest RV Park, this volcanic landscape offers cave exploration and trail systems. "Good campsite nestled in the trees. Approximately 10 tent sites, 20 RV, and 15 cabins. Easy, close drive to Lava Beds National park," notes reviewer Rich J.
Golfing opportunities: The McArthur region offers unique golfing experiences alongside camping. At Likely Place RV and Golf Resort, campers can enjoy both activities. As one reviewer mentions, "Our nightly rate included the weekly 1/2 price golf package. Check in was easy and we proceeded to back-in site 14 with FHUs."
Wildlife viewing at local refuges: The area's wildlife refuges provide excellent birdwatching and nature photography. "Needed a place while heading north. Easy to find. Close to the wild refuge. Walked the 3 mile loop before heading out of town," shares Kirsten G. about staying at Sully's RV Park.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many RV parks in this region offer larger than average spaces. At Lassen RV Park Campground, "Each space is large and private. Facilities are clean. Quiet location and beautiful area," according to Meara H.
Walking trails: Several campgrounds maintain on-site trail systems. "There are lots of trails I can take my dog for walks. Couple of the trails takes you to a cliff where you can sit and watch the sunset," explains Virginia G. about Lassen RV Park Campground.
Fishing opportunities: The region's reservoirs and creeks provide fishing access. Stough Reservoir Campground offers direct water access. "A beautiful, small reservoir with about 10 sites. I got the primo site across the water, solo spot with my own pit toilet," reports Greg B.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Weather impacts campground operations significantly. "We tried to get to this campground but were blocked by too much snow in the road. The website lists the status for this campground as 'area not cleared,'" cautions Laura M. about Stough Reservoir in early May.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies widely across northeastern California. "Zero cell service here," notes a reviewer about Stough Reservoir, while another mentions at Likely Place: "We did get three bars on Verizon and our MiFi worked fine."
Reservation timing: During peak seasons, advance bookings become essential at McArthur area RV campgrounds. "The owner said their main season is hunting season which starts the end of September," shares Carol about Hawk's Nest Tionesta RV & Cabins.
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Some campgrounds offer child-friendly amenities. "This campsite has cabins, RV, and tent camping available. There is a new playground for children," mentions Amber Z. about Hawk's Nest Tionesta.
Educational opportunities: The volcanic features and wildlife refuges provide learning experiences. "We booked a quick one night stay here, passing through. We wish we had allowed more time! Our kids loved all the art throughout the property and the new rock pit they'd just finished installing!" shares Claire N. about Lassen RV Park.
Bathroom access: For families, clean facilities matter. "The bathrooms are regular flushing toilets with showers in the room and outlets if you need to blowdry your hair," notes a reviewer about Hawk's Nest Tionesta RV & Cabins.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds require careful navigation. According to MickandKarla W. at Likely Place, "The park was easy to find, but a slow drive from the turn off in Likely due to the road being a little rough. Then the road leading to the park was a bit more narrow."
Site configurations: Understanding hookup placements helps with parking. "The utilities are more toward the front of the site, which made them very convenient for our rig. Great water pressure so suggest using your reducer," advises a reviewer about Lassen Creek Campground.
Size limitations: Several campgrounds have restrictions on larger RVs. "We towed a 18ft travel trailer and found lots of spaces it would fit, though I wouldn't recommend anything longer than about 25 feet," suggests Diane V. about Lassen Creek Campground.
Electricity billing practices: Some RV parks in northeastern California use metered electricity. As mentioned by a reviewer at Hawk's Nest, "Sites are pull through on grass and have full hookups, though you pay a nominal additional fee for the actual amount of electricity you use."
