Cabins near McCloud, California range from rustic forest service lookouts to modernized RV parks with rental units. The area sits at elevations between 3,000-4,000 feet with a Mediterranean climate featuring warm, dry summers and cold, snowy winters. Winter cabin rentals typically require chains for access from November through April, with many forest service cabins closing entirely during snow season.
What to do
Waterfront activities: At Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort, visitors access multiple water recreation options. "We found a rope swing hanging on a tree and tied up and did some rope swing fun into the lake. We also enjoyed a short drive up to Castle lake at a higher elevation a lot less people not much sand but really nice for a picnic lunch," notes Margo A.
River swimming: The McCloud River offers cold but refreshing swimming opportunities near Cattle Camp Campground. "Short drive or medium walk to a cold shasta swimming hole, nice trails, some highway buzz but nothing too bothersome," reports one camper. Another visitor mentions, "Trail to a gorgeous swimming hole. Water is very cold though. Rope swing. Lots of kids at swimming hole!"
Wildlife viewing: Cabin stays offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. A visitor at Cattle Camp Campground noted, "Deer walking through," while another mentioned seeing bears. The area surrounding most cabins hosts abundant deer, squirrels, and occasional larger mammals.
What campers like
Location convenience: Cabins at Mount Shasta City KOA Holiday provide easy access to towns and activities. "Nice place it there are no fires. Greg took care of us and was friendly and personable. There's a convenience store and the little town is super close and convenient," reports one camper.
Quiet setting: Many visitors appreciate the peaceful environment at Jubilee Railroad Wilderness Lodge & Campground, formerly Railroad Park Resort. "Easy access to the highway without the noise. There is a dining railcar restaurant, camp host is great," notes Marie D. Another camper adds, "Pretty trees and little creek for pups to splash around. The train cars are close by to visit via trail. It was quiet and very clean."
Privacy levels: Cabin and site privacy varies significantly between locations. At Cattle Camp, "Big spaces. Trail to a gorgeous swimming hole," while at Jubilee Railroad, "Best hook up site #13 due to privacy. Pretty trees and little creek for pups to splash around."
What you should know
Off-grid considerations: Girard Ridge Lookout requires significant preparation. "Lots of flying bugs and high vegetation area. Nice fire pit and picnic table. Bring all your gear. There is absolutely nothing around but what you bring in," advises Mike C.
Reservation requirements: Most cabins require advance booking, particularly during summer. "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," notes Crystal K. about Lake Siskiyou.
Variable pricing: Costs vary based on accommodations and seasons. One camper at Lake Siskiyou noted, "It's a bit pricey but for the convenience it was well worth it!" Another mentioned, "This campground is super popular, so you will most likely need a reservation in advance."
Cell service: Coverage varies dramatically by location. While some sites have no service, Mike C. reported about Girard Ridge Lookout: "Totally off the grid. Oh yeah there is a cell tower that gives you 5 BARS. Live streaming no problem."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming locations: Families with children should consider McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park for water activities. "The waterfalls are breathtaking, the lake is refreshing and the campground itself is relaxing and peaceful," notes Jen T. Another visitor added, "Fishing, swimming, and walking trails. Nice showers."
Activity options: Several campgrounds offer child-friendly activities. "Lots campground lots of activities for families clean," reports one camper at McArthur-Burney Falls. At Lake Siskiyou, one visitor mentioned, "It has a nice beach, boat ramp, party boat rentals, general store, restaurant, bar, arcade, laundry."
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations require planning. "We stayed in the Rim Camp; on a Monday the week before Memorial Day, we had our pick of sites as the park was nearly empty," explains one camper, highlighting seasonal visitation patterns.
Tips from RVers
Site size considerations: RV sites vary in size and accessibility. At Jubilee Railroad Wilderness Lodge, "We came in on a Thursday no reservation and had no problem snagging a roomy spot for our 30' towing a Jeep. Great in the woods feel with full hookups," reports Marie D.
Hookup availability: Water and electric connections vary by location. "The rv portion sort of felt like the red-headed stepchild. Full hook-ups, pull through site (many were back-in only) and zero privacy, although the rv park is in a pretty stand of very thinned trees," notes Kathryn T.
Road access: Some cabins require high-clearance vehicles. Michael I. reported about Girard Ridge Lookout, "The drive up to the lookout was tough at times along well-used, but not really well maintained, logging roads. We had a high-clearance all-wheel drive Subaru Crosstrek and while the all-wheel drive didn't seem super necessary, the high clearance certainly was."
