Glamping near Mount Shasta includes a range of accommodations from canvas tents to yurts along creeks and rivers throughout the McCloud area. At elevations around 3,200 feet, the region offers cooler summer temperatures than the Sacramento Valley while maintaining easy access to alpine recreation. Winter glamping remains available at several sites despite seasonal snowfall that can sometimes exceed 6 inches in a single storm.
What to Do
Fishing at multiple spots: The McCloud area provides several productive fishing locations. At Cedar Pines Resort RV Park, visitors can access river fishing directly from the property. One camper reported, "Welcoming on site couple gave us the low down on some nearby fishing and foraging spots." Other campers enjoy fishing at Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort, where "My cousins and I used to fish in the evenings after a day of playing in the water or hiking."
Swimming in mountain lakes: Natural swimming spots offer relief from summer heat. Visitors at Lake Siskiyou Campground appreciate the "uniquely beautiful blue/teal water makes for a welcoming lake day for all ages." Another camper shared that they "found a rope swing hanging on a tree and tied up and did some rope swing fun into the lake."
Hiking to waterfalls: The McCloud area contains several accessible waterfall hikes. McArthur-Burney Falls offers trails suitable for most ability levels. One visitor noted, "The waterfalls are breathtaking, the lake is refreshing and the campground itself is relaxing and peaceful." Several trails around Mount Shasta also provide waterfall access with varying difficulty levels.
What Campers Like
Proximity to town conveniences: Most glamping options near McCloud offer a balance of natural settings with nearby services. At Mount Shasta City KOA Holiday, one visitor noted, "There's a convenience store and the little town is super close and convenient." This lets glampers enjoy wilderness settings while maintaining access to restaurants and supplies.
Less crowded off-season stays: Many campers recommend visiting outside peak periods. According to one regular at Lake Siskiyou, "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." Spring and fall visits often provide more solitude while maintaining access to most area attractions.
High-elevation escapes from valley heat: The mountain location provides significant temperature advantages over lower elevations. One McCloud RV Resort visitor shared, "We were more than happy to escape the 110° temps down in the valley. The nights were cool - almost chilly." This temperature difference makes summer glamping particularly appealing for visitors from Sacramento and the Central Valley.
What You Should Know
Variable cell service: Connectivity varies significantly between glamping locations. While sites closer to towns like Mount Shasta City typically maintain reliable service, more remote options have limitations. At McBride Springs Campground, a camper reported, "We have T-Mobile and had great reception," but service with other carriers may differ.
Reservation requirements: Most glamping operations require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. At McCloud RV Resort, prospective visitors should note that their "online reservation system is less than desired" according to one reviewer, who advised making reservations "at least 2 months in advance."
Additional fees: Some glamping facilities charge beyond the base rates. One camper at McCloud RV Resort noted their policy of "2 people per site, otherwise they charge extra fees," which can significantly affect total costs for larger groups or families.
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly water recreation: Several sites offer safe water play areas for children. At Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort, a parent shared, "We took 2 small children in a rented camper and went to this lake...short walk with our water toys to the nice sandy beach and lake." The gradual beach entry provides safer swimming for younger children.
Nature observation opportunities: Wildlife viewing adds educational value to family glamping trips. One camper at McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground noted that "the draws are Burney Falls and Lake Britton" where wildlife viewing opportunities abound. Lake Siskiyou campers have "seen deer and bears here" during their stays.
Playground and recreation access: Several glamping facilities include built-in entertainment options. The Mount Shasta KOA offers "Pool, game room, shuffle board, basketball court and off leash dog park," giving families multiple activity options without leaving the property.
Tips from RVers
Water pressure considerations: RVers at McCloud RV Resort warn about variable water systems. One camper cautioned, "The water is great! Pure and cold. However, it is high pressure. It exploded our water hose!" They recommend placing "our pressure regulator valve right on the faucet. Then attach the hose and filter."
Limited large rig sites: While several glamping facilities accept RVs, space constraints exist at many locations. At Ah-Di-Na Campground, visitors are warned to "Leave your RV at home. The road is narrow in some parts" with a recommendation that only vehicles with "higher clearance" attempt the access road.
Year-round accessibility: Several RV-friendly glamping sites remain open through winter. The Mount Shasta City KOA operates year-round, though winter visitors should prepare for potential snow. RVers recommend carrying chains during winter months, even when roads appear clear, as mountain weather can change rapidly.
