Camping spots near Montague, California range from riverfront sites to mountain campgrounds at elevations from 2,500 to 7,000 feet. The Klamath River basin offers multiple access points for fishing and water recreation, with campgrounds often experiencing temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night. Several campgrounds in the region operate seasonally due to winter snow conditions, especially those at higher elevations.
What to do
Float the Klamath River: The river provides excellent recreation opportunities at Tree Of Heaven Campground. "We saw 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," explains one camper. The campground has river access points and sometimes offers inner tube rentals.
Hiking trails: Access nearby wilderness areas from campgrounds around Montague. "There is a trail that starts at campsite 19 that goes downstream for about a half mile," reports a visitor to Tree Of Heaven Campground. Some trails connect to longer routes including portions of the Pacific Crest Trail.
Lake activities: Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort offers water recreation including swimming, boating and kayaking. "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," shares one camper.
Stargazing: The distance from major cities creates excellent night sky viewing conditions. "There is no light pollution nearby so I bet the star gazing would be fantastic," notes a Tree Of Heaven visitor.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Blue Heron RV Park offers prime riverfront locations. "The riverfront sites cost a little more but are worth it. Camp hosts are super friendly and helpful," reports a recent visitor. Many campsites throughout the region have river views or direct water access.
Cooler temperatures: Higher elevation campgrounds provide relief from summer heat. "Best stop off hwy 5, Northern California during the hot summer months. The river is refreshing," mentions a camper at Tree Of Heaven Campground, which sits along the Klamath River.
Shaded sites: Many campgrounds feature tree cover for summer comfort. "The campground is located in a rural area with a wonderful setting along the Klamath River," notes a Blue Heron RV Park visitor. Another camper adds, "Our site was also pretty shady, which was nice in summer."
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife including deer and wild horses. "The wild horses were a treat to see. They frequently roam around the campground," shares a visitor at Blue Heron RV Park.
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Many campgrounds have limited operation seasons. Mount Ashland Campground at higher elevation has specific considerations: "Signs stated that a permit is needed to park in the parking lot from Nov 1-April 30. The ranger we ran into on our hike to check out the campground said that it gets packed in the summer."
Water safety concerns: Monitor conditions before swimming. "Waking up we discovered the water was full of blue green algae with no notices around," reports a camper at Iron Gate Reservoir, highlighting the importance of checking current water conditions.
Primitive facilities: Many sites have basic amenities. "The camp ground itself is fairly primitive but very reasonable for being FREE. There pit toilets with toilet paper and picnic benches + fire pits at each spot. Bring your own water!!" advises a Mount Ashland Campground visitor.
Wildlife precautions: Take appropriate safety measures. "There is some poison oak in the area, and we spotted a rattlesnake, so keep your eye out with pets or kids," warns a Tree Of Heaven visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with kid-friendly amenities: Trailer Lane Campground offers activities for children. "There is a fun little kid zone with several activities appropriate for the whole family. And if you are craving a campfire, they have a nice pit in this kid area where you can safely enjoy the coals," explains a recent visitor.
Visit animal areas: Some campgrounds feature farm animals kids enjoy. "The fun part is the critters they have on site- chickens, turkeys, goats and quail," shares a Trailer Lane Campground visitor.
Consider beach access for swimming: Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort provides designated swimming areas. "It has a nice beach, boat ramp, party boat rentals, general store, restaurant, bar, arcade, laundry," reports a camper who visits regularly.
Plan for weather changes: Temperature swings can affect comfort, especially for children. "It was quite warm when we were here so did not make use of the hiking trails or other amenities," notes a camper at Trailer Lane Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Waiiaka RV Park offers full facilities. "The facilities are very clean, showers have nice hot water for a minimal fee. The dog park is small, but well maintained with poop bags on site for your use," shares a visitor.
Site spacing considerations: Many RV parks have compact layouts. "Only down side is the sites are tightly packed together. My door was only a couple off feet off of my neighbors hook ups," notes a Waiiaka RV Park camper.
Advance planning for larger rigs: Check site dimensions before arrival. "The spots are not very level except for maybe smaller tents. The road coming up the hill was paved, but just beyond the gate the road turns to dirt," advises a Mount Ashland Campground visitor.
Interstate convenience: Several campgrounds provide easy highway access. "We stayed here when we were so tired we couldn't drive any further. Staff was wonderful and we had a shady spot," mentions a camper at Yreka RV Park, noting its convenient location.
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