Cabin rentals in the Montague region of Northern California provide access to forests with elevations ranging from 2,500 to 7,000 feet. Visitors can experience the contrast between Shasta Valley's high desert conditions and the surrounding mountains' cooler alpine climate. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing while summer days reach the 90s.
What to do
Swimming and water activities: Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort offers family-friendly water recreation with sandy beach areas for swimming. One visitor shared, "We rented kayaks and the lake was so serene; the perfect place to spend an afternoon." Another camper noted the unique water color: "The lovely red earth, thick green trees and uniquely beautiful blue/teal water makes for a welcoming lake day for all ages."
Hiking nearby trails: Cattle Camp Campground provides access to the McCloud River trail system with multiple swimming holes. A reviewer explains, "Short drive or medium walk to a cold shasta swimming hole, nice trails, some highway buzz but nothing too bothersome." The campground sits minutes from the McCloud River Falls Trail.
Exploring railroad history: Jubilee Railroad Wilderness Lodge & Campground combines camping with railroad heritage. A visitor wrote, "The locals will tell you all about the history of the railroad and the pushers for the trains to climb mount Shasta." Guests can tour converted train cars and cabooses while staying at the RV park or cabins.
What campers like
Natural hot springs access: Jackson Wellsprings offers camping with natural mineral water soaking. A visitor noted, "Developed hot pool for day use, with a discount if you are staying there overnight. Sauna and steam room available." The facility combines camping with therapeutic waters about an hour from Montague.
Lakeside privacy options: Lake Siskiyou campers appreciate the spacious layout. One visitor shared, "Tent sites are huge and so is the campground! We stayed pretty far away from the beach and we were all by ourselves!" For those seeking more seclusion, another camper advised, "We only go in the off season due to too many people booking in advance."
Convenience to town amenities: Mount Shasta City KOA Holiday provides easy access to local services. A reviewer mentioned, "It's about 2 miles from the I5, which eliminates road noise, while still being an excellent overnight stop." Another appreciated the location: "The town of Asheville is not that far from here—a must visit town!"
What you should know
Seasonal lake water levels: Water levels at reservoirs near Montague fluctuate significantly. At Iron Gate Reservoir (Camp Creek), a visitor cautioned about water conditions: "Waking up we discovered the water was full of blue green algae with no notices around." Similarly, Howard Prairie Lake visitors noted low water: "This lake is empty now (2021) and it's a nice surprise to cross the barren lake bottom."
Reservation requirements: Most cabin rentals require advance booking, especially during summer. A Lake Siskiyou camper shared, "My family has been going the week of 4th of July for almost 30 years," highlighting the tradition and need for early reservations.
Campfire restrictions: Regulations vary by campground and season. Most areas allow fires in established rings, but during high fire danger periods, restrictions apply. Cattle Camp visitors noted, "Nice clean campground with fire pits" but conditions can change rapidly during dry periods.
Tips for camping with families
Look for swimming areas: Family-friendly swimming spots provide natural recreation. At Cattle Camp, campers report, "Trail to a gorgeous swimming hole. Water is very cold though. Rope swing. Lots of kids at swimming hole!" Finding safe water access keeps children entertained.
Consider cabins for convenience: Siskiyou Beach and Camp offers cabin accommodations that families find comfortable. A visitor reported, "The cabin we stayed in was good as well. There's many things to do in the surrounding area including cliff jumping and swimming at the beach."
Wildlife awareness: Small animals can become a nuisance around campsites. A Cattle Camp visitor warned, "Beware of the chipmunks they will eat the food right off your plate if left unattended too long." Bears are also present in the area, requiring proper food storage.
Tips from RVers
Hook-up availability: Most RV parks near Montague offer partial or full hook-ups. A visitor to Jubilee Railroad Wilderness noted, "Easy access to the highway without the noise. There is a dining railcar restaurant, camp host is great. We came in on a Thursday no reservation and had no problem snagging a roomy spot for our 30' towing a Jeep."
Campsite privacy considerations: Sites vary greatly in spacing and privacy. At Jubilee Railroad Wilderness, a camper advised, "Best hook up site #13 due to privacy. Pretty trees and little creek for pups to splash around." Others found campgrounds with "plenty of space between sites, plenty of shade, and rather level."
Off-season advantages: Visiting during shoulder seasons provides better availability and fewer crowds. One KOA visitor mentioned visiting twice during an extended trip, finding it "very clean and quiet" even when traveling without reservations.
