Dispersed camping opportunities near Montague, California provide access to several primitive sites across Shasta-Trinity National Forest land. Most sites sit at elevations between 3,500-5,500 feet, with camping seasons typically running May through October depending on snow conditions. Cell service ranges from non-existent to spotty LTE coverage, with higher elevations offering better connectivity for Verizon users.
What to do
Swimming at Siskiyou Lake: Located near Castle Lake dispersed camping areas, Siskiyou Lake offers refreshing swimming opportunities. "If you camp here check out Siskiyou Lake right down the way to swim it was THE best view of Shasta and the most mellow and perfect swimming conditions!" reports a Castle Lake Dispersed Camping visitor.
Stargazing after dark: The high elevation and minimal light pollution create excellent night sky viewing conditions. "High and dry. Great view of Shasta Mtn. T-Mobile reception good," notes one camper about the primitive camping areas near Montague.
Wildlife observation: Many sites feature bird watching opportunities, though some areas have resident geese that can be noisy. "There is a large flock of geese that honk all day and night and there is goose poop everywhere!" warns a camper at Hyatt Reservoir BLM Dispersed area.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Dispersed camping near Montague offers good separation between campsites. "The area was large enough that the nearest neighbor was at least 25 yards away. Good shady area," notes a visitor to Red Fir Campground, where several flat spots are scattered among the trees.
Forest setting: Many campers appreciate the forested surroundings. "It was my husband and I's first time trying dispersed camping, and this was beautiful. We really enjoyed the location. It was one way in 1 way out. So we felt safe. The only issue we had was there were a lot of bugs, but I believe that is due to the time of year," reports a visitor to Dispersed Campsite near Castle Lake and Shasta.
Ease of access from I-5: Many primitive camping locations near Montague can be reached relatively quickly from the interstate. "Easy to locate. Dirt is very soft making it difficult to drive off the beaten path without an all wheel drive. All season tires were a plus with our rear wheel drive sprinter van," notes a camper at Rail Line Dispersed Site.
What you should know
Road conditions vary seasonally: Access to many sites requires navigating unpaved roads that can be challenging during certain times. "The road is rough at first but smoothed out enough that we weren't worried in our van. There are only a few pullouts here, and no one else was around," reports a Rail Line Dispersed Site visitor.
Limited amenities at all sites: None of the dispersed camping areas near Montague offer water, toilets, or trash service. "No facilities or running water. Pretty flat spots scattered around between trees," notes a Red Fir Campground user, highlighting the primitive nature of these sites.
Vehicle requirements: Many sites require appropriate vehicles for access. "Close to mt Shasta. Lots of other people here. Road is rough, don't recommend a super low clearance vechile," advises a Bunny Flat Dispersed camper.
Site finding strategies: Some sites can be challenging to locate initially. "Turn off is about a mile after coordinates listed. Can't miss the turn off. We stayed here exiting and entering CA. Exactly what we were looking for our one nighters," explains a Dispersed Campsite near Castle Lake and Shasta visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Bring extra water: With no potable water sources at primitive camping areas near Montague, families should pack additional supplies. "Pull in and park/camp... flat space to park or set up a tent. No services but they have outhouses about a mile up the road," notes a Red Fir Campground visitor.
Check for wildlife hazards: Seasonal pests can impact camping experiences. "The only issue we had was there were a lot of bugs, but I believe that is due to the time of year. Would definitely stay here again," reports a family at Dispersed Campsite near Castle Lake and Shasta.
Consider weekday visits: Weekends can see increased traffic at popular sites. "Didn't see anyone on a Thursday night. July 18, 2025," notes a visitor at Dispersed near Lake Shastina, indicating potentially quieter midweek camping experiences.
Tips from RVers
Length limitations: Larger rigs should consider carefully which dispersed camping areas to attempt. "This spot is great, plenty of space, quiet, great views of Mount Shasta, easy to access. I would probably not recommend with a trailer. I made it down with my Tacoma and a 12ft travel trailer but it was a stretch," advises a Castle Lake Dispersed Camping visitor.
Turn-around space: Some primitive camping areas near Montague lack adequate space for larger vehicles to maneuver. "Super easy to get in, but took a long time to turn around and get back out. Anything bigger than and you're probably stuck," cautions the same Castle Lake Dispersed visitor.
Site selection for leveling: Finding level spots can be challenging at some locations. "The site we stayed at had a stone fire pit and not very level but we made it work. It is a good spot for a night or 2 and we would stay here again if passing through," reports an RVer at Hyatt Reservoir BLM Dispersed.
