C
Chandler K.
Guide
GuideSouthwest Walk-in Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park
Easy place to park in Lassen
We stayed in our self-contained rig for a night and it was easy, clean, and affordable.
Best Campgrounds near Round Mountain, CA
Camping opportunities around Round Mountain, California range from established campgrounds to dispersed sites across national forests and parks. The area features several developed facilities including McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground and Manzanita Lake Campground in Lassen Volcanic National Park, both offering cabin accommodations alongside traditional tent and RV sites. The surrounding Shasta-Trinity National Forest and Lassen National Forest provide additional camping areas with varying levels of amenities, from primitive sites to those with basic facilities like vault toilets and picnic tables.
Many campgrounds in the region operate seasonally due to heavy winter snowfall at higher elevations. Facilities like Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA operate from April through October, while others such as Madrone Campground remain open year-round. Road conditions can deteriorate significantly during and after winter storms, particularly on forest service roads leading to more remote camping areas. Reservations are strongly recommended for developed campgrounds during summer months when visitation peaks. A camper noted that "even though the FS website said it was open, the campground was not yet open for the season on May 26. In big snow years, it may not open until July."
The area's campgrounds provide access to numerous outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, and water recreation. Lakefront camping is available at several locations including Silver Lake and Trinity Lake, where visitors can enjoy boating and swimming during summer months. Proximity to natural features like Burney Falls and Lassen Volcanic National Park's geothermal areas enhances the camping experience. Campers frequently mention the region's scenic beauty and relative tranquility as highlights. According to one visitor, "This is one of my favorite campsites in California. There are the falls, which are beautiful, the lake for swimming and water sports and lots of hiking trails." Sites at higher elevations offer cooler temperatures during hot summer months, while those near water bodies tend to fill quickly during peak season.
Best Camping Sites Near Round Mountain, California (252)
1. McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground
42 ReviewsCassel, CA21 milesWebsite+1 (530) 335-2777$35 - $70 / night
"This is one of my favorite campsites in California. There all the falls, which are beautiful, the lake for swimming and water sports and lots of hiking trails."
"Lake to swim and boat in, waterfall short walk, General store with everything you can imagine and firewood, close by a town where you can eat out."
2. Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park
39 ReviewsMineral, CA27 miles+1 (530) 595-6121$26 / night
"We took an eight-day tour through Northern California and this was our first leg. Tent-camped three nights."
"California Hidden gems."
3. Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA
12 ReviewsShingletown, CA21 milesWebsite+1 (530) 474-3133"It's close to the dog park if you have a dog. The bathroom/shower is 3 sites down. Very clean.
Also close to the walking trail, basketball/volleyball courts& a neat tree swing."
"Close to the entrance to Lassen Park. Cons: Some tent sites were better than others. My favorite tent sites were T6. T7, T8 and especially T13."
4. Madrone Campground
3 ReviewsRound Mountain, CA12 milesWebsite+1 (530) 275-1587"Such a neat tucked away campground, but it is a little over an hour of windy dirt Road lots of drop off on the edges but beautiful views of Reddings humongous trees be prepared to go potty either in the"
"There are fire pits, toilets and a running stream close to most of the camp sites. Visited in April so Potem falls which is on your way to Madrone was running and very nice."
5. Hirz Bay Campground
5 ReviewsSugarloaf, CA17 milesWebsite$30 - $60 / night
"The campground is about 30 mins from the highway, in beautiful forest and has easy access to the water. Campground was quiet, clean and empty when we were there."
"It took us 11 hours to drive there and even the little kids thought it was worth the drive. We had so much fun walking down to the lake fishing, swimming and playing with the dogs."
6. Jones Valley Inlet Shoreline Campground
4 ReviewsBella Vista, CA16 milesWebsite+1 (530) 275-1589"I really love this small campground, especially this year when the lake is full. There's only 10-12 sites, bathrooms are clean. very quiet."
7. Beehive Point Shoreline Campground
16 ReviewsSugarloaf, CA25 milesWebsite+1 (530) 275-1589"Beehive point offers camping right on the waters of Shasta Lake and has absolutely amazing views. We have been up there a few times and it has rarely been busy."
"We stayed here a few years ago and the water was so low that we literally could not reach it, even after a long walk down, it just became too rocky."
8. Ellery Creek
4 ReviewsLakehead, CA18 milesWebsite$30 / night
"Really nice campground with access to the water. I was there in mid July so it was very hot, but there is enough shade that the camp site stayed fairly cool."
"Beautiful views from our campsite and easy access to water. It was super peaceful!"
9. Madesi Campground
1 ReviewBurney, CA14 milesWebsite"First day out on the Tiger for a lap of Idaho & Montana and I see there might be a hot spring near the town of Big Bend. A great little twisty road from 299 to Big Bend put a smile on my face. "
10. Mountain Gate RV Park
8 ReviewsShasta Lake, CA22 milesWebsite+1 (530) 524-4599"Close to the mountain for skiing. Close to the lake for skiing. Nancy the manager was extremely helpful! We found this to have an old fashioned touch. Garbage facilities close by!"
"Only downside was the highway noise."
Recent Camping Photos near Round Mountain, CA
226 Photos of 252 Round Mountain Campgrounds
Genesis C.
Madrone Campground
Greg B.
Madesi Campground
Toni K.
Shasta National Forest Moore Creek Campground
Mien U.
Hirz Bay Campground
Gregory G.
Ellery Creek
Mel O.
Island Warriors Retreat
Brian C.
Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA
Julie D.
McCumber Reservoir Campground
Bill T.
McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground
Matthew R.
Lake Shasta Pines RV Resort and Campground
Donna R.
Salt Creek Resort & RV
Randy B.
Northshore Campground
Recent Reviews near Round Mountain, CA
809 Reviews of 252 Round Mountain Campgrounds
Grant M.
RangerOak Bottom Tent Campground — Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area
Ok, but a little disappointing.
After several nights of free dispersed camping, we decided to spoil ourselves with a paid lakeside campsite for the showers, amenities, and fire pits. Our stay cost about $50, plus an additional $10 fee for our dog.
The biggest downside is that the RV area is essentially just a parking lot. It’s completely exposed, with little to no shade, and can be windy and quite hot when the sun is out. The beach itself is nice, and there’s a boat launch if that’s what you’re coming for.
We were disappointed to learn that the showers are not included and require an additional fee. We didn’t check the exact cost, but it wasn’t worth it to us, and we ended up rinsing off in the lake instead. The fire pits and covered pavilions are available in the day-use area and are only a short walk from the parking lot, but they are not located directly at the RV sites. Also worth noting: dogs are not allowed on the beach.
Amenities include an RV dump station, potable water fill, restrooms, and showers. Access is easy, with paved roads and large, accessible parking areas.
One other thing to be aware of is that you still need a National Park pass in addition to paying for the campsite.
Overall, I’d recommend this more as a day-use destination or for travelers in larger RVs who want convenient amenities. If you’re overlanding or traveling in a truck camper, there are better and more scenic options available nearby.
- Grant M.Ranger
31N17N - North Manzanita Dispersed Camping
Behind the Lassen Pines
Being right off the main road and so close to Lassen, this spot almost felt too good to be true. Sure enough, there were established fire pits, although I’m fairly certain there is a burn ban for much of the year. I didn’t want to risk it, so I skipped even using a Solo Stove.
This is a decent overnight spot, but not really a destination in itself. We spent the day exploring the nearby Manzanita Lake picnic area and driving the scenic road through Lassen, including the Bumpass Mountain area, before returning after dark to spend the night.
The campsite itself isn’t anything particularly special, but it serves its purpose well as a quick and easy overnight stop. The sites are tucked back among the pines and feel reasonably secluded.
In dry conditions, I think most two-wheel-drive vehicles would be fine getting here. The gravel road has some fairly deep ruts in places, but the campsites are located very close to the road, so there isn’t much driving required once you arrive.
Starlink worked surprisingly well, even with the surrounding pine trees.
There are no amenities here—no water, toilets, trash service, or hookups—but Lassen National Park is just a short drive away if you need facilities during the day.
Overall, it’s a convenient and quiet overnight stop for anyone exploring the Lassen area.
- Grant M.Ranger
Perry Riffle Trailhead
Cows, Coyotes, & Cute
We visited in early June, and you could tell the season was starting to pick up. There were several RVs, trailers, cars, and groups of people coming and going throughout our stay. Thankfully, everyone was friendly and respectful, creating a great atmosphere.
At first, I thought the campsite would be too close to Interstate 5, but once you make the drive in, the highway noise becomes minimal. You can barely hear it. The area feels fairly secluded, although the parking lot itself is very open and doesn’t offer much privacy from neighboring campers.
Having bathrooms and trash service was a fantastic amenity and something I’m not always used to finding at spots like this. There is some tree cover, but by early June the daytime sun was already getting quite warm. Fortunately, the evenings cooled off nicely and were very comfortable.
The bugs were a little bad during our stay, but our Thermacell handled them well. Starlink worked great, and there was enough sun exposure for solid solar charging during the day.
Access is easy, with paved roads nearly the entire way.
I’m giving this spot four stars. It’s a comfortable and convenient place to stay, but the immediate views aren’t particularly spectacular. However, a short walk from camp rewards you with some beautiful prairie-style scenery that is well worth exploring.
- Grant M.Ranger
Cline Gulch BLM Dispersed
No Camping, Day Use Only
We arrived late after dark and found the area to be quite far off the beaten path. It was another overnight stop for us while traveling through the area.
We located the designated spot, but the signage was confusing. There were numerous signs stating “No Camping” and “Day Use Only,” even though there were established fire pits present. It was difficult to tell whether the specific area we were in allowed overnight stays while the surrounding area did not.
The river was nice, and the area itself is pretty. However, the road leading to the site is rough and best suited for 4x4 vehicles. There is also a fairly steep downhill section to reach the parking area.
One positive was the solitude. We didn’t see a single vehicle pass by during our entire stay, so it was very peaceful and quiet throughout the night.
I’m giving this location one star, not because of the scenery, but because of the confusing camping regulations. If the camping situation had been clearly marked, I would probably rate it two or three stars. Stay at your own risk and verify the rules for yourself before spending the night.
There are no hookups, no water, and no amenities. At least from the spot where we stayed, there wasn’t even a maintained trail down to the river.
- FFelix S.Guide
Castle Crags State Park Campground
Good stop over
The area has a lot to offer in terms of hiking and river based activities, ie fishing and kayaking. The river trail is beautiful. The campground facilities (toilets and showers) are basic and ok. Water was warm (after a minute of waiting). Some sites are very small, but generally not too close together. A few great sites across the river at first come first served area. The BIG downer is the noise from Highway 5 and the train which sounds its horn 5 or six times as it passes though each night (4 or more passes). Even with ear plugs it was tough to sleep inside an insulated van.
- GGeorge E.
TravelerMount Shasta Nordic Center
Boondocking adjacent to the Nordic Center
This not glamorous stop over! It is boondock spot near a ski center. It is free and there is a place for a trailer or camper of almost any size or combo. I guess a determined tent camper could locate off the road. Campfires are optional depending on the season. The turn off is located about half way between Mt Shasta and McCloud and about 3 miles up from Hwy 89. The road is paved well enough. The location is in the vicinity of Trinity Alps, Mt Shasta and McCloud River Falls (which is pretty cool). I would use it again as a stop over.
Heather C.TravelerLakeshore Villa RV Park
Miss the way it was
When I first got here it was great everyone looked out for each other made meals together helped each other now not so much
- JJohnTraveler
Pinewood Cove Resort on Trinity Lake
Quiet with big trees
Beautiful spacious spots. Very friendly check in
Guide to Round Mountain
Campsites near Round Mountain, California sit in a region with significant elevation changes, ranging from 1,000 to over 6,000 feet. The area experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F, while winter brings substantial snowfall at higher elevations, restricting access to many camping areas. Off-season camping at lakeside spots like Beehive Point offers solitude but requires self-sufficiency due to reduced amenities.
What to do
Fishing access points: The Madesi Campground provides direct Pit River access with an ADA fishing platform. "A great little twisty road from 299 to Big Bend put a smile on my face. Heading southeast from the town, a bit of pavement & a bit of gravel, I found this PG&E camp right on the Pit River. Complete with a beautiful, clean vault toilet and ADA fishing platform," notes Greg B.
Swimming spots: At Hirz Bay Campground, visitors can access water despite the sometimes challenging terrain. "Despite the 100 degree temps in August, there is a trail down to the lake and we were able to swim to cool off. The campground was basically empty. Our site was a good size and we had shade," shares Julie D. The trail takes approximately 10 minutes but involves steep sections.
Watersports equipment rentals: Boat and kayak rentals are available at McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park for accessing Lake Britton during summer months. Water activities are restricted at some locations, as Ann N. explains about Manzanita Lake: "UNFORTUNATELY the lake allows no water Recreation due to a over population of beavers; Beavers are apparently dangerous."
What campers like
Off-season solitude: Beehive Point Shoreline Campground offers remarkable seclusion during off-season periods. "We stayed here for 4 nights mid week in early May and mostly had the whole place to ourselves. There were a few day use visitors, and 2 neighbors who stayed one night each. Overall a very quiet and peaceful place," reports Laura M. The campground operates without fees or services during off-season months.
Cabin accommodations: Manzanita Lake Campground offers cabin options for those seeking more shelter. Sergio T. shares, "I stayed at the state park in a cabin for 2 nights...me an my wife had a nice too good amount of trails...only few of them were closed due to a storm an fires...the falls are not even far to get too maybe 5 minute walk...worth it."
Spacious shoreline sites: Jones Valley Inlet Shoreline Campground sites provide ample space between neighbors when water levels are high. "I really love this small campground, especially this year when the lake is full. There's only 10-12 sites, bathrooms are clean. very quiet," notes Kay C.
What you should know
Wildlife encounters: Bear activity occurs at several campgrounds in the area. At Ellery Creek, one visitor warns, "Dog friendly campground (on leash) - there were multiple sittings of rattlesnakes so I kept a close eye on my pup." Jojo B. reported a significant bear encounter at Hirz Bay: "Around 4am a black bear (maybe 500lbs?) came through our site and pulled on the bear box and kept it moving to check neighboring sites."
Water level variations: Lake-adjacent campgrounds experience dramatic differences in water accessibility based on season and drought conditions. "The water is really, really low at this time. It is possible to climb down to the water, and there is a boat ramp a bit further up, so there were boats in the water when we were here," Laura M. reports about Beehive Point in May.
Remote access challenges: Some sites require significant off-road travel. At Madrone Campground, Genesis C. warns: "Be prepared to drive a hour off road. Such a neat tucked away campground, but it is a little over an hour of windy dirt Road lots of drop off on the edges but beautiful views of Reddings humongous trees."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly facilities: Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA offers numerous child-oriented amenities. "I loved this campground! Would go back in a heartbeat. This was the first KOA I've ever stayed in, and I was worried it would be too cheesy/boring, but it was totally fun. Lots of clean bathrooms, warm swimming pool, lots to do including a whole forested area with swings, a fort, etc., games, ping pong," reports Corinna B.
Educational opportunities: Junior Ranger programs at Lassen Volcanic National Park provide structured activities for children. "The museum has a Junior Ranger program which is a book of neat educational tasks for the kids to complete so that they can show it to a ranger and get a Junior Ranger Badge," explains Jillean G.
Multi-generational group sites: Hirz Bay Campground offers expansive sites suitable for extended family gatherings. "We came here for our summer camp trip from LA. There was 14 of us and one site was fine because they were so big. It took us 11 hours to drive there and even the little kids thought it was worth the drive," shares Lisa L.
Tips from RVers
Campground navigation: Mountain Gate RV Park offers level sites for easier RV setup. "Well maintained and clean park. Actually has grass, not all gravel. Sites level. Nice pool and laundry room," notes Noel L., though mentioning prices were somewhat high.
Elevation considerations: RVs require proper leveling at higher-elevation campgrounds. Kim G. advises at Manzanita Lake: "Be ready to level your camper. We enjoyed staying at Manzanita Campground when we made a last minute change of plans to have cooler weather. The elevation makes a big difference!"
Off-season access: Many RV sites have restricted operational seasons. Lee D. shares about McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park: "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 but the website warns that on weekends and during the summer, this park does fill up."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Round Mountain, CA?
What camping is available near Round Mountain, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Round Mountain, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 252 campgrounds and RV parks near Round Mountain, CA and 31 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Round Mountain, CA?
Which is the most popular campground near Round Mountain, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Round Mountain, CA is McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground with a 4.4-star rating from 42 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Round Mountain, CA?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Round Mountain, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 31 free dispersed camping spots near Round Mountain, CA.
What parks are near Round Mountain, CA?
What parks are near Round Mountain, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 18 parks near Round Mountain, CA that allow camping, notably Shasta-Trinity National Forest and Lassen Volcanic National Park.
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