Tent camping near Round Mountain, California provides access to numerous reservoirs and waterways in Shasta County's mountainous terrain. The area sits at elevations ranging from 1,300 to 3,000 feet, creating diverse microclimates across camping destinations. Summer temperatures average 80-95°F during daytime hours with cooler nights around 50-60°F, making early morning or evening activities more comfortable during peak season.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: North Battle Creek Campground offers direct access to reservoir fishing. A camper noted, "The reservoir is beautiful and is plenty big enough for some great kayaking or paddle boarding. There were also many people fishing both from the shore and from boats or floats."
Stargazing sessions: The remote location provides exceptional night sky viewing conditions away from city lights. As one visitor at North Battle Creek Campground shared: "This area was incredible for stargazing... don't miss out on enjoying one of the most amazing night skies you may ever see."
Historic railroad exploration: Visit the abandoned railroad bridge featured in the film "Stand By Me" near Dusty Campground. According to a reviewer: "The railroad/bridge that was featured in the old movie Stand By Me is walking distance from the campsites - it's closed off and no longer in use but cool to check out!"
What campers like
Lake swimming access: Campsites at Dusty Campground provide convenient water access. One camper mentioned, "It's right on the water and soo pretty and relaxing... There was also a little beach area for swimming and launching kayaks etc."
Peaceful water sounds: McCumber Reservoir Campground offers sites alongside flowing water. A visitor reported, "Our site was right on the river, so we had the peaceful sounds of rushing water to hear. The site (3) was also pretty decent size, and in my opinion the best site."
Morning wildlife viewing: Madesi Campground provides opportunities to spot local wildlife. A visitor explained, "I found this PG&E camp right on the Pit River. Complete with a beautiful, clean vault toilet and ADA fishing platform, this is a spot boaters/kayakers put in/out."
What you should know
Dirt conditions: Some campgrounds live up to their names regarding ground conditions. At Dusty Campground, a camper warned: "You'll be getting dirt out of your clothes for a week. It's more like volcanic ash or clay ash… it's super sticky... There's no flat spots for a tent."
Insect preparation: Mosquitos can be problematic in certain locations. One camper reported: "Mosquitos. Vast clouds of them, attacking you through the fabric of your tent. In the early morning, when you step outside, you often see a haze, a fog, on the water. It's not fog, it's mosquitos by the millions."
Water levels affect access: Seasonal water fluctuations impact shoreline camping. A Jones Valley Inlet Shoreline camper observed: "Close proximity to the lake but still not on the water. When the water is low it may be a trek to the water, across the road and down the hill."
Tips for camping with families
Early arrival for Burney Falls: Plan morning visits to nearby attractions to avoid crowds. A camper suggested, "The campground is right down the road from Burney Falls so I woke up early and got there before the crowds arrived."
Recreational variety: Hirz Mountain Lookout offers unique accommodation and educational opportunities. A visitor shared, "The view will blow your mind. This place is special... This place gets the prize for best view while sitting on the outhouse toilet. You can see for miles Mt Shasta and Shasta Lake is the distance."
Temperature management: Days can be hot while evenings cool significantly. A camper at Dusty Campground noted: "The summer heat makes swimming perfect but as night falls it cools beautifully enough to be able to bundle up by the fire."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV accessibility: Most tent camping areas have restricted vehicle access. At Jones Valley Inlet Shoreline Campground, a camper observed: "$35 for a double site, when you aren't even on the water is a little steep for a camp spot for me... not my favorite coupled with the price."
Forest service road conditions: Four-wheel drive vehicles provide better access to remote sites. A visitor noted, "This is a great spot that I almost didn't review because I don't want anyone else to know about it. The campground is approximately 30 minutes off of Hwy. 44 on dirt forest service roads."
Water availability: Water services can be inconsistent at certain campgrounds. One visitor mentioned, "Last time we visited the water was out of service at the drive in camp spots. To get to the lake access sites you have to get permission to drive past the gate."
