Mount Shasta camping options extend beyond traditional sites to include unique settings at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 5,800 feet. The Sacramento River headwaters originate near Mount Shasta, creating numerous waterways through the surrounding forests. Temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night are common even in summer months, making layered clothing essential for campers throughout the season.
What to do
Fishing at mountain lakes: Castle Lake offers excellent alpine fishing opportunities in crystal-clear waters. "The lake is crystal clear and very serene" with "direct access to alpine lake swimming and hiking," according to a visitor at Castle Lake Campground.
Train-themed exploration: The area's railroad history provides unique camping experiences. "There is a teeny store with some basic supplies and snack foods, and ice and wood available for purchase, wifi advertised, as well as a swimming pool" at Jubilee Railroad Wilderness Lodge & Campground, where "guests have the option of bringing their own RV, staying in a tent, or lodging in train cars that have been converted into hotel rooms."
Hiking to viewpoints: Multiple trails provide views of both Mount Shasta and surrounding landmarks. "The hike up to Heart Lake and Castle Peak is one of my favorites in the area! On a clear day, you can see some of the mountains in Oregon!" shares a camper who stayed at Castle Lake Campground.
What campers like
Secluded forest settings: Dispersed camping areas offer privacy while maintaining accessibility. At Dispersed Campsite near Castle Lake and Shasta, campers appreciate that "it's a dirt road but not bad at all. You have to keep going pasta where it takes you on google maps until you see a dirt road turnoff on the right."
Wildlife sightings: The Mount Shasta region supports diverse wildlife visible from campsites. "Have seen deer and bears here," notes one camper who visited Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort. Another mentioned "We took 2 small children in a rented camper and went to this lake in a recommendation from friends in Mt. Shasta... we were not disappointed!"
Waterway access: Creeks and streams run through many campgrounds, providing natural water features. At McCloud RV Resort, "a stream runs through the park (kids played in). Really enjoyable and we have been here before and had to return."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: Bears are active throughout the Mount Shasta area. "I am not aware of any bad bear encounters where people or bears have been injured, but you may want to check with the ranger station about bringing bear spray," advises a camper at Castle Crags State Park Campground.
Road noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience highway sounds. "The campground is RIGHT next to I5 so be prepared for noise," notes a Castle Crags visitor, while another mentions that "being close to the freeway you can here traffic but it honestly wasnt too loud."
Limited site availability: Small campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. Castle Lake Campground has "only 6 sites on the campground and we were lucky and got the last one available. It's a perfect amount of space between campsites, and it's free. 3 night maximum."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water features: Shallow streams provide safe play areas for children. A visitor to McCloud RV Resort mentioned "A stream that runs through the park (kids played in)" and "a good size pond. Clean well kept park with plenty of amenities."
Family activity options: Multi-generational activities can be found throughout the area. At Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort, "there was tons of people there fishing, hiking, paddling, taking pics... We've been coming here for years."
Secure sites for children: Choose campgrounds with appropriate facilities for young campers. "This is a neat little mountain campground with a nice little lake" that's "great for families" according to reviews from Mount Shasta camping locations.
Tips from RVers
RV size considerations: Narrow roads limit access for larger rigs at some locations. "Tight turns in our 43' motorhome with toad," reports a camper at Trailer Lane Campground, though "our site was level and that is a big plus!!"
Hookup variations: Water pressure can be challenging at some campgrounds. "The water is great! Pure and cold. However, it is high pressure. It exploded our water hose! After that we learned to place our pressure regulator valve right on the faucet," warns an RVer who visited McCloud RV Resort.
Pull-through site availability: Limited pull-through sites book quickly during peak season. "Our packet was waiting for us when we arrived, our pull through site was level and the owners were very nice. The park is perfect for a short stay and we will make this a regular stop on our route," reports a visitor to Trailer Lane Campground.
