The Mendocino National Forest surrounds Paskenta, California, a small community nestled in Tehama County at approximately 780 feet elevation. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F between June and September, with cooler spring and fall seasons providing more comfortable camping conditions. The Sacramento River corridor offers water recreation opportunities with several campgrounds providing river access for fishing and kayaking.
What to do
River activities: The Sacramento River provides excellent fishing and water recreation near Mendocino National Forest Lake Red Bluff Recreation Area. One camper noted, "It is impossible to hear the traffic. Right on the Sacramento River and the skies are remarkably dark," making it ideal for stargazing after a day on the water.
Explore Lassen National Park: Located about an hour from Red Bluff campgrounds, Lassen features volcanic landscapes and hiking trails. A visitor mentioned, "It is only about an hour to Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center at Lassen NP," making it an excellent day trip from your camping base.
Wine tasting: Several campgrounds offer wine experiences nearby. At The Parkway RV Resort & Campground, campers can enjoy "wine tasting as well" according to a reviewer who appreciated this amenity during their stay.
Swimming opportunities: Lake Pillsbury at Fuller Grove Group Campground provides swimming options during hot summer months. A camper shared, "The campground beach is beautiful, definitely recommend some late-night stargazing," combining water activities with nighttime sky viewing.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Many campgrounds offer peaceful settings away from highway noise. At Eel River Campground, visitors appreciate the "5 min walk to swimming hole under overpass on main road, across from country corner store with food, beer and supplies," providing both tranquility and convenience.
Spacious sites: Fuller Grove Group Campground offers generous camping areas. A reviewer mentioned, "Camp sites are spaced out, so you're not on top of one another like some of the other sites around the lake. Also has a nice beach and direct access to the lake."
Clean facilities: The Rolling Hills Casino Truck Lot receives praise for maintenance. One camper noted, "The park is CLEAN, Quiet, the sites level, The Park staff are helpful. The park is on the campus of a casino with multiple eating establishments."
Shade coverage: Many campgrounds offer tree coverage for summer heat relief. A visitor to North Fork Campground said, "The campground is next to the Truckee River but most sites do not have easy access to it. It is in the trees," providing natural cooling during hot months.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Portions of Mendocino National Forest sometimes close due to fire conditions or maintenance. At Middle Creek Campground, a visitor reported, "At the time of our visit 90% of the Mendocino National Forest was closed as a result of fires the past year as well as landslides due to rains."
Limited amenities: Many campgrounds offer basic facilities without full hookups. Shell Gulch Campground offers minimal amenities, with one camper describing it as "Not too much here, couple of sites and a big turnaround. There is a nice creek though and a fish ladder!"
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires navigating unpaved roads. One Fuller Grove camper shared, "Long, windy dirt road to get to the campground but not too difficult to traverse in any car."
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak seasons. For yurt camping near Paskenta, California, confirm availability several weeks ahead during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer additional activities for children. At Rolling Hills, a visitor shared, "We enjoyed a pull thru full hookup spot. We had our dogs and 5 year old with us... my daughter and I enjoyed the arcade, then we switched."
Swimming access: Look for campgrounds with safe water access for children. Fuller Grove Group Campground received this review: "No better campsite for a long weekend of lake lounging and good camping. The sites are BIG, and the ones that lead to the water give you best access to the lake."
Wildlife viewing: Many campgrounds offer bird watching and wildlife spotting opportunities. Middle Creek visitors noted, "You can hear the creek running along the camp, as well as the wild turkeys. There must be over 15 different species of birds as well."
Bathroom facilities: For yurt camping in Paskenta, California area with children, check bathroom quality. One camper at The Parkway RV Resort advised, "The family room was handicap accessible and included a shower, sink, changing table and a toilet."
Tips from RVers
Hookup access: Several campgrounds offer full or partial hookups. The Parkway RV Resort received this note: "We were in site A10 which we found a little difficult to connect the sewer hose without two hoses," suggesting extra hose length may be needed.
Temperature management: Summer heat requires planning. One visitor to Rolling Hills noted, "Great overnight stop. Surprisingly quiet! Level pull-thru sites, full hook-ups. $40, well worth the price when temps are 90+ and need your a/c."
Internet access: Connectivity varies by location. A Parkway RV Resort camper mentioned, "Even though we were far from the office the internet access was strong," which is helpful for those needing to stay connected.
Water availability: Many campgrounds have limited water access. At Middle Creek Campground, a visitor observed, "There's no other water anywhere else, no showers, no sinks or anything like that so prepare to come fully dry."
