Dispersed and developed camping options near Redwoods, California span across elevations of 2,000 to 5,000 feet in the Lassen Volcanic and Shasta Lake areas. The camping season typically runs from mid-April through October, with snowfall restricting access to many sites during winter months. Most campgrounds in this region sit amid pine forests with varying proximity to lakes, rivers, and volcanic features.
What to do
Fishing at multiple lakes: Jones Valley Inlet Shoreline Campground offers direct access to Lake Shasta. "It's right next to the lake and makes for a good launching spot," notes Crystal B., though she mentions limited privacy between sites.
Explore volcanic features: McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground serves as a central base for exploring both waterfalls and volcanic areas. "The waterfalls are breathtaking, the lake is refreshing and the campground itself is relaxing and peaceful," writes Jen T., who recommends making reservations well in advance due to its popularity.
Kayaking on reservoirs: North Battle Creek Campground provides excellent paddling opportunities. "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," according to Michael I.
What campers like
Secluded creek sites: 31N17N - North Manzanita Dispersed Camping offers free primitive camping near running water. "We've been on the road for about a month now and this might take the cake for our favorite dispersed spot. There are a few others along this road, but this one takes the gold. It's next to the creek and we fell asleep to the sounds of the flowing water," writes Brock S.
Clean facilities: Mountain Gate RV Park maintains exceptionally clean grounds and amenities. "We loved our stay. We felt safe and it's probably one of the most cleanest campground and facilities I've ever been to. Clean bathrooms, showers, zero trash around," according to Jill P.
Family amenities: Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA offers activities beyond just camping. "The KOA has a wonderful swimming pool, a great outdoor game area, dirt-bike trails for the kids, rope swings, and a fort," notes Brian C., who particularly appreciated being just 20 minutes from Lassen National Park.
What you should know
Limited water access: Several campgrounds require bringing your own water. At Manzanita Lake Campground, camper Marcus K. advises: "Keep in mind that there is no water available. Need to bring your own."
Road conditions: Access to some dispersed camping requires navigating forest roads. At North Battle Creek Campground, "The campground is approximately 30 minutes off of Hwy. 44 on dirt forest service roads. The roads were in great condition in August of 2017, to the point where a two-wheel drive low-clearance car would have made it without issue, but would likely take longer than 30 minutes," says Michael I.
Wi-Fi limitations: Many campgrounds advertise Wi-Fi but connectivity varies. At Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA, Fred H. reports: "Our primary reason for spending the $38 was so that I could connect to WiFi and work in the morning. Even sitting right by the office I could hardly get gmail to load."
Tips for camping with families
Scout tent sites carefully: At Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA, "Some tent sites were better than others. My favorite tent sites were T6. T7, T8 and especially T13," recommends Corinna B.
Consider cabin options: Manzanita Lake Campground offers both traditional campsites and cabins. "If you like camping with modern comforts, this is your spot. They even had laundry (you've got to bring cash though). It's busy, so it won't be quiet, but it was a great place to meet people," notes avery R.
Plan for swimming in summer: McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park provides both waterfall viewing and swimming opportunities. "The falls are beautiful too cold to do any quality swimming but a nice hike around the falls and down to the lake," advises Kelly S.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: At Sacramento River RV Park, "My site didn't have a cemented space but there was an old picnic table and it was small gravel so easy to get trailer leveled," notes Vikki T., who also appreciated being able to personalize her space with potted plants and yard art during an extended stay.
Highway noise considerations: Several RV parks near Redwoods have highway proximity. At Mountain Gate RV Park, G H. writes: "Beautiful setting, nice sites, friendly staff, and clean bathrooms. Only downside was the highway noise."
Navigation challenges: Some campsites can be difficult to locate. When visiting Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA, Melissa B. cautions: "One thing I will warn is google maps did tell me to turn too early and I was wondering around a neighborhood for a little bit. You turn right off of 44 to get to the site."
Guide
