Campgrounds near Round Mountain offer a rustic wilderness experience with diverse terrain for outdoor activities. Located in Shasta County, California, this area sits at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 4,500 feet where dense forests meet mountain streams. Seasonal considerations are important as mosquitoes become abundant during summer months, particularly in aspen groves and near water sources.
What to do
Hiking to Cinder Cone: At Butte Lake Campground, trails lead to unique volcanic features. "There are several stunning hikes starting right at the campground," notes Moni R., who visited Lassen Volcanic National Park. "The Cinder Cone hike along the old lava flow behind the campsite is spectacular! Don't let the climb up the cinder cone dissuade you; the panoramic view from the top is well worth it!"
Fishing opportunities: Hat Creek Resort provides direct water access for anglers. "We caught trout all morning. Wonderful place," shares Frank P. The resort positions sites near prime fishing spots, with some campers reporting catching fish just steps from their accommodations.
Water activities: During warmer months, Butte Lake Campground offers swimming and non-motorized boating. "The lake is only a short walk away and great for swimming, kayaking or paddle boarding. The lake is surrounded by lava and the beach has been formed by volcanic material," explains Moni R., noting the unique volcanic setting.
Archery practice: Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort provides targets for bow hunters. "There are targets set up for bow hunters in the pines below the park," mentions Tara D., highlighting amenities beyond typical camping facilities.
What campers like
Distance between sites: Unlike the close quarters at some campgrounds, Butte Lake Campground receives praise for its layout. "The sites themselves are not very private; kids were rolling through our site on bikes all afternoon and evening," writes allison W., but also notes, "after driving past some of the other campgrounds right next to the highway, I was happy to have chosen this one."
Creek proximity: Several campgrounds feature stream access. At Black Rock Campground, "There are some nice places to fish that are just a short walk from the campsites," according to alissa C., who spotted "salmon, deer, quail, and frogs" during their stay.
Equestrian alternatives: When seeking horse-friendly camping near Round Mountain, locations like Horse Flat Campground provide options. Though Matt S. notes maintenance issues: "Many of the sites have been degraded by debris carried by flooding," the campground does offer creek-adjacent sites that provide natural water access.
Shade coverage: Campsites with tree coverage help moderate temperatures. Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort features "Lots of shade and green grass," according to Tara D., making summer stays more comfortable.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires preparation. For Black Rock Campground, Kaye S. warns, "The road in took about an hour and a half and I would not recommend attempting it without 4WD and high clearance. There is one stream crossing but it is minor." Similarly, Butte Lake Campground sits "at the end of a six-mile gravel road. Not too dusty or bumpy. Maybe that is why it wasn't so populated," according to Bill T.
Wildlife awareness: Proper food storage is essential in this area. "There was evidence of bears around our site but we didn't have any issues," reports alissa C. at Black Rock Campground. Butte Lake Campground provides bear boxes which Patricia O. emphasizes "yes, you need to use them."
Seasonal limitations: While some campgrounds operate year-round, others have restricted seasons. "As of May 2019, the camp was closed to the public due to safety hazards," reported Brittany S. about Horse Camp Primitive Campground, highlighting the importance of checking current status before travel.
Water availability: Water sources vary significantly. "There is no way to hook up a hose, even with a water robber, so you have to fill jugs and carry from the sink," explains Bill T. about Butte Lake Campground's limited facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Bug preparation: Multiple reviews mention mosquito concerns. "The mosquitoes were out in full force so bug spray is a must," warns alissa C. about Black Rock Campground, echoing concerns at other locations throughout the region.
Recreation options: Hat Creek Resort offers family-friendly amenities beyond camping. "They had a volleyball court, cornhole and a basketball area," notes Kristi D., providing activities when children need entertainment options.
Campsite selection: For equestrian camping with families near Round Mountain, consider site positioning. Web H. notes about Horse Camp Primitive Campground: "There are only two camp sites reasonably far apart," offering privacy that families often appreciate.
Supply planning: Limited services mean preparation is essential. "20 minutes to a grocery store," mentions Kristi D. about Hat Creek Resort's location, though she adds, "They had a little grocery store with ice cream."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort accommodates larger rigs with some constraints. "Biggest I would put in here would be about a 30 foot trailer. You have to disconnect your tow vehicle," advises Jason D., though Tara D. notes, "Our 35 foot fifth wheel easily navigated the space."
RV park etiquette: When staying at established RV parks in the area, Jason D. recommends, "Lots of permanent residents, so know your rv etiquette," highlighting the importance of respecting long-term neighbors.
Site leveling challenges: At Horse Camp Primitive Campground, Jules S. notes, "Sites are SUPER uneven and not really defined," but adds it's a "Good spot for large rigs" despite these limitations.
Hookup availability: For those seeking full amenities, Corey L. shares that Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort offers "full hook up with nice green grass, no cable but ok Verizon signal and we got a few local channels on the tv antenna."
