Camping options around the Round Mountain area provide convenient access to multiple water features, including Lake Shasta, McCloud Creek, and local rivers. At higher elevations, temperatures typically range from 35-80°F depending on season, with summer being the most popular time for camping. Many campgrounds in this region remain open only from spring through early fall, when weather conditions are favorable for outdoor recreation.
What to Do
Swimming and water activities: Ellery Creek Campground offers direct water access, though conditions vary with lake levels. As one camper notes, "Water access is pretty messy/muddy (water levels were low). Water floats of some sort are a good idea to avoid the sticky dense mud" (Ellery Creek).
Hiking trails: Mountain Gate RV Park serves as an excellent basecamp for exploring nearby trails. A reviewer mentioned it's "nice for a stop over or a couple of weeks while exploring the Shasta area" (Mountain Gate RV Park).
Waterfall viewing: At McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, visitors can explore the impressive waterfall system. One camper shared, "The waterfall is amazing and theres an awesome little lake nearby too!" (McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground).
What Campers Like
Secluded river sites: Madesi Campground offers unexpected tranquility along the Pit River. A motorcyclist who discovered this spot noted, "Complete with a beautiful, clean vault toilet and ADA fishing platform, this is a spot boaters/kayakers put in/out. I had the place to myself."
Lake access for boating: Beehive Point Shoreline Campground provides direct lake access. A reviewer explained, "Easy to move about. Great for water sports powered or canoes and paddle boards" (Beehive Point Shoreline Campground).
Clean facilities: Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA maintains exceptionally clean grounds. A camper said, "This KOA is located in a beautiful wooded area. The most clean facilities I've ever experienced at a KOA" (Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA).
What You Should Know
Road access challenges: Reaching Madrone Campground requires significant travel time on unpaved roads. One visitor warned, "It is a little over an hour of windy dirt Road lots of drop off on the edges but beautiful views."
Wildlife awareness: Rattlesnakes have been spotted at multiple campgrounds. At Ellery Creek, a camper advised, "Dog friendly campground (on leash) - there were multiple sittings of rattlesnakes so I kept a close eye on my pup."
Weather preparation: Temperatures can vary drastically between day and night. A visitor to Beehive Point noted, "Very hot during the day, not chilly at night but cool enough to tent camp and enjoy a fire."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. One camper at Hirz Bay Campground reported, "No cell service for miles," while others noted limited or spotty coverage at most locations.
Tips for Camping with Families
Amenities for children: Manzanita Lake Campground in Lassen Volcanic National Park offers activities for different age groups. A visitor shared, "We spent two nights here in the texts only loop and loved the quiet! Beautiful sunrises behind the peak, full facilities including a store, and all the park has to offer!"
Water recreation options: Many families enjoy Hirz Bay Campground for water activities. According to one review, "We had so much fun walking down to the lake fishing, swimming and playing with the dogs. The restrooms were clean" (Hirz Bay Campground).
Pet-friendly spaces: Round Mountain area campgrounds typically accommodate pets with specific restrictions. When camping with dogs in this region, ensure they remain leashed, especially around water access points where wildlife is common.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Manzanita Lake Campground, RV travelers should prepare for uneven terrain. One camper advised, "Be ready to level your camper. We were in two different sites as we made same day and next day reservations."
Utility connections: Mountain Gate RV Park offers full hookups for RVs, making it a convenient option for travelers requiring amenities. A reviewer mentioned, "Well maintained and clean park. Actually has grass, not all gravel. Sites level."
Traffic noise considerations: Some RV parks may experience highway noise. A camper noted about Mountain Gate, "Beautiful setting, nice sites, friendly staff, and clean bathrooms. Only downside was the highway noise."
