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Best Campgrounds near Shasta Lake, CA

683 Reviews

Shasta Lake in Northern California features a range of campground options from primitive tent sites to full-service RV parks. The area includes established campgrounds like Beehive Point Shoreline Campground, which offers waterfront camping directly on the lake, and Shasta Campground, which accommodates both tent and RV campers. Several facilities provide boat-in access, allowing campers to reach shoreline sites directly from the water. Dispersed camping opportunities exist on nearby Bureau of Land Management lands, including Cline Gulch BLM Dispersed area, which offers free camping with minimal amenities. The Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area manages multiple campgrounds in the region with varying levels of development.

Seasonal water levels significantly impact camping experiences around Shasta Lake, with shoreline access changing throughout the year. Most developed campgrounds operate year-round, though some like Beehive Point Shoreline Campground are only open from mid-April through mid-September. Summer temperatures typically reach the 80s and 90s, making water access particularly valuable. Many campgrounds require advance reservations, especially during peak summer months when lakeside sites fill quickly. Road conditions to some shoreline and dispersed camping areas may require careful navigation, particularly for those towing trailers. One camper noted, "Beehive point offers camping right on the waters of Shasta Lake and has absolutely amazing views. The entrance is a little rutted so if you bring a trailer just be cautious."

Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors, with many highlighting the views and direct lake access. Campgrounds in the area typically provide fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets, while some offer additional amenities like showers, drinking water, and boat ramps. Several campgrounds feature both wooded and open sites, providing options for shade or solar access depending on preference. Privacy between sites varies significantly by location, with some offering spacious, well-separated sites and others placing campers in closer proximity. Campers frequently mention the quality of stargazing opportunities and the relative quiet of campgrounds despite their proximity to Redding. As one visitor described, "We have been up there a few times and it has rarely been busy. Depending on the water level real estate on the beach can get tight, but there are spots off the beach that are wooded."

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Best Camping Sites Near Shasta Lake, California (246)

    1. Mountain Gate RV Park

    9 Reviews
    Shasta Lake, CA
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 524-4599

    "Close to the mountain for skiing. Close to the lake for skiing. Nancy the manager was extremely helpful! We found this to have an old fashioned touch. Garbage facilities close by!"

    "Only downside was the highway noise."

    2. Beehive Point Shoreline Campground

    15 Reviews
    Sugarloaf, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 275-1589

    "Beehive point offers camping right on the waters of Shasta Lake and has absolutely amazing views. We have been up there a few times and it has rarely been busy."

    "We stayed here a few years ago and the water was so low that we literally could not reach it, even after a long walk down, it just became too rocky."

    3. Boulder Creek RV Redding

    7 Reviews
    Shasta Lake, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 246-0101

    $50 - $70 / night

    "Also the water park next to the campground was closed"

    4. Peltier Bridge Primitive Campground — Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area

    8 Reviews
    Whiskeytown, CA
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 242-3412

    $20 / night

    ". #6, 8, and 9 probably your best bets if they are open. 4 and 5 are right next to the entrance. There's a small narrow dirt road, but easily doable even in a loaded down sedan."

    "Just me and one friend stayed overnight, very nice area, creek right next to spots. A little bit of a walk to the bathroom though."

    5. Redding RV Park

    4 Reviews
    Redding, CA
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 241-0707

    "Management allowed us to park our truck in the empty space right next to our camper, which was super convenient. All hookups worked perfectly."

    6. Oak Bottom Tent Campground — Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area

    7 Reviews
    Whiskeytown, CA
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 246-1225

    "Because it's the shoulder season, their were fewer people there, which allowed us to have more space... no one in adjacent sites."

    "Our site had private water access and was a good distance from adjacent sites. I really can't say enough good things about my time here."

    7. Cline Gulch BLM Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    French Gulch, CA
    12 miles

    "There was an awesome creek right next to us. FYI there was no phone service at all until you get by the school."

    8. Jones Valley Inlet Shoreline Campground

    4 Reviews
    Bella Vista, CA
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 275-1589

    "I really love this small campground, especially this year when the lake is full. There's only 10-12 sites, bathrooms are clean. very quiet."

    9. Shasta Campground

    2 Reviews
    Shasta Lake, CA
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 224-2100

    "Campground Review: No matter where you find yourself on Shasta Lake you will be surrounded in houseboats and the beauty of the lake. On the way in (heading south on I-5 you will see Mt."

    "Hosts were excellent and helpful, and there is a wonderful trail nearby for bikes."

    10. Marina RV Park

    4 Reviews
    Redding, CA
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 241-4396
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Recent Camping Photos near Shasta Lake, CA

173 Photos of 246 Shasta Lake Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Shasta Lake, CA

683 Reviews of 246 Shasta Lake Campgrounds

  • Kathleen M.
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Castle Lake Campground

    Quiet and beautiful!

    I loved my 2 nights at Castle Lake Campground.  I was the only one in the 6 campsites until late the first night. When I left, 4 sites had been used. I went in off season so it was quiet. No water, bring your own. But the sites are large and private and the trees are beautiful. All the downed firewood has been picked, but if you go up to the overflow parking area at the lake, there is a lot of downed wood there.

    There is a small creek that runs behind the campground that you can hear quietly running.

    The lake is a short walk up the hill (or drive) and has a couple of short hikes and a longer hike. Very popular. The lake is crystal clear and very serene. 

    The pit toilets are clean and there are bear proof trash cans. Of my 3 campsites on this trip, this one was the best.

  • Marie D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Jubilee Railroad Wilderness Lodge & Campground was Railroad Park Resort

    Nice campground

    Easy access to the highway without the noise. There is a dining railcar restaurant, camp host is great. We came in on a Thursday no reservation and had no problem snagging a roomy spot for our 30' towing a Jeep. Great in the woods feel with full hookups. Highly recommended. Bears are common in this area.

  • Steve M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Perry Riffle Trailhead

    Simple but clean and nice level sites with picnic tables

    Just staying one night on my way to Nevada but this is an easy location with decent cell service and a clean bathroom and garbage receptacles in a hiking and equestrian area

  • Bruce E.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Post Creek Guard Station

    Labor Day seclusion

    Post creek guard station was awesome. The views were amazing, especially the star gazing. Took Tedoc rd going in. Long, dirt, rocky rd not recommended for passenger vehicles. Our transit connect was fine, but slow going, just enough clearance. The cabin was pretty clean. Someone left their garbage. It's a pack in 0ack out kinda place. Water is gravity feed for a flushing toilet and dish washing water. (Non-potable) nearby spring was great for filtering or the 1/4 mile down to creek and swimming hole. There are 2 new full size mattresses and a 2 burner Coleman stove. Recommend just bringing all your own gear and consider it like a camping trip, w/ bonus flush toilet. The drive out was smooth. Took service rd 30. Dirt for a short bit, then paved all the way to hwy 36. Definitely be going back, and hitting some of the hiking trails.

  • N
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Upper Sand Flat

    very cliffy

    checked out the spot and too much cliffage around this. maybe better across the road there’s an obvious dirt road that goes into the forest.

  • Matt S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 31, 2025

    Christie Hill Basecamp

    Under Construction

    There appears to be logging or construction going on, as a previous review stated most of the pull ins are just areas that the bulldozer is pushed everything back. There is one a few hundred yards in that is decent nice and quiet, but very dusty.

  • M
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Algoma Campground

    Nice quiet stop along the McCloud River

    I first camped here back in the 80's and loved it back then. Time has changed the area but not this peaceful little gem of a campground. No amenities except one pit toilet. The McCloud river runs right through the middle of the campground so the fishing is amazing! There are about 10 camp spots and plenty of dispersed sites available up the dirt road. 2 thumbs up!

  • Ibeya A.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Perry Riffle Trailhead

    Great spot for a short stop over

    This is just a gravel parking lot, but it's quiet, peaceful, and about a 2 min walk from the river. Several horse and hiking trails start from here. There's a pit toilet, garbage, and recycling. We enjoyed our stay for one night, but I wouldn't want to stay here for more than a few days. It was roasting in August; the river was a nice way to cool off.

  • Diana R.
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Red Bluff KOA Journey

    Messed up reservations, staff rude.

    This campground has a lot of live ins: there animals are not well behaved, barked most of the night, stray cats wandering around bothering our animals.  We made reservations and reserved a campsite number, was not told we had to pay $25 more to reserve a site, they put us in the site I requested not to have, the excuse was the computer rearranged the campsite. Asked to speak to management who never appeared and lady at desk was rude.

Guide to Shasta Lake

Camping near Shasta Lake, California, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options to choose from.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the many trails around the area. One camper mentioned, "Many hiking trail options. And a 'vista point' that shows Mt. Shasta, Castle Crags and the Eddies (outstanding view, ADA accessible)" at Castle Crags State Park Campground.
  • Water Sports: Enjoy activities like kayaking and paddleboarding. A reviewer at Beehive Point Shoreline Campground said, "Great for water sports powered or canoes and paddle boards."
  • Fishing: Many campgrounds are close to the water, making it easy to cast a line. One visitor noted, "Some great swimming holes on the river" at Railroad Park Resort.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review for Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA highlighted, "Very clean. The only negative was it appeared to be many long-term residents."
  • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have helpful staff. One camper at Red Bluff KOA Journey said, "The staff is very friendly and helpful."
  • Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy having room to spread out. A visitor at Hayward Flat Campground mentioned, "The sites are varied here. You have tent sites and RV sites and all are spacious."

What you should know:

  • Noise Levels: Some campgrounds are near highways, which can be noisy. A reviewer at Castle Crags State Park Campground noted, "Could see the trucks/cars from site #12. Freeway noise noted."
  • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full amenities. A camper at Beehive Point Shoreline Campground pointed out, "No drinking water, no electric hookups."
  • Reservations: Some sites are first-come, first-served, while others require reservations. A visitor at Sycamore Grove Campground mentioned, "Can book same day online."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with activities for kids. A reviewer at Trinity Lake KOA Holiday said, "Great for families with young children and those hoping for entertainment for kids."
  • Pack for Comfort: Bring items like hammocks and games. One camper at Hayward Flat Campground suggested, "Bring your hammocks and kayaks! Beautiful place to relax at the water."
  • Be Prepared for Bugs: Some areas have bees and wasps. A visitor at Beehive Point Shoreline Campground warned, "Woke up to the BIGGEST swarm of wasps circling our fireplace."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Railroad Park Resort mentioned, "Excellent for tents and small Class B Vans."
  • Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer sites with full hookups. A camper at Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA noted, "Strong WiFi, adequate and clean restrooms."
  • Plan for Dumping: Be aware of where to dump waste. A visitor at Red Bluff KOA Journey said, "Two laundry rooms and two bathrooms with a shower."

Camping near Shasta Lake, California, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just remember to plan ahead and enjoy the great outdoors!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find beach camping spots at Shasta Lake?

Jones Valley Inlet Shoreline Campground provides excellent beach camping opportunities at Shasta Lake with direct water access. Water levels can affect beach availability, so checking conditions before your trip is recommended. Another prime spot for beach camping is McCloud Bridge Campground, which features 14 sites including some double sites for larger groups. While water levels fluctuate seasonally, when normal, the campground offers walking distance access to the water, sometimes just a few hundred feet away. Facilities include clean bathrooms, water access, bear bins, fire rings, and trash cans, making it a comfortable option for beach camping enthusiasts.

Are there private campgrounds available at Shasta Lake?

Yes, several private campgrounds surround Shasta Lake. Lakehead Campground & RV Park offers a rustic, naturally pretty setting with simple amenities including a place to play pool. The quiet environment and proximity to the lake make it an attractive option. Lakeshore Villa RV Park is another private option in a good location adjacent to Shasta Lake, though it caters primarily to RVs. For those seeking private accommodations slightly further from the immediate lakeshore, Sacramento River RV Park provides long-term stay options with some spaces featuring private grassy areas maintained by management.

Where can I camp along the river at Shasta Lake?

For river camping near Shasta Lake, Trinity River (Ca) — Shasta Trinity National Forest offers beautiful sites situated directly alongside the Trinity River. This wooded campground costs around $10 per night and is surrounded by beautiful mountains and the Trinity Alps, creating a stunning backdrop for your river camping experience. Another option is Cline Gulch BLM Dispersed, which provides free camping opportunities with both drive-in and walk-in access points to explore riverfront areas. While technically not on Shasta Lake itself, these nearby river camping options offer the peaceful sound of flowing water and excellent fishing opportunities within the same general region.

What are the best campgrounds at Shasta Lake for tent camping?

For tent camping at Shasta Lake, Beehive Point Shoreline Campground offers excellent options with amazing views right on the water. It's rarely crowded, providing a peaceful experience with both beach and wooded sites depending on water levels. Another good option is Shasta Campground, where you'll be surrounded by the natural beauty of the lake while enjoying basic facilities. Both locations allow you to immerse yourself in the stunning scenery while providing the fundamentals needed for a comfortable tent camping experience. When water levels are normal, many shoreline campgrounds offer easy water access, making them ideal for those who want to combine tent camping with water activities.

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