Camping cabins near Shasta Lake, California range from simple rustic structures to higher-end accommodations with amenities. Located in Northern California's Shasta-Trinity National Forest at elevations between 1,067 and 1,100 feet, the area experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters. Many cabin rentals require reservations 6-12 months in advance during peak summer months when water levels are highest.
What to do
Water activities during summer months: Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort offers rental equipment for enjoying the water. "We rented kayaks one day and the next we rented a pontoon boat and our friends joined us. We found a rope swing hanging on a tree and tied up and did some rope swing fun into the lake," reports one visitor. Water access varies seasonally based on lake levels.
Hiking trails accessible from campsites: Manzanita Lake Campground provides direct trail access. "I loved being able to hike right by from the campground on multiple hikes," notes a camper. Trails vary in difficulty with some suitable for beginners and others requiring moderate hiking experience.
Fishing opportunities year-round: Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort serves as a base for fishing expeditions. A camper shared, "We fished Lewiston lake less than 10 min. away and Whiskeytown Lake about 20-25 min. away with great luck." Fishing licenses required and available at some camp stores.
What campers like
Elevated viewpoints: Hirz Mountain Lookout provides panoramic vistas from a former fire tower. "The view will blow your mind. This place is special... You can see for miles Mt Shasta and Shasta Lake is the distance," writes one visitor. Reservations for this specialty accommodation often fill 6 months in advance.
Shaded campsites during hot months: Lakehead Campground offers natural shade that campers appreciate. "This campground is very spacious with lots of trees for shade which was great since we went when it was extremely hot," notes a guest. Summer temperatures regularly reach 95-100°F in July and August.
On-site recreation facilities: Antlers RV Park and Campground maintains facilities for additional entertainment. "They have a little store/burger spot which is very convenient next to the pool area," reports a visitor. Recreational amenities vary by season with some facilities closed during winter months.
What you should know
Bear activity in certain areas: Guests at Antlers RV Park and Campground have noted wildlife encounters. One long-term visitor observed, "The bears got into the trash pretty regularly though. It was very evident in the morning when the cans would be knocked over and rummaged through." Proper food storage essential at all camping locations.
Bathroom maintenance varies by location and season: Mountain Gate RV Park receives praise for cleanliness standards. "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," comments a visitor. Busier weekends can affect facility conditions across all properties.
Distance to grocery and supply options: Many cabin rentals have limited on-site provisions. "The store has a small menu of hot food offerings available, and the groceries surmount to things found at a gas station plus a few extras like bacon," mentions a camper about Manzanita Lake Campground. Nearest full grocery stores often 20-30 minutes driving distance.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Manzanita Lake Campground provides spaces for children to play safely. "Manzanita Lake is a really family friendly campground. It's great seeing the kids ride around the loop on their bicycles and scooters," notes a visitor. Many family-oriented locations have designated quiet hours starting at 9 or 10 PM.
Pool options during hot summer days: Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort offers swimming facilities popular with families. A visitor recommends, "Tent sites are huge and so is the campground! We stayed pretty far away from the beach and we were all by ourselves!" Swimming areas vary by location with some offering supervised beaches and others only unmonitored lake access.
Advance planning for family sites: Large family groups need to book early, especially during summer months. "We only go in the off season due to too many people booking in advance," advises a repeat visitor to Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort. Family-sized cabin accommodations often book 6-12 months in advance for summer dates.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions and constraints: Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort has size limitations to consider. "Biggest I would put in here would be about a 30 foot trailer. You have to disconnect your tow vehicle," advises an RVer. Entrance roads at some locations include sharp turns or steep grades not suitable for larger rigs.
Hookup availability varies: Mountain Gate RV Park offers complete connections for extended stays. "Great rv park! Patti is super accommodating and helpful. It's nice for a stop over or a couple of weeks while exploring the Shasta area," reports a visitor. Many locations offer 30-amp service but fewer provide 50-amp connections for larger RVs.
Leveling challenges at some locations: Preparation for uneven terrain helps with setup. "Be ready to level your camper," advises a visitor to Manzanita Lake Campground. Several campgrounds around Shasta Lake feature varied terrain requiring leveling blocks or jacks for comfortable positioning.
