Glamping close to Shasta, California ranges from simple canvas structures to fully-equipped cabins. Located at elevations between 1,000-3,500 feet, the Shasta region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 90°F and cool winters with occasional snow at higher elevations. The area's volcanic geology creates distinctive camping terrain with exposed lava formations and diverse pine forests.
What to do
Hiking at Crystal Creek: Crystal Creek Primitive Campground offers secluded trails with minimal crowds. "I was looking for a primitive campsite that was quiet and secluded. This fit the bill 100%," reports camper Rick A., who warns: "About 3am something woke me up sniffing around my hammock...it bumped me and was large enough to make the hammock sway."
Water activities on Lewiston Lake: Mary Smith Campground provides direct lake access for swimming and paddling. "We took tubes out and laid in the water and soaked up the sun, it was so nice. It's especially so calming because there isn't a million boats on the lake partying and such it's just quiet and calm water," notes camper Azizah T.
Boating on Trinity Lake: Minersville Campground offers lakeside access for boats. "Nice, small campground near the edge of Trinity Lake. Approximately 8 campsites can be reserved and 8 are available on a first come, first serve basis," explains camper P.S., though they note "The nearby lakeshore is quite muddy (depending upon water level)."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Boulder Creek RV Redding maintains high cleanliness standards. "Great campsite. Nicely laid out, lovely landscaping, great amenities (including a small gym with free weights), super clean and functional bathrooms," writes camper Priscilla M.
Family-friendly amenities: Lakeview Terrace Resort offers activities for children. "Super cool spot right by the lake, they have it all here even a pool! The jungle gym for the kids was sweet and a cool tree house...the kids loved it but it was a lil pricey," notes camper DirtyMountainBoy A.
Quiet camping options: Many Shasta-area campgrounds provide peaceful retreats from city noise. "Very quite campground mid week. Had the place to ourselves. Great little hiking trail steps from our site. Easy access to the water for some swimming," reports Ann W. about her stay at Mary Smith Campground.
What you should know
Bear safety measures: Crystal Creek provides bear boxes, but visitors should remain vigilant. "I put my food in the locker, and I'm very glad I did. About 3am something woke me up sniffing around my hammock," reports Rick A.
Water levels fluctuate: Trinity Lake's water levels can impact camping experiences. "Right now the lake is so low you really can't get to it. But it's great just to hang out in peace and quiet," explains camper Denise at Minersville Campground.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. "Be sure to download directions, hiking trails info or anything else you might need. There is no cell service anywhere near the campground!" warns Denise about Minersville, though another camper, Scott L., reports: "Since last night when we setup in site #1, we have maintained 3 bars of Verizon service."
Limited bathroom facilities: Jones Inlet Campground has basic amenities but maintenance issues. "The camp ground offers bathrooms, bear boxes, very nice fire rings and clean water. There is no camp host so bring your own wood. The fee is $25 a night. The trash cans were over flowed and there was bags of trash outside of the garbage," reports Toni K.
Tips for camping with families
Bring water toys: Lewiston Lake offers calm waters ideal for families. "We took tubes out and laid in the water and soaked up the sun, it was so nice. It's especially so calming because there isn't a million boats on the lake partying," notes Azizah T. at Mary Smith Campground.
Consider glamping options: Multiple campgrounds offer glamping accommodations suitable for families not ready for tent camping. "We had the campground to ourselves as they hadn't put up the glamping tents yet. We set our tents up on the platforms and had a great view of the lake and trinity alps in the distance," shares Karen O. about Mary Smith Campground.
Pack for temperature swings: Shasta nights can be cool even when days are hot. "Luckily the weather was so amazing especially being right next to this beautiful clear clean lake," notes Azizah T. about her summer stay at Mary Smith Campground, where water activities helped balance hot daytime temperatures.
Tips from RVers
Book specific sites at Mountain Gate: Mountain Gate RV Park offers quality amenities for RVers. "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," writes Jill P.
Plan for tight spaces: Some RV parks have limited space between sites. "This place has the tightest spots ever! Feel like a sardine. It's pretty but would never spend $80 to smash in with other campers!" warns Pam about Antlers RV Park and Campground.
Check for seasonal pool closures: Summer heat can make pool access important. "Mid-July, 114 degrees and their pool is closed!!! At $90+ per night expect better. Staying elsewhere next time in Redding," advises Lisa L. about Boulder Creek RV.
