Dispersed camping near Shingletown, California offers primitive sites on Lassen National Forest land ranging from 3,500 to 5,000 feet elevation. The volcanic soil in this region creates distinctive camping conditions with pine-covered forest floors and dusty access roads. Several undeveloped camping areas provide natural clearings where campers can set up within close proximity to Lassen Volcanic National Park.
What to do
Fishing spots: Hat Creek Dispersed camping provides access to excellent fishing opportunities. As one camper noted, "I've been going to this spot for 30 years and it's great, clean, peaceful, and great fishing." This area offers multiple creek-side locations for anglers.
Hiking access: Big Pine Dispersed Camping serves as a convenient base for trail exploration. "Plenty of dispersed camping along the creek just south of Big Pine Campground," reports one camper. The area features numerous informal trails along the creek and through surrounding forest.
Wildlife viewing: The forest around Perry Riffle Trailhead supports diverse wildlife. One camper shared, "Saw/heard great horned owl, fox, then cows in the morning." Early mornings offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities, especially near water sources.
What campers like
Creek-side locations: Many primitive camping areas feature spots directly adjacent to streams. At Hat Creek Dispersed, one reviewer advised, "Footbridge to main campground found midway in creek. Take creek trail. Bathrooms, garbage, water available at main campground."
Natural swimming holes: During summer months, creek access provides welcome relief from heat. One visitor to Big Pine Dispersed Camping shared, "Right next to the creek and big spots! Our motorhome drove down here just fine. Caught a bunch of trout in the creek and had an absolute blast."
Stargazing opportunities: Clear mountain nights offer excellent astronomy conditions. A camper at 31N17N - North Manzanita Dispersed Camping mentioned they "fell asleep to the sounds of the flowing water" and enjoyed excellent conditions for their Starlink, indicating open skies.
What you should know
Site selection timing: Arrive early during peak seasons to secure preferred locations. A camper at North Manzanita noted, "We've been on the road for about a month now and this might take the cake for our favorite dispersed spot. There are a few others along this road, but this one takes the gold."
Road conditions: Forest roads vary significantly by location and season. At Christie Hill Basecamp, campers warned, "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."
Service limitations: Cell coverage varies dramatically between sites. One camper reported, "No Verizon phone or internet reception" at primitive sites, while others found "1 bar AT&T" at certain locations. Several areas have no service whatsoever.
Tips for camping with families
Stream play areas: Families particularly enjoy sites near water features. A visitor to Big Pine noted, "Perfect spot for kids and dogs! Right next to the creek and big spots! Caught a bunch of trout in the creek and had an absolute blast. Quiet and safe and lots of shade."
Wildlife education: The diverse ecosystem provides natural learning opportunities. As one Perry Riffle Trailhead camper observed, "Several horse and hiking trails start from here" where children can explore safely and potentially spot local wildlife.
Shade assessment: Forest cover varies significantly between sites. At Butte Creek, a camper advised, "The campground is dark and thoroughly infested with mosquitoes... at least you're in an open space with sunlight!" Selecting sites with balanced sun/shade improves comfort.
Tips from RVers
Size-appropriate site selection: Larger rigs require careful location planning. One RVer at Big Pine Dispersed Camping reported, "We found a could spots that our 38ft fifth wheel could fit, and many spots for smaller rigs."
Water and waste management: Plan for complete self-sufficiency. A camper noted, "Water, dump, and trash are available at Old Station Visitor Information Center just north (RV sewer dump closes mid October)."
Leveling challenges: The volcanic soil presents unique challenges. A visitor to Butte Creek warned, "The ground here is loose volcanic sand. I wouldn't recommend a heavy trailer rig or RV without 4x4 do anything but back back straight into this site. We bogged down a bit while turning around and needed to use our 4wd."
