Shingletown, California sits at an elevation of approximately 3,500 feet on the western slope of the Cascade Range, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F, while winter brings snow and temperatures that often drop below freezing. Campgrounds near Mt. Lassen typically open from late April through mid-October, though exact dates vary based on snowmelt and seasonal conditions.
What to do
Fishing in Hat Creek: The Hat Creek area offers premium trout fishing with dedicated fishing spots within campground boundaries. Hat Creek Resort & RV Park provides direct water access from campsites. "We caught trout all morning. Wonderful place convenience store was great too!" shares Frank P. At Hat Creek Hereford Ranch RV Park & Campground, guests can fish in a stocked pond. "My daughter caught her first fish(s) here in the pond," notes Jason D.
Explore underground features: Visit Subway Cave, a lava tube located near Old Station, just a short drive from many rv sites near Shingletown, California. "Campground is close to other fishing, the Subway Cave (ya gotta go there), Lassen National Park entrance and much more," explains a Hat Creek Resort visitor. The cave maintains a constant 46°F temperature, providing cool relief during hot summer days.
Trail access: Several campgrounds provide easy access to regional trails. Robert W. appreciated staying at Hat Creek Resort & RV Park for its "proximity to the PCT" (Pacific Crest Trail). Day hikes ranging from 1-10 miles can be accessed within a 20-minute drive from most Shingletown area campgrounds.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers frequently mention appreciating the room between sites at certain rv parks near Shingletown. "The spots had a bunch of space between them and you had a feeling of privacy," notes Jason D. about Hat Creek Resort. Similarly, at Mountain Gate RV Park, campers enjoy "grass, not all gravel" sites that are "well maintained and clean."
Clean facilities: Mountain Gate RV Park receives consistent praise for cleanliness: "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. Boulder Creek RV offers "super clean and functional bathrooms" according to one reviewer, with another noting their "nice clean bath and shower area."
Family amenities: Burney Falls/Hat Creek KOA (formerly Rancheria RV Park) offers a "central bathroom that is clean" and "a small lake in the middle of the lot where people can have catch and release fishing." Tracy K. mentions, "We were parked near a lovely large pond/lake that had geese and dozens of pretty colored dragonflies flying about."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: While the existing description mentions spotty coverage, recent reviews add more detail. "Internet on my phone was hit or miss outside. They offered internet for a cheap price. $1.95 a day," notes Kristi D. from Hat Creek Resort. At Redding RV Park, located about 45 minutes from Shingletown, visitors typically find better connectivity.
Seasonal water issues: Water quality can be inconsistent in some rv parks near Shingletown. A visitor to JGW RV Park noted, "Water does seem cloudy so be sure to run it before you hook up. I have had to clear out my faucet filter twice."
Proximity to attractions: Campgrounds vary in their distance to key attractions. "12 minute drive to Park entrance. Otherwise, you are in the middle of nowhere. 20 minutes to a grocery store," explains a Hat Creek Resort reviewer about Lassen Volcanic National Park access.
Tips for camping with families
Look for multi-activity campgrounds: Some campgrounds offer numerous family-friendly facilities in one location. Hat Creek Hereford Ranch provides grass tent sites that are especially appreciated by families. "We absolutely loved our 3 days here tent camping in a grass covered site... once you have camped in the grass nothing else compares! Barefoot and clean!" reports Chris K.
Consider water features: Water access is particularly valuable for family camping. JGW RV Park offers riverside locations that families appreciate: "We have a 24' motorhome and get spots on the river. It's very nice to sit and look at river. Big grassy area to walk dog and enjoy river under shade," notes Paula B.
Plan for entertainment options: Some campgrounds provide recreational facilities for children. Kristi D. mentions that Hat Creek Resort has "a volleyball court, cornhole and a basketball area," making it easier to keep children entertained during downtime at camp.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Many rv sites near Shingletown, California have varying qualities based on location within the park. At Hat Creek Resort, campers recommend requesting waterfront sites: "We got a spot right on the water," notes Jason D. about his 22-foot travel trailer setup.
Access planning: RVers should note campground layouts before arrival. "Those with longer rigs 40+ may want to think twice because of the tight turns and narrow lanes," advises lori E. about Red Bluff RV Park.
Utility considerations: Water pressure and electrical reliability vary across campgrounds. Theo A. noted an issue at Marina RV Park where "our 30amp had issues, which meant the air conditioning unit could not run continuously in 100 degree heat," an important consideration during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
