Sugarloaf area campgrounds span the landscape around Mount Shasta at elevations ranging from 1,000 to over 3,500 feet. Winter temperatures drop to freezing with occasional snow, while summer days reach 85-95°F with cooler nights. Most dispersed camping sites in the region lack amenities but provide direct access to McCloud River and Trinity Lake waterways.
What to do
Waterfront activities at Lake Siskiyou: The lake offers swimming, fishing, and boat rentals from April through October. Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort maintains a sandy beach area with clear water for families. "We found a rope swing hanging on a tree and tied up and did some rope swing fun into the lake. We also enjoyed a short drive up to Castle lake at a higher elevation a lot less people not much sand but really nice for a picnic lunch," notes a visitor who spent time kayaking and boating.
Mountain biking on forest trails: Access dirt paths leading from Trinity Lake KOA to lakeside areas year-round. The paths connect to wider forest trail systems for longer rides. According to one camper, "There are plenty of dirt paths out to the lake both from the KOA and nearby. Many people brought ATVs to utilize these and it looked like a great time. We used our truck and mountain bikes to tootle around on them."
McCloud River fishing: Fish for trout at McCloud Bridge Campground where creek waters meet Shasta Lake. "The water is low right now (may 2021) but, normally it would be walking distance to the water even a few 100 feet," notes a fisherman who visited. During high water seasons, the confluence creates excellent fishing conditions with both lake and stream species available.
What campers like
Natural shade coverage: Mountain Gate RV Park provides sites with mature trees for temperature control during hot summer days. "We loved our stay. We felt safe and it's probably one of the most cleanest campground and facilities I've ever been to," mentions a camper who appreciated the park's natural setting and cleanliness.
Off-grid seclusion: Several glamping sites in Sugarloaf, California operate with minimal neighboring campsites, creating quiet environments. "We had the campground to ourselves as they hadn't put up the glamping tents yet," reports a Lakehead Campground & RV Park visitor who found excellent solitude in spring. The rustic setting allows for stargazing without light pollution.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Bears, deer, and various bird species frequent the campgrounds around Shasta and Trinity Lakes. "They got into the trash pretty regularly though. It was very evident in the morning when the cans would be knocked over and rummaged through," notes a camper at Antlers RV Park regarding bear activity. While the wildlife adds to the experience, secure food storage remains essential at all sites.
What you should know
Water level fluctuations: Lake levels drop significantly by late summer, affecting shoreline camping and boat access. "The lake was really low so we didn't attempt to scramble down to the water," reports a camper at Lakeshore East. During drought years, boat ramps may become unusable by August.
Bear-proof storage requirements: All food must be stored in provided bear boxes or secure containers. "There are also a few decent size garbage bins that are bear proof," notes a visitor, though some campgrounds like Jones Inlet report overflowing trash: "The trash cans were overflowed and there was bags of trash outside of the garbage."
Limited cell coverage: Expect minimal cell service at most glamping locations around Sugarloaf. "There's a cell tower on the way in to the campground. You can expect two to three bars of LTE from both AT&T and Verizon," reports an Antlers RV Park visitor, but many other locations have no connectivity except at main buildings.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly swimming areas: Trinity Lake KOA Holiday maintains shallow water access points and a swimming pool for children. "Great camp ground! Clean bathrooms/showers. The staff was friendly and helpful. Good size campsites," mentions a family visitor. The campground also offers banana bikes and kayak rentals in scheduled two-hour blocks.
Playground facilities: Several glamping resorts include play structures and game areas for children. "The grounds were beautiful, and included a small waterfall & koi pond, and a play structure for the littles," notes a visitor to Boulder Creek RV Redding, highlighting amenities beyond standard camping facilities.
Noise considerations: Weekend crowds can create louder environments at popular sites. "Campers were respectful of quiet hours and staff was mostly courteous," writes one Trinity Lake KOA visitor, though they noted: "Lots of children and some camp sites are on top of each other. Not great if you are looking for space and quiet."
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility and sizing: McCloud Bridge Campground offers spacious double sites for larger RV setups or multiple-family camping. "Large campground it has 14 sites. A few of the sites are double sites pretty huge for 2 groups," notes a visitor who appreciated the extra space. Most sites accommodate rigs up to 35 feet with some exceptions for larger vehicles.
Hookup availability: Bring sufficient water supplies when glamping in Sugarloaf, California at sites without full hookups. "Flush toilets in 2 different buildings, no soap or hot water at the sinks. All sites have a nice picnic table and fire pit. Lots of water spigots throughout the campground but they don't have threads to allow a hose to hookup," reports a Lakeshore East camper who traveled in a 40-foot motorhome.
Early arrival strategies: Consider paying early check-in fees during peak season. "They have a later check in (3pm) but will allow early check in for $25," notes a Trinity Lake KOA visitor who found this option helpful despite feeling it was a bit of "nickel & diming."
