Best Dispersed Camping near Weaverville, CA

The mountainous terrain surrounding Weaverville, California features predominantly dispersed camping options on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, with sites like Cline Gulch BLM and Lacks Creek BLM offering free primitive camping. Located in Trinity County, this region sits at the intersection of the Trinity Alps and Shasta-Trinity National Forest, providing access to both Trinity Lake and the Trinity River. Most camping areas are undeveloped clearings along forest service roads, with occasional amenities like fire rings and picnic tables at established sites. The Mt. Shasta area, approximately 60 miles northeast, offers more developed camping options with hookups and facilities for RVs.

Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with many sites requiring travel on unpaved forest roads. Campers report mixed experiences with accessibility, as noted by one visitor to Lacks Creek: "I drove my Honda Civic all the way up there. There were a few points I thought I wouldn't make it but my good ol' Honda pushed through." Low-hanging branches and narrow passages can make larger vehicles challenging at sites like Cline Gulch. Cell service is spotty but present in some areas, particularly with AT&T coverage at Lacks Creek. Seasonal considerations include tick activity in warmer months, with multiple reviewers mentioning tick encounters at both Cline Gulch and Lacks Creek. Summer temperatures can be quite hot at lower elevations, while higher elevation sites near Mt. Shasta remain cooler.

Waterfront camping receives consistently positive reviews, particularly at North Trinity Lake where visitors describe "beautiful views at night and in the morning" with open fields adjacent to wooded areas. Navigation challenges are common, with several reviewers noting GPS coordinates can be misleading. One camper at Castle Lake advised: "About 15 minutes off I-5 and climbing most of the way. High and dry with great views of Shasta Mountain." Privacy is frequently mentioned as a benefit, with sites at dispersed locations near Castle Lake and Shasta described as "very spread apart" where campers "did not hear any other campers even though there were at least two nearby." Most sites lack amenities, requiring visitors to pack in all supplies including water, as most locations have no potable water sources.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Weaverville, California (10)

    1. Cline Gulch BLM Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    French Gulch, CA
    17 miles

    "This site is nothing special but it’s the only BLM I could find in the area. We stopped on the way up to Shasta. You don’t need ground clearance or 4wd to get there."

    "No amenities of any kind."

    2. Wild and Senic Trinity River Grapevine River Access Dispersed Site

    2 Reviews
    French Gulch, CA
    17 miles

    "Great location off 299. 5 miles from Big Flat"

    3. North Trinity Lake

    4 Reviews
    Trinity Center, CA
    22 miles

    "This is disbursed lakeside camping with no facilities."

    "The coordinates were off though and it took us up to a private residence road so I would not follow that."

    4. Lacks Creek BLM

    14 Reviews
    Hoopa, CA
    48 miles
    Website
    +1 (707) 825-2300

    "Note the gps coordinates take you to the right of the sign at the top of the hill after you turn off the main road. I would recommend going straight. Just follow it to the end."

    "The whole BLM management area is well developed and has signs to guide you. There are spots all along pine ridge road. Campsites have picnic tables and fire rings."

    5. Groves Prairie Dispersed Camp

    2 Reviews
    Willow Creek, CA
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 629-2118

    "Both ways are via forest service roads that are "fair".  There are 3 sites, each with a picnic table and fire ring.  There is one vault toilet that was stocked with 'the papers'. "

    "There is a beautiful little creek right next to the campsite."

    6. Dispersed Campsite near Castle Lake and Shasta

    8 Reviews
    Mount Shasta, CA
    45 miles

    "Really easy trail was about a mile past the coordinates on google map but it’s a very obvious dirt road. Stayed at the 5th site in which is spacious and has a few paths for small hikes."

    "We did not hear any other campers even though there were at least 2 nearby. Google will try to get you to the coordinates but doesn’t know about the existence of the final dirt road to get you there."

    7. Castle Lake Dispersed Camping

    6 Reviews
    Dunsmuir, CA
    44 miles

    "High and dry. Great view of Shasta Mtn. 8 campers here in mid May. All 2 wheel low clearance accessible. 8 or more still available for higher clearance vehicle. T-Mobile reception good."

    "Road dips down but rutted and I'm low clearance so can't tell what's down there. I'm in amthe o ly pullout off the side of the road before it Dios. Awesome view."

    8. Mt. Shasta Area

    2 Reviews
    Castella, CA
    40 miles

    "Winter time really is its best time but beware and plan ahead, a lot of the camp sites are closed in that time of year!"

    "Shasta is breathtaking pictures can’t do it justice A place to experience lakes streams hiking camping boating snow sports water sports the great outdoors !!"

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 10 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Weaverville, CA

47 Reviews of 10 Weaverville Campgrounds



Guide to Weaverville

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Weaverville, California, where nature meets tranquility. This area offers a variety of spots for campers looking to escape the hustle and bustle while enjoying the great outdoors.

Enjoy Scenic Views While Free Camping Near Weaverville

  • The Cline Gulch BLM Dispersed area features charming spots along a creek, perfect for those who appreciate a picturesque setting.
  • At North Trinity Lake, campers can enjoy stunning views of the lake, especially during sunrise and sunset, making it an ideal location for photography enthusiasts.
  • For a more secluded experience, the Groves Prairie Dispersed Camp offers a beautiful meadow surrounded by trees, providing a peaceful retreat away from crowds.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Lacks Creek

  • The Lacks Creek BLM area is known for its serene environment and proximity to hiking trails, making it a great choice for outdoor adventurers.
  • Campers at Lacks Creek can enjoy the tranquility of the forest while having access to picnic tables and fire pits for a cozy evening under the stars.
  • This location is also pet-friendly, allowing you to bring your furry friends along for the adventure.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Weaverville, California

  • When visiting Castle Lake Campground, be prepared for limited amenities; it's essential to pack in what you need and practice Leave No Trace principles.
  • If you're looking for a quiet spot, consider the Mt. Shasta Area, which offers spacious sites and a chance to experience the breathtaking beauty of the mountain.
  • Always check road conditions before heading to Gumboot Campground, as some routes may be rough, but the journey is often worth the stunning views that await.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Weaverville, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Weaverville, CA is Cline Gulch BLM Dispersed with a 3.4-star rating from 8 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Weaverville, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 10 dispersed camping locations near Weaverville, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.