Camping cabins near Whiskeytown National Recreation Area offer shelter in a region characterized by hot, dry summers with temperatures often exceeding 100°F and mild, wet winters. The area sits at elevations ranging from 1,000 to 2,000 feet in the western foothills of the Klamath Mountain range. Cabin rentals provide a practical alternative during seasonal temperature extremes or when wildfire restrictions limit traditional tent camping options.
What to do
Swimming access: 1.5 miles from Mountain Gate RV Park cabins to Whiskeytown Lake beaches. According to campers, "We stayed over night and will do so again. The park is beautiful! Close to the mountain for skiing. Close to the lake for skiing."
Fishing opportunities: Year-round at Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort. A recent visitor noted, "We fished Lewiston lake less than 10 min. away and Whiskeytown Lake about 20-25 min. away with great luck. The little town of Lewiston is pretty cool and a 5 min walk from the campground as well is the trinity river."
Bow hunting practice: Available at Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort's lower camping area. "There are targets set up for bow hunters in the pines below the park," reports one camper who appreciated this unique amenity.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Mountain Gate RV Park maintains high standards according to recent visitors. One camper noted, "Great place to recharge. Friendly people and clean bathrooms/grounds. Id stay here again."
Outdoor recreation areas: Lakeview Terrace Resort offers family-friendly outdoor spaces. A visitor mentioned, "The jungle gym for the kids was sweet and a cool tree house… the kids loved it but it was a lil pricey."
Rustic cabins with modern amenities: Lakehead Campground & RV Park balances natural settings with practical comforts. "I really liked this rustic little campground. The owner was nice and the grounds were simple and naturally pretty. Unexpectedly, there was a little place to play a game of pool. It was very quiet, and nice and dark for sleeping."
What you should know
Limited Wi-Fi connectivity: Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort provides a designated area for internet access. "The wifi isn't good here. But, they do have a 'club house' where you can get on the wifi, charge your phone, and watch a movie on the TV or play a board game."
Seasonal water levels: Trinity Lake KOA Holiday cabins offer lake access that varies by season. "Beach is seasonal but can drive out on the mud, just don't get stuck. Rocky beach if water is low so bring your river shoes."
Wildlife considerations: Bears are active in some camping areas. At Antlers RV Park, "It was very evident in the morning when the cans would be knocked over and rummaged through. It could be easily solved with some bear-proof trash cans."
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Trinity Lake KOA Holiday provides supervised swimming options. "Small pool but nice. Can get noisy on the weekends with dirt bikes etc driving around. Great for kids. Lot's to do."
Recreational equipment rentals: Trinity Lake KOA Holiday offers water equipment. "Kayaks were available to rent in set 2 hour timeslots, banana bikes available if you are into that. There are plenty of games like bocci and ladder ball."
Entertainment options: Lakehead Campground accommodates kids with minimal distractions. "The owner was very nice and got us situated right away. This campground is very spacious with lots of trees for shade which was great since we went when it was extremely hot."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategies: Pinewood Cove Resort requires careful maneuvering. "These spots are VERY hard to back in to. The trees are leaning toward the center of the sights literally giving us a foot of room on each side to back in a 24 foot trailer."
Seasonal occupancy patterns: Trinity Lake KOA Holiday fills quickly during peak times. "We go to this KOA every June or July for the last 10 years. It is a great place. Not your typical KOA as it is more like camping vs other KOA's we have stayed at. Lots of trees and shade."
Early check-in policies: Consider arrival timing at Trinity Lake KOA Holiday. "They have a later check in (3pm) but will allow early check in for $25. There was no cell service. Correction to Dyrt description, wireless is only available at the KOA store."
