RV camping near Whiskeytown, California offers options for travelers in a region known for its diverse terrain and proximity to both Shasta Lake and Trinity River. The area experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 100°F, while winters remain mild enough for year-round camping at many locations. Water recreation access varies significantly between campgrounds, with some offering direct river frontage and others requiring short drives to reach lakes or waterways.
What to do
Fishing access: Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort provides convenient Trinity River access within walking distance. "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," shares one camper.
Water activities: JGW RV Park offers riverfront sites for easy water access. "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 a regular visitor.
Bow hunting practice: Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort has facilities for archers. "There are targets set up for bow hunters in the pines below the park," mentions a camper who appreciated this unexpected amenity.
Pool access: Several Whiskeytown-area campgrounds offer pools, though availability varies seasonally. One Boulder Creek RV Redding visitor noted during summer: "Mid-July, 114 degrees and their pool is closed!!! At $90+ per night expect better." Check with campgrounds about pool status before booking during hot months.
What campers like
Shaded sites: Lakehead Campground & RV Park gets praise for its natural shade. "This campground is very spacious with lots of trees for shade which was great since we went when it was extremely hot," writes one satisfied camper.
Quiet atmosphere: Mountain Gate RV Park receives consistent praise for its peaceful setting. "We loved our stay. We felt safe and it's probably one of the most cleanest campground and facilities I've ever been to. Clean bathrooms, showers, zero trash around," shares one visitor.
Clean facilities: Redding RV Park maintains high standards that campers appreciate. "The bathroom facilities were very clean, the laundry room was spotless, and the pool looked freshly refinished. There's also a nice fire pit and barbecue area on-site," notes a recent guest.
Pet-friendly spaces: Several campgrounds near Whiskeytown accommodate pets with dedicated areas. "There's a small dog run for some off-leash time. Clean bathrooms with showers. Some long term residents and some travelers. Everyone was quiet and friendly," reports a Redding RV Park visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Several campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Shasta Lake RV Resort operates only from mid-May through December, requiring alternate arrangements during winter months.
Fire restrictions: Fire policies vary significantly between campgrounds. While Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort allows fires with available firewood, many parks closer to Redding prohibit open flames year-round due to wildfire risk.
Long-term residents: Many RV parks have permanent or seasonal residents. "Trail In RV Park & Campground is a Passport America campground & so we tried it out. A creek, lots of trees, a quiet roadway and full hookups made for a nice break. There are long time campers/residents & the place is worn down but it has a nice peaceful presence," explains one visitor.
Water quality: Boulder Creek RV Redding (formerly Premier RV Resorts) offers full hookups but water quality issues exist at some parks. "Water does seem cloudy so be sure to run it before you hook up. I have had to clear out my faucet filter twice," warns a JGW RV Park camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Boulder Creek RV Redding offers child-friendly amenities. "The grounds were beautiful, and included a small waterfall & koi pond, and a play structure for the littles," shares a family who stayed there.
Safety considerations: Several campgrounds receive praise for secure environments. "We felt safe and it's probably one of the most cleanest campground and facilities I've ever been to," reports a Mountain Gate RV Park visitor, making it suitable for families with children.
Budget planning: Costs vary widely between parks. "Full hookups in back in spot for $55. Mostly pull throughs in Park, which cost more. Shower, restrooms, dog park. Propane for sale here," notes a Redding RV Park visitor, highlighting how site selection affects pricing.
Swimming options: Lakehead Campground & RV Park provides family recreation. "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," writes a visitor who appreciated the extra amenities.
Tips from RVers
Big rig access: RV size limitations vary by campground. "Our 35 foot fifth wheel easily navigated the space," reports an Old Lewiston Bridge RV visitor, while another campground visitor cautions: "Biggest I would put in here would be about a 30 foot trailer. You have to disconnect your tow vehicle."
Full hookup availability: Most parks offer full hookup sites, but amenities differ. At Mountain Gate RV Park, "well maintained and clean park. Actually has grass, not all gravel. Sites level. Nice pool and laundry room," according to a visitor.
Internet connectivity: Signal strength varies between locations. "Excellent Verizon signal. Very clean. The only negative was it appeared to be many long term residents," notes a Boulder Creek RV visitor, while another Mountain Gate camper mentioned, "Our Starlink worked extremely well here."
Management assistance: Trail In RV Park & Campground provides helpful staff. "Office staff is very friendly and quick to answer phone/email inquiries," explains a winter visitor who appreciated the responsive management when traveling during challenging conditions.
