The Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area features tent camping opportunities within the Klamath Mountain range, where elevations range from 1,200 to over 6,000 feet. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F in tent camping areas near Whiskeytown Lake, while spring brings wildflowers and more moderate temperatures. Campgrounds typically open from April through October, though some primitive sites remain accessible year-round.
What to do
Fishing access: Several tent campgrounds near Whiskeytown offer convenient water access for anglers. At Jones Valley Inlet Shoreline Campground, campers appreciate the proximity to Lake Shasta, with one visitor noting, "I really love this small campground, especially this year when the lake is full." During high water seasons, fishing opportunities improve significantly.
Swimming spots: When temperatures rise, cool off in the waterways near tent sites. At Mary Smith Campground, one camper reported, "We took tubes out and laid in the water and soaked up the sun, it was so nice. It's especially so calming because there isn't a million boats on the lake partying and such it's just quiet and calm water."
Hiking trails: Access nearby wilderness trails directly from some Whiskeytown tent camping areas. A visitor to Deerlick Springs Campground described "Advanced hiking 3k-6k summit peek, beautiful trails and swimming holes, nature and wildlife surrounding a dark night sky."
What campers like
Night sounds: The natural soundscape enhances tent camping experiences in Whiskeytown. At Sheep Camp Primitive Campground, a camper shared, "There is a small stream running on the boarder making for perfect white noise to fall asleep to." Multiple campers mention this natural audio benefit across the region's campgrounds.
Wildlife encounters: The area hosts diverse wildlife that frequently visits tent camping sites. At Crystal Creek Primitive Campground, one camper recalled, "About 3am something woke me up sniffing around my hammock. I was not able to see it without moving, but it bumped me and was large enough to make the hammock sway."
Shade coverage: Many tent sites feature good tree canopy, important during hot summer months. A camper at Jones Valley Inlet observed "good shade coverage with beautiful redwoods and manzanita," providing relief from direct sun exposure for tent campers.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most tent camping areas near Whiskeytown offer minimal amenities. At Greens Creek Boat-in Campground, a visitor described it as "A simple little spot. There are tables there and shady spots for the tents... If the spots are filled up, there is another flat area to camp without a table."
Bathroom accessibility: Distance to toilet facilities varies significantly between campgrounds. One camper at Peltier Bridge Primitive Campground noted "Pit toilets at entry, 200 meters from Campsite 9," while another mentioned, "Just me and one friend stayed overnight, very nice area, creek right next to spots. A little bit of a walk to the bathroom though."
Advance preparation: Services near tent camping areas are limited. A Peltier Bridge camper advised, "You can only buy the pass online so make sure you get it ahead of time," highlighting the lack of on-site registration options at many primitive tent sites.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: For family tent camping in Whiskeytown, choose sites with adequate space and privacy. At Peltier Bridge Primitive Campground, one camper suggested, "Each spot was decent. #6, 8, and 9 probably your best bets if they are open. 4 and 5 are right next to the entrance."
Temperature planning: Prepare for significant temperature swings when tent camping with children. A Peltier Bridge camper observed, "It was really hot during the day like 90s but site #9 is shady and the river is freezing so it's easy to stay cool. Gets pretty cold at night."
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds offer better sound insulation from roads and other campers. A Mary Smith Campground visitor noted, "Very quiet campground mid week. Had the place to ourselves. Great little hiking trail steps from our site."
Tips from RVers
Road access challenges: Many tent-focused campgrounds have access limitations for larger vehicles. At Hirz Mountain Lookout, the steep, winding access road presents challenges for vehicles pulling trailers. Similarly, a Deerlick Springs Campground visitor cautioned, "The drive in could be a challenge for an RV, so I'd caution anyone to check it out first, before pulling a trailer in."
Campsite terrain: Some designated tent camping areas have irregular surfaces not suitable for RVs. A Jones Valley Inlet camper observed there is "not a lot of privacy at this campground," and mentioned fire damage that reduced tree cover, which affects both shade and the ability to find level ground for larger vehicles.
Limited hookups: Most campgrounds near Whiskeytown lack standard RV amenities. One camper at Peltier Bridge noted the campground is "not rv accessible tent sites," making this location better suited for tent camping than RV use.
