Heather C.
Traveler
TravelerLakeshore Villa RV Park
Miss the way it was
When I first got here it was great everyone looked out for each other made meals together helped each other now not so much
Best Campgrounds near Whitmore, CA
The forested landscapes surrounding Whitmore, California feature a diverse range of camping options within proximity to Lassen Volcanic National Park. Established campgrounds like Manzanita Lake Campground and McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park provide developed facilities, while more remote options such as North Battle Creek Reservoir and McCumber Reservoir campgrounds offer quieter alternatives. Tent campers, RV travelers, and those seeking cabins or yurts will find suitable accommodations throughout the region. The area's volcanic terrain creates a unique backdrop for camping experiences, with several sites positioned near lakes, creeks, and forest settings. Most campgrounds operate seasonally, typically from April through October, though some facilities remain open year-round.
Forest service roads leading to many campgrounds require careful navigation, particularly during spring when conditions can be challenging. According to one visitor at North Battle Creek Campground, "The campground is approximately 30 minutes off of Hwy. 44 on dirt forest service roads. The roads were in great condition in August, to the point where a two-wheel drive low-clearance car would make it without issue." Elevation varies significantly throughout the region, affecting temperatures and camping conditions. Summer days can be warm while nights often remain cool, especially at higher elevations. Many campgrounds require reservations during peak season, while others operate on a first-come, first-served basis. Bear boxes are common at sites throughout the area, reflecting the need for proper food storage in this wildlife-rich environment.
Pine forests provide natural shade at most campgrounds, creating comfortable microclimates even during hot summer days. Campers frequently mention excellent stargazing opportunities, particularly at sites farther from developed areas. Water features enhance many camping experiences, with visitors noting the proximity to swimming, fishing, and paddling opportunities. At McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, one reviewer shared, "There are the falls, which are beautiful, the lake for swimming and water sports, and lots of hiking trails." Site leveling can be challenging at some locations, with several reviewers mentioning the importance of selecting sites carefully, especially for RVs and trailers. Campground amenities vary widely, from primitive sites with vault toilets to developed facilities with showers, camp stores, and electrical hookups.
Best Camping Sites Near Whitmore, California (232)
1. Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park
39 ReviewsMineral, CA20 miles+1 (530) 595-6121$26 / night
"We took an eight-day tour through Northern California and this was our first leg. Tent-camped three nights."
"California Hidden gems."
2. Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA
12 ReviewsShingletown, CA10 milesWebsite+1 (530) 474-3133"It's close to the dog park if you have a dog. The bathroom/shower is 3 sites down. Very clean.
Also close to the walking trail, basketball/volleyball courts& a neat tree swing."
"Close to the entrance to Lassen Park. Cons: Some tent sites were better than others. My favorite tent sites were T6. T7, T8 and especially T13."
3. McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park Campground
42 ReviewsCassel, CA30 milesWebsite+1 (530) 335-2777$35 - $70 / night
"This is one of my favorite campsites in California. There all the falls, which are beautiful, the lake for swimming and water sports and lots of hiking trails."
"Lake to swim and boat in, waterfall short walk, General store with everything you can imagine and firewood, close by a town where you can eat out."
5. McCumber Reservoir Campground
1 ReviewShingletown, CA12 milesWebsite+1 (916) 386-5164"The best part about this campground is the proximity to Lassen NP! It is about a 15 min drive to the entrance & Manazanita Lake."
6. North Battle Creek Campground
3 ReviewsLassen Volcanic National Park, CA14 milesWebsite+1 (916) 386-5164"There are two sets on campsites, drive-up and walk-in."
"last time we visited the water was out of service at the drive in camp spots. to get to the lake access sites you have to get permission to drive past the gate. dogs cost $2 each night. a few of the signs"
7. 31N17N - North Manzanita Dispersed Camping
5 ReviewsLassen Volcanic National Park, CA18 milesWebsite+1 (530) 257-2151"About one mile south of the northwest entrance, so it’s convenient. Follow the instructions from other campers as they’re spot on."
"Overall a great place to camp if your looking for a free option to camp/boon dock very close to the park."
8. Jones Valley Inlet Shoreline Campground
4 ReviewsBella Vista, CA18 milesWebsite+1 (530) 275-1589"I really love this small campground, especially this year when the lake is full. There's only 10-12 sites, bathrooms are clean. very quiet."
9. Big Pine Dispersed Camping
9 ReviewsOld Station, CA24 miles"Our parking spot is big enough for our travel trailer, right next to the creek. Clean, quiet, safe. No traffic. But No cell service."
"Right next to the creek and big spots! Our motorhome drove down here just fine. Caught a bunch of trout in the creek and had an absolute blast. Quiet and safe and lots of shade."
10. Mountain Gate RV Park
8 ReviewsShasta Lake, CA23 milesWebsite+1 (530) 524-4599"Close to the mountain for skiing. Close to the lake for skiing. Nancy the manager was extremely helpful! We found this to have an old fashioned touch. Garbage facilities close by!"
"Only downside was the highway noise."
Recent Camping Photos near Whitmore, CA
205 Photos of 232 Whitmore Campgrounds
Brian C.
Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA
Mel O.
Island Warriors Retreat
Julie D.
McCumber Reservoir Campground
Corinna B.
Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park
Nomadic E.
Lost Creek Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park
Genesis C.
Madrone Campground
Stephanie I.
Big Pine Dispersed Camping
Grant M.
Sacramento River RV Park
Beau B.
Big Pine Campground
Amanda V.
Hat Creek Resort & RV Park
Mien U.
Hirz Bay Campground
Toni K.
Shasta National Forest Moore Creek Campground
Recent Reviews near Whitmore, CA
745 Reviews of 232 Whitmore Campgrounds
- DDante O.
ScoutMendocino National Forest Lake Red Bluff Recreation Area
Great for RVs
Ample drive thru rv sites that are shaded by huge trees and surrounded by spacious fields of grass. Lots of room between sites. Access to Sacramento River and hiking trails a short distance away. Water spigots scattered thru out the campground. Stayed on a Monday and it was quiet and not very busy.
Julie G.
GuideShasta Campground
Breathtaking sites
We were traveling on a long journey and were not going to make our intended destination. Shasta Lake was nearby. I was very worried it would be full, but when we got to the dam, the guard said the campground had openings. You cannot book the day of, so we went and selected a site (First come, First served). Do have cash or check on you.
The site has vault toilets that were pretty clean. Husband had not ever been to the desert southwest or California, so the number of fox-tails was shocking to him, but it was not to me. Our dog brush, a quick rub hands-on rub down and sticker removal, and the broom kept the van floor from becoming our enemy in the middle of the night. Because we were not doing long-term camping, we did not bring our sand mat. If we had it to do again, we would as it would make the transition into the van or tent much easier. Call that advice you don't have to take. We observed non-potable water on site. Otherwise, this is a boon dock type site, but you have a space, a fire pit, a picnic table and - again - vault toilets.
We saw some butterflies that appeared to be coming out of their cocoons. We kept the pets at bay and enjoyed seeing them for such a long time.
The site does have a lot of motorsports activity (ATV, Motorcycles) but we also motorcycle so we were at home. There were hikers and plenty of other campers there as well.
I had not ever been to this part of the state before and was worried about the campsite being full, but we were very fortunate and would definitely come by here again. The view are utterly breathtaking.
Grant M.GuideSacramento River RV Park
Friendly Campground
This has been one of the loveliest RV parks we’ve stayed at. We stayed here for almost 3 months, as many others do. Most of the residents are contract workers staying short- to long-term, but the park is also friendly for weekend and overnight stays with select spots available.
I give this place 5 stars because of the respectfulness of both the residents and the staff, along with how well maintained everything is. It’s more campground-sized, but the amenities are kept up very well. The bathrooms were cleaned regularly, the laundry room was nice, and they also have private shower rooms.
The pool was not operating while we were here, but they were actively working on getting it ready for the summer. Since we have a child, we appreciated the playground area and how family-friendly the park felt. The other kids staying here could safely play together and enjoy the space.
There’s also a central activities room with a small gym area, kitchen, and common hangout space, which was nice to have. The fenced dog park was another huge plus and gave our dog room to run around.
The setting by the river is beautiful, there’s good shade throughout the park, and the lots are laid out nicely for pulling in and parking. You can tell by the type of crowd here that it’s a very safe and respectful place with very little trouble.
The location is also convenient — just one exit off Interstate 5 near Costco.
We previously stayed at another RV park in central Redding near the river that cost nearly the same monthly rate, but we genuinely enjoyed spending time at this park, even during the day.
One significant downside is the noise. Interstate 5 to the east is loud, and the wood mill to the west creates constant background noise as well. The silver lining is that you rarely hear your neighbors because of it.
Lastly, if you’re looking for a longer-term stay, we found the application process here much easier than at most other parks. For healthcare contract workers especially, they seem to expedite the process and limit some of the background check and credit score requirements that many parks require.
Nathan P.GuideBig Pine Dispersed Camping
Great Dispersed Camping Area
There are so many gorgeous spots to pitch a tent or park your RV. This area is more expansive than is obvious at first glance. I recommend newcomers explore a little bit before picking your spot. Both Hat Creek and Lost Creek run through the area. Most of the campers in this area are in their RVs and larger groups are common, though everyone is generally very thoughtful of their neighbors and plenty of the spots have plenty of privacy. I'm a tent camper and bring everything I need for dispersed camping without any provided amenities. In the last several years I've camped here four or five times. There are vault toilets nearby at Panoramic Point along the highway. There are also a couple of general stores to the northeast not too far away.
Rain D.TravelerHat Creek
Best ever
The river right there was amazing! The spot are good . Dry camping
- QQuincey H.Guide
Dispersed Campsite near Castle Lake and Shasta
Good location. Good service.
Pretty quiet and tucked away. Kind of a hidden gym but also kind of gross lol. Not all the campsites are clean. There is this random broken RV that was dumped.
- HHeidi J.Guide
Green Acres RV Park
Nice park bad neighborhoods
This was a very nice park. Had a clean dog park that we enjoyed. Everything in the park seem like it was well kept. All of the other campers we interacted with seem very nice and courteous to each other. However outside of the park is a shady neighborhood. We went to do laundry and saw what appeared to be people doing drugs outside a hotel near by, and there were numerous homeless people wandering around.
- Grant M.Guide
Hat Creek Dispersed
Sleep to the Creek
We were told about this one. We’ve been coming to these places in the off-season, which makes it incredibly enjoyable for us secluded types. This spot is close to the road, but the drive does run parallel. I have a 4x4 Tacoma and I found it a little difficult initially to navigate past the first hill.
There was one other group there and they parked their cars closer to the road and walked in. There is a lot of spots. The creek was wonderful to fall asleep too. We walked over the bridge to the closed campgrounds and wondered why we’d pay for a campgrounds if we can stay at such a beautiful spot for free?
We couldn’t see Lassen from the campsite but, perfect viewing of Lassen as soon as we pulled out onto the road. We want to go back here, it’s a multi night kind of stay spot.
Guide to Whitmore
Camping opportunities in the Whitmore area range from free dispersed sites to established campgrounds with amenities. Located at elevations between 3,500-5,000 feet, most sites experience significant temperature drops after sunset even during summer months. Shaded pine forest settings predominate, creating natural wind protection and filtered sunlight at the best places to camp near Whitmore, California.
What to do
Creek fishing opportunities: Big Pine Dispersed Camping offers excellent creek fishing access. One camper reported, "Caught a bunch of trout in the creek and had an absolute blast. Quiet and safe and lots of shade." Another visitor found "black raspberries along the creek" during their stay.
Hiking from campgrounds: Manzanita Lake Campground provides direct trail access. "I loved being able to hike right by from the campground on multiple hikes," one visitor noted. The surrounding areas offer trails of varying difficulty suitable for day hikers.
Water recreation: At McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, visitors can enjoy both natural attractions and water activities. One camper mentioned the campground has "the falls, which are beautiful, the lake for swimming and water sports, and lots of hiking trails."
What campers like
Quieter alternatives: North Battle Creek Campground provides a secluded experience with reasonable site spacing. One visitor shared, "This is a great spot that I almost didn't review because I don't want anyone else to know about it." Sites are "reasonably spread out" making this location popular with repeat visitors.
Free camping options: 31N17N - North Manzanita Dispersed Camping offers no-cost camping near Lassen Volcanic National Park. According to a camper, "Overall a great place to camp if your looking for a free option to camp/boon dock very close to the park." Sites are located just off Highway 44.
Private waterfront sites: Jones Valley Inlet Shoreline Campground provides lake access when water levels are high. A regular visitor noted, "I really love this small campground, especially this year when the lake is full. There's only 10-12 sites, bathrooms are clean, very quiet."
What you should know
Access road conditions: Several campgrounds require driving on forest service roads. For North Battle Creek Campground, "The roads were in great condition in August of 2017, to the point were a two-wheel drive low-clearance car would have made it without issue, but would likely take longer than 30 minutes."
Cell service limitations: Big Pine Dispersed Camping has no cellular coverage. One camper reported, "No service but you can drive to the overlook between Twin Pines road and Big Pine campground entrance to get 1 bar."
Seasonal operation: McCumber Reservoir Campground operates from April to September only. The campground was rehabilitated by a dedicated host as one visitor noted, "The camp host was super nice, and was telling us how he put a lot of work to rehab the campground. He's done a great job!"
Tips for camping with families
Junior Ranger programs: Manzanita Lake Campground offers educational activities for children. A visitor mentioned, "The museum has a Junior Ranger program which is a book of neat educational tasks for the kids to complete so that they can show it to a ranger and get a Junior Ranger Badge."
Kid-friendly activities: Mt. Lassen-Shingletown KOA provides numerous recreational options. A camper shared, "The KOA has a wonderful swimming pool, a great outdoor game area, dirt-bike trails for the kids, rope swings, and a fort."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Multiple campgrounds offer chances to observe local fauna. One visitor at Manzanita Lake noted, "We drove up to the other side of Lassen 30min away and saw the Sulphur Works hydrothermal vent. We also saw a small bear and deer there."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: RV sites at many campgrounds require adjustment. At Manzanita Lake, one camper advised, "Be ready to level your camper." Some campgrounds offer more level sites than others.
Hookup availability: Mountain Gate RV Park provides full hookups for RVs. "Great rv park! Patti is super accommodating and helpful. It's nice for a stop over or a couple of weeks while exploring the Shasta area," according to one visitor.
Dispersed options for larger rigs: Big Pine Dispersed Camping accommodates various RV sizes. A camper with a larger rig reported, "We found a could spots that our 38ft fifth wheel could fit, and many spots for smaller rigs. Water, dump, and trash are available at Old Station Visitor Information Center just north."
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Whitmore, CA?
What camping is available near Whitmore, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, Whitmore, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 232 campgrounds and RV parks near Whitmore, CA and 24 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Whitmore, CA?
Which is the most popular campground near Whitmore, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Whitmore, CA is Manzanita Lake Campground — Lassen Volcanic National Park with a 4.5-star rating from 39 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Whitmore, CA?
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Whitmore, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 24 free dispersed camping spots near Whitmore, CA.
What parks are near Whitmore, CA?
What parks are near Whitmore, CA?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 18 parks near Whitmore, CA that allow camping, notably Shasta-Trinity National Forest and Lassen Volcanic National Park.
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