The Whitmore area sits at approximately 2,500 feet elevation in Shasta County, California, where forest transitions to high desert terrain. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-90°F with limited rainfall, while winter brings temperatures between 25-45°F with occasional snow. Campers should prepare for significant day-to-night temperature fluctuations of 30-40 degrees regardless of season.
What to do
Explore Subway Cave: Visit the lava tube formation near Hat Creek Resort & RV Park for a natural underground adventure. "Great campground near Lassen Volcanic NP. Level spot, nice clean bath and shower area. 12 minute drive to Park entrance," notes one visitor who appreciated the cave's proximity to camping.
Fish Hat Creek: For accessible trout fishing, Hat Creek Hereford Ranch RV Park & Campground offers stocked ponds ideal for beginners. "My daughter caught her first fish(s) here in the pond. Store is well provisioned and grounds are very well maintained," reports a camper who found the fishing opportunities perfect for family activities.
Swim in mountain lakes: During summer months when water levels permit, Moore Creek Campground provides water recreation. "Very nice clean water. Camped right next to the water. The site is very busy get there early," advises a visitor who enjoyed the lakeside camping experience.
What campers like
Peaceful creek access: Campers value waterside sites at McCumber Reservoir Campground, where natural sounds enhance the experience. "Our site was right on the river, so we had the peaceful sounds of rushing water to hear. The site was also pretty decent size, and in my opinion the best site," a visitor shared about their experience.
Family-friendly amenities: Recreation facilities keep children entertained at campgrounds. "They had a volleyball court, cornhole and a basketball area. Great little spot!" remarks a camper who appreciated the recreational options beyond nature activities.
Proximity to Lassen Volcanic National Park: Summit Lake North Campground serves as a strategic base for park exploration. "The CG is about halfway point on the park road, so convenient for visiting the trails and vistas. We walked around the lake one evening and saw some interesting wild flowers," notes a camper who found the location ideal for daily excursions.
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the Whitmore area operate from late spring through early fall. "We stayed here in June, 2021 in a 25' trailer. Flush toilets were closed and replaced with porta potties. Lots of natural firewood around to gather," reports a camper at Battle Creek Campground.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies significantly throughout the area. "Internet on my phone was hit or miss outside. They offered internet for a cheap price. $1.95 a day," notes a visitor who found connection options limited but available at some locations.
Wildlife encounters: Bears are present in the region, making proper food storage essential. "Bear boxes that seemed a little flimsy, and one had noticeable gaps between the wooden boards. That one was empty, but the other one had random bits of helpful things for Pacific Crest Trail hikers who stop through," observed one camper about storage facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Reserve early for yurts: Yurt camping near Whitmore, California fills quickly during peak summer months. "They had the cutest little resort with little cabins, yurts and spots for a camper or big RV," explains a visitor who appreciated the alternative accommodation options.
Choose lakeside camps for kids: Water activities provide built-in entertainment for children. "The are two loops and about 40 sites. We walked around the lake one evening and saw some interesting wild flowers," shares a camper who found the lake environment engaging for family exploration.
Pack for temperature swings: Elevation causes significant temperature variations throughout the day. "It was super hot but if you walk down to the bottom of the falls it's like a natural air conditioner," notes one camper who found relief from heat at waterfall locations.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Full-service sites are concentrated in private campgrounds. "Nice spot with hook ups. Easy to find and loved the proximity to the PCT," reports a visitor at Hat Creek Resort who appreciated the convenience of connected sites.
Size restrictions apply: Many National Forest and Park campgrounds cannot accommodate larger rigs. "Campgrounds are well maintained with bear lockers and RV sites ample. Road into the park as well as RV sites can accommodate big rigs. Generator hours are a bit odd although the only time we needed it was briefly in the morning to fix meals," advises a camper at Summit Lake North.
Yurt alternatives for non-RVers: For those seeking yurt camping in Whitmore California without an RV, several campgrounds offer cabin and yurt options with varying amenities. "We stayed at the state park in a cabin for 2 nights. Good amount of trails, only few of them were closed due to a storm and fires, the falls are not even far to get too maybe 5 minute walk," explains a visitor who enjoyed the convenience of cabin accommodations.
