Camping near McCloud, California offers accessibility to sites from 2,900 to 5,000 feet elevation, creating significant temperature variations between day and night. Forest Service campgrounds in the area typically open from late May through mid-October, with seasonal closures affecting road access to higher elevation sites. Primitive camping options range from established sites with vault toilets to dispersed locations requiring proper waste management.
What to do
Swim in natural pools: At Cattle Camp Campground, access swimming areas via a short trail from your site. "Nice campground with a few fairly private sites. Some highway noise but not terrible. Family friendly campground for sure. Great swimming holes along the Mccloud river loop just turn left coming out of the campground and follow the paved road and signs," notes Adam C.
Hike to waterfalls: Fowlers Campground puts you directly on trails leading to multiple cascades. "Fowler's is a a basic site campground, small but plenty of spots. They don't offer much but the basic fire pit and non-flushable bathrooms but the hikes to Lower falls and Middle falls make up for it!! Super dog friendly and great river to fish from," shares Nikki C.
Mountain views: For photographers, the Vista Point at Castle Crags State Park provides panoramic vistas. "The vista point is a great place to go to see views of the crag and Mount Hood. There is a picnic table and bench up there to sit!" according to Sophia B.
Fishing access: Multiple spots along the McCloud River offer trout fishing opportunities. "We stayed pretty far away from the beach and we were all by ourselves! Might try some of the dispersed camping in the area and use the campground day use and store next time?" suggests Heather H. about Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Castle Lake Campground offers secluded spots despite limited availability. "I'm not sure which site we had, but it was at the end of the road, and set far back in to the forest. We couldn't see anyone else, and no one could see us. We loved the privacy!" shares erin O.
Level terrain: Many visitors appreciate the flat, tent-friendly sites in the area. "Spacious and peaceful. This campground was a pleasant surprise! The sites were large with plenty of room between each. Many of the sites had shade," reports Amy E. about Fowlers Campground.
Natural water features: McCloud RV Resort offers water features right in the campground. "Clean, Big Trees, Beautiful Views. Staff is so nice here. Full hook ups. Beautiful views and you can see Mt. Shasta from the park. A stream that runs through the park (kids played in)," notes Brian P.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning animal sightings enhance the camping experience. "Grew up camping at Siskiyou. Whether with family or the Girl Scouts, Siskiyou was a repeat camping destination growing up. The lovely red earth, thick green trees and uniquely beautiful blue/teal water makes for a welcoming lake day for all ages. My cousins and I used to fish in the evenings after a day of playing in the water or hiking. Have seen deer and bears here," mentions Rachel A.
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Check current regulations before your trip as conditions change throughout the season. "I can't say enough good things about this campground. Fowler's was 100% full but as of later on a Thursday in mid-May here we have an entire loop to ourselves. Rain/showers were in some forecasts so some may have cancelled trips," notes Todd B.
Bear activity: Castle Crags State Park and surrounding areas require proper food storage. "Personally I've camped there about half a dozen times and have seen bears more times then I haven't. Because too many campers aren't responsible with their food bears in the area have gotten used to people and often come into camp," warns Michael I.
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience railroad noise throughout the night. "This campground is RIGHT next to I5 so be prepared for noise. I would honestly probably not stay here again, but make it a day trip to do hikes," advises Sophia B. about Castle Crags State Park.
Limited availability: Many campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. "We've stayed at this campground twice now. Each time was in the summer and for only one night each time. We thought the spots were nice. There was lots of shade offered by the many trees. The spaces were also decently sized," explains Amanda W. about Mount Shasta City KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Water play options: Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort offers beach access for children. "We took 2 small children in a rented camper and went to this lake in a recommendation from friends in Mt. Shasta... we were not disappointed! They were plenty of trees in the campground everybody was friendly, short walk with our water toys to the nice sandy beach and lake," reports Margo A.
Wildlife awareness: Prepare children for potential wildlife encounters, including chipmunks. "Side note: beware of the chipmunks they will eat the food right off your plate if left unattended too long," cautions Adam C. at Cattle Camp Campground.
Recreation activities: Some campgrounds provide additional entertainment options. "Love going to Lake Siskiyou. My family has been going the week of 4th of July for almost 30 years. It has a nice beach, boat ramp, party boat rentals, general store, restaurant, bar, arcade, laundry," shares Stephanie C.
Child-friendly hikes: Select trails appropriate for various ages and abilities. "The hike from the campground to the view of Shasta, Lassen, and Castle Crags was moderately difficult but relatively short and well worth the view," says R D. about Castle Crags State Park.
Tips from RVers
Seasonal considerations: Jubilee Railroad Wilderness Lodge & Campground offers year-round options. "This is a great campground, and the locals will tell you all about the history of the railroad and the pushers for the trains to climb mount Shasta. It is in the process of changing to Jubilee Railroad Wilderness Lodge& Campground over the couple of years," explains Thamar D.
Site selection: Choose carefully based on privacy needs and rig size. "Great resort. Guests have the option of bringing their own RV, staying in a tent, or lodging in train cars that have been converted into hotel rooms. Large pool on site, along with a rustic restaurant with great steaks!" reports Daniel D.
Water pressure issues: Be aware of potential plumbing challenges. "Of note: the water is great! Pure and cold. However, it is high pressure. It exploded our water hose! After that we learned to place our pressure regulator valve right on the faucet. Then attach the hose and filter," advises Steven H. about McCloud RV Resort.
Reservation timing: For popular months, book well ahead. "This is a nice clean quiet campground with lots of activities available nearby. I could not get a reservation at the Fowlers Campground but this one was almost empty. Only problem is the Highway is pretty close and the road noise can be a distraction," notes Matthew C. about Cattle Camp Campground.
