Camping near Yreka offers tent and RV sites across rugged terrain at elevations between 2,500-4,000 feet. The region experiences hot summers where temperatures frequently reach 90°F and cold winters with occasional snow, making spring and fall ideal camping seasons. Water access varies significantly between campgrounds, with some offering creekside sites while others require campers to bring their own water supply.
What to do
Creek exploration: Beaver Creek Campground provides a natural water feature for hot days. "The creek running along the campground was perfect for an afternoon splash when it gets hot and provides a nice ambiance at night," notes Craig M., who adds that the remote location requires preparation: "There's no store nearby that I know of, so make sure you've got everything before you get there."
Fishing opportunities: Multiple waterways around Yreka offer fishing access. "Plenty of firewood laying around if you need it. Bring an ax or a chainsaw, I'm sure the forest service won't mind the help," mentions Craig M. about Beaver Creek's resources for longer stays while fishing the area.
Mountain biking: The trails near Mount Ashland Campground offer extensive riding options. "What a lovely place to post up for a night or two. Pit toilets. No water. Hiking. Mountain biking," notes ArboursAbroad, highlighting the recreational options beyond just camping.
What campers like
Free camping options: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate Mount Ashland Campground. "We enjoyed staying at Mt. Ashland. It is a marked campground that is FREE. Simply follow the road past the ski area and you will find it," reports Hannah H., who found space despite the popularity: "All of the spots with fire rings were full when we got there, but there was space to park in the turnoffs or off-road past the campground for more private camping spots."
River access: Blue Heron RV Park receives praise for its waterfront location. "Huge parking pads, picnic table, and full hookups. Sites are well spaced apart. The riverfront sites cost a little more but are worth," explains Elizabeth H., highlighting the premium waterfront positioning.
Wildlife viewing: Natural encounters enhance the camping experience near Yreka. "The wild horses were a treat to see. They frequently roam around the campground," shares Mike from Blue Heron, offering insight into unique local wildlife opportunities beyond standard hiking and camping.
What you should know
Pet policies: Dog friendly campgrounds near Yreka have varying rules. At Yreka RV Park, "We stopped here when we were so tired we couldn't drive any further. Staff was wonderful and we had a shady spot," notes Jen H., who appreciated the pet-accommodating policies during their emergency stop.
Weather considerations: Temperature fluctuations require preparation. "The sunsets are GORGEOUS and stargazing is amazing but it is WINDY and I mean, drops 20 degrees windy, rocks the van windy," warns Abby M. about Mount Ashland's conditions, emphasizing the need for secure shelter and warm clothing even in summer.
Water availability: Many campgrounds have limited or no water access. "Bring your own water!!" emphasizes lhasa G. about Mount Ashland Campground, adding "The camp ground itself is fairly primitive but very reasonable for being FREE."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort offers ideal water recreation for children. "We took 2 small children in a rented camper and went to this lake on a recommendation from friends in Mt. Shasta... short walk with our water toys to the nice sandy beach and lake," shares Margo A., who expanded their adventures: "We also enjoyed a short drive up to Castle lake at a higher elevation a lot less people not much sand but really nice for a picnic lunch."
Pet-friendly activities: Many Yreka area campgrounds accommodate four-legged family members. "My dogs did love the dog run area, it wasn't too bad, nice for them to stretch out & run around a bit & it wasn't filled with dog poop," reports Alysa R. about Waiiaka RV Park, noting the clean conditions of pet facilities.
Bathroom facilities: Family comfort depends on clean facilities. "The facilities are very clean, showers have nice hot water for a minimal fee," reports stephanie at Waiiaka RV Park, though she notes "Only down side is the sites are tightly packed together."
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: Full-service sites are available at multiple locations. "We had full hook-ups including sewer. Easy access off the I-5. Sites are close together however they are staggered to allow for a little more privacy," explains Shamra P. about Friendly RV Park.
Winter camping considerations: Cold weather camping requires preparation. "The campground is heavily shaded, which makes it nice in the summer but in the winter time it's kind of cold and damp. There are few places to fit a larger rig," notes Robert R. about Friendly RV Park, providing seasonal insight for winter travelers.
Dump station access: Not all campgrounds with hookups offer dump facilities. "Note though that even if you pay for partial or dry you will still need to pay $10/dump your tanks," advises Laura M. about regional dump station fees, an important consideration for longer stays.
