Lakeside dispersed camping along the north end of Trinity Lake draws campers who want direct water access without paying for it. The site sits near Trinity Center, where the lake opens into a wide field backed by forest, giving campers the choice of pitching in the open or under tree cover. No facilities are on-site. No fees, either.
Getting here takes some navigation work. The listed coordinates have repeatedly sent visitors to a private driveway or an unhelpful stretch of highway, so relying on them alone is not recommended. Multiple short dirt roads branch off the main road toward the lake, and finding the right one may take a pass or two. Once down by the water, the area opens up considerably, with room for multiple groups to spread out without crowding each other. Nearby, Trinity Lake KOA Holiday and Preacher Meadow (Ca) — Shasta Trinity National Forest provide developed alternatives for campers who want hookups or established sites.
Cell service is listed as available, and campfires are permitted. Pets are welcome. Owen C. notes that "once you get down by the water there is a ton of space," whether campers want a spot right at the shoreline or set back from it. One reviewer raised the possibility of the lake level dropping significantly in dry years, so checking current water conditions before the trip is worth the effort. Campers who arrive with flexible expectations and good directions will find this a workable base for a night or two on the water.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsNorth Trinity Lake is located in California near Trinity Center
Coordinates
41.01849956 N
122.696283 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if North Trinity Lake needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 21 min from Redding, CA
- 2 hrs 9 min from Medford, OR















