The best great views campgrounds near Big Bend, California

On the outskirts of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, in the shadow of Chalk Mountain and Bald Peak, lies Big Bend and its glorious wilderness. Set in Shasta County along the Pit River (the longest tributary to the Sacramento River), Big Bend is named for the dramatic change of direction that occurs in the river exactly in that spot. Majestic Cascade Mountains and wide-open, scenic, high-desert vistas await all around with camping, backpacking, boating, and day hiking opportunities. Not to mention, Big Bend and the surrounding region are hotbeds (pun intended) for natural hot springs. Mount Shasta, Lassen National Volcanic Park, and Castle Crags State Park all await within a two-hour drive.

96% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Big Bend

On the outskirts of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, in the shadow of Chalk Mountain and Bald Peak, lies Big Bend and its glorious wilderness. Set in Shasta County along the Pit River (the longest tributary to the Sacramento River), Big Bend is named for the dramatic change of direction that occurs in the river exactly in that spot. Majestic Cascade Mountains and wide-open, scenic, high-desert vistas await all around with camping, backpacking, boating, and day hiking opportunities. Not to mention, Big Bend and the surrounding region are hotbeds (pun intended) for natural hot springs. Mount Shasta, Lassen National Volcanic Park, and Castle Crags State Park all await within a two-hour drive.

96% (1.2K)

Top-rated campgrounds near Big Bend

1. Kosk Creek Campgrounds

96%

(375)

2mi from Big Bend · 31 sites · Tents, RVs

We are a 400 acre ranch nestled in the mountains of Shasta County. There is a mile long creek that runs through the property. We have multiple hot spring pools ranging in various temperatures. Dry and overland campsites available. Activities: Boating, hiking, kayaking, 4x4, mountain bike, and fishing.

2. Trailer Lane Campground

92%

(265)

38mi from Big Bend · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Conveniently located along I-5 just south of the CA/OR border, we have 15 acres that are a mix of conifer forest and a chaparral hilltop with spectacular views of Mount Shasta. Our small, friendly campground offers clean, comfortable bathrooms with (free!) hot showers and a coin-op laundry room. Community fire pit and BBQ area, too! Minutes from world-class fishing, hiking, climbing, kayaking, skiing... all year long, it's an outdoorsman's paradise! Use us as your base camp for all your North State adventures! Did we mention we have barn cats, goats, chickens, and turkeys to watch, feed and pet? Fruit trees and wild blackberries. Walking trails through the forest, and the most perfect hilltop spot to kick back in our comfy Adirondacks with a glass of wine to stargaze.

3. Camp Stoney Meadows

100%

(353)

3mi from Big Bend · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Our 120 remote acres are adjacent to Shasta Trinity National Forest in the beautiful Cascade Range between Mt. Lassen and Mt. Shasta in Northern California. It's a working ranch with tree farms, animals, hydroelectric power, sawmill, gardens, orchards, creeks, springs, trails, and our camp alongside Kosk Creek. We're 54 miles from Redding off of 299E, (about 1-1/2 hour drive). DO NOT TAKE ROAD 11 FROM THE NORTH, IT IS CLOSED! PIease try to ignore the "car art" in the Pit River Tribe's Rancheria as you're coming here. Drive right through it, it's no reflection on us. The last mile or so of the road here can be pretty rough, but on arrival, you'll know it's worth the trip! No Cell phone service available here, so it's the perfect opportunity to unplug. We do have a land line up at the house in case of an emergency. Also, if you really need it, WiFi is available at the house.

4. Juniper Spur Ranch

98%

(446)

40mi from Big Bend · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to Juniper Spur Ranch! Directions: GPS Juniper Valley Spur....this is a short culdesac road with a road sign at the entrance off Juniper Valley Drive. There is a green pipe rail gate at the end. This gate has a combination lock. You will receive the current combination code 2 days before your arrival. If you are turning onto a dirt road without a sign....you are on the wrong road. Juniper Valley Spur is my short culdesac road with a road sign and a locked green pipe rail gate at the end. We have 3 RV sites available for campers to book. Please note that we do not have RV hookups for any of the sites. You will be parking on loose gravel and the sites are relatively flat. We can accommodate most RVs/trailers, if you are uncertain about the size just send me a message. There is a portapotty in the hay barn cleaned regularly and a water spigot for non-potable water uses. There is no shower available but you could wash off hands and feet if desired with the hose. Pets are allowed at campsites #2 and #3 only. These campsites are farthest from the horses and dogs. Please keep dogs on leash at all times. Our property offers a beautiful view of Mount Shasta. Nature lovers, extreme sports enthusiasts, family vacationers and retirees, can all enjoy the vast recreational opportunities this area has to offer. Lake Siskiyou is about 20 miles south and offers a wonderful 7-mile hiking trail around the entire lake.

5. Juniper Valley Campsites

99%

(419)

41mi from Big Bend · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

6. Shasta Gardens

95%

(55)

29mi from Big Bend · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Nestled in the heart of Mt Shasta, walking distance from downtown Mt Shasta and only one block away from health food store. Pet and cannabis friendly. Outdoor bathrooms are available with many spaces available for 360* views of of our local mountains. Guests will receive additional 10% off from Elevate Shasta dispensary next door. Enjoy the best drinking waters.we are located close to the train railroad and can exiting and loud for some, if you are sensitive to horns please bring a ear plugs or it can be purchased here if needed.

7. Roca Ranch Camp

98%

(52)

36mi from Big Bend · 1 site · RV

Welcome to Roca Ranch Camp. This camp is ideal for those that want to be off the beaten path ... on the road less traveled yet conveniently located less than 10 minutes from Mt Shasta and 5 minutes to Weed. The Camp is on 10 pristine acres in the Hammond Ranch area with a beautiful view of Mt Shasta to the East. 25' RVs with tow car OK, Sprinter Vans/ Class C with tow car OK/Class B/ Trailer 25' with tow OK. If you have a car in tow please go to the top of the driveway at the loop and remove the car in tow before entering the driveway to the Hip Camp. If you are a bit longer just text us and we can see if it can work. All campers must be self contained with holding tanks. NO TENT CAMPING. This camp is for SELF CONTAINED RVs. If you arrive without your own toilet you will be asked to leave. Doggies are allowed and should be leased for the safety of wildlife. All pets must sleep in your RV. There are many critters out at night! There is a 20 AMP electric hook up to power. YOU CAN NOT RUN AN AIR CONDITIONER...AC.... ON A 20 AMP CONNECTION. You can use your own generator system to run AC for your trailer, motorhome or van. Generators hours are 8AM to 9PM. lease be respectful of our quiet space and only run generators when necessary. The camp is by a beautiful Zinnia garden which blooms in the summer and a small orchard which is all fenced in. The property is wooded and has a view of Mt Shasta from the camp. The camp has a picnic table, two outdoor chairs, WE ARE UNDER CAMPFIRE RESTRICTIONS AT THIS TIME. NO CAMPFIRES WILL BE ALLOWED. Please ask upon your arrival if restrictions have been lifted. There is a cool soaking tub available to beat the heat during the summer months! After confirmation of your reservation we will contact you with local information on places to see as you explore the area and our favorite places to shop and eat out. There are several walks right from the Camp to a beautiful pond and hill walks for panoramic views. All dirt roads... so great mountain bike exploring! You will be surrounded by beautiful large Ponderosa Pines, wild flowers and White Fir trees. There is open sky for star gazing and no lights to obstruct your sky views. This is a very quiet area that is visited by deer, bears, many species of birds, eagles, owls, rabbits, fox, hawks and more. Happy Camping!!!

Camper favorites near Big Bend

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Juniper Spur Ranch

98%

(446)

40mi from Big Bend · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to Juniper Spur Ranch! Directions: GPS Juniper Valley Spur....this is a short culdesac road with a road sign at the entrance off Juniper Valley Drive. There is a green pipe rail gate at the end. This gate has a combination lock. You will receive the current combination code 2 days before your arrival. If you are turning onto a dirt road without a sign....you are on the wrong road. Juniper Valley Spur is my short culdesac road with a road sign and a locked green pipe rail gate at the end. We have 3 RV sites available for campers to book. Please note that we do not have RV hookups for any of the sites. You will be parking on loose gravel and the sites are relatively flat. We can accommodate most RVs/trailers, if you are uncertain about the size just send me a message. There is a portapotty in the hay barn cleaned regularly and a water spigot for non-potable water uses. There is no shower available but you could wash off hands and feet if desired with the hose. Pets are allowed at campsites #2 and #3 only. These campsites are farthest from the horses and dogs. Please keep dogs on leash at all times. Our property offers a beautiful view of Mount Shasta. Nature lovers, extreme sports enthusiasts, family vacationers and retirees, can all enjoy the vast recreational opportunities this area has to offer. Lake Siskiyou is about 20 miles south and offers a wonderful 7-mile hiking trail around the entire lake.

Juniper Valley Campsites

99%

(419)

41mi from Big Bend · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Shasta Gardens

95%

(55)

29mi from Big Bend · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Nestled in the heart of Mt Shasta, walking distance from downtown Mt Shasta and only one block away from health food store. Pet and cannabis friendly. Outdoor bathrooms are available with many spaces available for 360* views of of our local mountains. Guests will receive additional 10% off from Elevate Shasta dispensary next door. Enjoy the best drinking waters.we are located close to the train railroad and can exiting and loud for some, if you are sensitive to horns please bring a ear plugs or it can be purchased here if needed.

Roca Ranch Camp

98%

(52)

36mi from Big Bend · 1 site · RV

Welcome to Roca Ranch Camp. This camp is ideal for those that want to be off the beaten path ... on the road less traveled yet conveniently located less than 10 minutes from Mt Shasta and 5 minutes to Weed. The Camp is on 10 pristine acres in the Hammond Ranch area with a beautiful view of Mt Shasta to the East. 25' RVs with tow car OK, Sprinter Vans/ Class C with tow car OK/Class B/ Trailer 25' with tow OK. If you have a car in tow please go to the top of the driveway at the loop and remove the car in tow before entering the driveway to the Hip Camp. If you are a bit longer just text us and we can see if it can work. All campers must be self contained with holding tanks. NO TENT CAMPING. This camp is for SELF CONTAINED RVs. If you arrive without your own toilet you will be asked to leave. Doggies are allowed and should be leased for the safety of wildlife. All pets must sleep in your RV. There are many critters out at night! There is a 20 AMP electric hook up to power. YOU CAN NOT RUN AN AIR CONDITIONER...AC.... ON A 20 AMP CONNECTION. You can use your own generator system to run AC for your trailer, motorhome or van. Generators hours are 8AM to 9PM. lease be respectful of our quiet space and only run generators when necessary. The camp is by a beautiful Zinnia garden which blooms in the summer and a small orchard which is all fenced in. The property is wooded and has a view of Mt Shasta from the camp. The camp has a picnic table, two outdoor chairs, WE ARE UNDER CAMPFIRE RESTRICTIONS AT THIS TIME. NO CAMPFIRES WILL BE ALLOWED. Please ask upon your arrival if restrictions have been lifted. There is a cool soaking tub available to beat the heat during the summer months! After confirmation of your reservation we will contact you with local information on places to see as you explore the area and our favorite places to shop and eat out. There are several walks right from the Camp to a beautiful pond and hill walks for panoramic views. All dirt roads... so great mountain bike exploring! You will be surrounded by beautiful large Ponderosa Pines, wild flowers and White Fir trees. There is open sky for star gazing and no lights to obstruct your sky views. This is a very quiet area that is visited by deer, bears, many species of birds, eagles, owls, rabbits, fox, hawks and more. Happy Camping!!!

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

K

Kimberly

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

With pets

3 nights at Kosk Creek Campgrounds

As the host says, it’s a magical place, it truly is the beauty is beyond your imagination, if you’re looking for a healing journey solo or a couple it’s the place to go. I spent 3 nights and 4 days at the ranch. Everything was just so easy from checking up until check out the communication and detail details were superb. And Jimmy, Jimmy is just amazing, he works on the ranch and drives around on a quad and brings you firewood and tells you amazing stories about the ranch. Oh, and if you happen to see Doug, he’s just a regular who loves to take care of the place and he does such a great job. Thank you Doug for taking care of the hot springs and all that you do the love that you pour into the hot springs shows and is felt! As the reviews say, the drive down is a little sketchy but once you get there, I promise it’s worth it. I look at the cars on the side of the road as a piece of art a story don’t let it scare you away. I will be coming back.

You get a tub and you get a tub and you get a tub!

S

Sean

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Kosk Creek Campgrounds

We LOVE, LOVE this place. Big open field with great views. We will be back for husband's birthday.

Jeffrey Robert

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Kosk Creek Campgrounds

I've been lucky to have traveled much and camped frequently. Kosk Creek camp is a gem. Great energy between the sounds of the rushing creek, the wind through the trees, and the sweet scent of the forest with hints of sulfur from the nearby hot spring. A Top 10 place for certain. . Jeff Straus, Julian, Ca

L

Lauren

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Kosk Creek Campgrounds

Incredible property, can't wait to return. One large very warm tub (you can adjust temperature using attached source pool) as well as 2-3 pools along the river in two other locations, benches, and soon a covered deck area. Easy to find, easy parking.

J

Jonathan

3 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Kosk Creek Campgrounds

The roads out to Kosk creek are remote and sometimes sketchy (the road to McCloud is dicey with tree fall, rockfall, landslides) but the camp felt safe and the caretakers were nice. Beautiful spot and great that they've made this sacred place accessible and well maintained.

N

Natalie

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Kosk Creek Campgrounds

What an incredible stay! We had no problem arriving late in the evening (about 1:30am we came from Washington) and were able to use the hot springs at any time. This is definitely a new staple campground just be wary of the insane potholes leading up! No issue finding the place and facilities were so nice and clean :-)

K

Kerry

November 2025

16 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Trailer Lane Campground

What a fun and easy place to get to. We only stayed one night and loved that the vintage trailer was available right next to our site so our group could be near each other. Would definitely come back to explore the area more! The heated bathrooms were a big bonus!! Thank you!

K

Kya

November 2025

Tent

2 nights at Kosk Creek Campgrounds

Kosk campground was a peaceful and beautiful spot to camp. The creek and hot springs were wonderful to try out!

R

Richard

November 2025

28 ft Class C

With pets

1 night at Kosk Creek Campgrounds

Amazing place to visit!! It can look sketchy on the way down the 17 mile drive to the property but trust me it is worth it to push past the car junkyard 3 miles before your destination. Such a healing space. Already looking to visit again in May. Thank you Scott for the wonderful pre-Thanksgiving stay!!

Julie

November 2025

26 ft pop-up camper

With pets

4 nights at Kosk Creek Campgrounds

We had a an amazing time camping here. It was myself, my husband, toddler and dog. We had a very spacious and private pull-through site for our pop up camper. Scott was very welcoming and helped us pick a spot and get settled. We had a really great time!

E

Emily

November 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Kosk Creek Campgrounds

The camp host was really great about helping us find the camp and check us in despite a late arrival. Be warned - there's no cell service and it's a bit difficult to find in the dark. Check your email directions before you get too far out there! Creekside campsites were lovely and multiple hot spring pools gave a variety of soaking options. Very cool if you're willing to make the trek!

S

Shannon

November 2025

15 ft campervan

2 nights at Kosk Creek Campgrounds

We’ve been to plenty of hot springs before and these are wayyy up there on our list! They weren’t crowded (it’s November), they were deep and hot with the option to cold plunge in the river, and simply magical. The property is beautiful and the host went way above and beyond to ensure we didn’t get lost getting there and that we (and our doggie) were happy with our nice, private campsite (included a picnic table and fire ring). Campsites are a short walk from the springs and we were able to easily find them even when we first arrived in the dark. The hosts are obviously passionate about the place and maintain it perfectly while still offering that natural, rustic outdoor experience we were searching for. It’s such a privilege that they share this paradise with the public, with the benefit of crowd control and keeping it wild. Logistically speaking we drive an extended body camper van that isn’t 4wd and had no issues getting there (the drive is stunningly pretty too). Overall it’s one of the coolest places we’ve ever camped and I couldn’t recommend it enough.

A

Alegria

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Kosk Creek Campgrounds

Beautiful hot pools along Kosk Creek. Serene. This remote part of California is beautiful and special.

K

Kristina

November 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Kosk Creek Campgrounds

Beautiful campground! The host is super helpful, informative and friendly. The campsites are very clean. My partner and I bathed in the hot springs at night, then had a very pleasant campfire and bbq under the stars. They sell firewood at a good price, which they deliver to your campsite. Went during off season, so there was plenty of space on the rather large property. Would definitely come here again!

C

Cierra

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Kosk Creek Campgrounds

Extremely well taken care of, and so relaxing. 10/10 experience

P

Peter

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Kosk Creek Campgrounds

Safe and secure location, definitely worth the trip. Excellent campgrounds and easily accessible hot spring tubs. Very very enjoyable, we will definitely be back!!!

K

Katherine

November 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Kosk Creek Campgrounds

The campsite was beautiful and private. The host was so nice and helpful. Nice to get off grid and enjoy the beautiful place! We LOVED it!

J

Janae

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Kosk Creek Campgrounds

Loved it! I used to come before the owner change, and love it then too. But now, the pools have been built up much better AND you get to park in side the gate and not worry about your car being vandalized.

T

Thomas

November 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Kosk Creek Campgrounds

Rustic and quiet with beautiful hot springs. The path to the springs can be treacherous when wet, so use caution.

M

Morgan

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Kosk Creek Campgrounds

Soooo beautiful and Scott is awesome!! Hidden gem.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best great views camping near Big Bend guide

Where to go

Natural hot springs

Big Bend is quite literally a hotbed for natural hot springs, with several st along the Pit River. While there’s no guarantee if or when any particular hot spring will be open, the adventurous can certainly find a spot of their own.

National and state parks

If you’re already in the Big Bend area of Shasta County, Lassen National Volcanic Park, Castle Crags State Park, and Burney Falls are all within a two-hour drive and worth the trek for an incredible camping trip. Hike above 10,000 feet on Mt. Brokeoff or Mt. Lassen in Lassen National Park, make your way up the rough-but-beautiful rock “crags” at Castle Crags, or unwind next to the picturesque natural waterfalls in Burney, enjoying the scenic drives along the way.

Iron Canyon Reservoir

Beyond the Pit River, the Iron Canyon Reservoir sits near Big Bend and offers both canoeing and float tubing. In addition to dispersed camping, there are two designated campgrounds as well: Deadlun Campground and Hawkins Landing Campground.

When to go

Big Bend sits at approximately 1,700 feet above sea level, so while it gets cold in winter, it’s unlikely you’ll be snowed in. Its nearby destinations like Lassen and Mount Shasta, however, put visitors above treeline with the potential to be in need of tire chains fast. In mountain ranges such as the Cascades and Sierra Nevada, trekking is typically safest between Memorial Day and Labor Day for favorable weather and clear roads. Campgrounds in this area’s popular locations are most difficult to obtain in the summertime and over holiday weekends, so it’s best to book in advance online.