The best pets off leash 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.

97% (509)

Top-rated campgrounds

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.

97% (509)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Kosk Creek Campgrounds

96%

(374)

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

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. Camp Stoney Meadows

100%

(353)

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

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.

3. Two Horses Ranch

100%

(10)

37mi from Big Bend · 1 site · Tent, RV · Weed, CA

Very quiet property north of Mt Shasta. No neighbors with water and outhouse. Rock climbing, horse access and thirty minutes from Mt Shasta skiing. Twelve miles from Weed, Ca . Tall pines and Juniper. Rare Fungus reserves. 30 ft yurt is close to completion. Host on property. All animals welcome.

4. Lakehead Creek Retreat

25mi from Big Bend · 1 site · Tent, RV · Lakehead, CA

The campsite is about 3 miles from the river, however the campsite connects to a creek that flows into the river. These creeks run year round and are perfect for taking a dip! This is a 253 Acre property near the Sacramento River that flows through the area of Lakehead near Redding and Shasta lake. There are a couple of really good fishing spots along the river . On the property itself there is 3 year round flowing creeks. Lots of Deer on the property since we don’t hunt and so they come on our land as a little sanctuary. Beautiful view of the Shasta area mountains. Multiple places to hike and find water holes. There is Poison Oak on the property, please be mindful. There are bears, but will normally stay away from the campsite. Please put your food away to prevent wildlife from coming into your camp. There are fish in the Sacramento River that can be fished for. This is the wilderness, there are mosquitos, flys, and other bugs. Please bring bug spray.

5. Mountain House Cabin & Tent

45mi from Big Bend · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Gazelle, CA

This beautiful 160-acre property is surrounded by national forest and sits high atop Gazelle/Callahan Road, overlooking Scott Valley, Gazelle, AP Cattle Ranch, China Mountain, the Trinity Alps, the Russian Mountains, and offering views of Mt. Shasta, Pilot Rock, and Mt. Ashland. The hand-built and milled furnished cabin sleeps three and features an outdoor fireplace with spectacular views. Enjoy multiple shooting ranges up to 800 yards and trails leading to seasonal creeks. Stargazing and photography are among the highlights, with cleared camping pads for vehicles located around the compound—some offering 360-degree views of the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys below. A 4x4 vehicle is not required but is strongly recommended.

6. Beautiful bell tent

89%

(9)

44mi from Big Bend · 4 sites · Lodging · Anderson, CA

Come and rest in my garden located bell tent. . Right beside pool , with a view of mount shasta . Cold AC in the tent . Complete kitchen . Shower and compost toilet . Hammock and tiki hut to relax in . Quiet and private .

7. Cozy Log Cabin Near Lassen Park

100%

(39)

35mi from Big Bend · 1 site · Lodging · Shingletown, CA

Are you ready to unplug from the world and recharge in nature? This newly built two bedroom, two bath log cabin will help you do just that. You’ll reconnect with love ones since the cabin has NO WIFI but does have a wood burning stove and miles of trails to walk on just outside of the front door. The cabin is conveniently located just minutes from the north entrance of Lassen National Park. For entertainment, I have a TV (no cable)/DVD player with a selection of movies, board games, and reading material including a few books and magazines. There is timber land at the back of the property with plenty of trails to walk or ride a mountain bike (if you bring one). Lassen National Park is a short drive away. Also nearby is lake McCumber. I have a wood burning stove inside that you can use for a fire. Absolutely NO FIRES outside. There is a fire ban in effect, thank you for your cooperation and understanding. I have a propane BBQ outside that you can use, along with a picnic bench and other outside seating. I will provide a selection of tea, hot coco, coffee and oatmeal to get your day started. Be sure to bring food with you since the nearest grocery story is about 9 miles away. I will provide a basket of firewood to use during your stay, but it's a good idea to bring extra since it will go fast. Because you're in the forest, there is limited cell reception so please plan accordingly. I've found that Verizon has some signal while AT&T has none. Since it's meant to get away from it all, not having cell service might be a good thing. :) The master bedroom is on the entire loft floor so there isn't a lock or door that separates the main area downstairs. Just so you're aware. There is a door and lock on the guest bedroom downstairs. All you'll need to bring are your personal items, food for your stay, and extra firewood! Once booked, I will send more helpful tips and information for your stay a week prior to your check in date. Dogs - I allow dogs because I believe they are part of the family, but please notify me if you intend to bring your dog prior to your stay. If there is high wind in the forecast, the electric company, PG&E may turn the power off for safety reasons. They usually notify me a day in advance and I will let you know right away, but I wanted you to know that it might be a possibility during your stay. For Winter Guests: A 4 wheel drive vehicle or car with chains is HIGHLY recommended to travel to the cabin. The main road is paved but there will be snow/ice in the area. The driveway is a slight uphill and is not paved. Please be prepared for snow. ***Approved Shasta County Short Term Rental Permit #STR 20-0013***

8. Brunswick Ridge, Trinity Mountain

100%

(1)

45mi from Big Bend · 2 sites · Tents · French Gulch, CA

Located Between French Gulch CA and Lewiston CA. Views of Shasta Bally and surrounding Mountains. Close to Whiskeytown National Monument. Trinity Mountain in Beautiful Northern California. 1.3 Miles past Trinity Mountain Rd turn right onto Lewiston turnpike Rd. Go 1.6 miles up Lewiston Rd and turn right into the driveway. Flat area for camping.

Camper favorites near Big Bend

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Lakehead Creek Retreat

25mi from Big Bend · 1 site · Tent, RV · Lakehead, CA

The campsite is about 3 miles from the river, however the campsite connects to a creek that flows into the river. These creeks run year round and are perfect for taking a dip! This is a 253 Acre property near the Sacramento River that flows through the area of Lakehead near Redding and Shasta lake. There are a couple of really good fishing spots along the river . On the property itself there is 3 year round flowing creeks. Lots of Deer on the property since we don’t hunt and so they come on our land as a little sanctuary. Beautiful view of the Shasta area mountains. Multiple places to hike and find water holes. There is Poison Oak on the property, please be mindful. There are bears, but will normally stay away from the campsite. Please put your food away to prevent wildlife from coming into your camp. There are fish in the Sacramento River that can be fished for. This is the wilderness, there are mosquitos, flys, and other bugs. Please bring bug spray.

Mountain House Cabin & Tent

45mi from Big Bend · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Gazelle, CA

This beautiful 160-acre property is surrounded by national forest and sits high atop Gazelle/Callahan Road, overlooking Scott Valley, Gazelle, AP Cattle Ranch, China Mountain, the Trinity Alps, the Russian Mountains, and offering views of Mt. Shasta, Pilot Rock, and Mt. Ashland. The hand-built and milled furnished cabin sleeps three and features an outdoor fireplace with spectacular views. Enjoy multiple shooting ranges up to 800 yards and trails leading to seasonal creeks. Stargazing and photography are among the highlights, with cleared camping pads for vehicles located around the compound—some offering 360-degree views of the surrounding mountain ranges and valleys below. A 4x4 vehicle is not required but is strongly recommended.

Beautiful bell tent

89%

(9)

44mi from Big Bend · 4 sites · Lodging · Anderson, CA

Come and rest in my garden located bell tent. . Right beside pool , with a view of mount shasta . Cold AC in the tent . Complete kitchen . Shower and compost toilet . Hammock and tiki hut to relax in . Quiet and private .

Cozy Log Cabin Near Lassen Park

100%

(39)

35mi from Big Bend · 1 site · Lodging · Shingletown, CA

Are you ready to unplug from the world and recharge in nature? This newly built two bedroom, two bath log cabin will help you do just that. You’ll reconnect with love ones since the cabin has NO WIFI but does have a wood burning stove and miles of trails to walk on just outside of the front door. The cabin is conveniently located just minutes from the north entrance of Lassen National Park. For entertainment, I have a TV (no cable)/DVD player with a selection of movies, board games, and reading material including a few books and magazines. There is timber land at the back of the property with plenty of trails to walk or ride a mountain bike (if you bring one). Lassen National Park is a short drive away. Also nearby is lake McCumber. I have a wood burning stove inside that you can use for a fire. Absolutely NO FIRES outside. There is a fire ban in effect, thank you for your cooperation and understanding. I have a propane BBQ outside that you can use, along with a picnic bench and other outside seating. I will provide a selection of tea, hot coco, coffee and oatmeal to get your day started. Be sure to bring food with you since the nearest grocery story is about 9 miles away. I will provide a basket of firewood to use during your stay, but it's a good idea to bring extra since it will go fast. Because you're in the forest, there is limited cell reception so please plan accordingly. I've found that Verizon has some signal while AT&T has none. Since it's meant to get away from it all, not having cell service might be a good thing. :) The master bedroom is on the entire loft floor so there isn't a lock or door that separates the main area downstairs. Just so you're aware. There is a door and lock on the guest bedroom downstairs. All you'll need to bring are your personal items, food for your stay, and extra firewood! Once booked, I will send more helpful tips and information for your stay a week prior to your check in date. Dogs - I allow dogs because I believe they are part of the family, but please notify me if you intend to bring your dog prior to your stay. If there is high wind in the forecast, the electric company, PG&E may turn the power off for safety reasons. They usually notify me a day in advance and I will let you know right away, but I wanted you to know that it might be a possibility during your stay. For Winter Guests: A 4 wheel drive vehicle or car with chains is HIGHLY recommended to travel to the cabin. The main road is paved but there will be snow/ice in the area. The driveway is a slight uphill and is not paved. Please be prepared for snow. ***Approved Shasta County Short Term Rental Permit #STR 20-0013***

Brunswick Ridge, Trinity Mountain

100%

(1)

45mi from Big Bend · 2 sites · Tents · French Gulch, CA

Located Between French Gulch CA and Lewiston CA. Views of Shasta Bally and surrounding Mountains. Close to Whiskeytown National Monument. Trinity Mountain in Beautiful Northern California. 1.3 Miles past Trinity Mountain Rd turn right onto Lewiston turnpike Rd. Go 1.6 miles up Lewiston Rd and turn right into the driveway. Flat area for camping.

Stories from the 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

2 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

2 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

2 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

2 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

Kya

3 weeks ago

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

3 weeks ago

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

3 weeks ago

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

3 weeks ago

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

3 weeks ago

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.

A

Adrian

November 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Two Horses Ranch

Lovely area, love the smell of juniper trees, if youre planning to camp this time of year note that it can get into the freezing temperatures, view of shasta is amazing. Theres a local dollar general 15 minutes away should you ever forget and need anything.

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 pets off leash 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.