The best camping in Shasta-Trinity National Forest, CA

Spanning more than a million acres, Shasta-Trinity is the largest national forest in California, with a landscape that stretches from 1,000 feet to over 14,000 feet, and five designated wilderness areas. Explore three scenic byways, more than 450 miles of trails, including 154 miles of the Pacific Crest Trail, or climb the snow-capped Mount Shasta. Hundreds of alpine lakes, and more than 6,000 miles of rivers and streams offer plenty of water-based activities, including boating, paddling, and fishing. The forest also offers a wide range of camping options for overnight stays, including developed and dispersed campgrounds, boat-in campgrounds, shoreline campgrounds, fire lookout stations, and historic cabins.

• Best for families with kids and accessible campers: The Alpine View Campground offers accessible campsites, restrooms, and paved trails, as well as areas for kids.
• Best for RV campers: The Bushytail Campground offers electric and water hookups.
• Best for tent campers and water lovers: The tent-only and walk-in Stoney Point Campground is right on the shores of Trinity Lake.

1. During peak summer season, plan to reserve a campsite as soon as you know your dates. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance for individual sites and 12 months for group sites for reservable campgrounds.
2. If you don’t have a reservation, plan to arrive first thing in the morning to grab a site at a first-come, first-served campground.
3. Be sure to check on seasonal opening and closing dates, which vary by campground.

May to October are the best times for camping in the forest. Summer weekends are particularly popular and most campgrounds fill up quickly.  From fall to early spring, snow and ice may affect road access, especially at higher elevations. Some activities, including downhill skiing at Mount Shasta Ski Park, are snow dependent. Mushroom season runs in the spring and fall, while wildflowers can be seen from late January to early November, depending on the elevation.

• Campfire permits are required to have a campfire or stove at a dispersed site. The Trinity Alps and Mount Shasta wilderness areas require wilderness permits. A summit permit is also required to summit Mount Shasta.
• Permits are required to collect or cut forest products, including mushrooms, fuelwood, and Christmas trees.
• Be bear aware and store scented items outside your tent in a bear-proof container.
• Fishing licenses are required for anglers 16 and older.

• Immerse yourself in the Pacific Northwest's beauty by camping near the Klamath River. From thrilling white water rafting to tranquil fishing moments, your Klamath River camping journey promises a wonderful balance of relaxation and adventure.
• The joy of camping near Trinity River lies in the delightful blend of serene river views and lush forests. The Trinity River camping experience promises tranquil starlit nights and days filled with fishing or river rafting adventures.