Gumboot Campground
4.3911 reviewsGumboot Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
No fee is charged for any camping site or amenity.
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About this campground
Tucked away on the pristine northern shore of a serene alpine lake, Gumboot Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape for those seeking solitude and natural beauty. This intimate, rustic retreat features six undeveloped sites where adventurers can pitch their tents or park modest RVs (up to 12 feet) among the pines. Each site comes with its own user-created fire ring, perfect for evening gatherings under star-filled skies. A vault toilet provides basic facilities while maintaining the campground's backcountry charm. Best of all? This hidden gem is completely free, welcoming visitors from June through October when the mountain snows recede. Whether you're casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, paddling a canoe across the glassy surface, or setting off on foot to explore the legendary Pacific Crest Trail just 2 miles away, Gumboot serves as your gateway to unforgettable alpine adventures.
Gumboot Campground offers undeveloped camping for tents and mid-size RVs or trailers. It is a no-fee site with minimal facilities, catering to campers seeking a primitive camping experience.
Weather and SeasonsThe rhythms of the seasons dramatically transform this alpine sanctuary throughout the year. Summer arrives like a warm embrace, bringing cloudless skies and perfect conditions for lakeside camping from late spring through early fall. As autumn approaches, crisp mountain air and changing colors signal the season's end, with November snows typically closing access until the following year. Winter blankets the landscape in deep snow and freezing temperatures, creating a pristine wonderland accessible only to the most intrepid backcountry explorers. The sweet spot for camping falls between June and October, when wildflowers bloom, wildlife emerges, and the mountain weather shows its gentler side.
ElevationPerched high in the alpine zone where the air grows thin and the views expand endlessly, this mountain retreat sits at an elevation that shapes every aspect of the camping experience. The altitude brings cooler temperatures, clearer skies, and that distinctive mountain atmosphere that makes every breath feel fresher. This lofty position also means seasonal access is at the mercy of winter snows, making each camping season feel like a precious window into a world above the clouds.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to panoramic views across a broad alpine bowl where emerald grasses wave in the mountain breeze and mixed conifers stand sentinel along the ridgelines. From your campsite, the majestic silhouette of Mount Shasta dominates the horizon while the jagged peaks of the Trinity Alps create a dramatic backdrop to the west. The jewel-like Gumboot Lake sparkles invitingly just steps from camp, its clear waters reflecting the surrounding peaks like a mirror. For those eager to explore further, the renowned Seven Lakes Basin beckons—an easy 2.5-mile journey along the Pacific Crest Trail that reveals a string of pristine alpine lakes, each more beautiful than the last. This is a landscape that speaks to the soul of every mountain lover.
Geological RegionSet within a spectacular alpine amphitheater carved by ancient glaciers, this mountain sanctuary showcases the raw beauty of California's volcanic and glacial heritage. The broad, open bowl that cradles the campground tells a story millions of years in the making, where ice and time sculpted the perfect basin for today's pristine lake. Grassy meadows carpet the gentler slopes while stands of mixed conifers—firs, pines, and hemlocks—climb the surrounding ridges. The ever-present views of Mount Shasta, California's volcanic giant, and the granite spires of the Trinity Alps create a geological masterclass visible from every campsite, reminding visitors of the powerful forces that shaped this remarkable landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the available sources.
Sites SizeAverage maximum trailer size is 12 feet, making it suitable for mid-size RVs or trailers.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is described as small with a mix of dispersed camping opportunities nearby. Privacy levels are not explicitly detailed, but the lack of formalized sites suggests a less structured layout.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites near the lake offer convenient access to fishing and boating.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Camping area open seasonally from June to October, depending on snow conditions.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Undeveloped sites with user-created fire rings
- no defined guest limits per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutUndeveloped sites with user-created fire rings. Layout is dispersed.
Open and Closed SeasonOpens June, closes by November 1st based on snow conditions.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations required.
Walk-in AvailabilityEntire campground operates on a first-come-first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations; all sites are first-come-first-served.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to Gumboot Campground have access to a range of outdoor activities suited to its alpine lake location. Fishing and non-motorized boating are the most popular, with opportunities for hiking nearby. The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) can be accessed 2 miles away at the Gumboot Trailhead.
Hiking
The campground is a gateway to hiking opportunities. The Pacific Crest Trail can be accessed 2 miles away at the Gumboot Trailhead. Hikers can take an easy 2.5-mile (one-way) hike south on the PCT to explore the Seven Lakes Basin. This trail offers stunning views of Mt. Shasta and the Trinity Alps.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at the lake. Specific details about fish species or fishing conditions are not provided, but the lake's setting makes it a serene spot for anglers.Swimming
The lake is suitable for swimming and floating. One user described it as a 'great place to swim or just float around.'Boating
Non-motorized boating is allowed, making it a tranquil spot for activities such as kayaking or canoeing.Winter Activities
Winter visitors might enjoy scenic walks near the frozen lake. One user mentioned ice fishing taking place during the winter months.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and canoeing are possible, given the lake's allowance for non-motorized boating.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- User-created fire rings are permitted.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife, including lions, bears, and potentially Bigfoot, as mentioned in user reviews. No cell service is available, and bugs are prevalent during peak camping seasons.
Weather forecast
64
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 41%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 3.4 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Good to know
Peak season datesJune to mid-October, depending on weather and snow conditions.
Trash and recyclingNo specific trash or recycling facilities are mentioned. Campers are likely expected to practice 'pack it in, pack it out' principles.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Gumboot Lake and near a smaller lake to the west.
Common complaintsSome visitors reported overcrowding and disruptive behavior, including excessive traffic, tents, and children damaging personal property. Complaints about 'hippie and gypsy types' creating an uncomfortable atmosphere also noted.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Mt. Shasta city, head west on Lake Street over the freeway and to the stop sign at Old Stage Road. Turn left (south) and drive 1/4 mile to a fork in the road. Stay to the right at the fork and continue on this road (W.A. Barr Road). In 2 miles, you will cross the dam at Lake Siskiyou. Keep driving around the lake, past the entrance to the Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort. Continue on this paved road (Forest Route 26) for approximately 10 miles. The road follows the canyon of the South Fork of the Sacramento River. It is narrow in places so use caution and watch for oncoming vehicles. When you reach a fork in the road, take the road to the left 1/2 mile to Gumboot Lake.
Accessible via paved roads, though narrow in some locations. Caution is advised when navigating the canyon of the South Fork of the Sacramento River, especially during peak seasons.Nearby places
Mt. Shasta (approximately 10 miles away)
Nearby supplies
Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort is nearby for basic supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.4
11 reviews
Gumboot Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews for Gumboot Campground highlight its natural beauty, scenic views, and tranquil atmosphere. However, some users note occasional crowding and a lack of amenities as potential drawbacks.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the campground as 'quiet and relaxing,' with 'wonderful scenery' and a 'beautiful small mountain lake.' The opportunity to disconnect due to the lack of cell service was also seen as a...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the campground becoming busy, with one user commenting, 'Not a lot of campsites, a lot of traffic in & out.' Some reviewers mentioned the presence of certain crowds that could make...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water, as potable water is not available. Campers may want to explore dispersed sites in the surrounding areas for more privacy. Be prepared for a lack of cell service. Arrive early to...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
During the summer and fall, the campground is described as a 'great place to camp' and 'quiet and relaxing.' Winter visitors noted the lake's beauty when frozen and mentioned activities like ice...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Such a pretty place. We were there in the winter, but didn’t find a lot of snow. The lake is frozen and gorgeous right now.' - 'What an awesome place where you go if you want real outdoors and far...
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Site-Specific Reviews
The campground reportedly has at least 6 undeveloped sites, as well as dispersed camping opportunities nearby.
Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific accessibility reviews are available.
Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No user reviews specifically address pet policies or experiences.
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025