How much does camping cost at Riverside Campground?

Camping fees at Riverside Campground are $15/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Is Riverside Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Riverside Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Riverside Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis outside of the reservation window.

Can I see photos of campsites at Riverside Campground before I book?

Yes! Riverside Campground has 19 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Riverside Campground?

Riverside Campground is open Mid-May to mid-September.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Riverside Campground?

Yes, Riverside Campground has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

How many campsites does Riverside Campground have?

Riverside Campground has 12 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Riverside Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Riverside Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Riverside Campground?

Riverside Campground offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Riverside Campground?

Popular activities at Riverside Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Wildlife Viewing, Climbing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Riverside Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Riverside Campground?

Fire policies at Riverside Campground: Fires are allowed only in designated fire rings; caution is advised during summer due to wildfire risks.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

2 reviews

41.149078, -122.318016

Quick Facts

2,600 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

2,600 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

12 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Riverside Campground

$15.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The fee for Riverside Campground is $15 per night, payable upon self-registration.

Standard Site Fee$15.00

Get Notified When Available

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Reserve California

Provider

(530) 235-2684interp@parks.ca.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

41.149078, -122.318016

Riverside Campground

41.149078, -122.318016

Nearby places

Dunsmuir, 6 miles

Mount Shasta, 14 miles

Shasta Lake, 21 miles.

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Dunsmuir, which is 6 miles away.

Weather at Riverside Campground

Current alert: As of August 2023, construction may lead to intermittent closures in the Root Creek Basin area.

Best Time to Camp at Riverside Campground

Summer brings daytime highs in the 80s to 90s°F with cool nights, ideal for swimming and fishing in the Sacramento River. This is peak season for water activities and evening campfires. Late summer carries fire risk and heat, so check wildfire updates and plan for shade. Winter temperatures can drop to 20°F with frost. The campground operates seasonally, and the small 12-site footprint keeps crowds lighter than larger nearby parks.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer highs in the 80s–90s°F; ideal for swimming and fishing in the river (peak season).

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Mid-May to mid-September.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round. Reservations are available mid-May to mid-September; walk-in only from mid-September through mid-May.

About Riverside Campground

Riverside Campground sits along the Sacramento River in Castle Crags State Park, offering 12 sites at $15/night. Each site accommodates up to eight people with one or two vehicle spaces, fire rings, picnic tables, and bear lockers. The campground has both flush and vault toilets, potable water, and showers. A pedestrian suspension bridge connects campers to the river.

The Riverside Campground offers a mix of developed camping options suitable for families, RVs, and tent campers.

Historical Significance

The campground sits on ancestral homeland of the Okwanuchu Shasta people. The 1855 Battle of Castle Crags took place nearby.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings daytime highs in the 80s to 90s°F with cool nights, ideal for swimming and fishing in the Sacramento River. This is peak season for water activities and evening campfires. Late summer carries fire risk and heat, so check wildfire updates and plan for shade. Winter temperatures can drop to 20°F with frost. The campground operates seasonally, and the small 12-site footprint keeps crowds lighter than larger nearby parks.

ElevationPerched at 2,600 feet above sea level, Riverside Campground offers the perfect balance of mountain atmosphere without the challenges of high altitude. This sweet spot elevation gifts visitors with refreshingly cool evenings that invite cozy campfire conversations and peaceful sleep under star-filled skies. The mild elevation ensures most visitors experience minimal adjustment while still enjoying the crisp mountain air and stunning vistas that come with camping in the foothills.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground sits at 2,600 feet within the Klamath Mountains, where ancient granite formations rise from montane hardwood-coniferous forests. Pines mix with deciduous trees along the Sacramento River corridor. Wildlife includes black bears, mountain lions, and pileated woodpeckers. The forest floor hosts Castle Crags harebell and wild orchids. The river provides the main scenic draw, accessible via the suspension bridge.

Geological RegionRiverside Campground claims its place within the legendary Klamath Mountains, one of North America's most geologically diverse and ecologically rich regions. Ancient granite formations rise dramatically from the forest floor, telling a story written in stone over millions of years. This unique geological wonderland creates an extraordinary variety of microclimates and habitats, making it a biodiversity hotspot where mountain meadows meet dense forests, and crystalline streams carve through age-old rock. The Klamath Mountains' complex geology has created a natural playground that continues to captivate geologists, naturalists, and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Scenic ViewsScenic views of Castle Crags, Mount Shasta, and Gray Rocks are accessible through nearby Vista Point Trail.

Lodging & AccommodationsHotel-style accommodations or lodges are not available at the Riverside Campground within Castle Crags State Park.

Programs & ActivitiesInterpretive campfire programs are held during the summer months, offering educational insights into the area.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in time is flexible but requires payment verification upon self-registration.

Check-out

Check-out time is officially noon.

Stay Limit

Official policy allows up to 14 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Eight people are allowed per family campsite.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe 12 sites accommodate up to eight people each with one or two vehicle spaces. Reviews note the scenic layout near the river but don't specify loop structure or spacing details.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via www.parks.ca.gov or by calling (800) 444-7275.

Walk-in AvailabilityRiverside Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis outside of the reservation window.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are not explicitly noted for first-come, first-served sites.

AccessibilityThere is one accessible campsite (#13) in the park, and accessible parking and restrooms are available. Trails such as Vista Point Trail and Root Creek Trail are designed with accessibility features, including compacted soil surfaces and gradual slopes.

Site SizeEach campsite is designed to accommodate up to eight people, with one or two vehicle spaces.

PrivacyInformation regarding the level of privacy provided at campsites is not explicitly mentioned in the source.

Total Campsites12 campsites

Recommended SitesOpt for riverside sites for enhanced views and proximity to water features.

Best CampsitesSites 4, 5, 7, and 11 sit closest to the river. Campers recommend arriving early during peak season since the campground operates first-come-first-serve outside of summer. Walk-in camping is the norm during off-peak periods.

Amenities available

The Riverside Campground within Castle Crags State Park offers a selection of amenities suitable for campers looking for developed camping facilities. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, food locker, and fire ring. Flush toilets, showers, and potable water are available near campsites. Restrooms and drinking water are accessible near the picnic area, along with the famed pedestrian suspension bridge that crosses the Sacramento River. Firewood is available for purchase at the entrance station. Dogs are allowed in campgrounds but not on hiking trails.

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Riverside Campground

Castle Crags State Park offers a range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, and nature and wildlife viewing. The Riverside Campground provides easy access to the Sacramento River and its scenic surroundings.

Hiking4.0/5

Castle Crags SP offers ~28 miles of trails incl. the challenging Crags Trail and Vista Point.

Fishing4.0/5

Adjacent to the Sacramento River; licensed anglers may catch-and-release trout.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Wildlife includes black bears, mountain lions, and pileated woodpeckers; good viewing potential.

Swimming3.5/5

Swimming is available in the Sacramento River; popular in warmer months.

Climbing3.0/5

Ancient granite formations and the Crags Trail suggest scrambling/rock features, but climbing not explicit.

Water Sports2.0/5

On the Sacramento River (possible), but boating/kayaking not mentioned explicitly.

Signature experiences

Stargazing3.5/5Remote Klamath Mountains setting implies darker skies, but no explicit starwatching notes.

Photography4.0/5Accessible vistas of Castle Crags, Mount Shasta and Gray Rocks are strong photo subjects.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include bear activity, as improper food storage may lead to citations. Wildlife encounters are possible.

Food Storage RequiredBear-resistant food lockers are available at no extra charge.

Fire PolicyFires are allowed only in designated fire rings; caution is advised during summer due to wildfire risks.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesClosest emergency services include the Dunsmuir Community Health Center, approximately 6 miles away.

Trash & RecyclingCampers are encouraged to use bear-resistant lockers for food storage and immediately dispose of trash in cans. Improper storage or disposal could result in citations with fines of up to $1,000.

Water FeaturesLocated adjacent to the Sacramento River, providing opportunities for swimming and fishing.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

0.0

2 reviews

Limited Reviews

Riverside Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the scenic beauty of the Riverside Campground and its proximity to the Sacramento River as key advantages. "The pedestrian suspension bridge is a unique feature that campers love."

Review Summaries

Based on 2 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include the availability of amenities such as fire rings, picnic tables, and potable water. "Scenic views and accessibility to the Sacramento River are highly appreciated by campers."

Based on 2 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users have indicated issues with noise during quiet hours and the presence of bears necessitating strict food storage protocols.

Based on 2 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews praise campsites #4, #5, #7, and #11 within the Riverside Campground for their proximity to scenic views.

Based on 2 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend using bear-proof lockers and arriving early for first-come-first-serve reservations during peak seasons. "Be prepared for walk-in camping during off-peak periods."

Based on 2 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter months may be less favorable for camping due to cooler temperatures, while spring and summer are preferred for outdoor activities. "Layered clothing is advised during fall and winter."

Based on 2 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The Riverside Campground has a peaceful ambiance with the Sacramento River flowing nearby." "The pedestrian suspension bridge is a fun experience for families."

Based on 2 reviews

Accessibility Features

"Campsite #13 is accessible, and the trails leading to Vista Point and Root Creek provide good options for visitors with mobility challenges."

Based on 2 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Users appreciate that dogs are allowed in campgrounds but emphasize the restriction of not taking them on hiking trails.

Based on 2 reviews

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Riverside Campground

$15.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The fee for Riverside Campground is $15 per night, payable upon self-registration.

Standard Site Fee$15.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Reserve California

Provider

(530) 235-2684interp@parks.ca.gov

Go if

River swimmers and trout anglers who can arrive early on a summer weekend. Sites 4, 5, 7, and 11 get the best scenery, showers and flush toilets are on-site, and the PCT runs through the park for day hikes.

Skip if

Dogs can't go on hiking trails here, so if the dog hike is the point, this frustrates. The 12 sites fill fast with no advance reservation option outside peak season, and noise complaints suggest quiet hours aren't always respected.

Nearby Campgrounds

Frequently Visited

4.0

(71)

Castle Crags Campground

20022 Castle Creek Road, Castella, CA 96017

Castle Crags Campground sits at 2,136 feet beneath glacier-polished granite spires, offering 76 campsites with picnic tables, bear lockers, fire rings, and hot showers. Sites run $25 per night and accommodate both tents and RVs. The campground's biggest tradeoff is honest: Interstate 5 and a nearby rail line create persistent noise, especially in the lower loops.