Kangaroo Lake Campground

204 West Alma Mt. Shasta, CA 96067

Step into living history at Sims Flat Campground, where 19 riverside campsites beckon along the pristine Sacramento River in the heart of Shasta-Trinity National Forest. This cherished destination, born from the hands of Civilian Conservation Corps workers in the 1930s, invites you to cross their original suspension bridge and discover interpretive signs that tell the story of America's conservation legacy. Whether you're casting a line for native trout, navigating exhilarating whitewater rapids, or watching the historic trains rumble past, Sims Flat offers an authentic slice of Northern California's outdoor heritage.

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Tucked away in the heart of the Trinity Alps Wilderness, Big Flat Campground serves as your gateway to alpine adventure. This intimate campground features 9 secluded sites, each offering a perfect blend of wilderness solitude and essential amenities. While you'll find clean vault toilets and a charming small corral for equestrian adventurers, the campground embraces a back-to-basics approach—pack your own water and plan to carry out what you bring in. From here, the spectacular Caribou Lakes trail system beckons, promising crystal-clear alpine waters and breathtaking mountain vistas.

Coffee Creek Road, off State Hwy 3, Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Escape to the tranquil embrace of Goldfield Campground, a rustic dry camping retreat nestled deep within the majestic Shasta-Trinity National Forest. This peaceful sanctuary offers adventurers the perfect basecamp for exploring the wilderness, complete with cozy picnic tables for outdoor dining under towering trees, traditional fire rings for evening gatherings and s'mores, and convenient vault toilet facilities. While embracing the authentic camping experience means bringing your own water supply, the reward is an unspoiled connection with nature in one of California's most pristine forest settings.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Escape to Trinity River Campground, where seven secluded campsites offer an authentic back-to-nature experience along the pristine Trinity River. This intimate primitive campground invites adventurers seeking solitude with just the essentials: sturdy picnic tables for riverside meals, fire rings with grills for evening cookouts under the stars, and a clean vault restroom. Each back-in site accommodates vehicles up to 16 feet, perfect for smaller RVs and trailers. Remember to bring your own water supply, as this off-the-grid gem keeps things refreshingly simple—no hookups, no crowds, just you and the wilderness.

Two miles north of the Coffee Creek area on State Route 3

Tucked away just two miles north of Coffee Creek along scenic State Route 3, Trinity River Campground offers an intimate riverside retreat where the rushing waters provide a natural soundtrack to your camping experience. This hidden gem features just seven thoughtfully designed sites, each equipped with sturdy concrete tables and warming fireplaces that invite evening gatherings under the stars. The campground's well-maintained paved roads and spacious spurs welcome everything from cozy tents to full-size trailers, ensuring every type of adventurer finds their perfect spot along the riverbank.

PO BOX 1620, MCCLOUD, CA, 96057, USA

Perched high above the Sacramento River Canyon, Girard Ridge Lookout beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness escape. This 1931 fire lookout tower, lovingly preserved by the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, offers visitors a chance to step back in time while soaking in some of California's most breathtaking mountain panoramas. From your rustic cabin in the sky, watch as Mount Shasta's snow-capped peak catches the first light of dawn and Castle Crags glow amber at sunset. With no electricity or running water, this remote sanctuary promises star-filled nights and the profound silence only found in wild places.

41.149078, -122.318016

Nestled along the banks of the majestic Sacramento River, Riverside Campground invites you to experience the serenity of Northern California's wilderness. This intimate retreat features 12 thoughtfully spaced campsites, each equipped with essential amenities including sturdy picnic tables, secure food lockers to protect your provisions from curious wildlife, and fire rings perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. Modern restrooms and fresh drinking water stations are conveniently located throughout the grounds, ensuring comfort during your seasonal escape to nature.

20022 Castle Creek Road, Castella, CA 96017

Tucked beneath towering granite spires just off Interstate 5, Castle Crags Campground offers 76 well-appointed campsites where modern comfort meets ancient wilderness. Each site comes equipped with picnic tables, secure food lockers, fire rings, and access to flush toilets and hot showers. While the distant hum of highway traffic reminds you civilization isn't far away, the majestic presence of Mount Shasta and miles of beckoning trails quickly transport you into California's wild heart.

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Escape to the untamed wilderness at Eagle Creek Campground, where the rhythmic sounds of rushing water from Trinity River and Eagle Creek create nature's soundtrack. This primitive sanctuary offers adventurers a genuine back-to-basics experience with vault restrooms, sturdy picnic tables, and fire rings for evening gatherings under starlit skies. The journey here requires navigating a rugged road that filters out the casual traveler, rewarding those who venture forth with an authentic wilderness retreat. Without running water or modern amenities, Eagle Creek delivers the pure, undeveloped camping experience that reconnects you with the raw beauty of Northern California's backcountry.

20022 Castle Creek Road, Castella, CA 96017, USA

Nestled beneath towering granite spires, Castle Crags State Park invites you to choose your perfect basecamp for adventure. Whether you prefer the rustic charm of environmental campsites or the convenience of developed sites, each spot comes thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables, bear-resistant food lockers, and fire rings for those magical evening gatherings. Modern restrooms and refreshing hot showers are just a short walk away, ensuring comfort meets wilderness in perfect harmony.

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Nestled where the crystal-clear waters of the East and South Forks merge into the mighty Salmon River, East Fork Campground offers an authentic back-to-basics camping experience. This intimate hideaway features just 6 secluded campsites, perfect for those seeking solitude and a genuine connection with nature. While you won't find running water or garbage services here, a well-maintained vault toilet ensures basic comfort. Pack in what you need and carry out what you bring – this is camping as it was meant to be, where the absence of modern amenities amplifies the presence of natural wonder.

360 Main Street Weaverville, CA 96093

Nestled in the heart of the Trinity Alps Wilderness, Horse Flat Campground beckons adventurers with 13 pristine campsites and the promise of authentic wilderness experiences—all without any camping fees. This rustic retreat serves as a perfect basecamp for equestrian enthusiasts, with dedicated horse corrals and direct access to the Eagle Creek Trailhead. Whether you arrive on horseback or on foot, you'll discover two distinct camping areas: a spacious main section designed for horse camping and a tranquil walk-in area tucked alongside the melodic waters of Eagle Creek. From casting lines in crystal-clear waters to tracking game through ancient forests, this wilderness sanctuary offers endless opportunities for outdoor pursuits.

Klamath National Forest

Nestled at 3,000 feet along the pristine East Fork of the South Fork Salmon River, Shadow Creek Campground offers an intimate escape into the heart of Northern California's wilderness. This peaceful retreat features six thoughtfully spaced campsites, including options for RV travelers, all accessible via the well-maintained paved Callahan-Cecilville Road (County Road 1C02). While the campground embraces a rustic camping experience with vault toilets and no potable water, visitors find themselves immersed in the authentic beauty of the Klamath National Forest, where the gentle sounds of the river create a natural soundtrack for unforgettable outdoor adventures.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

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.

11263 North Highway 3, Fort Jones, California, 96032, United States

Nestled at the southern gateway to the majestic Klamath National Forest, Hidden Horse Equestrian Campground beckons riders and their faithful companions to experience the untamed beauty of Northern California. This intimate haven features six thoughtfully designed equestrian campsites, where the rhythmic sounds of hoofbeats blend with the whispers of the wilderness. The crown jewel is Site #6, available for reservation, complete with four sturdy iron horse corrals (12' x 12') that promise comfort and security for your equine partners after a day of trail adventures.

11263 N. HWY. 3, FORT JONES, CA 96032, USA

Saddle up for an unforgettable adventure at Carter Meadows Horse Group Campground, where the spirit of the Old West meets modern trail riding. This equestrian paradise welcomes groups of up to 25 riders and their horses, offering dispersed camping that lets you choose between cozy tent sites or spacious spots for your trailer. Positioned at the gateway to the legendary Trinity Alps Wilderness, you'll find yourself just hoofbeats away from the iconic Pacific Crest Trail, with endless ribbons of trail stretching in every direction.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Tucked away in a hushed cathedral of mixed conifers, Castle Lake Campground offers an authentic wilderness escape just a quarter-mile below its namesake glacial jewel. This intimate primitive campground features six thoughtfully spaced sites, each equipped with sturdy tables and fire rings where evening stories unfold beneath towering trees. While vault toilets provide basic comfort, adventurers should come prepared with their own water supply, embracing the self-sufficient spirit of backcountry camping. The narrow, winding approach road keeps this hidden gem exclusive to smaller vehicles, preserving its peaceful atmosphere. Free and operating on a first-come, first-served basis, the campground welcomes visitors from late May through early November, depending on winter's grip. Days here unfold with endless possibilities: morning hikes along forest trails, afternoon swims in crystal-clear alpine waters, quiet fishing from granite shores, or peaceful paddle strokes across the mirror-like lake surface.

360 Main Street Weaverville, CA 96093

Perched atop Scott Mountain, this intimate wilderness retreat offers five peaceful campsites where adventurers can disconnect from the modern world and embrace the simplicity of dry camping. This no-fee gem welcomes tent campers and those with compact trailers up to 15 feet, providing a rustic basecamp for exploring the surrounding wilderness. While you'll need to bring your own water supply, the reward is an authentic backcountry experience without the crowds or fees of more developed campgrounds.

Idlewild Campground, Etna, CA

Tucked away in the heart of the Klamath National Forest, Idlewild Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This intimate retreat features 11 thoughtfully spaced campsites along the melodious North Fork of the Salmon River, where the gentle rush of water creates nature's perfect soundtrack. Open from May through mid-October, this hidden gem serves as your gateway to endless exploration—from dawn fishing expeditions to sunset hikes through ancient forests. While the amenities remain refreshingly simple, the campground delivers exactly what wilderness enthusiasts crave: a genuine connection with the untamed beauty of Northern California's backcountry.

204 West Alma Street

Tucked away at 6,400 feet on Mount Shasta's southern slopes, Red Fir Flat Group Campground offers a serene escape for those seeking tranquility among towering Shasta red firs. This hidden gem has become a sanctuary for meditation and retreat groups drawn to its profound sense of solitude and spiritual connection with nature. Far from the crowds, this peaceful forest haven invites groups to disconnect from the world and reconnect with each other beneath a canopy of ancient trees.

McBride Springs Campground, Mt. Shasta, CA

Nestled on the enchanting lower slopes of Mt. Shasta, McBride Springs Campground offers an intimate escape into nature with just 10 thoughtfully spaced campsites. This hidden gem welcomes tent campers and small RV adventurers seeking a tranquil mountain retreat. Each site comes equipped with classic camping amenities including sturdy picnic tables and fire rings perfect for evening gatherings. While the campground features vault toilets and a charming hand-pump water spigot that adds to the authentic outdoor experience, remember to bring your water filter or be prepared to boil the crystal-clear spring water before drinking.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Perched at a breathtaking 7,500 feet on the majestic slopes of Mt. Shasta, Panther Meadows Campground offers adventurers a rare opportunity to camp near the timberline in California's most iconic volcanic peak. This remote walk-in sanctuary features 15 intimate sites, each equipped with tables and fire rings, where campers can experience the raw beauty of the high country. With only a vault toilet and no water facilities, visitors must come prepared with their own water supply or purification equipment for the nearby mountain streams. This free, first-come-first-served haven operates on a unique 3-day annual limit, ensuring that its pristine sub-alpine meadows remain unspoiled for all who make the journey to this extraordinary elevation.

Klamath National Forest

Tucked away along the pristine North Fork of the Salmon River, Mule Bridge Campground beckons adventurers with its intimate collection of four riverside campsites. This hidden gem serves as your gateway to the spectacular North Fork Trail, offering free camping in a setting where simplicity meets natural splendor. While amenities remain refreshingly minimal, the authentic wilderness experience and direct trail access make this an ideal basecamp for those seeking genuine backcountry immersion.

11263 N. HWY. 3

Nestled alongside the pristine Wild and Scenic Scott River, Indian Scotty Group Site offers an unforgettable gateway into the heart of Klamath National Forest. This thoughtfully designed group campground welcomes RVs up to 30 feet into a spacious sanctuary where towering cedar, Douglas fir, and Ponderosa pine create a natural cathedral overhead. Gather around crackling campfire rings under starlit skies, prepare meals on provided grills, and enjoy the convenience of well-maintained pit toilets—all while the melodic Scott River provides nature's soundtrack to your adventure.

Idlewild Campground, Etna, CA

360 Main Street Weaverville, CA 96093

Two miles north of the Coffee Creek area on State Route 3

McBride Springs Campground, Mt. Shasta, CA

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

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Shasta-Trinity National Forest

204 West Alma Mt. Shasta, CA 96067

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

204 West Alma Street

41.149078, -122.318016

20022 Castle Creek Road, Castella, CA 96017, USA

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

PO BOX 1620, MCCLOUD, CA, 96057, USA

360 Main Street Weaverville, CA 96093

11263 North Highway 3, Fort Jones, California, 96032, United States

Coffee Creek Road, off State Hwy 3, Shasta-Trinity National Forest

20022 Castle Creek Road, Castella, CA 96017

Klamath National Forest

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INYO, CA, USA

Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Sierra, Big Pine Canyon offers adventurers a gateway to some of California's most dramatic alpine wilderness. This stunning canyon serves as your basecamp for exploring ancient glaciers, crystal-clear mountain lakes, and towering granite peaks that pierce the sky at over 14,000 feet. Whether you're seeking challenging mountaineering routes or peaceful streamside camping, Big Pine Canyon delivers an authentic High Sierra experience that will leave you breathless—both from the altitude and the sheer beauty surrounding you.

1 Visitor Center Dr Lee Vining, CA 93541

Tucked into a scenic bend along the melodious Lee Vining Creek, Big Bend Campground invites adventurers to claim one of its 17 intimate campsites within the majestic Inyo National Forest. This hidden gem serves as the perfect basecamp for those drawn to both Yosemite's stunning Tuolumne Meadows entrance and the otherworldly landscapes of Mono Basin Scenic Area. Each site comes equipped with essential amenities including vault toilets, fresh potable water, and bear-proof food storage lockers to ensure both comfort and wildlife safety during your stay.

Modoc National Forest

Nestled at the gateway to the South Warner Wilderness, Pepperdine Campground offers three distinct camping experiences in one remarkable location. Equestrian enthusiasts will discover a dedicated horse camp complete with convenient stock water and pole stalls at select sites. The trailhead staging area beckons adventurers with ample parking and corrals, serving as your launching point into the wilderness. For those seeking a more intimate experience, a cozy family camping loop awaits beneath a canopy of ancient fir trees. As a pack-it-in, pack-it-out facility, Pepperdine encourages visitors to embrace Leave No Trace principles while immersing themselves in this pristine mountain environment.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Gather your favorite people at Camp 4 Group Campsite, where up to 35 adventurers can create lasting memories together in the heart of nature. This thoughtfully developed campground welcomes groups with everything needed for the perfect outdoor gathering – spacious picnic tables for shared meals under towering trees, crackling fire pits for evening storytelling, convenient vault toilets, and regular garbage collection that lets you focus on what matters most: quality time with friends and family.

Upper Soda Springs Campground, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546

Nestled in the heart of Reds Meadow Valley, Upper Soda Springs Campground offers an intimate escape where the melodic San Joaquin River becomes your constant companion. This tranquil retreat features 28 thoughtfully spaced campsites, each equipped with bear-proof lockers, picnic tables, and access to pristine pit toilets and fresh potable water. Adventure beckons from every direction—cast a line into the crystal-clear river waters, set out on scenic trails that wind through ancient forests, or venture to the nearby geological wonder of Devil's Postpile National Monument and the breathtaking cascade of Rainbow Falls.

13652 Highway 79 Julian, CA 92036

Saddle up for an unforgettable equestrian adventure at Los Vaqueros Group Horse Campground, where the spirit of the Old West meets modern camping comfort. This specialized horse-friendly retreat beckons riders and their four-legged companions with direct access to the legendary California Riding and Hiking Trail. Well-appointed horse corrals ensure your equine partners rest as comfortably as you do, making this the perfect basecamp for exploring miles of scenic trails that wind through California's stunning backcountry.

Doran Regional Park

Nestled along a stunning 2-mile stretch of sandy beach on Bodega Bay, Doran Regional Park Campground offers 112 year-round campsites where the Pacific Ocean meets coastal adventure. With five distinct camping zones ranging from harbor-side spots to tent-only areas, this family-friendly destination combines beach camping with exceptional access to fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. Whether you're launching your kayak into the bay, exploring tide pools along the rock jetty, or simply enjoying soft sand and mellow surf, Doran delivers a quintessential California coastal camping experience.

Mendocino National Forest

Tucked into a peaceful inlet at Lake Pillsbury's northwestern corner, this campground offers the perfect blend of lakeside tranquility and easy water access. Just a short stroll from your campsite, the shimmering waters of Mendocino National Forest's largest lake beckon with endless possibilities for adventure. Whether you're launching your boat from the nearby ramp at dawn, casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, or taking an afternoon swim, this scenic basecamp puts you at the heart of one of Northern California's most beloved recreational lakes.

17119 Avenue of the Giants, Weott CA 95571

Escape into the cathedral-like sanctuary of Hamilton Barn Environmental Campground, where primitive hike-in campsites nestle beneath towering old-growth redwoods. This hidden gem rewards adventurous souls with unparalleled privacy and profound solitude, offering a rare chance to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature's ancient rhythms.

CA-108, Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, California

Nestled along the scenic Sonora Pass on CA-108, Sonora Bridge Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 22 tranquil sites carved into a landscape of towering Jeffrey pines and aromatic sagebrush. Here, where the melodious West Walker River flows just steps away, anglers cast their lines into pristine waters while hikers set off to explore the dramatic high country. This rustic mountain retreat offers the perfect basecamp for your Sierra Nevada adventures, complete with firewood available on-site to fuel evening campfires under star-studded skies.