How much does camping cost at Headwaters Campground?

Camping fees at Headwaters Campground range from $35-$43/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

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

Headwaters Campground accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

What is the best time to visit Headwaters Campground?

Headwaters Campground is open April through October. 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 Headwaters Campground?

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

How many campsites does Headwaters Campground have?

Headwaters Campground has 2 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Headwaters Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Headwaters 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 Headwaters Campground?

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

What activities can I do at Headwaters Campground?

Popular activities at Headwaters Campground include Hiking, Fishing, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Headwaters Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Headwaters Campground?

Fire policies at Headwaters Campground: Fires are allowed only in established rings or stoves. Firewood must be purchased within the park.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.59

156 reviews

24898 Highway 89, Burney, CA 96013

Top 11% in CAFall

Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Featured in:Camping Near Lassen Volcanic National Park#2 Best Campgrounds California

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

3,100 ft

Price

$35 - $43/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

2 campsites

Season

Headwaters Campgroun...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

3,100 ft

Price

$35 - $43/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

2 campsites

Season

Headwaters Campgroun...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyShowers

Book on California State Parks Official Website

Get Directions

Headwaters Campground

$35.00 - $43.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Overnight Camping - $35 Per Night (Includes One Vehicle). Additional Overnight Camping Vehicles - $10 Per night.

Standard Site Fee$35.00

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Reserve California

Provider

530-335-2777interp@parks.ca.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

24898 Highway 89, Burney, CA 96013

Headwaters Campground

24898 Highway 89, Burney, CA 96013

Nearby places

Burney: 6 miles, Redding: 65 miles, Lassen Volcanic National Park: 45 miles

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be purchased in Burney, 6 miles away. The park has an on-site general store for basic necessities and ice cream.

Driving directionsThe park is northeast of Redding, six miles north of Highway 299 on Highway 89 near Burney. Visitors should expect traffic delays on State Highway 89 for up to an hour prior to entering the park during the busy season. Note that vehicles over 32 feet are prohibited, and parking along Highway 89 is illegal within a mile of the park in either direction.

The roads leading to the park are paved and accessible year-round. However, heavy traffic and potential closures due to capacity issues are common during peak visitation periods (April through October).

Weather at Headwaters Campground

Current alert: Trail closures are currently in effect for the Falls Loop Trail, Burney Creek Trail north of Rainbow Bridge, and PSEA Trail due to erosion from storm damage.

Best Time to Camp at Headwaters Campground

Fall delivers the most comfortable conditions. Daytime highs sit in the mid-50s to upper-60s°F, nights drop into the 30s and 40s. Trails are dry, wildlife viewing picks up, and the lake remains accessible for boating and fishing before winter snows arrive. Summer warms to around 85°F. Winter averages 20°F with nearly 28 inches of rain between November and March. Weekdays see lighter crowds than summer holidays.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 11% in CA

Fall cited as most comfortable: cool days, dry trails and increased wildlife viewing.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April through October. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Headwaters Campground operates seasonally, with first-come, first-served availability between Labor Day and mid-May.

About Headwaters Campground

Headwaters Campground sits within McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park at 3,100 feet elevation, where the Cascade Range meets the Modoc Plateau. This primitive walk-in area has just two accessible sites and a vault restroom. Fees run $35-43 per night.

Headwaters Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including standard family sites, walk-in primitive sites, and cabins.

Historical Significance

The falls carry the name of Samuel Burney, an early settler. In the 1920s, the McArthur family donated the land to California for preservation. The Ilmawi band of the Pit River Tribe has occupied this landscape for generations.

Weather and SeasonsFall delivers the most comfortable conditions. Daytime highs sit in the mid-50s to upper-60s°F, nights drop into the 30s and 40s. Trails are dry, wildlife viewing picks up, and the lake remains accessible for boating and fishing before winter snows arrive. Summer warms to around 85°F. Winter averages 20°F with nearly 28 inches of rain between November and March. Weekdays see lighter crowds than summer holidays.

ElevationPerched at 3,100 feet above sea level, Headwaters Campground offers a mountain retreat where the air is crisp and clean, and the night sky reveals a dazzling display of stars unobscured by city lights. This elevation brings refreshingly cool evenings that invite cozy campfire gatherings, while daytime temperatures remain comfortable for exploration. From various vantage points throughout the campground, dramatic vistas unfold across the volcanic landscape, reminding visitors of the powerful geological forces that shaped this remarkable terrain.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies volcanic terrain shaped by millions of years of basalt flows. Underground water reservoirs move through porous volcanic rock, feeding Burney Falls. A 129-foot cascade that runs year-round thanks to these subterranean flows. Lake Britton lies nearby. The landscape is an oddity: a wet oasis created by hidden aquifers bursting through ancient lava beds. Evergreen forests surround the area, and bald eagles, peregrine falcons, and seasonal swift migrations pass overhead.

Geological RegionWelcome to the dramatic intersection of the Cascade Range and Modoc Plateau, where millions of years of volcanic activity have sculpted a landscape unlike anywhere else in California. Beneath your feet lies ancient basalt, testimony to the fiery forces that once dominated this region. But the true magic happens underground, where vast water reservoirs flow through porous volcanic rock, emerging in spectacular fashion at springs and waterfalls throughout the park. This unique geology creates an oasis in the midst of volcanic terrain, where underground rivers burst forth to create the year-round flow of Burney Falls – a 129-foot cascade that President Theodore Roosevelt once called the 'eighth wonder of the world.'

Scenic ViewsVisitors can enjoy views of Burney Falls, evergreen forests, and volcanic basalt formations.

Lodging & AccommodationsCabins are available but minimalistic, with no electricity or running water. They include padded bunk beds, mosquito nets, and heating during colder months. "The cabins are empty spaces with a couple of bunk beds but with mats instead of mattresses," one user noted. Flush toilets and showers are nearby.

Programs & ActivitiesThe park hosts Heritage Day on Columbus Day weekend, featuring late-19th-century crafts and activities. The visitor center also offers interpretive exhibits and programs.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in time is 2 PM.

Check-out

Check-out time is 12 PM.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay is six months in advance, with a reservation window of six months from the current booking date.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Amaximum of eight people is allowed per family campsite.

Groups

Group site details are not provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutPrimitive walk-in area with two accessible campsites and a vault restroom. Reviews mention spacious sites, though layout specifics aren't detailed.

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

Walk-in AvailabilityCampsites are typically available on a first-come, first-served basis between Labor Day and mid-May annually.

Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled, but specific rules or penalties are not mentioned.

AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible campsites with tables and fire rings, shared water spigots, and accessible vault toilets. The nearby Headwaters Trail is also accessible.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size but are generally spacious, as per user reviews: "Tons of space in each campsite.

PrivacyPrivacy levels are not explicitly mentioned in the reviews or authoritative sources.

Total Campsites2 campsites

Recommended SitesThe campground offers accessible campsites with tables, fire rings, and shared water spigots. Vault toilets are available.

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Amenities available

The Headwaters Campground at McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park offers a mix of amenities aimed at providing basic yet accessible camping facilities. "The showers take tokens, 4 tokens for $1.00. Each token buys you 2 minutes," according to user reviews, making them affordable and efficient. Flush toilets and vault toilets are available, described as clean and well-maintained by several users: "Bathrooms always have toilet paper and are cleaned every morning and in the middle of the day." Potable water is accessible via shared water spigots, noted as convenient for campers. Accessible features include tables and fire rings for disabled guests.

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The campground at McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park provides a range of recreational activities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, and fishing. "There are 6 miles of well-groomed trails surrounding it," one user shared. Kayaks and paddle boats are available for rent at Lake Britton for $25/hour, adding to the water sport opportunities. The falls themselves offer a visually stunning experience: "The falls were absolutely spectacular! Took my breath away."

Hiking

Fishing

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Beach activities

Cultural and Educational Programs

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential dangers include high wildfire risk during summers and limited parking during peak seasons. Seasonal erosion impacts trails.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyFires are allowed only in established rings or stoves. Firewood must be purchased within the park.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are from 10 PM to 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are available in Burney, 6 miles away, including hospitals and police stations.

Trash & RecyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not described in detail, but several reviews emphasize clean and well-maintained sites and bathrooms.

Water FeaturesBurney Creek flows nearby, and Lake Britton is a short walk or drive away, offering fishing and boating opportunities.

Camp HostCamp hosts are present and provide assistance, such as answering questions and maintaining campground cleanliness.

Cell CoverageCell phone service is not explicitly discussed in the provided information or user reviews.

Trip Planning Tools

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.6

156 reviews

Top-Rated

Headwaters Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews largely praise the campground for its cleanliness, range of activities, and access to Burney Falls. "Amazing campground. Clean facilities, nice neighbors and huge camp sites," wrote one user. However, complaints include occasional noise and unhelpful staff.

Review Summaries

Based on 156 reviews

What Campers Love

Cleanliness of facilities and availability of amenities like showers and cabins. "Bathrooms are nice and cleaned daily," wrote one user. "Great family campground," another noted.

Based on 156 reviews

Common Concerns

Reports of noise at night, especially during peak summer months. "The cabin was really hot...but in July that's to be expected," wrote one user. Others cited noise from neighboring RVs.

Based on 156 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Specific site reviews are unavailable.

Based on 156 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring dollar bills for shower tokens. Visit during weekdays to avoid crowds. "Go on a weekday and early to beat the crowd," one user recommended.

Based on 156 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Fall reviews highlight the serene atmosphere and enjoyable hiking conditions. Summer reviews cite crowding and heat as drawbacks.

Based on 156 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The falls were absolutely spectacular! Took my breath away." "Bathrooms always have toilet paper and are cleaned every morning." "Kayaks available to rent along with paddle boats for $25 an hour."

Based on 156 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible sites and trails are well-received. "Accessible vault restroom is also provided" at the walk-in sites.

Based on 156 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed in the campground but restricted on trails and other areas. "Dogs allowed only in parking lot, paved roadway, campgrounds," according to authoritative sources.

Based on 156 reviews

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Go if

Wildlife watchers and anglers get the most out of this place: bald eagles, migratory black swifts over the falls, and brook and rainbow trout in Burney Creek and Lake Britton. Fall weekdays are the sweet spot, with comfortable temps, dry trails, and thinner crowds. The accessible

Skip if

Only two sites means availability is tight and any noisy neighbor ruins the whole loop. Several reviewers flag summer nights as loud, especially with RVs nearby. Dogs can't go on trails, so if your dog needs a hike, this setup frustrates. The Falls Loop and Burney Creek Trail nor

Nearby Campgrounds

24898 Highway 89, Burney, CA 96013

Rim Campground sits at 2,800 feet elevation in McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park, offering 128 sites for tent and RV camping plus cabin lodging. Sites run $14-43 per night and fill quickly during peak season. The campground provides direct access to Burney Falls trails and Lake Britton shoreline, with clean facilities that consistently earn praise from campers.