Sycamore Grove (Red Bluff) Campground

3.72

870 reviews

USDA FOREST SERVICE, GRINDSTONE RANGER DISTRICT, 1000 SALE LANE, RED BLUFF, CA 96080, USA

Quick Facts

300 ft

Price

$16 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

24 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens USDA Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026

Quick Facts

300 ft

Price

$16 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

24 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectricShowers

Opens USDA Forest Service site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

February 2026

Sycamore Grove (Red Bluff) Campground

$16.00 - $30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Peak season rates for standard non-electric sites range from $16 to $30. Electric sites are priced at $25 per night. Additional reservation fees of...

Standard Site Fee$16.00

Hookup Site Fee$25.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

530-527-2813

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What Campers Say

3.72

Mixed Reviews

Based on 870 reviews

227 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietcleanshade

"User reviews are mixed. Positive feedback highlights shaded sites, proximity to nature trails, and convenient access from I-5. Negative reviews frequently cite cleanliness issues, homeless individuals occupying sites, and unresponsive campground hosts."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

USDA FOREST SERVICE, GRINDSTONE RANGER DISTRICT, 1000 SALE LANE, RED BLUFF, CA 96080, USA

Sycamore Grove (Red Bluff) Campground

USDA FOREST SERVICE, GRINDSTONE RANGER DISTRICT, 1000 SALE LANE, RED BLUFF, CA 96080, USA

Driving directionsFrom Interstate 5 at Red Bluff, take Antelope Boulevard east for about a quarter-mile. Turn right (south) on Sale Lane continue for approximately 3 miles to the Red Bluff Recreation Area entrance gate. Continue on that road until you get to the Sacramento River Discovery Center than turn left. The campground entrance is approximately 600ft. down on the right.

Accessible year-round via paved roads. The campground is near Interstate 5, making it convenient for travelers. It has electronic gate access with codes provided to campers; however, users have reported issues with gates and bathroom codes.

Nearby places

Red Bluff (2 miles), Rolling Hills Casino (25 miles), Redding (34 miles), Lake Shasta (40 miles), Lassen Volcanic National Park (60 miles)

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Red Bluff, just 2 miles away. Additional amenities available in nearby towns like Redding and Rolling Hills Casino.

Best Time to Camp at Sycamore Grove (Red Bluff) Campground

Experience the full spectrum of California's Central Valley climate at Sycamore Grove, where each season paints the landscape in different hues. Summer arrives with intensity, bringing golden sunshine and temperatures that can soar above 100°F—perfect for cooling off in the Sacramento River's refreshing waters. Spring emerges as the campground's showpiece season, when wildflowers carpet the meadows and mild temperatures invite long days of exploration. Even winter offers its own charm, with crisp, clear days ideal for hiking when most crowds have dispersed. The region's characteristic dry climate means blue skies dominate year-round, making this an ideal basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts in any season.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

2.5 / 5

Summer brings extreme Central Valley heat; river activities help but heat is frequently mentioned.

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Fall is popular with mild weather and scenic views; many reviews favor fall visits.

Best

Spring(Mar-May)

4.0 / 5

Spring praised for mild weather and scenic wildflower/green season; popular in reviews.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.0 / 5

Open year-round; winter visits are possible though less frequent and reviews are limited.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 1 to December 31 annually.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open year-round.
Current Alerts: No official alerts provided, but user reviews mention issues with gate malfunctioning and unsanitary conditions in bathrooms and shower areas.

About Sycamore Grove (Red Bluff) Campground

Escape to Sycamore Grove Campground, where ancient oaks and towering sycamores create a natural cathedral along the banks of the mighty Sacramento River. Nestled within the expansive 488-acre Red Bluff Recreation Area at a gentle 300-foot elevation, this riverside haven beckons adventurers with its perfect blend of shaded sanctuaries and sun-dappled meadows. Whether you arrive with an RV or pitch a tent beneath the stars, you'll find yourself immersed in a landscape where trails wind through verdant groves and the river calls out for exploration. On clear days, the snow-capped peaks of Mount Lassen and Mount Shasta stand sentinel on the horizon, reminding visitors of nature's grand scale.

Sycamore Grove Campground supports tent camping, RV sites, and group camping. RV sites include water and electrical hookups but no sewer connections.

Historical SignificanceStep into a living piece of California's water management history at Sycamore Grove, where the remnants of the Red Bluff Diversion Dam and its historic fish ladder tell stories of human ingenuity and environmental adaptation. This engineering marvel once redirected the Sacramento River's flow, shaping both the landscape and the region's agricultural heritage. Today, these silent sentinels serve as fascinating landmarks for history buffs and provide unique photographic opportunities, while nature has reclaimed much of the surrounding area, creating a compelling blend of human history and wild restoration.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of California's Central Valley climate at Sycamore Grove, where each season paints the landscape in different hues. Summer arrives with intensity, bringing golden sunshine and temperatures that can soar above 100°F—perfect for cooling off in the Sacramento River's refreshing waters. Spring emerges as the campground's showpiece season, when wildflowers carpet the meadows and mild temperatures invite long days of exploration. Even winter offers its own charm, with crisp, clear days ideal for hiking when most crowds have dispersed. The region's characteristic dry climate means blue skies dominate year-round, making this an ideal basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts in any season.

ElevationPerched at a comfortable 300 feet above sea level, Sycamore Grove occupies a sweet spot in California's topography. This modest elevation delivers the best of both worlds: you'll enjoy the accessibility and mild climate of the valley floor while still catching cooling breezes that whisper down from the distant mountains. The gentle elevation means easier acclimatization for visitors from all altitudes and creates ideal conditions for year-round camping without the extreme temperature swings found at higher mountain campgrounds.

Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a tapestry of California ecosystems where golden grasslands meet ancient oak woodlands, all woven together by the life-giving ribbon of the Sacramento River. The campground's riparian environment creates a lush oasis where cottonwoods rustle in the breeze and wildlife thrives in the shadows of majestic sycamores. Three volcanic giants frame your views: the commanding presence of Mount Shasta to the north, the distinctive profile of Mount Lassen to the east, and the rugged Yolla Bolly Mountains completing the panoramic trilogy. This diverse landscape offers endless opportunities for photography, birdwatching, and simply soaking in the raw beauty of Northern California.

Geological RegionDiscover the remarkable convergence of ecosystems where the Northern Sacramento Valley meets the riparian zones of the nearby Mendocino National Forest. This unique geological position creates a fascinating transition zone where valley grasslands gradually give way to oak-studded hillsides and eventually to the dense forests beyond. The Sacramento River has carved its course through this landscape over millennia, creating fertile floodplains and the distinctive river terraces where the campground now sits. This dynamic environment showcases California's geological diversity, from ancient volcanic peaks visible in the distance to the ever-changing river channels that continue to shape the land today.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in available anytime before 10 PM when the gate closes.

Check-out

Check-out time is 11:00 AM.

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights. Stay up to 28 nights total per year.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Varies by site, but no specific maximum guest count mentioned.

Groups

Group sites accommodate large gatherings and feature covered picnic areas with BBQs. Specific guest limits are not mentioned.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground has a loop layout with both pull-through and back-in sites. Sites are mostly grassy with paved parking pads.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up sites may be available, but most bookings require online or phone reservations. Reports indicate challenges with securing sites on arrival.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee, and late cancellations also forfeit the first night's fee. Changes to reservations can be made for an added cost.

AccessibilityNo dedicated accessibility features for campers with disabilities are explicitly mentioned. One user noted 'There is no handicap accessibilities available anywhere.

Site SizeCampsites are generally spacious, with a mix of pull-through and back-in options accommodating RVs up to 44 ft.

PrivacySites lack significant privacy barriers, with some users describing them as closely spaced. Neighbors’ activity may impact tranquility.

Total Campsites24 campsites

Recommended SitesSites near the Sacramento River are preferred for scenic views. Pull-through sites accommodate larger RVs. Look for shaded sites during summer to mitigate heat.

Amenities available

Showers

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Flush toilets

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Activities at Sycamore Grove Campground include paved nature trails for hiking and biking, bird watching, river-based activities like fishing and boating, and wildlife observation. The campground is close to attractions like Lassen National Park.

HikingThe campground provides access to a 4-mile paved nature trail through grasslands, wetlands, and oak woodlands. Hiking reviews are generally positive, emphasizing scenic views of Mount Shasta and Lassen.

FishingFishing opportunities include Chinook, Steelhead, and Striped Bass in the Sacramento River. Multiple reviews highlight fishing as a notable feature.

BikingPaved trails are available for biking and are well-reviewed, with pleasant scenic experiences.

BoatingBoating activities include canoeing, kayaking, and jet skiing. The river offers accessible boat ramps.

Wildlife viewingBird watching is highly popular, with species like bald eagles, osprey, and seasonal migratory birds. Several users mentioned seeing deer and foxes.

Cultural and Educational ProgramsThe adjacent Discovery Center offers educational opportunities, although details are sparse in reviews.

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsSome reviews indicate concerns about transient populations and safety issues. Hot summer temperatures and mosquitoes are environmental hazards.

Active AlertsNo official alerts provided, but user reviews mention issues with gate malfunctioning and unsanitary conditions in bathrooms and shower areas.

Fire PolicyFires allowed only in designated fire pits. Purchase firewood locally to prevent pest issues.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are available in Red Bluff, which is 2 miles away, including hospitals and police stations.

Trash & RecyclingTrash facilities are available but often overflowing, as described in reviews. Recycling information is not mentioned.

Water FeaturesAdjacent to the Sacramento River, which offers recreational activities like fishing, boating, jet skiing, and swimming.

Camp HostCampground host presence varies. Some reviews report helpful hosts, while others indicate neglect and lack of responsiveness.

Weather at Sycamore Grove (Red Bluff) Campground

Reviews

3.7

870 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Sycamore Grove (Red Bluff) Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are mixed. Positive feedback highlights shaded sites, proximity to nature trails, and convenient access from I-5. Negative reviews frequently cite cleanliness issues, homeless individuals occupying sites, and unresponsive campground hosts.

Review Summaries

Based on 870 reviews

What Campers Love

'Great campground with plenty of shade to beat the heat of the Central Valley.' 'Lovely trails for walking and biking.' 'Campground is clean and quiet.'

Based on 870 reviews

Common Concerns

'Bathrooms were disgusting, with cobwebs and trash.' 'Homeless individuals occupying sites created safety concerns.' 'Campground host was rude and unhelpful.'

Based on 870 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring quarters for showers and your own soap and paper towels. Avoid camping near the restrooms due to odor issues. Arrive early to avoid gate complications.

Based on 870 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Spring and fall are popular due to mild weather and scenic views. Summer reviews often mention extreme heat. Winter visits are less frequent but still possible due to the year-round operation.

Based on 870 reviews

Camper Quotes

'Beautiful park, quiet and clean!' 'The river is gorgeous, but the bathrooms are terrible.' 'Bring your own soap for the bathrooms.'

Based on 870 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 15 is noted as excellent for large RVs. Sites near the restroom (e.g., 24) often have odor issues. Site 23 received complaints about occupants overstaying their reservation limits.

Based on 870 reviews

Accessibility Features

Negative comments highlight lack of accessibility features and broken bathroom fixtures. One reviewer noted, 'No handicap accessibilities available anywhere.'

Based on 870 reviews