Gumboot Campground

Star4.39
40 reviews
Scenic ViewsSummer Destination

Quick Facts

5,994 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Opens June, closes b...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens US Forest Service site

Official Website
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Gumboot Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fee is charged for any camping site or amenity.
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

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What Campers Say

4.39

Recommended

Based on 40 reviews

38 Google reviews

Most mentioned

sceneryquietlake

"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."

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Campground Map

Gumboot Campground

41.2133, -122.5094

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.

Best Time to Camp at Gumboot Campground

The 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.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Opens in June; summer described as ideal with cloudless skies and prime lakeside conditions.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Peak season extends into mid-Oct; reviewers call summer and fall 'great' and 'quiet and relaxing.'

Spring(Mar-May)
Not recommended

Opens in June; spring likely snowbound and not an operational season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Officially closes by Nov 1 due to snow; not operating in winter.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: June to mid-October, depending on weather and snow conditions.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Opens June, closes by November 1st based on snow conditions.

About Gumboot 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.
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Stay Limit
Camping area open seasonally from June to October, depending on snow conditions.

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.
HikingThe 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.
FishingFishing 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.
SwimmingThe lake is suitable for swimming and floating. One user described it as a 'great place to swim or just float around.'
BoatingNon-motorized boating is allowed, making it a tranquil spot for activities such as kayaking or canoeing.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsWildlife, including lions, bears, and potentially Bigfoot, as mentioned in user reviews. No cell service is available, and bugs are prevalent during peak camping seasons.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Gumboot Campground

Reviews

4.4
40 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
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 40 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...
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Based on 40 reviews

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...
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Based on 40 reviews

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...
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Based on 40 reviews

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...
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Based on 40 reviews

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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Based on 40 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

The campground reportedly has at least 6 undeveloped sites, as well as dispersed camping opportunities nearby.
Based on 40 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific accessibility reviews are available.
Based on 40 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No user reviews specifically address pet policies or experiences.
Based on 40 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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