Mcbride Springs Campground

Star4.43
87 reviews
McBride Springs Campground, Mt. Shasta, CA

Quick Facts

5,000 ft

Price

$10/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Open seasonally from...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Mt. Shasta Ranger Station site

Official Website
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Mcbride Springs Campground
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
$10 per night for single campsites. Interagency Senior and Access Recreation Pass holders receive a 50% discount on single campsite fees only.
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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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Provider
(530) 926-4511
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What Campers Say

4.43

Recommended

Based on 87 reviews

77 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewslocationsites

"Reviewers praise the quiet, secluded nature of the campground, its convenient location near Mount Shasta and town, and the beautiful setting. Some users appreciate the cheap fee and spacious campsites, while pointing out the lack of running water and the occasional need for better vault toilet maintenance."

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Campground Map

McBride Springs Campground, Mt. Shasta, CA

Mcbride Springs Campground

McBride Springs Campground, Mt. Shasta, CA

Driving directionsFrom the Mt. Shasta Ranger Station, head east on Alma Street (towards the mountain). Cross the railroad tracks and turn right at the signal onto Mt. Shasta Blvd. Continue two blocks to the next signal at Lake Street and turn left. Stay on Lake Street. You will climb a hill and veer to the left. You are now on Everitt Memorial Highway. Stay on this road through the four way stop, past the school (on the right) and over the railroad tracks. You will leave town and begin driving up the mountain. In 4 miles there will be a sign for McBride Springs Campground.
Paved road access all the way from the highway to the campground loop. The loop is small and tight, which may pose challenges for large trailers or RVs.
Nearby places
Mt. Shasta (5 miles, approx. 10-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Services and supplies available within 5 miles in Mt. Shasta City.

Best Time to Camp at Mcbride Springs Campground

Mountain weather here dances between extremes, keeping every visit exciting and unique. Summer days might greet you with warm sunshine perfect for hiking, only to surprise you with a dusting of snow at higher elevations. As darkness falls, the mountain's cool breath sweeps down the slopes, transforming balmy afternoons into crisp nights that demand cozy sleeping bags and campfire stories. Smart campers pack layers and embrace the mountain's moody temperament as part of the adventure.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Campground busiest in summer; good hiking/approach to Mt. Shasta then.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.5 / 5

Fall visits noted as quieter with more availability, though weather can vary.

Spring(Mar-May)
Not recommended

Officially closed in spring (opens June 1); some review mentions but season closed.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed in winter (seasonal open June 1–Oct 31).

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Open Memorial Day through Labor Day, depending on snow conditions.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open seasonally from June 1 to October 31.
  • Current Alerts: None explicitly stated.

About Mcbride Springs Campground

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.
McBride Springs Campground is a small and primitive campground with limited amenities, making it suitable for tent camping and small RVs. Group camping and cabin accommodations are not available.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Open 24 hours/day.
Check-out
Not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
7-day stay limit at this site.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

McBride Springs Campground offers several outdoor activities, including day hiking, mountain biking, and mountain climbing. The location is particularly noted for its proximity to trails and the scenic beauty of Mount Shasta.
HikingDay hiking opportunities are available in the area. The campground serves as a good base camp for exploring nearby trailheads and the Mount Shasta Wilderness.
ClimbingClimbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.
BikingMountain biking is available, and a user mentioned proximity to the Gateway Trailhead.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential hazards include poison oak, uneven terrain, and wildlife presence. Campers should follow food storage rules due to bear activity.
Active AlertsNone explicitly stated.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
Food Storage RequiredSome sites reportedly have bear boxes for food storage, as stated in user reviews.

Weather at Mcbride Springs Campground

Reviews

4.4
87 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Mcbride Springs Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviewers praise the quiet, secluded nature of the campground, its convenient location near Mount Shasta and town, and the beautiful setting. Some users appreciate the cheap fee and spacious campsites, while pointing out the lack of running water and the occasional need for better vault toilet maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 87 reviews

What Campers Love

Campsites are well-spaced and private, with some offering views of Mount Shasta. Users highlighted the campground's proximity to town and trails, as well as the affordable $10-per-night fee. "The...
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Based on 87 reviews

Common Concerns

The most common complaints include the non-potable water, requiring boiling or filtering, and the occasional need for better maintenance of the vault toilets. One user mentioned, "Restrooms are...
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Based on 87 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Arrive early to secure a campsite, as it operates on a first-come, first-served basis and fills up quickly, even on weekdays. Bring potable water or a filtration system. Avoid sites 11 and 12 if you...
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Based on 87 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is busiest during the summer months, with sites filling up quickly. Reviewers visiting in the fall noted quieter stays and more availability.
Based on 87 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Great location near hikes and town. 12 first come - first serve sites that cost $10 a night." - Holly Mau. "Nice campground on Mount Shasta, beautiful setting. We stayed the full 7-day limit and...
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Based on 87 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 6: Mentioned as 'Perfect' with privacy and trees. Site 7: Praised for great views of Mount Shasta. Sites 11 and 12: Noted for full sun exposure and less shade.
Based on 87 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific accessibility reviews available beyond the mention of wheelchair-friendly vault toilets.
Based on 87 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be on a leash no longer than six feet. There are no additional pet-related features or reviews mentioned.
Based on 87 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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