How much does camping cost at Nelson Point?

Camping fees at Nelson Point are $23 - $120/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Nelson Point first-come first-served or reservation?

Nelson Point 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.

Can I see photos of campsites at Nelson Point before I book?

Yes! Nelson Point has 5 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Nelson Point?

Nelson Point is open May 08 to September 13. 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 Nelson Point?

Nelson Point does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Nelson Point?

Fire policies at Nelson Point: Don't Move Firewood: Protect California's forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site. For more information visit firewood.ca.gov.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Nelson Point have?

Nelson Point has 75 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Nelson Point?

Pets are not allowed at Nelson Point. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Nelson Point?

Nelson Point offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Nelson Point?

Popular activities at Nelson Point include Fishing, Boating. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Nelson Point

3.88

38 reviews

Gilman Road/ Gregory Creek road to Conflict Road West side of Interstate 5

Summer Destination

Featured in:Fall Camping California

Quick Facts

1,067 ft

Price

$23 - $120/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

75 campsites

Season

Nelson Point is open...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Shasta Recreation Company Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

1,067 ft

Price

$23 - $120/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

75 campsites

Season

Nelson Point is open...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Shasta Recreation Company Official Website

Get Directions

Nelson Point

$23.00 - $120.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $120.00; MANAGEMENT: $110.00; Scan & Pay Single: $23.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9...

Group Site Fee$120.00

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Provider

530-275-8113

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Campground Map

Gilman Road/ Gregory Creek road to Conflict Road West side of Interstate 5

Nelson Point

Gilman Road/ Gregory Creek road to Conflict Road West side of Interstate 5

Nearby places

Redding (distance not specified), Lakehead (distance not specified)

Weather at Nelson Point

Current alerts(11)

Average maximum trailer size is 16 feet
Check-in time 3 P.M. and Check-out time 12 P.M.
Click here for more information on this campground
Click here to learn more about the Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Best Time to Camp at Nelson Point

Best season: summer. Summer offers the warmest, most reliable weather for boating and fishing on Lake Shasta, with daytime highs commonly in the mid-80s to low-90s F and nights in the 50s–60s, making water-based activities comfortable and safe. Boat ramp access (Antlers Public Boat Ramp nearby) and most campground services are fully available from mid-May through mid-September, and water levels are typically favorable for exploring coves and shoreline. Expect the busiest weekends in July and August—great for social, Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: December, January, February, March

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Described as best season; warm, reliable weather ideal for boating and fishing; peak season May–Sept.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 08 to September 13. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Nelson Point is open for walk-ins April 1-May 13. The campground is available for group rental on a reservation basis from May 13-September 11.

About Nelson Point

Nelson Point sits on Lake Shasta's shoreline in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest near Lakehead, operated by Shasta Recreation Company. This mid-sized campground offers tent and group sites with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables in the Sierra foothills. Campers fish and boat from the lake, with a public boat ramp nearby.

The campground is designed to cater primarily to group camping, with a strong focus on basic amenities and outdoor recreation. Individual family camping during the peak season is restricted unless the entire campground is reserved.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the warmest, most reliable weather for boating and fishing on Lake Shasta, with daytime highs commonly in the mid-80s to low-90s F and nights in the 50s–60s, making water-based activities comfortable and safe. Boat ramp access (Antlers Public Boat Ramp nearby) and most campground services are fully available from mid-May through mid-September, and water levels are typically favorable for exploring coves and shoreline. Expect the busiest weekends in July and August—great for social, Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: December, January, February, March

Elevation1067 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies shoreline on Lake Shasta, which has 365 miles of total shoreline. Steep mountainsides covered in manzanita and evergreen forest rise from the water's edge. Mount Shasta, a potentially active volcano at 14,179 feet, appears on the horizon on clear days. The elevation here sits at 1,067 feet.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodging accommodations at this campground.

Programs & ActivitiesNo details about cultural or educational programs are provided.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 75 guests for group reservation sites.

Groups

The campground can accommodate groups of up to 75 people. Group rentals are available on a reservation basis from May 13 to September 11.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

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

Site SizeThe campsites include tent pads but there is no detailed information about the size of the sites.

PrivacyMixed reviews indicate a lack of privacy at some sites, with reports of visitors experiencing interruptions by strangers.

Total Campsites75 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose sites with proximity to desired features like vault toilets or bear boxes, but privacy concerns should be considered.

Need help booking Nelson Point?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Vault toilets are provided, but there is no drinking water.

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

I manage this campground

Things to do at Nelson Point

The campground provides access to various recreational activities centered around Shasta Lake. Activities include power and non-motorized boating, fishing, and water skiing. The nearby public boat ramp is located 6 miles away at Antlers, and lakeside resorts offer boat rentals and fuel. Wildlife viewing and exploring the lake's diverse shoreline, punctuated by steep mountains and manzanita, are also popular.

Fishing4.0/5

On Lake Shasta; anglers target trout, catfish, Chinook, crappie, sturgeon; fishing is described as popular.

Boating4.0/5

Boating (power & non-motorized) is noted as popular; nearby public boat ramp and lakeside access.

Water Sports3.5/5

Non-motorized boating is called out; lakeshore access should support kayaking though launch details are sparse.

Winter Activities

Signature experiences

Stargazing3.5/5Sierra foothills lakeside setting likely offers good skies, but group use and interruptions may limit quiet.

Photography4.0/5Lake, steep forested slopes and occasional Mount Shasta views offer strong photographic opportunities.

Wildlife viewing3.5/5Diverse landscape (manzanita/evergreen forest + lake) supports wildlife viewing opportunities.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available; only vault toilets are provided.

Food Storage RequiredBear boxes are provided for food storage, ensuring safety from wildlife.

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).

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

Rate Nelson Point

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From Booking Sources

3.9

38 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Nelson Point has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews about Nelson Point Campground are mixed, with some highlighting its suitability for group camping and cleanliness, while others note concerns about privacy and interruptions.

Review Summaries

Based on 38 reviews

What Campers Love

Several users praised the campground as a 'great group camping spot' with 'clean facilities and close to water.'

Based on 38 reviews

Common Concerns

There are complaints about lack of privacy, including interruptions by strangers and uninvited visitors entering the campground. One user recounted an incident involving police intervention due to an...

Based on 38 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers should prepare for the absence of drinking water and ensure they bring sufficient supplies. Group reservation holders should contact the Shasta Recreation Office at least a week prior to...

Based on 38 reviews

Camper Quotes

Quotes include: 'Great group camping spot. Clean facilities and close to water.' and 'We were constantly interrupted by strangers.'

Based on 38 reviews

Accessibility Features

No accessibility-specific reviews are available.

Based on 38 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews about pet policies or experiences are available.

Based on 38 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Nelson Point

$23.00 - $120.00 / night

Campsite Fees

GROUP STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $120.00; MANAGEMENT: $110.00; Scan & Pay Single: $23.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9...

Group Site Fee$120.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

530-275-8113

Go if

You want lakefront group camping with fishing and boating access during the summer season.

Skip if

You need privacy guarantees or prefer campgrounds with controlled access to prevent unauthorized visitors.

Nearby Campgrounds

Frequently Visited

4.0

(27)

Salt Creek Dispersed Area (Ca)

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Salt Creek Dispersed Area sits in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest foothills near Redding, offering primitive camping with access to boating, fishing, and swimming. Managed by the Forest Service, this budget-friendly spot provides fire rings and allows pets but has no designated sites or hookups. Visitors enjoy the quiet natural setting and wildlife, though train and ATV noise can carry into the evening.

Nelson Point

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

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Ask Camp Sage about Nelson Point

Campground Map

Weather at Nelson Point

Current alerts(11)

Best Time to Camp at Nelson Point

Planning Tips

About Nelson Point

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Nelson Point?

Amenities available

Things to do at Nelson Point

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns

Get Notified When Available

Go if

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Overview

Explore related camping guides

Ask Camp Sage about Nelson Point

Current alerts(11)

Best Time to Camp at Nelson Point

Planning Tips

Best Campsites

Reserving a campsite

Need help booking Nelson Point?

Amenities available

Things to do at Nelson Point

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns