Beehive Dispersed Area (Ca)

Star4.25
40 reviews
Summer Destination

Quick Facts

1,122 ft

Price

$12 - $17/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

Varies

Season

Open May 09, 2025, u...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Beehive Dispersed Area (Ca)
$12.00 - $17.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The campground charges $17 per night for standard nonelectric sites and $12 per day for picnic sites during peak season (May 09, 2025 - September 11,...
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Standard Site Fee$17.00
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

4.25

Satisfactory

Based on 40 reviews

40 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewslake

Some mention

noise

"The Beehive Dispersed Area has received mixed reviews. Positive feedback highlights its scenic beauty, open camping experience, and affordability, while concerns include limited amenities, poison oak, and cleanliness issues in some areas. Noise and safety concerns were also mentioned due to the presence of certain individuals."

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Campground Map

Beehive Dispersed Area (Ca)

40.8488, -122.4030

Driving directionsBeehive Dispersed Area is located 25 miles north of Redding from I-5. Going Northbound I-5 exit at the Lakeshore Drive/Antlers Road exit in the town of Lakehead, CA. Take a left at the stop sign from the ramp. Turn left on Lakeshore Dr for about 1 mile to the dispersed area entrance on the left.
The campground is accessible via the I-5 highway, with clear directions provided. General reviews state roads are car-accessible if drivers are careful, especially near the lake.
Nearby places
Redding (25 miles)
Nearby supplies
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Best Time to Camp at Beehive Dispersed Area (Ca)

From May 9th through September 11th, Beehive comes alive as campers flock to enjoy the perfect balance of warm days and cool nights. The season brings a delightful mix of sunny skies and occasional refreshing rainfall that keeps the landscape vibrant. When winter arrives, the area transforms into a serene retreat for hardy adventurers who embrace the pack-in/pack-out experience—and best of all, winter camping comes with no fees, making it an irresistible escape for budget-conscious nature lovers.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Peak season (May–Sep) popular for water activities though water access and dirt can be issues.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.0 / 5

After Sep 11 reservations end; pack-in/pack-out and fee-free but fewer services and limited access.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Spring has variable water levels and limited services until peak season; access can be inconsistent.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

Winter is pack-in with no amenities; reviewers note lack of services though fee-free camping appreciated.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 09, 2025 - September 11, 2025. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open May 09, 2025, until September 11, 2025, for reservable camping. Pack-in/pack-out from mid-September to mid-May with no fees.
  • Current Alerts: null

About Beehive Dispersed Area (Ca)

Escape to Beehive Dispersed Camping, where adventure meets tranquility along the pristine shores of Shasta Lake. This hidden gem offers the ultimate freedom camping experience with no designated sites—simply find your perfect spot along the water's edge and make it your own. During peak season, you'll find the convenience of portable toilets and trash service, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature without leaving a trace.
Beehive Dispersed Area is a primitive camping destination catering to campers who prefer minimal facilities and open-site selection. It offers a first-come, first-serve system.
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Stay Limit
14 days maximum during free camping.


Activities you can enjoy

A variety of water-based recreational activities are available at the Beehive Dispersed Area, including boating, jet skiing, water skiing, and fishing. The area is also noted for its proximity to scenic landscapes featuring Lake Shasta and Mount Shasta.
HikingAlthough hiking is not specifically highlighted as a major activity, the surrounding Shasta-Trinity National Forest offers extensive trails for exploration.
FishingThe area provides excellent fishing opportunities for trout, catfish, Chinook salmon, crappie, bluegill, white sturgeon, brown bullhead, and bass.
SwimmingSwimming is possible in Lake Shasta, though campers should be cautious about water levels and accessibility from the shoreline.
BoatingBoating activities, including informal mooring, are popular. A public boat ramp is located approximately 1 mile away at Sugarloaf, depending on water levels.
Wildlife viewingWildlife is abundant in the area, including opportunities to spot diverse fauna along the shores and in the forest.
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBeware of poison oak and steep drops to water levels.
Active Alertsnull
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Beehive Dispersed Area (Ca)

Reviews

4.3
40 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Beehive Dispersed Area (Ca) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The Beehive Dispersed Area has received mixed reviews. Positive feedback highlights its scenic beauty, open camping experience, and affordability, while concerns include limited amenities, poison oak, and cleanliness issues in some areas. Noise and safety concerns were also mentioned due to the presence of certain individuals.
Review Summaries
Based on 40 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praised the scenic surroundings with views of Lake Shasta and Mount Shasta, the affordability (including free camping in off-seasons), and the flexibility of dispersed camping. "Great spot....
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Based on 40 reviews

Common Concerns

Common issues include concerns about poison oak, proximity to water during low lake levels, and questionable safety due to the presence of individuals causing disturbances. "At 75% the water was down...
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Based on 40 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing sufficient water, as there is no potable source on-site. Gloves for handling firewood and precautions against poison oak are also advised. Avoid areas that seem unsafe due...
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Based on 40 reviews

Seasonal Insights

In summer, the site is popular for water-based activities despite concerns about dirt and water access. Winter reviews mention the lack of amenities but appreciate the fee-free camping experience.
Based on 40 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Dispersed camping is always nice as you can make your campsite whatever you want. The lake and mountains are beautiful." - Darrell Reasner. "Its free, kinda flat. Sunny open spots. Few spots under...
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Based on 40 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No specific site numbers are available as this is a dispersed camping area with no designated sites.
Based on 40 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific feedback regarding accessibility features or challenges was noted in the reviews.
Based on 40 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are not explicitly mentioned in the reviews, and information on policies or experiences related to pets is unavailable.
Based on 40 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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