The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) oversees 15 million acres of public lands in California. The agency's responsibilities include conserving natural, recreational, and historical resources for future generations. You can use these lands to hike, fish, boat, and camp in the Golden State. Many Developed Bureau of Land Management campgrounds offer amenities like potable water and picnic tables. You have to pay a small fee to stay at some of these sites, which is used to maintain the facilities. Free camping is available in BLM-dispersed camping areas, where there are often places to park your RV. At these sites, the agency asks that you use existing camping spots and fire rings if available. In California, you must get a campfire permit to have a fire at your camping site. They are available online, and there is no charge. Shasta Campground is situated within Shasta-Trinity National Forest, offering nature enthusiasts a delightful retreat amidst breathtaking surroundings. It is also a popular camping spot for off-roading enthusiasts because the Chappie-Shasta OHV area is adjacent to this site. While staying at this campground, you can enjoy views of Mt. Shasta and the Trinity Alps in the distance. Shasta Lake and Shasta Dam are nearby. Additionally, Lassen Volcanic National Park is about an hour's drive to the east.
Sacramental River Trail stretches along the banks of the Sacramento River. The trail has an elevation gain of about 160 feet and is excellent for hiking, birdwatching, and wildlife viewing. Length: 6 miles Intensity: Easy
Yana Trail is a pet-friendly route that takes about 3 hours to complete. Along the trail, visitors can enjoy the scenic views of Lassen Peak, which has an elevation of about 10,456 feet. Other than hiking, guests can also embark on horseback riding and mountain biking on this trail. Length: 6 miles Intensity: Moderate
Iron Canyon Trail is a loop trail with lush greenery. It is a popular hiking spot for bird enthusiasts, featuring over 72 bird species, including hummingbirds, quails, and turkey vultures. Length: 4 miles Intensity: Easy
Chamise Peak is an out-and-back trail located about 20 miles from Shasta Campground. The route offers a striking display of rock formations and is excellent for mountain biking and wildlife viewing. Length: 11 miles Intensity: Moderate
Shasta Lake is an excellent destination if you are a fishing or boating enthusiast. Rainbow trout are common in the lake, but anglers can also catch brown bullhead, rock bass, yellow perch, smallmouth bass, and black crappie. Launch your kayak or canoe from the Centimudi boat launch, less than a mile from the campground. It has a parking lot, restrooms, and a picnic area.
Castle Crags State Park is about 54 miles from Shasta Campground. On the eastern side of the park is Castle Dome, a granite formation that is one of the main climbing spots in the area. The rock has cracks and edges that make it straightforward for guests to navigate when rock climbing. Indian Springs Wall is another popular climbing spot in Castle Crags State Park. It is nestled in a serene forested area and features moderately difficult climbing routes. If you are an experienced climber, Six Toe Rock is probably the best stop at Castle Crags State Park. Six Toe Rock has an elevation gain of about 4,500 feet and features three buttresses. However, climbing is only allowed on the southeast face of the cliff face.
Visiting Shasta Campground allows you to enjoy the natural beauty and serene atmosphere of Shasta-Trinity National Forest. The forest spans over two million acres and sustains diverse ecosystems. It is a sanctuary for wildlife, including black bears, mountain lions, mule deer, raccoons, coyotes, and foxes.
There are several picnic areas on the shores of Shasta Lake where you can enjoy views of the water while you dine. The Fisherman's Point Day Use Area has tables in the shade, restrooms, and drinking water.
Shasta Campground has 27 paved sites suitable for RVs. You'll also find restrooms and drinking water, but no hookups. If you want more amenities than BLM RV camping offers at this site, there are other options in the area. Boulder Creek RV Resort is about 10 miles away and offers laundry facilities, full hookups, and a swimming pool.
Sacramento River Bend Area is a primitive Bureau of Land Management free camping spot about 28 miles from Shasta Campground. Visitors can camp at various sites, including Massacre Flat, Jelly's Ferry, and Bass Pond. If you are looking for more options, search for "BLM camping near me" on your smartphone or tablet once you arrive in the area.
One of the most important things to consider when planning a trip to Shasta Campground is carrying the right outdoor gear and recreation equipment to enjoy watersports and hiking in the area. Additionally, pack essentials like a well-stocked first aid kit containing bandages, antiseptic ointment, and tweezers. Bringing along insect repellent, a wide-brimmed hat, and sunscreen will make your experience more pleasant if you plan to fish or boat in the lake. BLM camping in this area of California allows you to get away from the hubbub of commercial campgrounds and is a low-cost way to enjoy your RV trip. However, the lack of full hookups and other amenities means you must carefully plan your vacation. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.
BLM regulations require visitors to strive to leave their campsite as they found it or better. This means properly disposing of any waste, whether food scraps or packaging. In addition, visitors should stick to established paths to avoid trampling delicate vegetation and prevent soil erosion. It is also essential that you respect wildlife by maintaining your distance. Review the "Leave No Trace" guidelines if your unfamiliar with them before your visit.
From Redding, drive north on I-5 for about 10 miles to Shasta Dam Boulevard to the dam. Cross the dam, turn left, and travel for about two miles to arrive at the campground. GPS Coordinates: 40.715967, -122.432815 Ready to visit Shasta Campground? An RV Rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night, where you'll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here's a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
