Castle Lake Campground

About

Castle Lake Campground offers a quiet, primitive camping experience in the Mount Shasta area of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. The 6-site campground sits at 5,400 feet elevation in a dense mixed conifer forest, just a quarter mile below Castle Lake, a pristine glacial cirque lake known for its granite cliffs and crystal-clear water. Each site has a concrete picnic table and fire ring. Vault toilets are provided, but there is no potable water, so campers must bring their own supply. The campground is free and operates on a first-come, first-served basis with a 3-night stay limit. Sites are not suitable for large vehicles or trailers. Castle Lake is one of the most popular destinations in the Mount Shasta area, offering hiking, swimming, fishing, and flat-water kayaking. The west shore features an easy Shoreline Trail with public access to the water. Note that overnight camping is prohibited within a half mile of Castle Lake except in this campground, and traditional trails to Heart Lake cross private property with no legal access.

Directions

From Mt. Shasta city, head west on Lake Street over the freeway to the stop sign at Old Stage Road. Turn left (south) and drive 1/4 mile to a fork in the road. Stay right and continue on W.A. Barr Road. In 2 miles, cross the dam at Lake Siskiyou and turn left at the Castle Lake turnoff. Drive the paved road 7 miles to the lake. Castle Lake Campground is located 1/4 mile below the lake on the left (east) side of the road.