Castle Crags Campground
4.0221 reviews20022 Castle Creek Road, Castella, CA 96017
Castle Crags Campground
$25.00 - $25.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
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
Camping fees are $25 per night for all sites. Additional fees include $8 per firewood bundle. Parking fees may be charged for extra vehicles.
About this campground
Tucked beneath towering granite spires just off Interstate 5, Castle Crags Campground offers 76 well-appointed campsites where modern comfort meets ancient wilderness. Each site comes equipped with picnic tables, secure food lockers, fire rings, and access to flush toilets and hot showers. While the distant hum of highway traffic reminds you civilization isn't far away, the majestic presence of Mount Shasta and miles of beckoning trails quickly transport you into California's wild heart.
Castle Crags Campground offers tent camping, RV sites, and an accessible campsite. Riverside Campground provides seasonal, first-come, first-served sites.
Historical SignificanceThese ancient granite towers have witnessed millennia of human history, serving as the ancestral homeland of the Okwanuchu Shasta people who found spiritual significance in these soaring peaks. The crags later became the dramatic backdrop for the 1855 Battle of Castle Crags, where Modoc, Wintu, and Shasta tribes made their last stand against encroaching settlers. Today, this California Historical Landmark stands as a testament to both natural grandeur and human resilience.
Weather and SeasonsCastle Crags experiences dramatic seasonal shifts that paint the landscape in ever-changing colors. Summer days can soar above 90°F, perfect for early morning hikes and afternoon swims, while winter nights plunge into the low 20s, transforming the granite peaks into a crystalline wonderland. Smart visitors pack layers year-round, ready for mountain weather's mercurial moods.
ElevationThe park's dramatic topography creates a vertical playground where campers can choose their altitude adventure. From the campground's moderate elevation, the landscape climbs skyward to Castle Dome's impressive 6,000-foot summit, offering everything from gentle riverside strolls to heart-pumping peak ascents.
Natural Features and SceneryA tapestry of montane hardwood-coniferous forests blankets the lower slopes, giving way to dramatic granite domes that pierce the sky like ancient sentinels. Along bubbling creeks, lush riparian corridors create emerald ribbons through the landscape. Keep your eyes peeled for the park's botanical treasures—the delicate Castle Crags harebell and rare Castle Crags ivesia bloom nowhere else on Earth. Black bears lumber through the underbrush, mountain lions patrol the ridgelines, and the distinctive call of pileated woodpeckers echoes through the forest canopy.
Geological RegionRising from the Cascade Sector of the Northern Buttes District, Castle Crags showcases nature's sculptural mastery. These glacier-polished granite spires, part of the greater Klamath Mountains uplift, tell a story written in stone over millions of years. The iconic Castle Dome and its neighboring peaks stand as monuments to the powerful forces that shaped Northern California, where montane forests meet riparian meadows in a stunning geological tapestry that continues to captivate geologists and casual observers alike.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes accessible features such as campsite #13 and accessible trails (Vista Point Trail and Root Creek Trail). Amenities like parking and restrooms have been designed for accessibility.
Sites SizeCampground sites are described as large, level, and able to accommodate trailers and camper vans. Users noted varying levels of site maintenance.
Sites PrivacySites vary in privacy, with upper loop sites offering more seclusion from highway noise compared to lower loop sites.
Total Campsites76 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid lower loop sites (1-19) due to proximity to I-5. Upper loop sites offer quieter options.
Best CampsitesMain sites: 14, 15, 26, 36, 40, 48, 50, 54, 64; Riverside sites: 4, 5, 7, 11
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 consecutive nights per reservation.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Eight people allowed per family campsite.
Groups
Group camping sites are not described.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of three loops: Lower (sites 1-19), Upper (39-64), and Riverside (1-12).
Open and Closed SeasonCastle Crags Campground is open year-round. From mid-September to mid-May, it operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online via www.parks.ca.gov or by calling (800) 444-7275.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is offered during off-peak seasons (mid-September to mid-May). Sites may remain open late into the evening due to lower crowds.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are applicable via the reservation system at www.parks.ca.gov or by calling (800) 444-7275.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers access to various recreational activities such as hiking, fishing, and nature viewing. Interpretive campfire programs are held during the summer, and picnicking areas are available along the Sacramento River.
Hiking
Castle Crags State Park features 28 miles of hiking trails, including the popular Crags Trail leading to Castle Dome, offering breathtaking views. Accessible trails like the Vista Point Trail and Root Creek Trail provide options for all skill levels.Climbing
Climbing 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.Fishing
Fishing is permitted in the Sacramento River and Castle Creek. Licensed anglers can catch and release trout. The river is within walking distance from the campground.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is popular, with species such as black bears, mountain lions, bobcats, and birds like pileated woodpeckers and osprey commonly seen in the park.Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretive campfire programs are held during the summer months, providing educational opportunities.Winter Activities
Winter camping is available. Specific winter activities, such as snowshoeing or ice fishing, are not mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not discussed in the source materials.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are allowed only in established fire rings. Firewood can be purchased at the entrance station, and gathering wood is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsHazards include proximity to I-5 and a nearby rail line, causing significant noise throughout the day and night. Wildlife like bears requires strict food storage practices.
Active alertsClosures are in effect for the Root Creek Basin trails until November 1, 2023, due to construction.
Weather forecast
98
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 14%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are reachable by calling 9-1-1. The nearest hospital is in Mount Shasta City (14 miles away). Police assistance and ranger station support are available within the park.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season dates run from mid-May through mid-September.
Trash and recyclingGarbage disposal points are conveniently located throughout the campground, with bear-proof lockers provided to prevent wildlife disturbances.
Proximity to water featuresThe Sacramento River flows through the park, providing fishing opportunities and scenic views.
Common complaintsPersistent and loud highway noise is the most common complaint, followed by train sounds and mosquitoes in summer.
HostThe campground hosts are described as friendly and helpful, offering assistance with maneuvering vehicles and providing information.
Campground Map
20022 Castle Creek Road, Castella, CA 96017
Driving directionsCastle Crags State Park is located 6 miles south of Dunsmuir or 48 miles north of Redding along I-5; exit 724. The entrance station is clearly marked.
Road access is paved and available year-round. However, the park is close to I-5, which contributes to noticeable noise at the campground. There is no seasonal closure for roads.Nearby places
Dunsmuir (6 miles, 10 min), Redding (48 miles, 45 min), Mount Shasta (14 miles, 20 min)
Nearby supplies
Groceries and camping supplies can be found in Dunsmuir (6 miles away). Firewood is available for purchase at the park entrance station.
Camper Reviews
4.0
21 reviews
Castle Crags Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Castle Crags Campground provide mixed feedback. Many appreciate the cleanliness, convenient amenities, and scenic hiking trails. However, proximity to I-5 and a nearby train line results in frequent complaints about noise, especially in the lower loops.
Review Summaries
Based on 21 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews highlight the clean amenities, large campsites, accessible features, and beautiful hiking trails. Hot showers and heated bathrooms are especially appreciated.
Based on 21 reviewsCommon Concerns
Road and train noise are frequently mentioned, particularly for sites in the lower loop. Bugs such as mosquitoes and ants, unleveled tent pads, and occasional maintenance issues are also cited.
Based on 21 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend staying in the upper loop for reduced noise, bringing bug spray for mosquitoes and ants, and avoiding tent camping in lower loop sites due to noise.
Based on 21 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer and fall reviews highlight mosquito prevalence and road noise as challenges but praise the hiking opportunities and clean facilities. Winter camping is quieter but may involve maneuvering...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful hikes. No view from anywhere lower down and also there’s a LOT of road noise.' - Hailey Toews
2. 'The amenities were clean and the shower was temporarily free with unlimited hot water.'...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites in the upper loop (e.g., 40, 48, 50, 54, 64) are preferred due to reduced noise and better maintenance. Sites in the lower loop (e.g., 13, 14-17) are criticized for proximity to the freeway and...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Campsite #13 is specifically noted as accessible, with nearby accessible restrooms and parking. Trails such as Vista Point and Root Creek are accessible and equipped with benches and interpretive...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times. User reviews do not highlight specific pet-friendly features but note compliance with leash policies.
Based on 21 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025