Bushytail
4.3834 reviews14538 Wonderland Blvd, Redding, CA, 96019, USA
Bushytail
$30.00 - $110.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$75.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$110.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $30 for standard non-electric sites to $110 for group electric sites. Additional fees include a $10 reservation service fee and $12 per extra vehicle per night.
About this campground
Discover your perfect basecamp at Bushytail Campground, where towering Douglas firs and majestic Ponderosa pines create a natural cathedral along the shores of Trinity Lake. This versatile mountain retreat offers everything from intimate single sites to spacious quad configurations, making it a haven for solo adventurers, families seeking connection, and water sports enthusiasts ready to explore one of Northern California's most pristine alpine lakes.
Bushytail Campground offers a mix of camping styles to accommodate various preferences, including tent camping, RV camping, and group camping. The array of site sizes ensures flexibility for different group sizes and setups.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time with a short journey to nearby Weaverville, a captivating Gold Rush town that still echoes with the spirit of the 1850s. This National Register of Historic Places gem invites you to wander Victorian-era streets, explore authentic Chinese heritage at the Joss House State Historic Park, and discover the stories of fortune-seekers who shaped California's destiny. Your camping adventure becomes a gateway to living history.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic beauty of four distinct seasons at Bushytail. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for swimming and boating, with temperatures that invite afternoon siestas in the shade. Spring and fall wrap the campground in crisp mountain air and comfortable temperatures ideal for hiking and exploration. The peak camping season delivers reliably dry conditions, ensuring your outdoor adventures stay on track under California's famously clear skies.
ElevationPerched at 2,370 feet above sea level, Bushytail Campground offers the perfect elevation sweet spot. High enough to escape the valley heat and breathe crisp mountain air, yet comfortable enough to avoid altitude concerns, this lakeside sanctuary provides refreshing temperatures and stunning vistas of Trinity Lake spreading below like a sapphire jewel in the forest.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the breathtaking wilderness of Shasta-Trinity National Forest, where ancient forests meet alpine waters in perfect harmony. From your campsite, gaze through cathedral-like groves of Douglas fir and Ponderosa pine to catch glimpses of Trinity Lake's sparkling waters. The dramatic peaks of the Trinity Alps rise in the distance, creating a photographer's paradise and promising endless trails to explore through one of California's most spectacular landscapes.
Geological RegionWelcome to the crown jewel of the Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area, where geological wonders tell stories millions of years in the making. The campground sits amidst the dramatic landscape of Shasta-Trinity National Forest, where ancient Douglas firs and aromatic Ponderosa pines thrive in volcanic soils. The rugged Trinity Alps provide a stunning backdrop, while Trinity Lake fills a valley carved by time, creating a recreational paradise where mountain meets water in spectacular fashion.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides paved parking spurs and is relatively flat, which facilitates access for vehicles. However, specific details about ADA-compliant features are not provided.
Sites SizeSites at Bushytail vary in size, with single, double, triple, and quad sites available. Feedback from campers highlights spacious sites capable of accommodating large groups, including RVs. One reviewer stated, "The site is spacious (designed for RV drive-through) and nicely shielded by trees."
Sites PrivacyCampsites are described as spread out and well-shielded by trees, offering good privacy. A user review mentioned, "The campground is quite, and sites are well spread out," and another added, "All the sites are big."
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid site #6 due to slope issues. Group sites are ideal for large gatherings and offer better utilities.
Best CampsitesBest sites are spacious, well-shielded by trees, and offer water spigots. Highly-rated group sites have excellent amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
2:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Single sites accommodate small groups and families. Group sites offer more capacity.
Groups
Group sites are available and are described as spacious with ample space for multiple setups. One user review noted, "The group dining area was amazing. The campfire pit was also super well designed and placed."
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites include single, double, triple, and quad arrangements with paved spurs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 16 - September 11, 2025 for reservations; First-come-first-served from September 12 - October 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov online or call center.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable from September 12 to October 31, 2025. Site availability based on first-come-first-served.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations within 24 hours forfeit the first night’s fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Water hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Bushytail Campground is an ideal base for outdoor enthusiasts, offering access to Trinity Lake and nearby trails. The campground supports a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, swimming, and boating. Wildlife viewing is another popular pastime, with opportunities to observe deer, birds, and even black bears.
Hiking
Hikers can enjoy the 4-mile Trinity Lakeshore Trail, which starts at the nearby Clark Springs Campground, less than a mile away. This trail is noted for its scenic views and accessibility.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are abundant at Trinity Lake, where anglers can catch catfish, salmon, trout, and bass. The lake is described as a prime spot for fishing enthusiasts.Swimming
Swimming is encouraged at nearby Trinity Lake, which is a quick 3-minute drive from the campground. However, reviews mention that lake levels can vary, affecting swimming conditions.Boating
The Clark Springs Public Boat Ramp, less than a mile from the campground, facilitates boating activities, including sailing, water skiing, and general paddle sports.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include sightings of black bears, deer, bobcats, and various bird species. One camper cited seeing deer near the campsite, enhancing the natural experience.Water Sports
Water-based activities such as kayaking, sailing, and water skiing are recommended at Trinity Lake, making it a hotspot for aquatic recreation.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires permitted in designated rings. Firewood must be purchased locally.
- Quiet hours are Likely in effect, though not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsBlack bears, mountain lions, bobcats, and wasps are noted hazards. Overflowing trash can attract bears.
Weather forecast
96
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 18%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
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
Nearest emergency services are likely in Weaverville, which offers medical facilities and police services.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season is May 16, 2025, to September 11, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities appear to be inconsistent in maintenance. Some users noted overflowing trash bins and debris. One review stated, "The main trash dumpster was full to the brim with trash," while another remarked on the importance of maintaining cleanliness for bear safety.
Proximity to water featuresWithin minutes of Trinity Lake and Clark Springs Public Boat Ramp. 5-10 minute drive to swimming holes.
Common complaintsIssues include overflowing trash, broken hookups at site #1, lack of hot water in showers, and poorly designed campsite slopes (e.g., site #6).
HostThomas is praised as a friendly and helpful camp host. However, some reviews note periods without a host.
Campground Map
14538 Wonderland Blvd, Redding, CA, 96019, USA
Driving directionsFrom I-5, take 299 west to Weaverville. Then take State Highway 3 north for 16 miles. Turn right at Minersville/Bushytail, then turn left into campground.
Accessible via paved roads; road conditions do not appear to pose challenges during the camping season.Nearby places
Weaverville - 30 minutes
Redding - approximately 1 hour drive.
Nearby supplies
The Marina general store (5 minutes away) provides basic supplies
Weaverville has comprehensive groceries and other essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.4
34 reviews
Bushytail is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, users rate Bushytail Campground positively, with an average sentiment of 4.3 for general experiences and 4.1 specifically for camping. Positive comments frequently mention the cleanliness, spaciousness, and well-maintained facilities. However, there are mixed reviews regarding the availability of hot showers, cell service, and trash management.
Review Summaries
Based on 34 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and spacious campsites; flush toilets and potable water are appreciated; picturesque setting near Trinity Lake; friendly and helpful camp host; accessible activities like hiking and fishing.
Based on 34 reviewsCommon Concerns
Inconsistent hot water in showers; lack of cell service; overflowing trash bins; issues with site-specific features like uneven ground or non-functional hookups.
Based on 34 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring exact change for showers ($5) and extra trash bags in case bins are full. Consider visiting other swimming spots if lake levels are low. A shade tent is recommended for sunny days by the lake.
Based on 34 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight the warm weather and outdoor activities but caution about the heat in peak months. Spring and fall offer milder temperatures with fewer crowds, making them ideal seasons for...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Awesome, beautiful, clean, and quiet campground." - Sarah
"The group dining area was amazing. The campfire pit was super well-designed and placed." - Wesley M.
"Bring a flashlight for the...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 1: "The electricity hookup wasn't working. The showers were closed." - Sanchita B.
Site 6: "On a hillside that had such a slope that only one medium-sized tent could be set up." - Tom O.
Site 8:...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility in detail, though paved parking spurs and flat terrains are noted.
Based on 34 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025