Camp 4 Group Campground
4.7211 reviewsP.O. Box 1620, McCloud, CA, 96057, USA
Camp 4 Group Campground
$30.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$30.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group Standard Area Nonelectric: $30/day during peak season (May 05, 2025 - October 29, 2025). Additional fees apply for late cancellations and changes as per NRRS policies.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, Camp 4 Group Campground offers an authentic wilderness experience along the pristine Upper McCloud River. This secluded group site beckons adventurers seeking a back-to-basics camping experience, where towering pines whisper overhead and the river's gentle melody provides nature's soundtrack. Perfect for family reunions, scout troops, or friends gathering under the stars, this primitive campground serves as your gateway to exploring one of Northern California's most spectacular river corridors.
The campground supports group camping with accommodations for tents and RVs. Primitive camping is available with no water, electricity, or sewer.
Historical SignificanceJust a short drive away, the charming town of McCloud stands as a living testament to California's timber heritage. This beautifully preserved mill town invites visitors to step back in time, exploring historic buildings that once housed lumber workers and their families. Today, McCloud blends its rich industrial past with artistic galleries, local eateries, and cultural events that celebrate both the region's logging legacy and its evolution into a mountain arts community.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this mountain retreat into a sun-drenched paradise, with daytime temperatures climbing to a comfortable 91°F before cooling to a refreshing 63°F under starlit skies. The reliably clear weather creates perfect conditions for hiking, swimming, and campfire gatherings, though wise campers come prepared with insect repellent as mosquitoes join the evening festivities. These pristine summer days offer endless blue skies and that quintessential dry mountain air that makes every breath feel crisp and rejuvenating.
ElevationPerched within the magnificent Shasta-Trinity National Forest, this mountain campground offers that perfect high-country atmosphere where the air feels lighter and the stars shine brighter. The forested setting provides natural shelter and cooler temperatures, creating an ideal escape from valley heat while remaining accessible to outdoor adventurers of all experience levels.
Natural Features and SceneryAncient basalt lava flows create a dramatic backdrop to this enchanting campground, where geological history meets lush forest beauty. Dense stands of conifers provide shade and sanctuary for wildlife, while the nearby McCloud River steals the show with its trio of spectacular waterfalls cascading through sculpted rock formations. Each waterfall offers its own personality – from thundering curtains of water to delicate veils that dance in the afternoon light, creating endless opportunities for photography, contemplation, and pure natural wonder.
Geological RegionCamp 4 sits at the crossroads of geological wonder, where the volcanic legacy of the Cascade Mountains meets the ancient complexity of the Klamath Range. This unique position within the Shasta-Trinity National Forest showcases nature's diverse artistry – from dramatic basalt lava flows that tell stories of fiery origins to the varied ecological zones that support everything from delicate wildflowers to towering evergreens. It's a landscape shaped by fire and ice, time and water, creating a camping destination unlike any other in Northern California.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility information is not explicitly available. However, gates and rocks were added to secure the camping area from the day-use site, offering better organization.
Sites SizeThe campground can accommodate up to 30 guests, 10 tents, and 5 RVs or motor homes.
Sites PrivacyMixed reviews about privacy; one user noted feeling like they had the forest to themselves, but others complained about random people setting up camp when they were out.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring mosquito repellent and secure food to avoid critters.
Best CampsitesUser reviews suggest Camp 4 is spacious, tranquil, and ideally situated by the river.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum 7 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum capacity of 30 guests.
Groups
Group site accommodates up to 30 guests and 10 tents, with space for 5 RVs or motor homes.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle group campsite accommodating 10 vehicles, 10 tents, and 5 RVs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen mid-spring to mid-fall. Peak season is May 05, 2025 - October 29, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or call center.
Cancellation PolicyA $10.00 service fee applies to changes or cancellations. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before arrival) will forfeit the first night's fee. No-shows are charged $20 and 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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Camp 4 Group Campground offers a range of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, swimming, camping, biking, and wildlife viewing. "Ideal camping environment with a river to swim and kayak," wrote one reviewer. The McCloud River Falls Trail provides scenic views of three waterfalls and Mt. Shasta, and swimming holes at Middle and Lower Falls offer a refreshing experience. Fishing enthusiasts can find rainbow, brook, and McCloud River red band trout.
Hiking
The McCloud River Falls Trail allows for exploration of three waterfalls and vistas of Mt. Shasta. Trails along the river are well-loved by visitors.Fishing
Fishing is popular in the Upper McCloud River and Lower McCloud River, offering trout species like rainbow, brook, and McCloud River red band trout. Reviewers mentioned that catching fish may depend on proximity to stocking.Swimming
Swimming is available at Middle Falls and Lower Falls swimming holes, which offer cold but refreshing waters.Biking
Biking trails are available, and recent improvements were appreciated by reviewers, including clearing downed trees.Boating
Kayaking is a popular activity along the McCloud River.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is supported by the diverse habitats within the Shasta-Trinity National Forest.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are highlighted for this campground.Water Sports
Kayaking along the McCloud River is a notable non-motorized water sport.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire rings are provided; bring locally sourced firewood.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife risks include critters (keep food locked up). Mosquitoes are abundant, and water is cold for swimming.
Weather forecast
92
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 20%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
McCloud Ranger Station (9 miles).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 05, 2025 - October 29, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available, but visitors are expected to bring their own trash bags. Some users noted issues with day-use visitors improperly using trash cans for home garbage.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to McCloud River and its waterfalls.
Common complaintsMany mosquitoes; garbage disposal issues at the adjacent day-use site can cause overflow.
Campground Map
P.O. Box 1620, McCloud, CA, 96057, USA
Driving directionsFrom Redding or Mt. Shasta, take I-5 towards Hwy 89 McCloud. Get off I-5 at the McCloud/Hwy 89 Exit, from here the campground is approximately 20 miles over paved road. Head south on Hwy 89 past the town of McCloud towards Reno, Lassen Park. Turn right off Hwy 89 onto the River Loop Rd. (Fowlers/Lower Falls exit). Travel approximately 0.5 miles and take a left towards Middle and Upper Falls (Forest Service Road Number 40N44). Continue on this road until you come to a stop sign. Go through the stop sign and travel 1.5 miles till you see a sign for Camp 4 on your right. Turn, and continue down this gravel road for 0.5 miles to the campground.
Vehicle access is mostly on paved roads, but the last quarter mile is gravel. Suitable for cars and RVs.Nearby places
McCloud (9 miles, approximately 15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, such as groceries and fuel, are available in McCloud, the nearest town, 9 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.7
11 reviews
Camp 4 Group Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, users appreciate the spaciousness, scenic surroundings, and access to recreational activities at Camp 4 Group Campground. However, concerns about trash management, mosquitoes, and issues with nearby day-use visitors were noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the clean vault toilets, proximity to the river and waterfalls, and the central fire ring. "Beautiful, tranquil camp with an amazing central fire ring," noted one reviewer.
Based on 11 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users mentioned mosquitoes, lack of fish unless near stocking trucks, and day-use visitors filling trash cans with home garbage. "Beware LOTS of mosquitoes and no fish unless you are near a...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should bring bug repellent, lock away food to avoid critters, and be prepared for cold river waters. "Keep all food locked away, there are critters (Pepperoncini fans apparently, haha!),"...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are popular for swimming and hiking due to the warm weather, but weekends and holidays can become crowded. Mosquitoes are a noted issue during warmer months.
Based on 11 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Bathrooms were clean. Love, love, love the new gates and large rocks to 'secure' the camping area from the day use area." "Wake up and take a morning stroll through the campground and make sure to...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback highlights spacious group camping areas and proximity to the river. "It's a great site, right on the river with plenty of space."
Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility improvements, such as installing gates and rocks to separate the day-use area, were appreciated by users.
Based on 11 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but owners must clean up after them. No specific reviews from pet owners were noted.
Based on 11 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025