Hirz Bay
3.5321 reviewsGilman Road Exit off of Interstate 5, Lakehead, CA 96051, USA
Hirz Bay
$30.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$30.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$80.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates range from $30 to $60 per night. First-come, first-served rates are also $30 to $60 per night. An additional non-refundable reservation fee of $10 applies for bookings made online or via the call center.
About this campground
Perched atop a scenic hilltop where manzanita and oak trees frame sweeping vistas of Shasta Lake's McCloud Arm, HIRZ BAY beckons adventurers seeking the perfect basecamp. Whether you're launching your boat at dawn, casting a line into crystalline waters, or setting off on trails that wind through fragrant forests, this campground serves as your gateway to endless recreation. Just a short drive away, the mystical Lake Shasta Caverns await exploration, adding a touch of underground wonder to your above-ground adventures.
Hirz Bay supports standard nonelectric campsites. Each site includes basic amenities, making it suitable for both tent and RV camping. Group camping is available as well, accommodating larger parties.
Historical SignificanceYou're camping in California's crown jewel - the sprawling Shasta-Trinity National Forest, the state's largest national forest and a testament to conservation legacy. The historic Hirz Mountain Lookout stands sentinel nearby, a reminder of the generations of fire watchers who once scanned these ridges, protecting the vast wilderness that now provides your weekend escape.
Weather and SeasonsSummer unfolds here with California's signature golden warmth, as temperatures dance between a comfortable 57°F in the early morning to a toasty 87°F by afternoon. Crystal-clear skies dominate the forecast, creating perfect conditions for stargazing and sunrise photography. While the Mediterranean climate brings mostly pleasant days, visitors should come prepared for temperature swings and keep watchful eyes out for the abundant poison oak that thrives in this environment.
ElevationAt 1,067 feet above sea level, this sweet spot elevation creates a unique microclimate where warm air rises from the lake below and cool breezes drift down from higher peaks. This perfect altitude nurtures a rich tapestry of vegetation and ensures comfortable camping conditions throughout the extended season.
Natural Features and SceneryNature paints with a bold brush here, where rugged mountains plunge dramatically toward Shasta Lake's 365 miles of intricate shoreline. Evergreen forests cascade down steep slopes, punctuated by the distinctive red bark of manzanita groves. On clear days, the snow-crowned summit of Mount Shasta dominates the northern horizon, its 14,179-foot peak serving as a majestic backdrop to your camping experience.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast Shasta-Trinity National Forest, this hilltop haven overlooks the serpentine waters of McCloud Arm, one of Shasta Lake's five magnificent branches. The surrounding landscape tells a story of volcanic legacy and ancient forests, where weathered oaks and twisted manzanitas cling to slopes carved by eons of geological drama. From your campsite, you'll witness the convergence of mountain, forest, and water that makes this region one of Northern California's most captivating destinations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo extensive details provided about accessibility features. Users have not mentioned specific accommodations for disabilities.
Sites SizeSites are described as 'very large' and 'spread out,' with some offering substantial privacy.
Sites PrivacyVaries by site. While some sites are noted for their privacy ('Super private campsites'), others are criticized for their lack of privacy ('Absolutely zero privacy').
Total Campsites60 campsites
Recommended CampsitesAvoid sites with broken bear lockers or high yellow jacket presence (e.g., Site 35). Site 46 is recommended for privacy and convenient access to water.
Best CampsitesGroup Site 35 has shade, good proximity to the bathrooms, and optimal layout for large parties. Site 46 offers privacy and quiet surroundings.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3PM
Check-out
2PM
Stay Limit
Reservations are subject to a rolling booking window and must adhere to check-in and check-out times.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Single sites allow one vehicle
- double sites allow two. A fee of $12 per night is charged for additional vehicles.
Groups
Group sites are available and are said to be 'perfectly set up, shaded, and close proximity to bathrooms and trash/recycle.' However, users have cited issues like 'poison oak everywhere' and broken bear lockers.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSites are spread across loops, with some featuring spacious areas and others compromised by fallen trees or debris.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 9th to September 11th during peak season; reservations begin June 24th.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov (online, app, or call center at 1-877-444-6777).
Walk-in AvailabilitySites are available on a first-come, first-served basis between September 12th and December 31st, priced at the same rates as peak season.
Cancellation PolicyRefund request must be submitted at least 14 days before arrival through recreation.gov or local management office. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee and incur a $10 cancellation fee. No refunds for naturally occurring events such as rain or extreme temperatures.
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
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Hirz Bay Campground offers a variety of recreational activities, including water sports, fishing, hiking, and boating. The Hirz Bay Trail, a 2-mile hike, is accessible from the campground. Water activities are a highlight, with users enjoying 'power and non-motorized boating,' as well as fishing for 'trout, catfish, Chinook salmon, crappie, and bass.'
Hiking
The 2-mile Hirz Bay Trail is accessible from the campground. However, no user reviews provide specific feedback on the trail.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are excellent, with Lake Shasta offering species such as trout, catfish, Chinook salmon, and bass.Boating
The campground is located near a boat launch (approximately 1 mile away), and there are marinas on Lake Shasta for watercraft rentals and fuel. Boating activities include both power and non-motorized options.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is common, with users frequently referencing bear activity, 'several deer walking through campsites,' and the presence of yellow jackets. A user noted, 'Bears visited all night every night.'Water Sports
Water skiing, power boating, and non-motorized boating like kayaking are popular activities. 'Lake was at 97% full,' making water activities enjoyable during certain times of the year.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires permitted only in designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsActive bear sightings are reported, with frequent visits due to improper trash disposal. Poison oak is abundant.
Active alertsBear activity and poison oak are noted hazards. Trash management issues have attracted wildlife.
Weather forecast
104
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 14%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.7 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
Nearest emergency services are in Redding, CA, approximately 30 miles away, including Shasta Regional Medical Center and local police services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 9th to September 11th
Trash and recyclingThe campground has bear-proof trash cans and recycling facilities. However, several users noted that trash cans were 'full and not being emptied,' which sometimes led to overflow and bear activity.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the McCloud Arm of Shasta Lake, with boat ramp access approximately 1 mile away.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include overflowing bear-proof trash cans, lack of toilet paper in bathrooms, and maintenance delays. Complaints about poorly managed sites, high yellow jacket activity, and broken bear boxes are common.
HostHosts are available during peak season but left early on certain occasions.
Campground Map
Gilman Road Exit off of Interstate 5, Lakehead, CA 96051, USA
Driving directionsFrom Redding, CA, remain on I-5 to Gilman Road. (From the north, take Salt Creek exit to Gilman Road). Take Gilman Road east for 11 miles to entrance of Hirz Bay.
The campground is accessible via Gilman Road, which is a paved road. No seasonal closures or significant terrain challenges are noted.Nearby places
Redding: Approx. 30 miles, 30-minute drive
Lakehead: Approx. 15 miles, 20-minute drive
Nearby supplies
Lakehead, CA (closest grocery, camping supplies, and fuel), approximately 15 miles away
additional options are available in Redding, CA (30 miles away).
Camper Reviews
3.5
21 reviews
Hirz Bay has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User sentiment about Hirz Bay Campground is mixed, with an average rating of 3.5. Positive reviews praise the scenic location and spacious campsites, while negative reviews highlight maintenance issues and problematic wildlife interactions.
Review Summaries
Based on 21 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently highlight the spacious sites ('very large and spread out'), scenic views ('beautiful views and water is so close'), and the availability of amenities like flush toilets and potable...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Users express frustration with maintenance issues, such as 'trash cans full and not being emptied,' 'no toilet paper in the bathrooms,' and 'broken bear lockers.' Wildlife issues were also a concern,...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own toilet paper and trash bags, as facilities may not be well-maintained. Be cautious of yellow jackets during meals, and store food securely to avoid attracting bears.
Based on 21 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews often highlight extreme heat ('106 temps'), while spring visits tend to note better weather conditions. Drought conditions can affect lake levels and the quality of water activities.
Based on 21 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Bears visited all night every night.' 2. 'Super private campsites. Beautiful views and water is so close.' 3. 'Bathrooms were not restocked since we arrived.' 4. 'Our family is planning to make...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #46 is noted for its good privacy and proximity to water and bathrooms. Site #21 received heavy criticism for being poorly maintained ('looked like a bulldozer came through'). Site #35 is...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features.
Based on 21 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews address pet-related experiences.
Based on 21 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025