Hirz Bay Group 2
3.708 reviewsGilman Road Exit off of Interstate 5
Hirz Bay Group 2
$140.00 - $140.00 / 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$140.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Facility rates are set at $140 per night for group standard nonelectric sites during peak season (April 1 - September 30, 2025). Additional non-refundable $10 reservation fee applies for call center or online bookings.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine McCloud Arm of Shasta Lake, Hirz Bay Group 2 Campground offers an intimate escape for large gatherings of up to 80 people. This secluded sanctuary combines the best of lakeside living with endless recreational opportunities, from early morning fishing expeditions to sunset paddling adventures. Whether you're planning a family reunion, corporate retreat, or celebration with friends, this group site provides the perfect basecamp for creating lasting memories on the water and trails.
Hirz Bay Group 2 is exclusively designed for group camping.
Historical SignificanceSet within the majestic Shasta-Trinity National Forest, this campground serves as a gateway to one of Northern California's most culturally rich landscapes. The sacred presence of Mount Shasta has drawn spiritual seekers and outdoor enthusiasts for generations, while the mysterious Lake Shasta Caverns nearby tell ancient geological stories carved deep into limestone. This land holds centuries of Native American heritage and continues to inspire visitors with its powerful natural beauty.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this lakeside haven into a sun-drenched paradise, where temperatures climb to a toasty 96°F under brilliantly clear California skies. The dry conditions create ideal weather for swimming, boating, and evening campfires, though savvy campers come prepared for the seasonal mosquitoes that emerge during peak months. These warm, predictable conditions make every day perfect for outdoor adventures from dawn to dusk.
ElevationPerched at 1,067 feet above sea level, the campground occupies a sweet spot where forested mountains plunge dramatically toward the sparkling waters of Lake Shasta. This moderate elevation creates a unique microclimate where mountain air meets lake breezes, offering relief from valley heat while maintaining comfortable conditions for water activities. The surrounding peaks rise steeply from the shoreline, creating a natural amphitheater of wilderness.
Natural Features and SceneryA canopy of native oaks and distinctive manzanita trees creates dappled shade throughout the campground, their twisted branches framing spectacular views of the McCloud Arm's azure waters. When morning mist lifts from the lake, the iconic silhouette of Mount Shasta emerges on the horizon, its snow-capped peak serving as a dramatic backdrop to your outdoor adventures. This harmonious blend of forest and water creates an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty.
Geological RegionYour camping experience unfolds within California's largest national forest, the magnificent Shasta-Trinity, where geological wonders abound at every turn. At 1,067 feet elevation, the campground sits in a remarkable transition zone where volcanic peaks meet ancient seabeds, creating the dramatic landscape that defines this region. From the volcanic majesty of Mount Shasta to the serpentine waters of the lake's multiple arms, this diverse terrain showcases millions of years of geological artistry in one breathtaking panorama.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not clearly detailed in the source materials.
Sites SizeSupports group camping up to 80 people, with room for spreading out tents and multiple activities.
Sites PrivacyDescribed as secluded by a user, 'It's a very secluded area in my opinion, so no one will bother you.' User sentiments suggest moderate privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOpt for driveway path to reach the lake for safety; avoid steep slopes. Bring insect repellent due to mosquito activity.
Best CampsitesSite 001 in AREA HIRZ BAY GROUP 2 is highly rated based on user reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 80 guests allowed per group site.
Groups
The campground is ideal for groups of up to 80 people, offering sufficient room for tents, recreational activities, and large gatherings.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOne group site with 23 paved parking spaces; camping and parking areas are separated.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen April 1, 2025, to September 30, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or phone at 877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability not applicable; reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made 14 days prior to arrival for a refund minus fees. Late cancellations incur $10 plus forfeiting the first night's recreation 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
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Popular activities at Hirz Bay Group 2 Campground include hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, and various water sports. The nearby Hirz Bay Trail offers two miles of hiking, and Lake Shasta provides fishing opportunities for trout, catfish, Chinook salmon, crappie, bluegill, white sturgeon, brown bullhead, and bass.
Hiking
The Hirz Bay Trail nearby spans 2 miles and is accessible from the campground. User reviews do not describe difficulty levels but noted ease of access.Fishing
Lake Shasta offers fishing for trout, catfish, Chinook salmon, crappie, bluegill, white sturgeon, brown bullhead, and bass. No specific fishing facilities or rental gear is mentioned.Swimming
Swimming is possible at the lake. However, user reviews caution against taking the steep slope to the water, recommending the driveway pathway instead.Boating
The campground is near the Hirz Bay boat launch, 0.5 miles away. Resorts on the lake provide watercraft rentals and marinas with fuel.Wildlife viewing
Active wildlife includes bears, with user reports of frequent visits during the day and night. One review mentioned, 'Multiple visits day and night.'Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed for this campground in the materials provided.Water Sports
Power and non-motorized boating, water skiing, and other water sports are popular due to the proximity to Lake Shasta.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed; large fire pit available.
- Quiet hours are : "No amplified sound" policy; specific hours not mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsActive bears and poison oak are common hazards. Steep descent to the lake is risky for hikers.
Active alertsNo alerts mentioned; however bear activity is frequent according to user reviews.
Weather forecast
103
°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
Closest emergency services include Shasta Recreation Office; the nearest regional hospital's location is missing.
Good to know
Peak season datesApril 1, 2025 - September 30, 2025.
Trash and recyclingBear-proof trash storage lockers are available, but one user noted, 'The bear was able to tear open the back of the 'critter-proof' garbage containers.' Recycling facilities are not specifically mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated within walking distance of Shasta Lake's shoreline; steep descent noted in reviews.
Common complaintsNo lighting in bathrooms, steep hike to water access, maintenance issues with grills and benches.
HostHosts require reservation holders to contact Shasta Recreation Office one week prior for access code.
Campground Map
Gilman Road Exit off of Interstate 5
Driving directions250 miles north of San Francisco. Take I-5 through Sacramento and Redding. Go 25 miles north of Redding and cross Shasta Lake. Remain on I-5 to Gilman Road (From the north, take Salt Creek exit to Gilman Road). Take Gilman Road east 11 miles to the entrance of Hirz Bay on the right.
Accessible via Gilman Road exit off Interstate 5, paved roads until entry. Seasonal closures or terrain challenges are not mentioned.Nearby places
San Francisco (250 miles), Redding (25 miles), Sacramento (null), Lakehead (null).
Nearby supplies
Fuel and groceries are available at nearby lake resorts
detailed distance information is missing.
Camper Reviews
3.7
8 reviews
Hirz Bay Group 2 has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are generally positive, with an average sentiment of 4.5 for camping-specific ratings. Highlights include the secluded nature of the campground, active wildlife (including bears), and spacious group accommodations. Concerns involve steep access to the lake, lack of maintenance for facilities, and mosquito prevalence.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers praised the campsite's spacious layout for group activities, proximity to recreational opportunities like the boat ramp and hiking trail, and the cleanliness of vault toilets. One user...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include steep hikes to the lake, facility maintenance issues, and active wildlife such as bears. One review stated, 'Allot of the benches, bear lockers, and BBQ grills are in need of some...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing bug spray due to aggressive mosquitoes, securing food against bears, and using portable shower covers. Reviews also suggest opting for the driveway pathway to the lake rather...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reports indicate hotter daytime temperatures during peak season and aggressive mosquitoes in the summer. One review noted, 'During the hot season it gets pretty toasty during the day,' while another...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
User quote examples: 'Great group camp. Be aware that bears are there daily. Multiple visits day and night.' - Jennifer Marical
'Lake is at 100% full, and the short hike to the shoreline is easy.' -...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific feedback includes mentions of site 001, loop Area Hirz Bay Group 2, which one user rated 5 stars for amenities and spaciousness accommodating 30 children and 10 adults.
Based on 8 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility reviews are absent from the provided materials.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No explicit reviews regarding pet policies or pet-friendly features are available.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025