Lakeshore East
3.9848 reviewsLakeshore Drive, Lakehead, CA 96051, USA
Lakeshore East
$30.00 - $100.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak season rates range from $30 for standard non-electric campsites to $100 for shelters. An additional non-refundable reservation fee of $10 applies to online and call center bookings. Walk-up sites are first-come, first-served during the off-season.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine Sacramento Arm of Shasta Lake, Lakeshore East campground offers an idyllic retreat where crystal-clear waters meet the shore just steps from your tent. Majestic oak and pine trees cast dappled shade across the grounds, while natural grass meadows and wild raspberry bushes create intimate pockets of privacy between sites. Here, you'll wake to the gentle lapping of waves and fall asleep under a canopy of stars reflected on the water's surface.
The campground offers standard nonelectric sites, double sites, and two yurts for year-round camping. Sites can accommodate both tents and trailers; however, trailers have no hookups.
Historical SignificanceThis treasured spot within the Shasta-Trinity National Forest tells a story of California's remarkable ecological diversity. The surrounding landscape showcases nature's resilience across multiple ecological zones, from lakeside habitats to mountain forests. Just a short drive away, the ancient Lake Shasta Caverns reveal millions of years of geological history, where underground rivers carved spectacular formations that continue to captivate visitors with their otherworldly beauty.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this lakeside haven into a sun-drenched paradise, with temperatures soaring to a toasty 95°F during the day before cooling to a comfortable 65°F for perfect sleeping weather. The warm season invites endless days of swimming and water sports. Winter visitors should note that while the landscape takes on a serene, quieter beauty, temperatures drop significantly and the yurts are not equipped with heating systems—perfect for hardy adventurers seeking solitude.
ElevationPerched at 1,067 feet above sea level, the campground rests at the perfect elevation to enjoy Shasta Lake's temperate microclimate. This sweet spot offers relief from valley heat while maintaining easy access to water activities, creating an ideal balance for outdoor enthusiasts seeking both mountain air and lakeside relaxation.
Natural Features and SceneryThe dramatic landscape unfolds like a masterpiece painted by nature herself. Shasta Lake's sapphire waters stretch before you, embraced by steep mountainsides cloaked in emerald evergreens and russet manzanita. On clear days, the legendary Mount Shasta rises majestically on the horizon, its snow-capped peak serving as a stunning backdrop to your lakeside adventures. This convergence of water, forest, and mountain creates a photographer's paradise and a soul-stirring sanctuary.
Geological RegionYour camping adventure unfolds within California's crown jewel—the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, the state's largest national forest. This vast wilderness encompasses a breathtaking tapestry of steep mountain slopes adorned with aromatic manzanita and towering evergreens. At its heart lies Shasta Lake, with an astounding 365 miles of shoreline that curves and winds through countless hidden coves. Dominating the northern horizon stands Mount Shasta, the Cascade Range's second-highest peak, watching over this pristine landscape like an ancient sentinel.
Campsite details
AccessibilityFlush toilets meet current accessibility standards. Specific site details about accessibility were not mentioned in the source.
Sites SizeStandard single sites accommodate up to 8 people, while double sites accommodate up to 16.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers some privacy with grass and raspberry bush undergrowth between sites. "Provides some privacy between sites."
Total Campsites28 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose site #15 or #17 for better lake access; site #20 offers scenic views. Avoid sites near the road due to noise.
Best CampsitesSite #15 and #17 are recommended for proximity to water. Site #20 is noted for scenic views behind the yurt.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
2:00 PM
Stay Limit
- No explicit stay limit mentioned
- walk-ins accepted year-round.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Standard sites allow up to 8 people, double sites allow up to 16.
Groups
Double sites can accommodate up to 16 people and allow unlimited tents.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features both single and double sites with paved parking spurs and picnic tables. Two yurts are available for rent.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Peak season runs May 9 to September 11. Off-season is first-come, first-served from September 12 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online or by phone at 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability year-round, primarily during the off-season (September 12 to December 31).
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made at least 14 days before arrival can receive a full refund (excluding reservation fees). Late cancellations for individual campsites incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fees. Scan and Pay transactions are non-refundable.
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.
GlampingGlamping options are available for visitors looking to enjoy nature with added comfort. These upgraded accommodations offer a unique blend of outdoor atmosphere and modern convenience.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors can enjoy boating, fishing, and waterskiing on Shasta Lake. There are also nearby boat ramps for easy lake access. Anglers can fish for a variety of species, while the lake offers opportunities for informal mooring of boats.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with species such as trout, catfish, Chinook salmon, crappie, and bass available. "Anglers can fish for trout, catfish, Chinook salmon, crappie, bluegill, white sturgeon, brown bullhead and bass."Swimming
Swimming is possible but challenging due to steep terrain and lake conditions. "The lake is not safe to take the kids from our end. It’s too deep and water is always troubled from the boats," noted one user.Biking
One user mentioned enjoying long bike rides around the lake. "Went for long bike rides around the lake."Boating
The campground is near public boat ramps (Antlers and Sugar Loaf). "Visitors may be able to informally moor their boats at the campground."Winter Activities
Winter camping is possible as the yurts are open year-round, but they lack heat and electricity. "Although the yurt is open year-round, it does not have electricity and, therefore, no heat or lighting."Water Sports
Visitors can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, and waterskiing on the lake. "The camp host was awesome... it was pretty hard to kayak and be on our paddle boards."Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire pits are available, and campfires are permitted. Fireworks are banned.
- Quiet hours are No explicit quiet hours mentioned, but reviews suggest noise from trains and cars persists late into the night.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are frequent; poison oak is abundant; and ticks are common in warmer months. Trains pass nearby, causing noise disturbances.
Active alertsLake levels are currently low, affecting direct water access. Noise from trains and nearby highways is an ongoing issue.
Weather forecast
105
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 13%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.4 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 include the Shasta Regional Medical Center in Redding (approximately 20 minutes), local police services in Lakehead, and ranger stations within Shasta-Trinity National Forest.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 9 to September 11.
Trash and recyclingBear-proof trash containers are provided. "Has picnic tables, water sources, bear trashcans, fire pits, paved parking spot."
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly along Shasta Lake's shoreline, though water levels may be low depending on the season.
Common complaintsIssues include train noise, proximity to highways, lack of showers, low lake levels, and maintenance concerns like dirty bathrooms or debris in campsites.
HostHosts are generally friendly and helpful. Hosts have fixed hours (9:00 AM–5:00 PM) for firewood and directions.
Campground Map
Lakeshore Drive, Lakehead, CA 96051, USA
Driving directionsFrom Redding, California, remain on I-5 north to the town of Lakehead (Approx. 20 minutes north of Redding). Take the Antlers Road/Lakeshore Drive exit. Go west under I-5 overpass, then left on Lakeshore Drive approximately 2.5 miles to the campground entrance.
Easily accessible from I-5 with paved roads leading directly to the campground. No mention of seasonal closures or challenging terrain.Nearby places
Lakehead (2.5 miles, approximately 5 minutes), Redding (20 minutes north via I-5), Shasta Lake City (approximately 30 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Lakehead, approximately 2.5 miles away. A small grocery store, laundromat, and local pub are nearby.
Camper Reviews
4.0
48 reviews
Lakeshore East has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground has a mix of positive and negative reviews. While many appreciate the lakeside location and clean facilities, others complain about train noise and proximity to the road.
Review Summaries
Based on 48 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean restrooms, friendly camp hosts, spacious sites, and good fishing opportunities were praised frequently. "Clean bathrooms" and "spacious sites" were repeatedly highlighted.
Based on 48 reviewsCommon Concerns
Frequent train noise and proximity to a busy road were common complaints. Additionally, some users noted maintenance issues like broken furniture in yurts and lack of soap in restrooms.
Based on 48 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring earplugs due to train noise and your own soap or sanitizer for the bathrooms. Consider alternative swimming spots due to steep lake access.
Based on 48 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer tends to be the busiest season, with some users finding the campground crowded. Winter visitors appreciated the open yurts but noted the lack of heating facilities.
Based on 48 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Beautiful little campground right on the shore of Lake Shasta." "Good campsite, friendly people, man that runs the place is nice." "Beautiful area, although this section of the lake has mostly dried...
Based on 48 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #15 and #17 are recommended for lakeside views. "Go on site 15 or 17 for the best sites to water." Site #9 was noted for private bathroom access. "We stayed in site #9. It had its own private...
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Accessibility Features
Specific accessibility reviews were not mentioned, but flush toilets meet accessibility standards.
Based on 48 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are not allowed in the yurts but can stay outside. "Dogs are not allowed inside the yurts, but can be outside in a tent/kennel."
Based on 48 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025