Madrone Campground
4.146 reviewsMadrone Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
No fees are required for this campground.
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About this campground
Tucked away in the forested hills east of Shasta Lake, Madrone Campground offers an intimate escape with just 10 secluded campsites. This hidden gem draws nature lovers seeking respite beneath a canopy of towering trees, where dappled sunlight filters through dense foliage and the sounds of civilization fade into memory. As autumn arrives, the campground transforms into a favored basecamp for hunters drawn to the surrounding wilderness, adding a rustic charm to this already authentic outdoor experience.
Madrone Campground offers a rustic camping experience suitable for tent and small trailer setups. It is ideal for those seeking a remote and secluded environment.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the full spectrum of Northern California's climate at Madrone, where temperatures dance between a crisp 48°F on cool mornings to warm afternoons reaching 97°F during peak summer. The campground's character shifts with the seasons - from very cold winter nights perfect for campfire gatherings, to sweltering summer days when the forest shade becomes your best friend. The predominantly dry conditions throughout the year make this an ideal destination for fair-weather campers, though seasoned adventurers will find beauty in every temperature range.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a verdant sanctuary where ancient trees create a natural cathedral overhead. The campground's forested setting provides a cool, shaded retreat even on the warmest days, with sunlight streaming through branches to create an ever-changing tapestry of light and shadow. This tranquil environment offers the perfect backdrop for disconnecting from daily life and reconnecting with the rhythms of nature.
Geological RegionPerched in the rolling terrain east of magnificent Shasta Lake, Madrone Campground occupies a special corner of Northern California's diverse landscape. The remote location ensures genuine solitude, while the protective forest canopy creates a microclimate that feels worlds away from the exposed shores of the nearby reservoir.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific information on accessibility options for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe campground includes 10 units with an average maximum trailer size of 16 feet.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is described as very secluded, with "several spots overgrown and with fallen trees," according to user reviews.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended Campsites"If you want a very out-of-the-way and off-the-beaten-path kind of experience, this is the place."
Reserving a campsite
Groups
No specific information about group sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground has 10 units, and most sites are described as potentially overgrown and blocked by debris.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, but currently closed per Forest Order 14-24-25.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Madrone Campground accommodates activities like OHV riding and hiking. Hunting is a popular activity in the fall, making the campground well-frequented during this season. A creek nearby adds to the natural appeal, and firepits support campfires.
Hiking
The campground features 20+ miles of hiking trails, although one reviewer mentioned that they are 'not much to see on them' and are 'riddled with mosquitoes.'Winter Activities
No details about winter-specific activities provided.Water Sports
No details about non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding are provided.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire pits available at the campsite.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews mention 'overgrown poison oak' and 'infestation by bats.' The terrain to access the site is described as rough and challenging, and a chainsaw or heavy equipment may be needed to clear debris in overgrown sites.
Active alertsCurrently closed per Forest Order 14-24-25.
Weather forecast
102
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 14%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 2.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo information provided about trash or recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThere is no lake access from this facility.
Common complaintsMany user reviews highlight the rough terrain, overgrown campsites, and inadequate maintenance. Some campers also mentioned issues with fallen trees and blocked sites.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom I-5, take Highway 299 East 31 miles to Fenders Ferry Road (Road 27). On Fenders Ferry Road, drive approximately 18 miles.
"Be aware, Fenders Ferry is a rough, unimproved dirt road."Camper Reviews
4.1
6 reviews
Madrone Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The Madrone Campground is generally praised for its seclusion and natural beauty but criticized for its challenging accessibility and lack of maintenance. Overgrown campsites and rough roads are common complaints, while firepits and a serene creekside atmosphere are high points.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the secluded nature and the natural beauty of the campground. One reviewer described it as 'gorgeous, secluded creekside camping,' while another called the campground 'beautiful and...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Issues raised include poor maintenance ('several spots overgrown and with fallen trees'), lack of signage ('no signage, 17 miles off-road'), and the rough access road ('Fenders Ferry is a rough,...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing toilet paper due to its absence in outhouses. A chainsaw and weed whacker were suggested to clear overgrown sites. Vehicles built for off-road driving are strongly advised...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is particularly popular during the fall hunting season. However, it seems to pose challenges in other seasons, such as mosquitoes in spring and summer.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'If you want a very out-of-the-way and off-the-beaten-path kind of camping, then this is the place for you.' 2. 'Expect your 21-mile drive to take over an hour. All that said... the journey is...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews suggest that some campsites are overgrown and blocked by debris. One user mentioned, 'several spots overgrown, and with fallen trees in them.'
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific feedback on accessibility from users with disabilities.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews explicitly mention pet policies or experiences with pets.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025