Mariners Point Group Campground
3.908 reviews14538 Wonderland Blvd.
Mariners Point Group Campground
$110.00 - $110.00 / 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$110.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group Standard Area Nonelectric sites are available for $110 per night during peak season (May 12 - September 13, 2025). Additional reservation fees apply: $10 for online or call center reservations. Refunds for cancellations, emergency closures, and naturally occurring events are subject to specific policies.
About this campground
Nestled where the Pit and Squaw arms of Shasta Lake converge, Mariners Point Campground offers an exclusive group camping experience within the majestic Shasta-Trinity National Forest. This gathering place welcomes both tent enthusiasts and RV adventurers, though those navigating larger rigs should prepare for an adventure along winding, narrow roads that add to the campground's secluded charm. Each site comes thoughtfully equipped with picnic tables, grills, and fire rings for memorable outdoor cooking, along with parking spurs and portable facilities that maintain the site's natural feel.
Mariners Point Group Campground is designed primarily for group camping. It accommodates both tent and RV campers but lacks individual campsite options.
Historical SignificanceWhile Mariners Point's recorded history may be recent, the land whispers stories of the ancient forests and waterways that have shaped this region for millennia. The campground serves as a modern gateway to experiencing the timeless beauty of Northern California's lake country.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Mariners Point into a sun-soaked paradise from May through September, where temperatures climb to a toasty 97°F during golden afternoons before cooling to a comfortable 67°F under starlit skies. The region basks in an extraordinary 99.9% sunshine rate, creating endless clear-sky days perfect for water activities and outdoor adventures. These sweltering summer conditions make the lake's cool waters all the more inviting, while the virtually rain-free season ensures your camping plans stay on track.
ElevationPerched at 1,067 feet above sea level, Mariners Point occupies a sweet spot where mountain air meets warm valley temperatures. This modest elevation creates an ideal microclimate—high enough to catch cooling breezes off the lake, yet low enough to enjoy those long, warm summer days that make Northern California camping legendary.
Natural Features and SceneryDramatic steep mountains draped in aromatic manzanita and towering evergreens create a natural amphitheater around Mariners Point, offering campers front-row seats to nature's grandest show. On clear days, the iconic silhouette of Mount Shasta dominates the horizon, while below, Shasta Lake's 365 miles of intricate shoreline weave between forested coves and hidden inlets. This stunning backdrop transforms every meal, every conversation, and every quiet moment into something extraordinary.
Geological RegionMariners Point claims a prime position at the meeting point of Shasta Lake's Pit and Squaw arms, serving as your basecamp within California's largest national forest. The Shasta-Trinity National Forest encompasses an astounding wilderness tapestry—five designated wilderness areas, hundreds of pristine mountain lakes, and thousands of miles of streams and rivers carving through ancient geology. Here, 365 miles of lake shoreline dance between steep mountains clothed in manzanita and evergreen forests, all under the watchful gaze of Mount Shasta's volcanic peak. This diverse landscape tells the story of fire and ice, water and stone, creating one of the West's most spectacular camping destinations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are described in the official information or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe group campsite is advertised as accommodating up to 50 people and 15 vehicles, but users have disputed this. "Says 50 people and 15 vehicles. Not sure where they came up with that but yeah right," one reviewer commented.
Sites PrivacyUsers reported privacy issues, particularly between camp loops. One user mentioned having a cove to themselves for swimming, which ensured privacy at the lake.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose Loop 2 for its privacy and proximity to the lake. Avoid the campground if traveling with large RVs or trailers due to narrow roads and limited turning space.
Best Campsites"Camping spaces were nice and clear." (User review by Niki B) Loop 2 seems to be preferred for privacy and family activities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3P.M.
Check-out
12 P.M.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Groups are limited to a maximum of 50 people per reservation.
Groups
The group site is advertised as accommodating up to 50 people and 15 vehicles, but users suggest this capacity may be overstated. One user commented, "The camp itself was so small says 50 people and 15 vehicles. Not sure where they came up with that but yeah right."
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are equipped with picnic tables, grills, fire rings, and parking spurs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 12, 2025 to September 13, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov and through the contact center at 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up reservations are not explicitly mentioned as available.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 cancellation fee applies for reservations canceled before the check-in date. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before check-in) forfeit the first night's use fee. No refunds are issued for naturally occurring events. Emergency closures are fully refunded. Modifications to reservations, such as date changes, may incur a $10 change 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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreation opportunities at Mariners Point Group Campground include fishing, boating, and hiking. The campground is located next to Shasta Lake, which is described as popular for both power and non-motorized boating, fishing, and water skiing. "Anglers can fish for trout, catfish, Chinook salmon, crappie, bluegill, white sturgeon, brown bullhead, and bass," according to the official description. However, some users noted that the steep, rocky approach to the lake made water activities less accessible.
Hiking
Shasta-Trinity National Forest offers hiking opportunities, though specific trails near the campground are not detailed.Fishing
Fishing is a prominent activity, with opportunities to catch various species, including trout, catfish, and bass.Swimming
Swimming is available at the lake, though access can be challenging due to steep and rocky terrain. One user remarked, "To get to the river you need to hike down and it can be dangerous," but they also noted the beauty of the lake once reached.Boating
The campground is near Shasta Lake, which supports both power and non-motorized boating. The nearest public boat ramp is six miles away at Jones Valley.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not applicable due to the seasonal operation of this campground.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are likely supported on Shasta Lake but are not explicitly mentioned in the provided information.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- "Don't Move Firewood: Protect your forests from tree-killing pests by buying your firewood locally and burning it on-site." (Authoritative source)
- Quiet hours are No amplified sound allowed.
Hazards
General hazardsPoison oak is present around campsites, and the walk to the lake may involve steep, rocky terrain. "There was a steep rocky hill, and there was a lot of debris and broken glass." (User review by Tiffany Myers)
Active alertsNo active alerts are mentioned.
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: 5.7 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
Emergency services and ranger stations are reachable at nearby locations; specific names or distances are not detailed.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 12, 2025 - September 13, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash management appears to be an issue, as one user complained about arriving at their site to find "garbage everywhere" and having to clean it themselves.
Proximity to water featuresSituated near Shasta Lake. "With water so low, it was a steep and long way to water..." (User review by Tiffany Myers) Access to the water may be challenging due to terrain and lake conditions.
Common complaints"Bathrooms should be cleaned more often." (User review by Niki B) "Road leading to the camp was the worst super narrow and windy." (User review by Tiffany Myers) Other complaints include challenges accessing water due to low lake levels and the limited space for large RVs and trailers.
HostNo specific host information is provided.
Campground Map
14538 Wonderland Blvd.
Driving directionsFrom I-5 take the Mountain Gate/Wonderland Blvd. Exit and go east to Bear Mountain Road. At Dry Creek Road go left to Silverthorn Road (take left Y) Follow Silverthorn Road toward the resort and take the left turn prior to entering resort. Campground is behind gate.
"The road leading to the camp was the worst super narrow and windy." (User review by Tiffany Myers) Users have noted the road is narrow, particularly challenging for RVs or trailers, and difficult for vehicles to navigate if they encounter others coming in the opposite direction. Portable toilets are available onsite, but there is no drinking water provided.Nearby places
Redding is the closest city to the campground
specific distances are not explicitly stated in the source.
Nearby supplies
Fuel and boat rentals are available at nearby lakeside resorts. Additional supply locations are not detailed.
Camper Reviews
3.9
8 reviews
Mariners Point Group Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight mixed experiences at Mariners Point Group Campground, with recurring complaints about cleanliness, challenging access roads, and issues with the site's advertised capacity. On the positive side, users appreciated the natural beauty of the lake and the quiet group setting.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the natural beauty and relative privacy of the lake, with one noting, "The water was super warm and the views were just breathtaking." Another mentioned that the cove setup allowed kids...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Key complaints included the poor condition of portable toilets ("The outhouses were nasty"), challenging access roads ("The road leading to the camp was the worst, super narrow and windy"), and the...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend researching the campground thoroughly before booking. One user advised, "Do your research before you stay at this place," while others emphasized the need to bring drinking water and...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews suggest that the summer season, though busy, offers the best experience for lake activities. However, issues like trash and restroom cleanliness may worsen during peak times.
Based on 8 reviewsCamper Quotes
"To get to the river you need to hike down and it can be dangerous," "The road leading to the camp was the worst, super narrow and windy," "The water was super warm and the views were just...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Loop 1 users reported issues with trash and noise, with one stating, "Garbage everywhere" and another mentioning gunshots at night. Loop 2 reviews highlighted better experiences, with comments about...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility issues include narrow, winding roads that are particularly challenging for RVs and trailers. One user warned, "The road up to the camp was insane if you have an RV or 5th wheel."
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific feedback about pets or pet-friendly features was found in the reviews.
Based on 8 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025