Sims Flat Campground
4.4353 reviews204 West Alma Mt. Shasta, CA 96067
Sims Flat Campground
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
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
Single site fee is $15 per night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Pass holders get a 50% discount applicable only to the campsite occupied by the pass holder. Payment must be made via cash or check.
About this campground
Step into living history at Sims Flat Campground, where 19 riverside campsites beckon along the pristine Sacramento River in the heart of Shasta-Trinity National Forest. This cherished destination, born from the hands of Civilian Conservation Corps workers in the 1930s, invites you to cross their original suspension bridge and discover interpretive signs that tell the story of America's conservation legacy. Whether you're casting a line for native trout, navigating exhilarating whitewater rapids, or watching the historic trains rumble past, Sims Flat offers an authentic slice of Northern California's outdoor heritage.
Sims Flat Campground offers opportunities for tent camping and mid-sized RVs/trailers. Group camping, cabin lodging, and glamping are not supported.
Historical SignificanceWalk in the footsteps of Native American traders who once used this riverside corridor as their winter route, and pioneers who established Sims Trading Post to serve early settlers and gold seekers. The campground's crown jewel remains the sturdy steel suspension bridge, masterfully crafted by CCC Camp 978 workers whose legacy lives on through thoughtfully placed interpretive signs that bring the past to life for modern adventurers.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's full palette as the seasons transform Sims Flat from a snow-dusted winter wonderland to a sun-drenched summer paradise. During the prime camping months, temperatures dance between a crisp 32°F at dawn to a comfortable 66°F by afternoon, creating perfect conditions for both cozy campfire mornings and refreshing river afternoons. Summer visitors are rewarded with endless blue skies and warm, dry days ideal for water adventures and starlit evenings.
ElevationPerched at an ideal 1,600 feet above sea level, Sims Flat strikes the perfect balance between mountain majesty and river valley comfort. This sweet-spot elevation gifts visitors with sweeping scenic vistas while maintaining a temperate climate that extends the camping season and keeps extreme weather at bay.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a natural amphitheater where the rushing Sacramento River provides the soundtrack and towering conifers mixed with graceful deciduous trees create nature's perfect canopy. In spring and summer, delicate wild sweet peas paint splashes of color throughout the campground, while moss-covered remnants of the original CCC Camp 978 structures peek through the forest floor, creating an enchanting blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue.
Geological RegionDiscover your basecamp in the geological wonderland of Shasta-Trinity National Forest, where the Sacramento River has carved its path through ancient landscapes at 1,600 feet elevation. This unique position places you at the intersection of diverse ecosystems, where majestic conifers reach skyward alongside seasonal deciduous trees, creating a rich tapestry of forest life that changes with each visit.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-accessible toilets are available.
Sites SizeSites are suitable for tents and mid-sized RVs or trailers, with an average maximum trailer size of 16 feet.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies between campsites, with some described as secluded while others are more open. Reviews like 'majority of camping spots were secluded and private' highlight the variability.
Total Campsites19 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites farther from railway tracks for reduced noise; sites closer to the river for scenic views.
Best CampsitesSite #2 is noted for proximity to water faucets but has bear activity nearby.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit of 14 consecutive nights.
Groups
No group sites are available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground loops along the river through conifer and deciduous trees; sites are a mix of paved, grass, and gravel aprons.
Open and Closed SeasonSeasonally open from April 15 through November 15.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations. Sites are first-come-first-serve.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come-first-serve and may fill quickly during peak times. Visitors should plan accordingly.
Cancellation PolicyNo refunds or cancellations explicitly mentioned. Payment is made at arrival.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Sims Flat Campground offers a range of activities, particularly fishing, historical exploration, and proximity to whitewater rafting. Historical enthusiasts can admire the steel suspension bridge built by the CCC in 1933. Anglers enjoy fishing in the Sacramento River and Hazel Creek. Reviews highlight proximity to nature and scenic beauty but note challenges like train noise.
Hiking
The Riverside Trail (0.2 miles) is available for hiking. Some reviews describe trails leading to old sawmills and historic CCC sites, offering opportunities for exploration.Fishing
Fishing is a major highlight, particularly for trout in the Sacramento River. User reviews frequently praise the fishing opportunities, such as 'Great fishing!' and 'Right on the Sacramento River for good fishing.'Swimming
The river is described as great for swimming, with several entry points. Users mention 'Beautiful river access for swimming' and recommend following trails to find swimming spots.Boating
A rafting put-in is located near/across the river from the campground, suitable for non-motorized boating activities during spring runoff.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife encounters include sightings of California Mountain Kingsnakes and wasps near the metal footbridge. One user provides a tip for distinguishing non-venomous kingsnakes from venomous coral snakes.Cultural and Educational Programs
Interpretive signs depict the history of the CCC camp and its construction of the suspension bridge.Winter Activities
The campground is closed for camping during winter, but it can be accessed for walking in the woods.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like rafting are possible during high water periods.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted at designated sites with provided fire pits.
- Quiet hours not officially mentioned, but train noise is recurrent at night.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include trains passing with loud horns, aggressive wasps near the metal footbridge, non-venomous snakes (California Mountain Kingsnake spotted), poison oak, and occasional bear activity.
Active alertsRestrooms closed for the season; portable outhouses available. Water system shut off due to funding restraints; potable water unavailable.
Weather forecast
101
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 14%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.4 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
Mount Shasta Ranger Station, located at 204 West Alma Mt. Shasta, CA 96067, phone: (530) 926-4511.
Good to know
Peak season datesLate April through mid-November.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available on-site, but some reviews mention occasional trash left at campsites.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Sacramento River and Hazel Creek; features fishing opportunities and rafting put-in points.
Common complaintsComplaints include loud train horns at night, theft incidents, and opportunistic wildlife like wasps and bears. Some reviewers noted disruptive noise from nearby highways.
HostFriendly host described as an older gentleman with a long white beard.
Campground Map
204 West Alma Mt. Shasta, CA 96067
Driving directionsFrom Mt. Shasta city, take I-5 south approximately 20 miles to the Sims exit. Turn left under the freeway and drive another mile to the bridge that crosses the Sacramento River. The campground entrance is on the right, just past the bridge. Alternatively, from Dunsmuir, CA, take I-5 south 10 miles to Simms Rd. (Exit 718). Take Exit 718 and turn left at stop sign onto Simms Rd. Follow Simms Rd. south 0.7 miles to campground.
The campground is easily accessible via paved roads from I-5, with clear signage and no noted seasonal closures or challenging terrain.Nearby places
Mt. Shasta: 20 miles (~25 minutes)
Dunsmuir: 10 miles (~15 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Closest market is noted to be expensive but has good burritos and a reasonable selection of groceries, including fruits. Visitors should carry extra cash to support local businesses.
Camper Reviews
4.4
53 reviews
Sims Flat Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's historical charm, scenic beauty, and affordability but frequently mention train noise as a drawback. Opinions vary on privacy, cleanliness, and accessibility, with many praising the site's maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 53 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean bathrooms, proximity to the Sacramento River for fishing and swimming, historical significance, and affordable rates. One user describes the campsite as 'legit pretty excellent with the...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Constant train noise, occasional theft of items, aggressive wasps, and seasonal wildlife encounters. One user warns about 'opportunistic bandits' stealing chairs, while another mentions 'AGGRESSIVE...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring earplugs to mitigate train noise, secure belongings due to reports of theft, and use trails to discover scenic spots along the river. Flashlights and batteries are recommended for nighttime...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews often mention swimming and fishing as highlights, while fall sees fewer visitors and offers quieter periods. Winter access is limited to day use due to the campground's closure.
Based on 53 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Great camp ground. Lots of space. Free wood. Trains passed by at 3:14 and 4:15 AM. Part of the ambiance!' - Robin Main 2. 'Great low-key campground. This campground is well cared for: the sites...
Based on 53 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #2 near a drinking water faucet was reported to have bear feces. Site #8 is close to clean bathrooms. Privacy and openness vary across sites.
Based on 53 reviewsAccessibility Features
Wheelchair-accessible toilets are available, but specific user experiences were not mentioned.
Based on 53 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash not longer than six feet.
Based on 53 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025