Catavee

Star4.62
12 reviews
P.O BOX 152, LAKESHORE, CA 93634, USA
Catavee
$0.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Reservations incur fees ranging from $8 (online reservation) to $10 (cancellation fee). Emergency closures allow refunds.
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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
559-893-2111vista@vista-rec.com

About this campground

Nestled along the pristine shores of Huntington Lake, Catavee Campground beckons with its secluded forest sites that offer the perfect blend of privacy and natural beauty. Here, campers can choose between peaceful spots overlooking the gentle flow of Bear Creek or breathtaking vistas of the sparkling lake waters. While this hidden gem is temporarily closed due to hazardous tree conditions, it remains a beloved destination waiting to welcome visitors back to its tranquil embrace.
Catavee Campground supports a variety of camping experiences, including tent and RV camping, with modern facilities catering to both groups. No explicit mentions of primitive or glamping accommodations exist.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at the neighboring Billy Creek Guard Station Museum, where the rich tapestry of the region's past comes alive. This fascinating historical site weaves together the stories of the indigenous peoples who first called these mountains home with the legacy of the Forest Service rangers who later protected these lands. Visitors can explore exhibits that showcase Native American heritage alongside the evolution of forest conservation, creating a deeper connection to the land that surrounds the campground.
Weather and SeasonsThe campground transforms with each passing season, offering distinct experiences throughout the year. Summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for swimming and hiking, while spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and rushing snowmelt. As winter approaches, a blanket of snow transforms the landscape into a winter wonderland, though access becomes limited by freezing temperatures and snowy conditions. The sweet spot for camping falls between late spring and early fall, when moderate temperatures and clear skies create ideal conditions for outdoor adventures.
ElevationHigh in the Sierra Nevada, the campground offers that perfect mountain elevation where the air is crisp and clean, providing relief from valley heat while remaining accessible for most visitors.
Natural Features and SceneryCatavee Campground is a feast for the senses, where towering conifers create a natural cathedral overhead and dappled sunlight filters through the canopy. The melodic sounds of Bear Creek provide a constant soundtrack as it tumbles over granite boulders, while glimpses of Huntington Lake's azure waters peek through the trees. This enchanting setting is framed by the dramatic alpine landscapes of the surrounding peaks, where dense forests give way to granite cliffs and meadows that burst with color in the warmer months.
Geological RegionPerched within the majestic Sierra Nevada range, Catavee Campground showcases the geological diversity that makes this mountain chain legendary. From the gentle, oak-studded foothills that mark the western approach, through the dense coniferous forests of the middle elevations where the campground resides, to the soaring alpine peaks that crown the horizon, visitors experience the full spectrum of Sierra Nevada grandeur. This ancient granite backbone of California tells a story millions of years in the making, visible in every weathered boulder and carved valley.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityFlush toilets are accessible. Paved roads and parking spurs improve accessibility for RVs and vehicles.
Sites SizeSites can accommodate RVs up to 30 feet. Sites are described as clean and well-maintained.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is forested, providing good privacy in several sites, with some overlooking Bear Creek or offering lake views.
Total Campsites50 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite #22 is ideal for families seeking convenience and privacy. Site #23 is recommended for lake enthusiasts.
Best CampsitesSite #22 is noted for its proximity to bathrooms, quiet atmosphere, and lake access. Site #23 offers lake views.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Reserved sites available until noon the following day.
Check-out
Check-out time is noon.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 14 nights within any rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
  • Rules allow one RV with tow vehicle for single sites
  • two vehicles or RVs for double sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutSites are modern with paved roads and parking spurs. Each site includes a fire ring, grill, and picnic table.
Open and Closed SeasonClosed indefinitely due to hazard trees.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityReserved sites held until checkout time (noon) the day following arrival.
Cancellation PolicyA $10 fee applies for reservation changes or cancellations. Late cancellations incur the first night's use fee and $10 fee.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Flush toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Catavee Campground provides an array of recreational activities, leveraging its location near Huntington Lake and the Kaiser Wilderness. Popular activities include hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, and other water sports. Visitors can also enjoy interpretive programs and nature walks organized by California Land Management.
Hiking
Numerous hiking trails are accessible in the area, including Rancheria Falls, Indian Pools, and Black Point. The Kaiser Loop Trail, a 12-mile route, connects hikers and horseback riders to the Kaiser Wilderness trail network.
Fishing
Fishing is permitted at Huntington Lake, where enthusiasts can expect opportunities for catching various fish species. Limited details are provided on specific catches.
Swimming
Designated swimming areas are available at Huntington Lake. User reviews highlight its picturesque setting and suitability for family outings.
Boating
Boating activities, including sailing, non-motorized boating, and water skiing, are popular at Huntington Lake. Boat rentals are available nearby; one user noted, 'We rented a boat - $35 for an hour! Reasonable price.'
Cultural and Educational Programs
California Land Management sponsors interpretive programs and nature walks during the summer. The adjacent Billy Creek Guard Station Museum offers historical insights about the area.
Water Sports
Water skiing, sailing, and non-motorized boating are frequently mentioned activities at Huntington Lake. These complement the recreational opportunities at the campground.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Fire restrictions may be enforced during hot, dry weather conditions. Contact High Sierra Ranger District for current fire conditions.
  • Quiet hours not explicitly mentioned.

Hazards

General hazardsHazard trees have led to the indefinite closure of the campground. Bears are common, requiring vigilance with food storage.
Active alertsClosed indefinitely due to hazard trees.

Weather forecast

54
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 45%

Comfortable humidity levels

Wind: 2.3 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Nearest hospital is in Fresno, CA (approximately 75 miles). For immediate assistance, contact the High Sierra Ranger District at (559) 855-5355.

Good to know

Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available. Campers are advised not to move firewood to protect the local ecosystem.
Proximity to water featuresDirectly adjacent to Huntington Lake, allowing for swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsMinimal complaints included dust from campsite raking and slow check-in service.
HostCamp hosts are frequently praised as helpful and friendly. Hosts clean bathrooms twice daily.

Campground Map

P.O BOX 152, LAKESHORE, CA 93634, USA
Driving directionsFrom Clovis, California, take Highway 168 north for 70 miles to Huntington Lake Campground Office at Eastwood.
Access via Highway 168 is paved and accessible year-round. However, seasonal hazards such as snow may impact driving conditions. Contact High Sierra Ranger District at (559) 855-5355 for updates.
Nearby places
Clovis, CA: 70 miles
Fresno, CA: approximately 75 miles
Lakeshore, CA: 3 miles.
Nearby supplies
A general store is located nearby in Lakeshore, CA, though reviewers warn that prices are high.

Camper Reviews

4.6
12 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Catavee is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews largely praise the cleanliness, tranquility, and proximity to natural attractions at Catavee Campground. Highlights include well-maintained facilities, closeness to hiking trails and the lake, and the family-friendly environment. However, there are occasional complaints about check-in delays and campsite maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews

What Campers Love

Clean and quiet environment, well-stocked bathrooms, proximity to lake and trails, scenic views from some sites (e.g., Site 22), and friendly camp hosts. A review mentioned, 'Bathrooms were cleaned...
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Based on 12 reviews

Common Concerns

Limited restroom facilities (one restroom noted in a review), occasional inefficiency in check-in processes, and some concerns about campsite maintenance (e.g., 'Stop raking the campsites you're...
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Based on 12 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Site 22 is recommended for its privacy and proximity to the lake and bathrooms. Bring a portable shower if needed. Purchase firewood locally to comply with regulations.
Based on 12 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews suggest summers (June-August) as the most popular season, highlighting clean facilities, pleasant weather, and numerous activities. However, the campground is closed at times due to hazard...
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Based on 12 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Spot 22 was, in my opinion, one of the best ones! Short walk to the clean bathrooms, not too close to the neighboring sites, quiet, and a quick walk down to the lake.' 2. 'We rented a boat - $35...
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Based on 12 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 22 is frequently commended for its privacy, proximity to the lake, and distance from other sites. Site 23 offers lake views and is noted for being level and clean.
Based on 12 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible flush toilets are available. Paved roads and parking spurs enhance mobility for vehicles and RVs. No specific user reviews directly address accessibility features for individuals with...
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Based on 12 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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