Camp 4 Group Campground sits on the Upper McCloud River in Shasta-Trinity National Forest, where the main draw is proximity to the river's three waterfalls. This primitive group site accommodates up to 30 people and 10 vehicles, making it a solid choice for organized trips that want a base camp for exploring the McCloud River Falls Trail.
Campground Details
- ⛺Type
- Group
- 💵Fee per Night
- $10
- 📍GPS
- 41.23389, -121.98389
- 🐾Pets Allowed
- No
- 📞Phone
- 530-964-2184
- 🗺️Address
- CA
The Camp
This is bare-bones group camping — vault toilets, picnic tables, fire rings, and trash collection, but no water or electricity. The site handles up to 10 tents plus 5 RVs or motorhomes, though you'll need to haul water from the McCloud Ranger Station. Vehicle access follows mostly paved roads until the final quarter-mile on gravel.
At $10 per night for the entire group site, it's budget-friendly for organized outings. The campground typically operates mid-spring through mid-fall, closing during winter months.
The River
The Upper McCloud River runs from McCloud Reservoir to its headwaters, offering rainbow, brook, and McCloud River red band trout fishing. During late spring through early fall, the river becomes the area's main attraction for fishing, swimming, kayaking, and photography. The Middle and Lower Falls both feature swimming holes, though the water stays cold even in summer.
Nearby
The McCloud River Falls Trail accesses all three waterfalls and provides views of Mount Shasta. The falls cascade over basalt lava flows, with the Middle and Lower Falls offering the best swimming opportunities for those willing to brave the chill.
McCloud, a historic mill town 9 miles away, supplies the nearest services — dining, shopping, and golf. The town also provides the closest reliable access to supplies and amenities.
The Shasta-Trinity's 2.1 million acres include portions of five wilderness areas and access points for the Pacific Crest Trail, though specific trailheads aren't detailed for this location.