Cattle Camp Campground

For Californians seeking an authentic and peaceful immersion in nature, far from the hustle and bustle of city life, the Cattle Camp Campground near McCloud, California, presents an idyllic retreat. Nestled in the heart of Northern California's breathtaking landscape, this campground is celebrated by locals for its tranquility, spacious sites, and seamless integration with the surrounding natural beauty. It's more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's a gateway to the majestic wonders of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest and a perfect base for exploring some of the region's most iconic waterfalls and mountain vistas.

Cattle Camp Campground offers a true sense of escape, providing a quiet and serene environment where the sounds of nature prevail. Visitors consistently praise its ability to deliver "exactly what we had in mind for a quiet, spacious campground within nature." This reputation for peace and ample room between campsites ensures a private and relaxing experience, a highly sought-after quality for those looking to genuinely disconnect and recharge. Whether you're planning a family camping trip, a solo adventure, or a romantic getaway, Cattle Camp promises a memorable stay where the natural world takes center stage. From setting up a hammock for a "morning snooze spot" to enjoying the gentle murmur of the nearby stream, every aspect of this campground is designed to foster a deep connection with the outdoors. Let’s dive into what makes Cattle Camp Campground a prime choice for your next Northern California adventure.

Cattle Camp Campground is conveniently located on CA-89, McCloud, CA 96057, USA. This strategic position places it within easy reach of several popular Northern California attractions, making it an ideal central hub for exploration. The campground is situated in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, a region renowned for its stunning natural landscapes, including dense forests, pristine lakes, and volcanic formations.

Its location on State Route 89 provides straightforward access for vehicles of all sizes, including RVs. While it's on a state highway, reviews note that the occasional passing car on Highway 89 is "not loud enough to bother us at all," ensuring that the campground retains its quiet atmosphere. The accessibility of the roads within the campground is also a significant highlight. As one visitor mentioned, "The roads are paved and level for kids on scooters and bikes," making it easy for families to navigate the area. This thoughtful infrastructure also extends to individual campsites, with "a paved area to park and a concrete area around the fire ring making it very nice for handicap accessibility." This attention to accessibility ensures that Cattle Camp Campground is welcoming to a wide range of visitors. The campground’s superb location places it "well located between Mt. Shasta City, McCloud, and Burney," with iconic natural wonders like the McCloud Falls and Burney Falls "all less than a 35 minute drive away," minimizing travel time and maximizing outdoor enjoyment.

Cattle Camp Campground focuses on providing essential services that enhance the outdoor experience while maintaining a rustic and natural feel. The amenities are designed for convenience and comfort, reflecting the needs of campers seeking a peaceful retreat.

• Individual Campsites: The campground offers numerous individual campsites, each designed to provide ample space and privacy between neighbors. This ensures a quiet and uncrowded experience, a feature highly praised by visitors.
• Paved Parking and Tent Pads: Each site includes a paved area for vehicle parking and a designated area for setting up tents. This helps in keeping the campsite clean and organized.
• Concrete Fire Rings with Grills: Every campsite is equipped with a concrete fire ring, perfect for campfires and cooking. Most, if not all, come with a grill grate, allowing for easy meal preparation over an open flame.
• Picnic Tables: A sturdy picnic table is provided at each site, offering a convenient surface for dining, games, or simply relaxing outdoors.
• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are strategically "within walking distance spread throughout the campground." While they are "the type of bathroom" that can sometimes have an odor, they are regularly serviced to ensure usability.
• Potable Water Access: Fresh, potable water spigots are conveniently located "within walking distance spread throughout the campground," providing easy access for filling water bottles and cooking needs.
• Bear Boxes/Food Storage: Given its location in a natural habitat, campers should be prepared to use bear boxes or other approved food storage methods to protect food from wildlife. (While not explicitly mentioned in reviews, this is standard for campgrounds in this region and type.)

Cattle Camp Campground stands out for several key features and highlights that contribute to its allure for Northern California locals:

• Quiet and Peaceful Ambiance: The overriding highlight is its exceptional tranquility. Visitors consistently describe it as "absolutely beautiful and peaceful" and "very quiet at night," making it an ideal escape for those seeking serenity in nature.
• Spacious and Private Campsites: The generous "distance apart" between sites ensures a high degree of privacy, allowing campers to enjoy their natural surroundings without feeling crowded by neighbors.
• Natural Setting and Beauty: The campground is set amidst a beautiful natural environment, with opportunities to set up hammocks and enjoy the lush surroundings. The presence of a local "water hole" (though with a warning for mosquitoes) adds to the natural charm and offers a refreshing spot to cool off.
• Accessibility Features: The campground is notably "very well put together" with features like "paved area to park and a concrete area around the fire ring making it very nice for handicap accessibility." The paved and level roads also make it "very nice for kids on scooters and bikes," enhancing its family-friendliness.
• Proximity to Iconic Attractions: Its excellent location between Mt. Shasta City, McCloud, and Burney provides unparalleled access to renowned natural landmarks. McCloud Falls (Upper, Middle, and Lower) and the majestic Burney Falls are "all less than a 35 minute drive away," offering fantastic day-trip opportunities for hiking and sightseeing.
• Direct Access to Cattle Camp Swimming Hole: While not within walking distance, the "Cattle Camp swimming hole" is a short drive away, providing a "cold water but nice to cool off" option on warm days.
• Popularity Among Locals: The fact that the "campground was full even during the week in June" speaks volumes about its popularity and desirability among those who know the area best. This indicates a high level of satisfaction and repeat visitation.

For inquiries, reservations, or more detailed information about Cattle Camp Campground, please utilize the following contact details:

Address: CA-89, McCloud, CA 96057, USA

Phone: (530) 964-2184

Mobile Phone: +1 530-964-2184

It is important to note that many campgrounds within National Forests operate under the management of the U.S. Forest Service or concessionaires. While the provided phone number is direct, for the most up-to-date reservation information and availability, particularly for federal campgrounds, it is often beneficial to check the Recreation.gov website or call the ranger district directly for the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. Checking ahead, especially during peak seasons like June, is highly recommended given the campground's popularity.

For Californians, Cattle Camp Campground embodies the quintessential Northern California outdoor experience, making it an exceptionally suitable and highly recommended destination for locals. Its appeal lies in its harmonious blend of serene natural beauty, practical amenities, and strategic location amidst some of the state's most iconic landscapes.

Firstly, the campground's primary draw for locals is its profound sense of peace and quiet. In a state where many natural areas can become crowded, Cattle Camp offers a genuine escape. The "quiet, spacious campground within nature" and "very good separation between sites" resonate deeply with those seeking a true respite from urban clamor. This tranquility allows for genuine relaxation, whether it's enjoying a "morning snooze spot" in a hammock or simply listening to the sounds of the forest. This quietude is a precious commodity, and Cattle Camp delivers it consistently.

Secondly, its thoughtful design and accessibility features make it incredibly welcoming. The "paved area to park and a concrete area around the fire ring making it very nice for handicap accessibility," along with "paved and level" roads for "kids on scooters and bikes," highlight a commitment to inclusivity and family-friendliness. This means it’s not just for rugged adventurers but for families with young children, individuals with mobility needs, and anyone who appreciates well-maintained facilities that enhance rather than detract from the natural experience.

Lastly, Cattle Camp’s strategic location is a significant advantage for Californians looking to explore their own backyard. Situated perfectly between Mt. Shasta City, McCloud, and Burney, it serves as an ideal launchpad for day trips to magnificent natural attractions like McCloud Falls and Burney Falls, both less than 35 minutes away. This convenient access means less time driving and more time experiencing the wonders of the region. The nearby "Cattle Camp swimming hole," even with its cold water and mosquitoes, adds another layer of local charm and a refreshing option on a warm day. The fact that the "campground was full even during the week in June" is a testament to its strong reputation among those who live in and understand the appeal of this stunning part of California. Cattle Camp Campground offers a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and captivating natural beauty, making it a truly cherished escape for locals.

Cattle Camp Campground

CA-89, McCloud, CA 96057, USA