Ellery Creek Campground

For Californians seeking a peaceful and picturesque escape into the heart of Northern California's natural beauty, Ellery Creek Campground near Lakehead offers an inviting and often serene experience. Nestled on the scenic McCloud Arm of Shasta Lake, this campground is a beloved destination for those who appreciate quiet nights, stunning water views, and the simple joys of outdoor living. Whether you're a seasoned tent camper, an RVer looking for convenient hookups, or a family seeking a dog-friendly retreat, Ellery Creek provides a lovely setting to disconnect and rejuvenate amidst the impressive landscapes of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. It's a place where the sounds of the city fade, replaced by the gentle lapping of water and the rustle of leaves.

Ellery Creek Campground is particularly appealing for its unique blend of rustic charm and helpful amenities. While some visitors appreciate the relative absence of a constant ranger or host presence, allowing for a more unbothered experience, others highlight the availability of essential comforts. Reviews frequently praise the "beautiful large trees and views of the water," creating an idyllic backdrop for your camping adventure. The "gorgeous sunset" over the lake is a consistent highlight, promising memorable evenings. What truly sets this campground apart for many, however, is the option for "water and electricity" at sites, a valuable convenience for modern camping, especially when temperatures dip overnight. This thoughtful provision ensures a cozy and comfortable stay, even for those venturing back into tent camping after many years. Ellery Creek Campground truly caters to those who want to experience nature without completely roughing it, making it an ideal choice for a diverse range of California outdoor enthusiasts.

Ellery Creek Campground is conveniently located at Gilman Rd, Lakehead, CA 96051, USA. This places it within the vast Shasta-Trinity National Forest, specifically on the McCloud Arm of Shasta Lake in Northern California. For many Californians, particularly those in the northern and central parts of the state, this location offers a manageable drive for a weekend or extended getaway.

Access to Ellery Creek Campground is generally straightforward, though it involves some mileage on Gilman Road. From Interstate 5, travelers will take exit 698 (Salt Creek Rd./Gilman Rd.) and then proceed for approximately 11-14.5 miles east on Gilman Road until they reach the campground sign. While parts of this road might be unpaved or less maintained in sections, it's generally navigable. The campground's position on the McCloud Arm means that while you're close to the water, the water levels of Shasta Lake can vary significantly. As noted by a visitor, "the water is really low. It was a pain to hike up and down." This implies that direct, easy water access from all sites might depend on the lake's current level, potentially requiring a bit of a hike down to the shore. However, this also means that at certain water levels, boats can be moored on the shore within sight of the campground, making it popular with boaters. Despite potential variations in water access, the journey to Ellery Creek places you directly into a beautiful, forested environment, ready for your outdoor activities.

Services Offered:

• Campsites with options for water and electricity hookups, providing modern conveniences for RVs and tents alike.
• Basic tent camping sites available.
• Access to vault toilets, ensuring basic sanitation facilities. (Note: some sources indicate no showers, while one review mentioned "restrooms/showers were great!", suggesting variation or a different type of facility than typical "showers").
• Picnic tables at each site for outdoor dining.
• Fire rings with grills for campfires and cooking (subject to current fire restrictions).
• Food lockers are provided for bear-proof food storage.
• Paved parking spurs and tent pads at sites.
• Opportunity for informal boat mooring on the lake shore at certain water levels.
• A public boat ramp is located approximately 4 miles away at Hirz Bay.

Features / Highlights:

• Quiet and peaceful atmosphere, highly valued by visitors seeking relaxation.
• Beautiful large trees providing ample shade and scenic views.
• Stunning views of Shasta Lake and surrounding natural landscapes.
• Gorgeous sunsets over the water, creating memorable evenings.
• Dog-friendly environment, allowing pets to join the camping adventure, with owners generally attentive to control.
• Convenience of water and electricity hookups at some sites for enhanced comfort.
• Opportunities for observing local wildlife, including lizards and potentially snakes (caution advised).
• Terraced campground layout, offering views of the lake from many sites.
• Popular for boaters, water skiing, jet skiing, and excellent fishing in Lake Shasta (trout, catfish, salmon, bass, etc.).
• Proximity to local attractions like Lake Shasta Caverns and Hirz Mountain Lookout.

Contact Information:

Address: Gilman Rd, Lakehead, CA 96051, USA

Phone: (530) 275-8113

Mobile Phone: +1 530-275-8113

For reservations, it is best to use the Recreation.gov system, as Ellery Creek Campground sites are typically reservable.

Reservations: (877) 444-6777 or via www.recreation.gov

For Californians, Ellery Creek Campground offers a compelling and suitable option for a memorable outdoor getaway. Its location on Shasta Lake, a major recreational hub in Northern California, makes it easily accessible for many across the state, particularly those seeking water-based activities like boating, fishing, and swimming. The balance between a serene, quiet environment and the availability of convenient amenities like water and electricity hookups makes it versatile for different camping styles, from traditional tent campers to those in RVs who appreciate a touch of home comfort amidst nature. This means locals can enjoy a "cozy" experience even on colder nights, without having to completely rough it.

The "beautiful large trees and views of the water" provide a stunning backdrop that truly captures the essence of Northern California's natural splendor, offering a refreshing contrast to the state's urban landscapes. The "gorgeous sunset" promises daily spectacles, creating lasting memories. Furthermore, the fact that it is a "dog-friendly" campground is a significant plus for many Californians who cherish bringing their beloved pets along on adventures, enhancing the family experience. While some might prefer a constant ranger presence, the quiet, unbothered atmosphere is often a draw for those seeking true relaxation and a break from rules-heavy environments. Even with fluctuating water levels and the potential for a hike to the shore, the reward of being by one of California's largest and most scenic lakes is well worth it. Ellery Creek Campground ultimately provides a quintessential California outdoor experience that combines natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and comfortable amenities, making it a highly recommended spot for locals to unwind and reconnect with the great outdoors.

Ellery Creek Campground

Gilman Rd, Lakehead, CA 96051, USA