Hirz Bay Campground

Introduction / Overview

For Californians seeking a refreshing and well-equipped escape into the natural beauty of Shasta Lake, Hirz Bay Campground offers a welcoming and well-maintained environment. Located on Hirz Bay Rd in Lakehead, CA 96051, this popular campground within the Shasta-Trinity National Forest is designed to provide comfortable amenities while immersing visitors in a stunning forested and lakeside setting. It’s a place where families, couples, and friends can truly unwind and enjoy the diverse recreational opportunities that Northern California's iconic Shasta Lake has to offer.

Hirz Bay Campground is praised by visitors for its thoughtful layout and facilities. As one satisfied camper noted, sites like #27 are "huge!" offering "2 tables, fire pit and BBQ," along with welcome "Shade in the camp site all day." This emphasis on spaciousness and essential comforts makes it a standout choice for both tent and RV campers. The availability of "clean bathrooms" and "water spigot outside of each bathroom with potable water" addresses crucial needs, ensuring a more convenient and pleasant stay compared to more primitive sites. These amenities, coupled with the "strong bear boxes" at each site, indicate a well-managed facility focused on both visitor comfort and wildlife safety.

While Hirz Bay Campground maintains a peaceful atmosphere, it does acknowledge its natural setting. Visitors should be aware of the presence of bears, but with proper use of bear boxes, these encounters are typically uneventful, as bears "just pass through." This awareness adds to the authentic outdoor experience without detracting from the overall tranquility, which campers describe as "Beautiful, quiet, and rejuvenating." The collective positive feedback, including the enthusiastic "10/10 will go back," reinforces Hirz Bay Campground's reputation as a reliable and enjoyable destination for Californians looking to make the most of their time around Shasta Lake.

Location and Accessibility

Hirz Bay Campground is strategically located on Hirz Bay Rd, Lakehead, CA 96051, USA, within the expansive Shasta-Trinity National Forest. This puts it on the McCloud Arm of Shasta Lake, offering both lake proximity and a forested setting. Lakehead, a small community directly off Interstate 5, serves as the convenient gateway to the campground, making it relatively easy to reach for Californians traveling from various parts of the state.

To reach Hirz Bay Campground from I-5, travelers typically take exit 698 (Salt Creek/Gilman Road) north of Redding. From there, you turn right off the off-ramp and follow Gilman Road east for approximately 9 to 11 miles until you see the entrance to Hirz Bay on the right. While the final stretch of road can be "narrow and winding," it is generally accessible for most vehicles, including those pulling RVs and trailers. The paved parking spurs at each site further enhance accessibility, making it easy to set up camp.

The campground’s location provides excellent access to Shasta Lake, a major hub for water-based recreation in Northern California. While some campsites are on a hill "about 300ft from water at a full pool," offering great lake views, there is a nearby boat ramp at Hirz Bay (approximately 1/2 mile from the campground) for direct access to the water. This allows campers to easily launch boats for fishing, water sports, or simply exploring the lake's many coves. For those seeking land-based activities, a "2-mile Hirz Bay Trail" is accessible near the campground, providing opportunities for leisurely walks and connecting with the natural environment. The combination of easy road access from I-5 and convenient proximity to both lake and trail recreation makes Hirz Bay Campground a highly practical and desirable choice for Californian outdoor enthusiasts.

Services Offered

• Campsites: Offers a mix of single and double sites, designed to accommodate both tents and RVs (average max trailer size 30-45ft). Each site typically features a paved parking spur, picnic table(s), a fire ring with grill, and a bear-proof food locker.
• Potable Water: Water spigots with potable water are available, often conveniently located outside of bathrooms.
• Restroom Facilities: Provides clean and well-maintained flush toilets. Some areas may also have vault toilets.
• Bear Boxes: Strong, bear-proof food lockers are provided at each campsite for secure food storage, crucial due to bear activity in the area.
• No Firewood Sales: Campers should purchase firewood before arriving at the campground, as it is not sold on-site.
• Daily Maintenance: Staff provides daily maintenance, including trash pickup and bathroom cleaning (except on holidays), ensuring a well-kept environment.
• Nearby Boat Ramp: Close proximity to the Hirz Bay boat ramp (approx. 0.5 miles from the campground) for easy lake access.
• Overflow Parking: An overflow parking area is available, which can be useful during peak season.
• Pay Phone: A pay phone is available on-site, a helpful amenity given potential limited cell service.
• Reservations: Sites are reservable, typically from May 15 to September 15, through Recreation.gov. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for peak periods.
• Fees: Single sites typically cost around $28/night (as of current information), with double sites at $56/night. Additional vehicles may incur a fee. Holders of Senior and Access Interagency Recreation Passes may receive a 50% discount.

Features / Highlights

• Spacious Campsites: Sites are notably large, with some double sites being "huge!" offering ample room for multiple tents or large RVs, two tables, a fire pit, and a BBQ.
• Excellent Shade: Many campsites provide "Shade in the camp site all day" from large trees, ensuring comfort even on warm California days.
• Clean and Well-Maintained Facilities: Bathrooms (both flush and vault) are consistently praised for being "clean" and well-maintained, with daily staff attention.
• Potable Water Availability: Convenient access to potable water spigots throughout the campground.
• Effective Bear Management: Equipped with "strong bear boxes" and a clear understanding of bear activity, allowing campers to securely store food (proper use is key).
• Quiet and Rejuvenating Atmosphere: Despite its popularity, the campground is often described as "Quiet, beautiful, and rejuvenating," ideal for a peaceful retreat.
• Proximity to Shasta Lake: Direct access to water activities via a nearby boat ramp and trails down to the lake for swimming and fishing.
• Hiking Opportunities: Access to the 2-mile Hirz Bay Trail for walking and exploring the surrounding forest.
• Dog-Friendly: The campground is generally pet-friendly, allowing furry companions to join the adventure (though specific rules like leash requirements apply).
• Beautiful Views: Nestled on a hilltop overlooking the McCloud Arm of Shasta Lake, offering scenic vistas.
• Family-Friendly: The spacious sites and range of activities make it suitable for family gatherings and creating lasting memories.

Contact Information

Address: Hirz Bay Rd, Lakehead, CA 96051, USA

Phone: (530) 275-8113 (This number is for the Shasta Lake Ranger Station, which is part of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest and manages Hirz Bay Campground.)

Mobile Phone: +1 530-275-8113 (This is likely the same main line for the Shasta Lake Ranger Station).

For reservations and the most up-to-date information, including current operating conditions, fire restrictions, and available sites, it is highly recommended to use the official National Recreation Reservation Service (NRRS). Reservations for Hirz Bay Campground can be made online via Recreation.gov or by calling their toll-free number: 1-877-444-6777. Since there is "no camp host or any other staff on site" at the campground itself, directing inquiries to the Shasta Lake Ranger Station or Recreation.gov is the most reliable method for planning your trip. Remember to reserve well in advance, especially for popular double sites or during peak seasons.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Hirz Bay Campground stands out as an exceptional choice for Californians seeking a harmonious blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and practical comfort. Its prime location on Hirz Bay Road in Lakehead, easily accessible from Interstate 5, makes it a convenient and desirable destination for residents across the state. For locals, this means less time spent on long journeys and more time immersed in the refreshing embrace of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest and the expansive Shasta Lake.

The campground's commitment to providing well-maintained facilities significantly enhances the camping experience. The availability of "clean bathrooms" with flush toilets and readily accessible "potable water" spigots eliminates common rustic camping challenges, allowing campers to focus on relaxation and enjoyment. The spacious, shaded sites, complete with picnic tables, fire rings, and BBQs, cater to both tent and RV campers, ensuring a comfortable setup regardless of preferred style. Furthermore, the provision of "strong bear boxes" and the diligent daily maintenance by staff (including trash pickup and bathroom cleaning) underscore a commitment to visitor safety and environmental stewardship, factors highly valued by California’s conscientious outdoor community.

Beyond the campsite amenities, Hirz Bay offers unparalleled access to the recreational wonders of Shasta Lake. With a nearby boat ramp, campers can effortlessly launch watercraft for fishing, water skiing, or simply cruising the beautiful waters. The accessible "Hirz Bay Trail" provides opportunities for scenic hikes, allowing locals to explore the area's diverse flora and fauna. The peaceful atmosphere, despite potential wildlife visits, fosters a truly "quiet, beautiful, and rejuvenating" escape. This blend of accessibility, comfort, and direct access to a wide array of activities makes Hirz Bay Campground a perfect fit for Californian families, friends, and solo adventurers looking to create cherished memories in their own backyard.

In essence, Hirz Bay Campground empowers Californians to effortlessly connect with the stunning natural landscapes of their state. It provides a reliable, comfortable, and activity-rich base for exploring Shasta Lake and its surroundings. For locals seeking a balance between rustic charm and essential conveniences, offering a chance to truly unwind and engage with the outdoors, Hirz Bay Campground stands as a premier choice, inviting them to return again and again for memorable adventures in Northern California.

Hirz Bay Campground

Hirz Bay Rd, Lakehead, CA 96051, USA