Mary Smith Campground

Nestled along the shores of the tranquil Lewiston Lake, within the vast and picturesque Shasta-Trinity National Forest, Mary Smith Campground offers Californians a truly enchanting escape into nature. Often lauded as one of California's "prettiest lake campgrounds" by publications like Sunset Magazine, this serene destination provides a perfect blend of natural beauty, well-maintained facilities, and a peaceful atmosphere. Whether you're a seasoned tent camper or looking for a comfortable glamping experience, Mary Smith Campground promises a memorable retreat far from the everyday hustle.

Known for its crystal-clear waters, abundant rainbow trout, and stunning views of the surrounding Trinity Alps, Lewiston Lake is a haven for anglers and paddlers alike. Mary Smith Campground, with its mix of traditional tent sites and luxurious glamping units, caters to diverse preferences, ensuring everyone can find their ideal way to connect with this stunning Northern California landscape. It's a place where the calm waters invite reflection, the scent of pine fills the air, and the friendly camp hosts ensure your stay is as enjoyable as possible.

Mary Smith Campground is conveniently located off Trinity Dam Blvd, in Lewiston, CA 96052, USA. Specifically, it's situated about two miles north of the quaint town of Lewiston, off County Road 105.

Accessing Mary Smith Campground is relatively straightforward by car, making it an accessible option for many Californians. However, it's important to note its characteristics. While it's a drive-in campground, many of the campsites are "walk-in," meaning you'll park your vehicle and carry your gear a short distance to your tent site. Some sites, particularly those on hillsides, may involve navigating stairs carved into the terrain. This adds to the secluded feel of individual sites but is a factor to consider when packing. The campground is designed for tent camping, and trailers are generally not allowed. For those bringing boats, nearby Pine Cove boat ramp (within four miles) and Fairview launching area on Trinity Lake (nine miles north) provide convenient access to the water. The proximity to the small town of Lewiston also means easy access to basic supplies, including firewood and ice, from local gas stations.

Mary Smith Campground provides a range of essential services and amenities designed to enhance your camping experience while maintaining its natural charm.

• Campsites: The campground features a total of 18 sites, including 6 glamping units and 11 single tent-only sites. Sites are varied, some offering fair to outstanding privacy. Reviewers suggest that regular tent sites are best suited for 1 large tent or 2 small tents.
• Glamping Units: A significant highlight is the availability of "Glamping" units. These permanent tent structures (168 sq ft) come outfitted with oversized queen beds (with linens, feather down comforters, and pillows), rustic log furniture, nightstands, and a boot bench. Each glamping unit also has an outside front deck with armchairs, a coffee table, a fire pit, and a picnic table, offering a luxurious camping experience.
• Restrooms: The campground offers clean and well-kept restroom facilities. Both flush toilets and vault toilets are available, and visitors frequently praise their cleanliness and pleasant smell.
• Water Access: Running water access points are available throughout the campground. However, it is important to note that this water is often non-potable, suitable for dishes and general use but not for drinking. Campers should plan to bring their own potable water or use purification methods. Some older reviews mention potable water, but more recent ones indicate it may be non-potable, so confirming current conditions upon arrival or with the forest service is recommended.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite, including glamping units, is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring (often with grills on top) for outdoor cooking and campfires.
• Camp Hosts: Friendly and helpful camp hosts are typically on-site, contributing to the well-kept nature of the campground and providing assistance and local information.
• Reservations: Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, as the campground can fill up quickly. Reservations can be made up to six months in advance via recreation.gov. Some sites might also be available on a first-come, first-served basis, but relying on this is not advisable during busy periods.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are generally welcome but must be kept on a leash.

Mary Smith Campground truly shines with its unique features and the recreational opportunities it provides.

• Scenic Lakeside Location: The campground is beautifully situated directly on Lewiston Lake, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding Trinity Alps from many campsites. This picturesque setting makes it a photographer's delight.
• Excellent Fishing: Lewiston Lake is a renowned fishing destination, particularly for rainbow, brown, and brook trout. It's excellent for fly-fishing, float tubing, and even shore fishing, with a speed limit of 10 mph for motorized boats ensuring a peaceful environment for anglers.
• Paddling Paradise: The calm, clear waters of Lewiston Lake are ideal for non-motorized watercraft such as kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. The serene conditions make it perfect for peaceful exploration of the shoreline.
• Hiking Trails: Several trails lead down to the lake from the campground, providing easy access to the water for swimming and paddling. There are also great hiking opportunities in the surrounding Shasta-Trinity National Forest, with some trails just steps from campsites.
• Privacy and Spacing: Despite being a popular campground, many of the sites are "walk-in" and clustered in small groups, providing a good degree of privacy between individual campsites.
• Glamping Experience: The inclusion of luxurious glamping units offers a unique draw, appealing to those who desire the comfort of a real bed and well-appointed "tent cabins" while still being immersed in nature.
• Abundant Wildlife and Birdwatching: The mixed forest and proximity to the lake attract a variety of wildlife, including various bird species like bald eagles and ospreys, making it an excellent spot for wildlife viewing and birdwatching.
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Visitors consistently highlight the campground's quiet and peaceful ambiance, largely due to the lake's speed limit and the tent-only nature of most sites, creating a serene environment.

For inquiries, reservations, or more information about Mary Smith Campground, you can use the following contact details:

Phone: (530) 275-8113

Mobile Phone: +1 530-275-8113

Address: Trinity Dam Blvd, Lewiston, CA 96052, USA

For reservations, it is highly recommended to visit the Recreation.gov website and search for "Mary Smith Campground."

For Californians seeking a truly idyllic and peaceful outdoor escape, Mary Smith Campground on Lewiston Lake is an exceptional choice. Its reputation as one of the state's prettiest lake campgrounds is well-deserved, offering a scenic beauty that deeply resonates with the diverse landscapes Californians cherish. Unlike some of the larger, more bustling state parks, Mary Smith provides a more intimate and serene experience, making it perfect for locals looking to genuinely unwind and reconnect with nature without feeling overwhelmed by crowds.

The unique blend of traditional tent camping with the option for comfortable glamping units makes it highly adaptable to various preferences, catering to both seasoned outdoor enthusiasts and those looking for a softer introduction to camping. This flexibility is a significant draw for Californian families and groups with differing comfort levels. The calm, non-motorized nature of Lewiston Lake, with its 10 mph speed limit, ensures that fishing and paddling are always tranquil, offering a meditative quality often hard to find on larger, more active bodies of water.

Furthermore, the well-maintained facilities, friendly camp hosts, and easy access to clean restrooms enhance the overall comfort, allowing campers to focus on enjoying the stunning views and recreational opportunities. The proximity to the Trinity Alps and the Shasta-Trinity National Forest provides endless possibilities for hiking and wildlife viewing, making it a true gateway to some of Northern California's most pristine wilderness. For Californians, Mary Smith Campground isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's a beloved local secret that offers a quiet sanctuary, a chance to slow down, and an opportunity to create cherished memories amidst the breathtaking beauty of our home state.

Mary Smith Campground

Trinity Dam Blvd, Lewiston, CA 96052, USA