Moore Creek Campground

Introduction / Overview

For Californians seeking a peaceful retreat amidst the stunning natural beauty of Northern California, Moore Creek Campground on Shasta Lake offers an ideal sanctuary. Located on Gilman Rd in Lakehead, CA 96051, within the expansive Shasta-Trinity National Forest, this campground is celebrated for its ability to provide a calm and rejuvenating escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. As one satisfied visitor eloquently put it, "This is a really nice place to get away from the busy places and relax while doing some camping, hiking or playing in the lake," perfectly encapsulating its serene appeal.

Moore Creek Campground offers a quintessential lakeside camping experience where tranquility takes center stage. Unlike more crowded recreational areas, this campground allows visitors to truly unwind and immerse themselves in the surrounding wilderness. Its proximity to Shasta Lake, one of California's largest and most beautiful reservoirs, means endless opportunities for water-based activities, from swimming and boating to fishing and kayaking. The encouraging note that the "Lake is full" assures prospective visitors that the primary draw – the water – is readily available for enjoyment, promising a fulfilling experience for all lake enthusiasts.

Designed to cater to both tent and RV campers, Moore Creek Campground provides a comfortable base from which to explore the vast offerings of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest. Whether your ideal getaway involves leisurely walks through forested trails, spending a day out on the shimmering lake, or simply relaxing at your campsite under the canopy of trees, this campground facilitates a memorable outdoor adventure. Its reputation as a quiet and relaxing haven solidifies its position as a top choice for Californians eager to reconnect with nature and find peace in the heart of their state's magnificent landscapes.

Location and Accessibility

Moore Creek Campground is conveniently located on Gilman Rd, Lakehead, CA 96051, USA. This places it directly within the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, nestled along a serene arm of Shasta Lake in Northern California. Lakehead, a small community, serves as a primary access point to this part of the lake and is easily reachable from Interstate 5. This strategic location makes Moore Creek Campground highly accessible for Californians traveling from various regions of the state, ensuring a manageable journey to a truly tranquil destination.

To reach Moore Creek Campground from I-5, travelers typically take exit 698 (Salt Creek/Gilman Road) north of Redding. From the off-ramp, you turn right (if coming from the south) and follow Gilman Road east. The campground entrance is well-marked along Gilman Road. The road to the campground is generally well-maintained and suitable for most vehicles, including those towing RVs and trailers, though standard caution for winding forest roads is always advisable. This relatively easy road access ensures that campers can arrive smoothly, ready to unpack and enjoy their lakeside retreat without the challenges of navigating overly rugged terrain.

The campground’s position on Shasta Lake provides direct and convenient access to the water, which is a major highlight. While the specific proximity of campsites to the water's edge can vary with lake levels, the overall ease of reaching the lake for swimming, fishing, or launching non-motorized watercraft is a significant advantage. Additionally, the location within the Shasta-Trinity National Forest opens up opportunities for exploring numerous hiking trails in the surrounding area, allowing campers to extend their adventures beyond the lake itself. This blend of straightforward road accessibility and immediate access to both lake and forest recreation makes Moore Creek Campground a highly desirable and practical choice for California locals seeking a refreshing outdoor experience.

Services Offered

• Campsites: Offers a mix of single and double sites suitable for both tents and RVs (with designated parking spurs). Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring with a grill.
• Flush Toilets: Provides clean and regularly maintained flush toilet facilities for visitor convenience.
• Potable Water: Accessible spigots with potable water are available throughout the campground.
• No Hookups: There are no electric, water, or sewer hookups at individual campsites, offering a more traditional camping experience.
• Bear-Proof Food Lockers: Each campsite is equipped with bear-proof food lockers for secure storage of food and scented items, crucial in this bear habitat.
• Camp Host (Seasonal): A camp host is typically on site during the peak season, providing assistance and oversight.
• Trash Collection: Dumpsters are available for trash disposal, encouraging proper waste management.
• Swimming Access: Direct or very easy access to Shasta Lake for swimming.
• Boat Launch (Nearby): While not directly within the campground, public boat launches for Shasta Lake are available nearby for motorized boats.
• Reservations: Sites are reservable, typically from mid-May to mid-September, through Recreation.gov. Reservations are highly recommended during peak season.
• Fees: Fees apply for overnight camping. (As of current information, single sites typically cost around $28/night, 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

• Peaceful and Relaxing Atmosphere: Consistently praised as a "nice place to get away from the busy places and relax," offering a quiet and serene environment.
• Direct Lake Access: Provides easy access to Shasta Lake for swimming, fishing, and playing in the water. The assurance that the "Lake is full" is a significant draw.
• Spacious Campsites: Sites are generally roomy, offering good separation between campers and ample space for setup, enhancing privacy and comfort.
• Clean Flush Toilets: The availability of well-maintained flush toilets is a significant convenience for campers, contributing to a more comfortable stay.
• Potable Water: Readily available potable water spigots throughout the campground.
• Bear-Proof Food Storage: Essential bear boxes at each site promote safe food storage and help minimize human-wildlife conflicts.
• Hiking Opportunities: Access to trails within the Shasta-Trinity National Forest for leisurely walks or more extensive hikes.
• Family-Friendly: The quiet environment, lake access, and available amenities make it suitable for family camping trips.
• Beautiful Scenery: Surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Shasta-Trinity National Forest and the vast expanse of Shasta Lake.
• Wildlife Viewing: Opportunities to observe local wildlife in their natural habitat.

Contact Information

Address: Gilman Rd, Lakehead, CA 96051, USA

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

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

For the most current information regarding Moore Creek Campground, including real-time lake levels, specific site availability, current fire restrictions, and any changes in operating procedures or fees, it is highly recommended to utilize the National Recreation Reservation Service (NRRS). Reservations for Moore Creek Campground can be made online via Recreation.gov or by calling their toll-free number: 1-877-444-6777. It is advisable to make reservations well in advance, especially during the peak season, as this popular campground tends to fill up quickly. Calling the Shasta Lake Ranger Station directly at the provided number during business hours can also provide valuable insights into current conditions and local recommendations.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

Moore Creek Campground on Shasta Lake stands as an exceptional destination for Californians seeking a rejuvenating and amenity-rich outdoor experience without venturing too far from home. Its convenient location on Gilman Rd in Lakehead, easily accessible from Interstate 5, makes it a prime choice for residents across the state. For locals, this means a manageable drive to a serene lakeside retreat, allowing more time to unwind and less time on the road, perfectly aligning with the desire for accessible yet impactful outdoor escapes.

The campground's most compelling feature for locals is its ability to provide a true "get away from the busy places" experience. It offers a tranquil environment perfect for relaxation, whether it's simply lounging at a spacious, shaded campsite or enjoying the quiet beauty of Shasta Lake. The fact that the "Lake is full" is a significant assurance for those planning water-based activities, promising a fulfilling experience for swimming, fishing, and boating enthusiasts. The inclusion of clean flush toilets, potable water, and bear-proof food lockers demonstrates a commitment to visitor comfort and safety, key factors that enhance the appeal for families and those new to camping.

Moreover, Moore Creek Campground caters to the diverse interests of California's outdoor community. Its proximity to the vast Shasta-Trinity National Forest means abundant opportunities for hiking, allowing campers to explore the region's diverse ecosystems and scenic vistas beyond the lake's edge. The overall "relax while doing some camping, hiking or playing in the lake" ethos captures the essence of a balanced outdoor vacation. This blend of peace, practical amenities, and abundant recreational opportunities solidifies Moore Creek Campground as an ideal choice for Californians looking to reconnect with nature, spend quality time with loved ones, and recharge their spirits in one of the state's most iconic natural settings.

In essence, Moore Creek Campground provides Californians with a reliable, comfortable, and deeply satisfying gateway to the natural wonders of Shasta Lake. It invites locals to embrace the tranquility of the forest and the refreshing waters of the lake, ensuring a memorable and rejuvenating outdoor adventure right in their own beautiful state.

Moore Creek Campground

Gilman Rd, Lakehead, CA 96051, USA