Upper Jones Valley Campground

For Californians who cherish the raw beauty of their state's natural landscapes and prefer a more rustic camping experience, Upper Jones Valley Campground presents a unique opportunity. Located within the expansive Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area near Redding, this campground offers a back-to-basics approach to outdoor adventure. It's a place where the focus is on natural immersion, providing a quiet retreat close to the vast waters of Shasta Lake.

The Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area (NRA) is a jewel in Northern California, renowned for its diverse recreational offerings, from boating and fishing on its massive lakes to hiking and exploring its forested hills. Upper Jones Valley Campground, while part of this larger complex, offers a distinct, more primitive experience. It's operated by a concessionaire to the Forest Service, ensuring some level of oversight and maintenance, even for its basic facilities.

It is important for prospective visitors to understand the nature of Upper Jones Valley Campground based on recent reviews. While officially listed as "open 24 hours/day" and accommodating "8 camping units" with an average max trailer size of 16', there have been conflicting reports regarding its accessibility. Some reviews suggest the upper campground is "mostly closed and behind lock gate" or that the Jones Valley area is "day use only, no overnight camping" in certain seasons. However, official Forest Service information for "Upper Jones Valley Campground" confirms it is indeed available for camping on a "First Come, First Serve basis on an 'as needed for overflow' basis," with a fee per night. This discrepancy highlights the dynamic nature of forest service operations and the critical importance of verifying current conditions directly with the Shasta-Trinity National Forest before planning a trip.

Despite these potential access nuances, the campground's proximity to Shasta Lake remains a significant draw, making it an attractive option for those looking to enjoy the lake's vast waters. Its primitive amenities, specifically the lack of potable water and presence of vault toilets, dictate that campers must be self-sufficient and prepared for a true wilderness experience. For Californians seeking a quiet, no-frills natural escape, Upper Jones Valley Campground holds promise, provided they are well-informed and well-prepared.

Upper Jones Valley Campground is situated within the Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area, with its address listed generally as Redding, CA 96003, USA. This places it in the scenic and recreation-rich region of Northern California, east of Shasta Lake.

To access Upper Jones Valley Campground from I-5 (Exit 687), travelers should turn right and follow Old Oregon Trail for approximately three miles. A left turn onto Bear Mountain Road then leads visitors for about eight and a half miles to the junction of Dry Creek Road. At the stop sign, a left turn is required, followed by travel for about two miles to the Upper Jones Valley Campground sign, where a final right turn leads onto the campground road. This route suggests a mix of paved and potentially unpaved or less-maintained forest roads as one gets closer to the campground, typical of many National Forest sites. Visitors should check road conditions, especially during or after inclement weather.

The campground's location offers a sense of seclusion while still being relatively accessible from Redding, a major Northern California city. Its close proximity to Shasta Lake is a key geographical advantage, though it's important to note that direct lake access from the campground itself may not always be available, depending on water levels and specific access points. The surrounding landscape is characterized by forests and rolling hills, offering a tranquil environment for campers.

Upper Jones Valley Campground offers a primitive camping experience, providing basic amenities necessary for a natural outdoor stay. Visitors should be fully self-sufficient when planning a trip to this site.

• Campsites: The campground features 8 camping units, designed to accommodate trailers with an average maximum size of 16 feet. Each site typically includes a picnic table, a campfire ring, and an unpaved parking spur. Tent camping is also permitted at these sites.

• Toilets: Vault toilets are available at the site. These are non-flushable, low-impact restrooms common in wilderness and primitive campgrounds. Campers should be prepared to bring their own toilet paper and hand sanitizer.

• No Potable Water: A critical piece of information for all visitors is that potable water is explicitly stated as "not available at this site." Campers must bring all their own water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene for the entire duration of their stay. This underscores the self-sufficiency required for camping here.

• Fee-Based Camping: As of recent information, the fee per night is $28, with an additional vehicle fee of $12 per day. This fee contributes to the maintenance and oversight of the campground.

It's important to reiterate that this campground does not offer modern amenities such as electric hookups, showers, or dump stations. Cell service may also be limited or non-existent due to its location within a national recreation area. Campers should plan accordingly, bringing all necessary supplies and being prepared for a rustic experience.

Upper Jones Valley Campground offers several appealing features for those seeking a less developed and more natural camping environment in California.

• Proximity to Shasta Lake: A significant highlight is its "close to lake" location. While direct access may vary, being near the expansive Shasta Lake provides ample opportunities for water-based recreation, including boating, fishing, and potentially swimming (though not directly from the campground). Shasta Lake is known for its excellent fishing for various species, including trout, bass, and salmon.

• Quiet and Secluded Atmosphere: As a primitive campground with limited sites and no hookups, Upper Jones Valley often provides a quieter and more secluded camping experience compared to larger, more developed RV parks. This is ideal for campers seeking peace and tranquility in nature.

• Forested Setting: The campground is likely nestled within a forested area, offering shade and a natural ambiance. The Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area is known for its diverse tree species and lush landscapes, providing a pleasant backdrop for camping.

• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The relatively untouched natural environment increases the chances of spotting local wildlife, from various bird species to deer and other forest inhabitants. This adds an enriching dimension to the outdoor experience.

• "As Needed for Overflow" Availability: While this can be a double-edged sword, it suggests that when other campgrounds are full, Upper Jones Valley can serve as a valuable option for finding a spot, especially for spontaneous trips or during peak seasons.

• Access to Broader NRA Activities: Being part of the Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area means campers have access to the broader network of trails, scenic drives, and other recreational opportunities that the NRA offers, making it a good base for regional exploration.

It is crucial for visitors to confirm the current operational status of the campground, as past reviews suggest it can be closed or limited to day use at times. Preparedness for a "dry camping" experience (no water available) is also paramount.

For inquiries, current conditions, and to confirm the operational status of Upper Jones Valley Campground, it is best to contact the U.S. Forest Service office responsible for the Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area.

Address: Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity NRA, Redding, CA 96003, USA (This is a general administrative address for the recreation area; direct physical access to the campground will follow specific driving directions provided by the Forest Service.)

Phone: (530) 275-8113

Mobile Phone: +1 530-275-8113

These phone numbers are likely for the Shasta Recreation Company, which operates this facility as a concessionaire for the Forest Service, or the Shasta Lake Ranger Station. Given the conflicting information regarding its year-round accessibility and "day use only" status in some reviews versus official Forest Service data, it is absolutely essential to call ahead before planning your trip. This will ensure you have the most up-to-date information on fees, availability, road conditions, fire restrictions, and whether the campground is open for overnight camping at your desired time. Reservations, if available, would typically be managed through Recreation.gov.

For Californians, Upper Jones Valley Campground offers a genuine and accessible opportunity to embrace a more rustic camping experience within the familiar and beloved Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity National Recreation Area. Its appeal lies in its simplicity and its close proximity to the recreational hub of Shasta Lake, making it an ideal choice for locals seeking a quiet escape without venturing too far from Northern California's urban centers.

This campground is perfectly suited for self-sufficient campers who are comfortable with primitive amenities, including vault toilets and the necessity to bring all their own water. For those who prioritize peace over extensive facilities, Upper Jones Valley provides a serene forested setting where the sounds of nature prevail. Its "first-come, first-served" or "as needed for overflow" status can be an advantage for spontaneous adventurers, offering a potential spot when other, more popular campgrounds are full.

While verifying its current operational status is crucial, the promise of quiet nights under the stars, easy access to the vast recreational opportunities of Shasta Lake, and the chance to disconnect from daily life make Upper Jones Valley Campground a valuable local resource. It allows Californians to experience the wild beauty of their state's northern forests and waters in a no-frills, authentic manner, providing a much-needed breath of fresh air and a chance to create lasting outdoor memories.

Upper Jones Valley Campground

Whiskeytown-Shasta-Trinity Nra, Redding, CA 96003, USA