Known as a boater's paradise, the Ellery Creek Campground is a beautiful space found along the McCloud Arm of Shasta Lake near Lakehead, California. The campground is located within the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, and it includes 14 campsites, most of which have great views of the lake. Most of the campsites have excellent tree cover from the surrounding deciduous trees, and you'll also find there's plenty of space between each site.
One of the reasons boaters love Ellery Creek so much is that, while there's a boat ramp just four miles away at Hirz Bay where you can launch your boat for $12, boats can also be moored at the campground when water levels permit. While Shasta Lake is famous for water skiing and jet skiing, it's also a prime fishing spot with lots of salmon, catfish, trout, and bass. Other activities on Shasta Lake include dinner cruises, guided tours of the Shasta Caverns, and a free one-hour tour of the Shasta Dam.
Your campsite at Ellery Creek will have a campfire ring, a grill, a picnic table, and a bear-safe food locker because bears frequent the area. There are no showers or hookups at the campground, but there are a few drinking water spigots throughout the area.
Bring your dog along for your camping adventure at Ellery Creek, but be advised that they must remain on a leash when they're outside of your vehicle or tent, and they must be in your tent or vehicle at night.Â
Memorial Day and the Fourth of July weekends are the busiest time of year to visit Ellery Creek, so it's a good idea to book your spot well in advance. Some spots can accommodate up to three tents and no more than eight people. Make sure to ask about the 50% discount for visitors with an Interagency or Senior Pass when you visit the Ellery Creek Campground.