Camping at Ellery Creek Campground

Overview of Ellery Creek Campground

Ellery Creek Campground is located within the Shasta-Trinity National Forest, which is situated in the northern part of California. It offers a rustic camping experience near the shores of Lake Shasta, the largest man-made reservoir in California. The campground is typically open from late spring through early fall, depending on weather conditions and budget constraints.

Location and Directions

Ellery Creek Campground can be found along the McCloud Arm of Lake Shasta. To access the campground:

• From the city of Redding, take I-5 North.
• Exit at Mountain Gate and proceed on Gregory Creek Road.
• Continue on dirt roads following signs to the campground.

Given that access involves dirt roads, conditions can change, and it's recommended to check the current road status before your trip.

Facilities and Amenities

The campground provides a number of basic facilities:

• Campsites: There are multiple sites available for tent and RV camping, though the latter may have size restrictions due to the campground's natural setting.
• Water: Potable water may or may not be available, so it's advisable to bring your own.
• Restrooms: There are usually vault toilets available for use.
• Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite typically has a picnic table and fire ring.

Note that there is no electrical hookups, dump stations, or showers. Guests are expected to pack in all the supplies they need and pack out all trash.

Activities and Recreation

The campground offers various recreational opportunities:

• Boating: Lake Shasta is popular for boating. However, the campground may not have its own boat ramp, so check nearby facilities for access points.
• Fishing: Anglers can fish for species like trout, bass, and catfish in Lake Shasta.
• Swimming: The lake provides opportunities for swimming, but there are no lifeguards, so swim at your own risk.
• Hiking: There are numerous trails in the Shasta-Trinity National Forest for hikers of all levels.
• Wildlife Watching: The area is home to diverse wildlife, from birds to deer.

Reservation and Usage

• Reservations: Ellery Creek Campground may operate on a first-come, first-served basis, but it's worth checking if reservations are accepted through the Forest Service or a third-party website.
• Fees: There is typically a nightly fee for camping. Check the latest fees and payment methods before arriving.
• Limits: Usually, there’s a maximum stay limit, which is commonly 14 days.

Safety and Regulations

• Fire Safety: Be aware of fire restrictions, especially during dry months. Only use fire rings for campfires and ensure all fires are completely extinguished before leaving them unattended.
• Bear Precautions: In areas with bears, proper food storage is necessary to prevent bear encounters.
• Leave No Trace: Follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment.

Contact and Additional Information

For the most current information regarding Ellery Creek Campground, it's best to contact the Shasta-Trinity National Forest:

• Phone Number: Typically, you can call the Shasta-Trinity National Forest main office.
• Website: Visiting the official Forest Service website will provide the latest news, alerts, and updates.

Remember that conditions can change due to weather or other factors, so always check for the latest updates and prepare accordingly.