Mt. Lassen / Shingletown KOA

There is no shortage of exquisite places to explore when you find yourself dreaming of California’s notoriously spectacular landscapes and natural areas. Outdoor recreation is a way of life in these parts, especially at places like Whiskeytown National Recreation Area over on the other side of nearby Redding. This amazing natural area sits next to the Whiskeytown Lake, giving it delightful views and a refreshing breeze rolling in over the water for campers to enjoy. Head here with your campervan rental, and you can opt to swim and hike during the daytime. You can even ride mountain bikes or horses into the forest to seek out some of the area’s hidden waterfalls.

Castle Crags State Park is located north of Redding and is named for its iconic rock formations resembling massive castle spires and towers. People often stop along the highway when driving through to witness the sheer beauty of the volcanic rock formations protruding from the earth. The rock structures were revered by the local native people, thought to be sacred landmarks by the Modoc people and other tribes. Klamath National Forest is practically right next door to Castle Crags State Park, with well over one-and-a-half million acres of pristine land far away from human development. There are five wilderness areas found throughout the park, with nearly ten percent of the total park covered with old-growth, ancient trees.

Lassen Volcanic National Park is the main attraction when you rent an RV near Mt. Lassen/Shingletown KOA, sharing a name with both the campground and the large mountain. Lassen Peak is the dominant feature in the park, standing over 10,000 feet tall. The park is home to the largest plug dome volcano in the world, but each of the four major volcano types can be found within this volcanic wonderland, perfect for learning about the mysteries of geology and how the Earth works. Hiking, biking, rock climbing, kayaking, swimming, fishing, boating, snowshoeing, and downhill skiing are just a few of the things you can do when you bring your Shingletown camper rental to explore one of California’s most unique parks.

Since Shingletown is hardly more than a few buildings, your best bet for doing some city sightseeing is to head into Redding, not far from where you will be staying. Aside from its wonderful culinary scene and shopping areas, there is much to do in this Northern California city. The Sundial Bridge is a great landmark worth checking out, featuring a unique design that helps it double as a massive time-telling device. The bridge is directly next to the Turtle Bay Exploration Park, a fascinating museum where you can learn about forestry, the environment, and the amazing assortment of local wildlife that call the area home. In addition to the museum, there is an arboretum, a botanical garden, a wildlife center, and much more.

The Cascade Theatre is a gorgeous Art Deco-style theater where you can see live theatrical performances in a refurbished space. This spacious yet intimate theater is known to host Broadway musicals, operas, comedians, and musical acts from all over the country.

The waterpark in north Redding is great for children and families, especially when the temperatures soar in the hot and arid summertime. There are massive waterslides, lazy rivers, splash pads, pools, wave pools, as well as cabanas to lounge in between trips to the water. You can grab tasty snacks at the snack bar, host a birthday party, or join in on the adults-only pool parties that happen after dark.