About HAYWARD FLAT
Overview Hayward Flat is one of the most popular campgrounds on Trinity Lake, offering excellent lake access and plenty of shade from Ponderosa pines and Douglas firs. Located on one of the best arms of the lake for water skiing, Hayward is favored by visitors interested in water sports. Relics from the area's Placer mining history are scattered throughout the campground, with interpretive signs providing explanations.Recreation A boat ramp and marina are located 3 miles away, but mooring may be available at the campground. Popular activities include power and non-motorized boating, fishing, swimming and water skiing. Anglers can fish for catfish, as well as a variety of bass, trout and salmon.Facilities The 98-unit family campground is comprised of 5 loops. The Dogwood and Elderberry loops provide lake views and informal mooring for boats. Every campsite has a paved spur, table and campfire ring. Most campsites also provide a bear-proof food storage locker. Additional amenities include flush toilets and drinking water. The site also offers an amphitheater with educational interpretive programs offered seasonally. Program dates and times will be posted at the campground.Natural Features The Shasta-Trinity is the largest national forest in California with a diverse landscape ranging from 1,000 to 14,162 feet. The 2.1 million acre forest encompasses five wilderness areas, hundreds of mountain lakes and 6,278 miles of streams and rivers. Trinity Lake sits at an elevation of 2,370 feet and is surrounded by the Trinity Alps. Black bears are frequently spotted in the area, as well as bobcats, mountain lions and a variety of bird species. Nearby Attractions The nearby town of Weaverville is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This former mining town offers restaurants, shopping and self-guided walking tours.
How to Get There
From Redding, CA: Go west on Highway 299 to Weaverville, then north on Highway 3 for 15 miles. Turn right at Hayward sign and travel approximately 2 miles to campground entrance. From Eureka, CA: Go east on Highway 299 to Weaverville, then north on Highway 3 for 15 miles. Turn right at Hayward sign and travel approximately 2 miles to campground entrance.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
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Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to HAYWARD FLAT
Heading to HAYWARD FLAT? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for HAYWARD FLAT?
No central reservation system listed for HAYWARD FLAT. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232234) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to HAYWARD FLAT?
From Redding, CA: Go west on Highway 299 to Weaverville, then north on Highway 3 for 15 miles. Turn right at Hayward sign and travel approximately 2 miles to campground entrance. From Eureka, CA: Go east on Highway 299 to Weaverville, then north on Highway 3 for 15 miles. Turn right at Hayward sign and travel approximately 2 miles to campground entrance.
How do I contact HAYWARD FLAT?
You can reach the park at phone: 530-275-8113.
References & Official Resources
