About BAILEY COVE
Overview Bailey Cove Campground is nestled in a forested area on the McCloud Arm of Shasta Lake. The site is a popular destination due to its convenient access from I-5 and the adjacent public boat ramp. The area surrounding the campground offers an abundance of recreational and sightseeing opportunities.Recreation The campground provides access to the 3-mile Bailey Cove Trail. This trail hugs the shoreline and is open to both hikers and mountain bikers. Lake Shasta attracts anglers due to its wide variety of fish. Boaters can access the lake via the adjacent boat ramp, and boat rentals are available nearby.Facilities Each of the 7 sites has a tent pad, picnic table, raised fire ring, bear boxes, and paved parking spur. Brick pavers have been used to provide added accessibility. Flush toilets and drinking water are provided. There is a day use area adjoined to the campground and boat ramp, which provides parking and restrooms and pic-nic tables with bbq's and hiking trails.Natural Features Shasta-Trinity is the largest national forest in California with a diverse landscape encompassing five wilderness areas, hundreds of mountain lakes and 6,278 miles of streams and rivers. Lake Shasta sits at an elevation of 1,067 feet, with 365 miles of shoreline punctuated by steep mountains blanketed in manzanita and evergreens. A snow-capped Mount Shasta, the second-tallest mountain in the Cascade Range, looms in the distance. This area boasts abundant wildlife. Osprey nests are often seen in the area around Bailey Cove Campground. Nearby Attractions Lake Shasta Caverns are also located on the McCloud Arm of Shasta Lake in an area know as the Grey Rocks. Tours are given daily at this privately owned facility. At an elevation of 3,500 feet, the nearby Hirz Mountain Lookout offers panoramic views of Mt. Shasta, Mt. Lassen and the surrounding area.
How to Get There
Bailey Cove campground is located 15 miles north of Redding, CA. Take I-5 into O'Brien, CA. Exit Shasta Caverns Road to Bailey Cove entrance. (approximately 1 miles off I-5).
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
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
- 💧
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 BAILEY COVE
Heading to BAILEY COVE? 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 BAILEY COVE?
No central reservation system listed for BAILEY COVE. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/232760) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to BAILEY COVE?
Bailey Cove campground is located 15 miles north of Redding, CA. Take I-5 into O'Brien, CA. Exit Shasta Caverns Road to Bailey Cove entrance. (approximately 1 miles off I-5).
References & Official Resources
