About FOWLERS CAMPGROUND
Overview Fowlers Campground is located on the Upper McCloud River five miles east of McCloud, California. The campground is nestled in a mixed conifer and oak woodland. The campground offers paved parking spurs, running water and vault restrooms.Recreation A river-side trail from the campground provides access to the falls. It is approximately three miles round trip to see all three. Swimming and fishing are other popular activities. This section of river has no special restrictions for fishing. The McCloud River Loop, a paved road approximately 10 miles in length provides access to the Middle Falls and Upper Falls parking lots and overlooks if you do not wish to hike the trail.Facilities The campground has 35 regular campsites and two double campsites with tables, fire-rings, vault toilets and piped drinking water. Some sites are equipped with bear resistant food storage lockers. Sites are suitable for tents and mid-sized RVs or trailers. Large RVs are not recommended. Campground is typically staffed with a resident host.Natural Features Fowlers Campground is located on the eastside of majestic Mt. Shasta (14,179 foot summit) at an elevation of 3,300 feet. This area is at the southern tip of the Cascade Mountain Range. The area hosts abundant botanical and wildlife species. This campground is mostly known for the nearby McCloud River waterfalls. The McCloud Falls can be accessed via the McCloud River Trail or by road. The waterfalls vary in height from 15 to 50 feet. Nearby Attractions The Lower, Middle and Upper McCloud water falls, Lakin Dam Fishing Area, Cattle Camp Swimming Hole, McCloud Reservoir, Medicine Lake Highlands and the towns of McCloud (10 mins.) and Mt. Shasta (20 mins.) are nearby.Charges & Cancellations A $10.00 service fee will apply if you change or cancel your reservation. Late cancellations are subject to additional fees. For full details see NRRS Reservation Policy
How to Get There
From McCloud, California, go east on Highway 89. Drive 5 miles and look for the Fowlers/Lower Falls Sign. Turn right just after the sign and drive approximately 1 mile. Once you cross the River Loop Road take the left fork into the campground. The right fork will take you to the day use/parking area for Lower Falls and the beginning of the River Trail.
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 FOWLERS CAMPGROUND
Heading to FOWLERS CAMPGROUND? 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 FOWLERS CAMPGROUND?
No central reservation system listed for FOWLERS CAMPGROUND. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/255119) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to FOWLERS CAMPGROUND?
From McCloud, California, go east on Highway 89. Drive 5 miles and look for the Fowlers/Lower Falls Sign. Turn right just after the sign and drive approximately 1 mile. Once you cross the River Loop Road take the left fork into the campground. The right fork will take you to the day use/parking area for Lower Falls and the beginning of the River Trail.
How do I contact FOWLERS CAMPGROUND?
You can reach the park at phone: 530-964-2184 or email: mnova@fs.fed.us.
References & Official Resources
