Roughly 18 miles from I-5, Cabin Creek Campground is not exactly “on the way.” Because so much of the land around Mount Shasta is privately held, there is a real shortage of overnight public camping areas, particularly those with character and those without a fee. Cabin Creek Campground is both full of character and free. In fact, the campground, which hosts only two walk-in camp sites, isn’t truly a campground; rather it primarily functions as a food drop location and stopping point for hikers along the Pacific Crest Trail (PCT). Because it isn't an official campground and only PCT hikers know about it, there is a really good chance you’ll have your pick of which campsite to call home for the night.

Although the campsite provides little in terms of amenities, it is nestled below the road and next to calmly flowing Squaw Creek, which affords the opportunity to purify drinking water if necessary. Further, because it is less than one-quarter of a mile from the PCT, the campsite is a good departure point for a wonderful day hike along Squaw Valley Creek Trail or the PCT. To access the trails, turn left after crossing the footbridge, where many miles of serene wilderness will await you. Enjoy!