Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Lake McCloud

Constructed in 1966 by Pacific Gas and Electric Co. as a reservoir on the McCloud River to control water flows in the generation of hydro-electric power, Lake McCloud has become a favorite of local fishermen and vacationers from out-of-the-area alike. The blue-green water of Lake McCloud is home to a good population of Rainbow and German Brown trout. The fact that the water temperatures stay relatively cold year around, makes this lake better suited for fishing than most water sports.

The shoreline around the lake below the road (from south of the boat ramp and south of Star City Creek) is  administered by the Forest Service and open to the public. Land and shore north of the boat ramp and Star City Creek is privately owned and not open to the public. The water surface however, is open entirely to public boat access with speed limits posted on the northern reaches of the lake. Shoreline access is somewhat limited due to the steepness of the slope along the lake, however there are several access trails to lake's edge.

Star City Creek on the east side of the lake and the boat ramp on the west side have day use facilities. Please check at the boat ramp for current parking fees. No overnight camping facilities exist on Lake McCloud. There are two privately owned campgrounds and RV parks a short drive from the lake. Lake McCloud is 10 miles south of McCloud, California on Squaw Valley Road. Access to Lake McCloud during winter months may be limited by snow.

For further information, contact the McCloud Ranger Station at (530)964-2184.

Lake Siskiyou is also located in the area a short drive east of the town of Mt. Shasta. Lake Siskiyou is a privately owned resort under special use permit from the County of Siskiyou. Please visit their website for additional information.

US Forest Service - Shasta-Trinity National Forest
Last Modified:  Wednesday, 02 April 2008 at 19:37:01 EDT