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Access Site CA

Shasta Lake (Bailey Cove)

Shasta Lake McCloud River

Source: california_department_of_parks_and_recreation Updated 1 year ago

City: O'Brien, CA
County: Shasta County
Type: Boat Ramp
Location: 40.79848100, -122.31635100
Air Temp: --
Location
Nearby Gauge Conditions
About This Access Site
The Bailey Cove boat ramp on Shasta Lake provides convenient access for kayakers, canoeists, and other small boaters. Situated off I-5 in O'Brien, California, the ramp is part of the Bailey Cove Campground, a popular destination due to its lakeside location and trailhead access.

The ramp itself is paved and offers ample parking, though fees may apply. Nearby restrooms and the adjacent campground make this a practical launching point for day trips or overnight excursions on Shasta Lake. As a major reservoir, the lake offers paddlers and small boaters a diverse range of coves, inlets, and open water to explore, with opportunities for fishing, swimming, and sightseeing along the forested shoreline. However, boaters should be aware of potential hazards like fluctuating water levels and floating debris, especially during severe weather.

For those looking to extend their time on the water, the Bailey Cove Trail provides 3 miles of hiking along the lakeshore. Other nearby recreation areas, including the Eastside Keswick Trails and Sacramento River Rail Trail, offer additional opportunities for land-based exploration in the region.
Federal Facility Information
Free Access Reservations Available

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...

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.

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Nearby Campgrounds (3 within 10 miles)
MARINERS POINT GROUP CAMPGROUND
On-site Reservable
GREGORY CREEK GROUP CAMPGROUND
On-site Reservable
Gregory Creek Group Campground
On-site
Nearby Recreation Areas
Eastside Keswick Trails Located within
Sacramento River Rail Trail Located within
Shasta National Rec. Area Located within
Chappie/Shasta Off-Highway Vehicle Recreation Area Located within
Nearby Boat Facilities
Shasta-Trinity National Forest - Sugarloaf Boat Ramp On-site
Shasta-Trinity National Forest - Jones Valley Boat Ramp On-site
Shasta-Trinity National Forest - Bailey Cove Boat Ramp On-site
Shasta-Trinity National Forest - Hirz Bay Boat Ramp On-site