OverviewThe Castle Crags are a compact granitic range at the edge of the Klamath Mountains bordering Strawberry Valley in northern California. They rise abruptly and steeply from their bases, consist of relatively solid granite, and offer some exceptional climbing opportunities (scrambling to technical rock climbing). The Pacific Crest Trail (PCT) goes through the park, and a 2.7 mile access trail offers access to Castle Crags Wilderness, part of the Shasta-Trinity National Forest.. Though the range looks diminutive from the lofty slopes of Mt. Shasta, the higher peaks rise above 5,000’ above the level of the sea. Perhaps the most prominent features are Castle Dome and Mt. Hubris (The Ogre). The area offers easy access from the freeway, reasonably short approaches, and fairly comfortable accommodations in the form of a well-supplied campsite.
One of the great joys of climbing at the Castle Crags is the amazing views one has of mighty Mt. Shasta.
· Here is a map of potential avalanche areas to be aware of if contemplating winter backcountry travel in or around the Castle Crags Wilderness. Getting ThereCastle Crags are located approximately 70 miles south of the Oregon/California state line (6 miles south of Dunsmuir) along interstate 5 (or approx. 50 miles north of Redding, CA). From I5, take the Castella exit (also marked "Castle Crags State Park"). Note that the exits on interstate highway 5 in California are now (finally) numbered; the exit you want is #724. From the exit ramp, drive west a few hundred yards till you see the "guard booth" for the state park.
Stop here and pay either the day use fee ($4/day/car, self-issued) or secure the camp site reservation. Past the entrance, make a right and follow the winding road through the campground and past a trailer turn-around loop (follow signs for Castle Crags overlook). Continue to road's end at the Castle Crags overlook parking lot (no parking 8pm to 6am....not sure how strictly enforced this rule is).
Red TapeFirst off, how much dough will being here set you back? Within Castle Crags State Park, a day-use pass is required ($6 as of February, 2005).
Also, as a California State Park, certain rules should be abided by while visiting. Most of this is common sense- just don’t do anything stupid. The following rules I copied, practically verbatim, from a park brochure (obtained February 2005 & dated May ’98) entitled “CALIFORNIA STATE PARK SYSTEM RULES AND REGULATIONS BRIEFED:”
· NATURAL SCENERY, PLANTS AND ANIMAL LIFE are the principal attractions of most state parks. They are integral parts of the ecosystem and natural community. As such they are protected by Federal, State and Park laws. Disturbance or destruction of these resources is strictly forbidden.
· DEAD AND DOWN WOOD is part of the natural condition. Decayed vegetation forms humus and assists the growth of trees and other plants. For this reason the gathering of down wood is prohibited. Fuel is sold in the parks for your convenience. (When considered a hazard, down wood is removed by park personnel.)
· DOGS AND OTHER DOMESTIC ANIMALS are not permitted to run at large in any unit of the State Park System. Dogs or cats must be in a tent or vehicle during nighttime hours. Dogs must be controlled on a leash no longer than six feet during the day. Dogs are prohibited in some parks, on all trainls, and on any beach adjacent to any body of water except in designated areas.
· ALL VEHICLE TRAVEL must be confined to designated roads or areas. The speed for all vehicles is 15 miles per hour in camp, picnic, utility or headquarters areas and areas of general assemblage; in no event shall any vehicle be driven at a speed greater than 25 miles per hour in other areas unless otherwise posted. All vehicles and all drivers must be licensed. Parking is permitted only in designated areas. Blocking parking spaces is prohibited.
· CAMPSITE USE must be paid for in advance. To hold a campsite, it must be reserved or occupied. To prevent encroachment on others, the limits of each campsite may be regulated by the District Superintendent. Checkout time is 12:00 NOON.
In order to provide for the greatest number of visitors possible the CAMPING LIMIT in any one campground is 30 days per calendar year.
· REFUSE, including garbage, cigarettes, paper boxes, bottles, ashes and other rubbish, shall be placed only in designated receptacles. Your pleasure and pride in your parks will be enhanced when they are kept clean.
PLEASE clean up after yourself so that others may enjoy the beauty of these parks.
The pamphlet sums it up beautifully & poetically: “LEAVE ONLY FOOTPRINTS, TAKE ONLY MEMORIES.” Mo’ ß:• Castle Crags State Park:
- state park website
- Phone #s 530-235-2684, 530-225-2065
• Useful maps:
- USGS: 7.5’ Dunsmuir
- USFS: Castle Crags Wilderness
Images
|
