This permit is free and may be obtained from any Forest Service office. Deciding where to go and what to do at Shasta Lake can be a bewildering and frustrating experience for a newcomer. The following information is intended to serve as a guide to help you get around. More detailed information and brochures are available at the Shasta Lake Information Center, and, during the summer, from Campground Hosts at many of the National Forest Campgrounds. However, some of the resorts do have pools.
Many people swim from the shore near their campgrounds or from boats.
Swimming is prohibited at boat ramps. The trails at Jones Valley, Packers Bay, Bailey Cove, Shasta Dam and Hirz Bay provide moderate hiking and good access to shoreline, fishing, oak woodlands and occasional secluded creeks or vistas. Since the summer days are often hot and dry, be sure to carry water. Better still, hike trails when the weather is cool. Hiking trails are generally open all year.