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    Lake Shasta Caverns

    4.2 (323 reviews)
    Open 8:00 am - 6:00 pm

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    Jennifer M.

    I had a wonderful time at the caverns. This is a must see if in the Redding/Shasta area. I purchased my tickets online. It was easy and quick process. You can also purchase tickets from the gift shop. The entire trip was smooth and super fun. It started with a ferry ride to the other side of the lake. There was a bus waiting for us. We loaded the bus, drove up to the caves, and met our guide. We met Jenna, tour guide, and began our tour. She was funny and very informative throughout the entire tour. The caves were fantastic to see. BEWARE: there are lots of stairs in the caves that you must climb and descend. There were loads of rock formations to see in the caves. The lighting system made it easier to each one. I especially liked the light show at the end.

    Show me your stalagtits!
    Glen N.

    I finally caved in and did this tour. Normally I would give a tour like this five stars, especially considering that the check-in experience is more welcoming and operationally inviting than expected and the trip comes with a boat ride, but... because of Memorial Day crowds, we had the "self-guided tour", which I did not enjoy. First, because people were just moving around willy nilly, helter skelter, and higgedly piggedly, people entering were unaware of the docents stationed in certain areas, so they talked over them. Plus, you'd enter a room while a docent was halfway through a spiel. As a result, the "robust and comprehensive tour" was more bust than robust. I guess they're pretty, but I rank these caverns below Kartchner (southern Arizona) and even Georgetown (near Austin, TX). What saved the experience was the light show at the end. As of April 5, 2025, they replaced 183 light bulbs with LED Luminaries Lighting for an all-new light and sound show for the finale. It was lit. The check-in grounds had two parking attendants help us to a spot, and the check-in area had a small picnic area with photo ops and activities for the kids, with access to a gift shop and snack bar. Getting checked in was easy and hassle-free and the boat boarding was well-organized. The captain is presented as "a guide [to] inform you about the geography, formation, and natural beauty of the caverns", but that wasn't the case. She just said, "Let me know if you have any questions," so the boat ride across the McCloud arm of Shasta Lake was self-guided, too. Expect the unpleasantly hot bus ride that goes 900 feet above the lake. One kid asked if they could put on the air and the guy said it's already on. Unfortunately, the air conditioning was not self-guided. The bus slows down as it climbs a guardrail-less steep slope, and because the bus driver tells people to look at the drop, a good chunk of the other side of the bus got up to look, so please put your "well-fed" kids on the left side of the bus- otherwise it feels like Fred Flintstone's car when he orders the brontosaurus ribs.

    Louis L.

    One of our quest to visit all beauties of California is exploring Lake Shasta Caverns. We went to see the McCloud 3 Falls then stopped by here to see the cave. The lake is beautiful, the boat ride is refreshing. Walking to the bus ride is tiring due to up hill climb from the dock, but the ride is scary and exciting looking down the steep slope to the lake. All the buses trying to go up and down the one way road quite amazing. The bus driver is extremely humorous and pleasant. Inside the cave, we had a narrator to explain the history of the cave and how they're forming which is quite informative and eye opening. More stairs to climb, tiring but there are so much to see. Each floor and sections have different scenery. The lighting makes each cave look lively and exotic. Although there are quite a lot of climbing and walking but we had enjoyed it tremendously. On the way out, we could see the views of the lake so beautiful. It's quite a feast for the eyes. We loved it. It's time for another one.

    Dale S.

    This was a fun and interesting experience and I'm really glad that we made a stop here. It is dog friendly, however I think it's really important for people to understand what that means. They have a small kennel area here under a blue canopy (SEE PHOTOS) that has a few dog cages and some bowls for water. It's my understanding that if you have a larger dog or you want to leave your dog there, you can. We actually did not see that area until after the tour and it made me quite sad. I understand that some people might have to leave their dogs because the tour is more difficult if you have your dog with you, but just know that it's not impossible. We took our 20 lb dog with us and with the exception of the cavern area, it was a breeze. In the caverns however, you will have to carry your dog the entire time. While it might not sound like a difficult task to carry your dog for 30 minutes or so, there are over 600 steps inside the cavern that you will have to traverse while carrying your dog and there is no place where you can set your dog down while you are in the caverns. That being said, the tour was more physically grueling than we anticipated. My husband and I are both overweight and do not exercise regularly but we were able to make it through, including carrying our dog through the caverns. My husband had also just had knee surgery a few months prior so while this tour is definitely doable, it is a lot of physical activity. You will have to walk down multiple steps after purchasing your ticket and walk down a graded slope to get on the boat. Once on the other side of the lake, you will have to walk up a steep grade to get to a bus and then there are the 600 steps inside the cavern. When it's over, you get to walk up and downhill and do more steps again to head back. The tour itself is lovely and you get to see a lot and learn a lot, but I think if we had known exactly how much physical exertion would be required before coming, we might have chosen a different activity. I'm glad we didn't know and took a chance on this tour; I just want others to be prepared because I see reviews saying things like" don't worry about the 600 steps, it's easy" just remember that you will be in a line of strangers and we were definitely not the only ones huffing and puffing and hot and uncomfortable even though the temperature in the caverns is steadily cool. While I would recommend this tour to most people, we were approached by an older woman on our way out asking us about the difficulty and after about 5 minutes of talking she decided to send her children and grandchildren and wait in her vehicle instead of going and I think she made the right decision.

    Walk to the boat
    Lizzy C.

    Shasta Caverns is the only Cavern that you have to take a boat ride and a bus ride to get to the enterance. They have a gift shop and visitor center with quite a few items available including food and drink options, this is also where you have to check in for your tour to get your boarding pass for the boat. They start their boarding call about 15 minutes before tour time and you descend out the back of the visitor center and down to the lake to board the boat. You take a boat ride accross the lake where you board a bus that drives you up to the top of the hill. There is a waiting area with a drink machine and some history on the caverns. We met our tour guide at the enterance and he went over the no touching etc rules and regulations. The tour you see 3-4 different rooms and types of formations. Be aware that this tour has alot of stairs. There's a few here and there at first when you go to the first and second room and once you head to the larger rooms you take 80 consecutive stairs before you get to the first room. You then take an additional amount of stairs in to the largest cave room I've ever been in. Where they have a light show which was incredible. The tour was fairly quick in each room and we didnt get the opportunity to take a photo of us together in the Cavern. When you exit the caver you exit at the top and descend countless stairs back down to the visitor center. My legs felt like jello by the time we were done. This was one of the better caverns I have been to and I highly reccomend.

    Boat ride
    Jennifer N.

    Shasta Caverns was a great way to spend a warm day during a vacation in the area. I love visiting caverns and had been looking forward to this for quite some time. You can buy tickets online but it's not required-walk ins are first come first serve and tours run every 30 minutes. The staff told us that summer weekends and holidays are packed, so try going during the week if you can. The cost of your ticket includes a whole experience of a short boat ride across the lake, a scenic bus ride to the entrance and the tour itself. My group was small and Katie, our guide, was a Chico State geology major. She made the tour interesting and was very knowledgeable about the cave formations and the history of the area. Plan on wearing comfortable shoes and doing a good amount of walking with stairs. The caverns themselves are amazing. We even saw some bats! The gift shop was cool and near the parking area there was a nice picnic area. Plan about 2 hours minimum for your visit-more if you're going to enjoy their grounds. Wonderful spot and the lakeside location makes it even more special!

    Garret T.

    MIND BLOWING TOUR! This tour is worth every cent of the 44$ price tag! The bus ride was very easy and nice heading up the mountain . (Modern, clean buses with AC) The walking tour was breathtaking! The guide was knowledgeable and nice! LOTS OF STAIRS! (Be careful if you're not a solid walker) The cave is cool so you can take your time walking them and it's not hot doing it! The light show at the end was my favorite! 10/10 would recommend!

    Crystal S.

    If you're looking for a fun activity to break up the lake days and get out of the heat then you must check out the caverns! It was a cool 50degrees inside the caverns, with gorgeous sites and rich history. The tour guide was super friendly and entertaining.

    05.25.24 Lake Shasta Caverns
    May A.

    Historic and Natural [Lakehead CA] We've been to a few different caverns before but this is the first time the tour included a boat ride and a bus ride that took guests to the cavern. The enter experience was about two hours. The catamaran cruise was about a 15-min ride across beautiful Lake Shasta. The lake was 115% of average for this time of year and about 99% full. Once we were ashore we boarded a 30-passenger bus that drove us up the mountainside. The ride was comfortable and the view picturesque. We were around 800-ft above the lake. Our bus driver was very informative and funny as he shared with us facts and trivia. Once inside the cavern we saw different sizes stalactites and stalagmites and other unusual forms. Each section (room) had a tour guide so guests were able to ask questions. The self-guided tour inside the cavern took us about 45 minutes. TIP: be prepared to climb over 600+ stairs on the cave tour (300 up and 300 down). We were not allowed to bring backpacks. Purses okay. Wear comfortable shoes and layered clothing. The boat ride was cold (our tour was on Memorial Day weekend. Adult Admission: $42/person + taxes and fees Review #3451

    A boat ride to the other side of Lake Shasta
    Gino T.

    Was told about this by a friend who had the pleasure of the Shasta Cavern experience and I was glad take his advice. A triple event for this tour, a great boat ride across the lake then a short bus ride from the water to the cavern entrance and then the tour. Every member of the staff was happy and made the experience an incredible journey thru nature. Would do it multiple times again and will spread the word. It is a bit of a workout so make sure you have good shoes and bring plenty of water, it's about a 2-2.5 hour experience but definitely worth it. So when you are in the Lake Shasta area and looking to get out of the seasonal heat and interested in enjoying natures Air Conditioning as well it's geological wonders then this is for you. Ciao

    Tree house for the kids while one wait for their tour to the caverns
    Sarah O.

    It was a wonderful way to end our Summer trip. If you want to escape the heat, you must cave in and tour the cavern which is typically about 58 degrees. Just be aware that there are about a total of over 800 steps to get into and out of the cave. But it is doable. There is only one section that is a continuous 87 steps climbing upwards into the middle room. After that, it is smooth climb. Wonder place to take the family if one wants to learn about lime stone formations. Highly recommend the caverns as it is our second tour after ten years. More rooms were available this time around. The one consistent variable was the black stuffed bear in the waiting room.

    What an amazing tour! Highly recommend this cavern tour. Cavern Dave (the Boss) made the experience unforgettable. His passion and wealth of knowledge was very inspirational that our kids wanted a picture with him We were very excited by the boat ride to the cavern, but the cave itself was incredible. We've visited 3 other caverns and this by far is the best! It's spectacular especially their "Cathedral" room with the light show experience. Best part, unexpected bats flew around in the cave. Kids and adults enjoyed it! Boat ride was good for sea sickness people. Our kids have sea sickness and they were fine. People with furry friends, they have a free kennel service to keep your pet in! This was a great service for us because we didn't want our dog to bake in the car. They also have a can to water your friend! Just let them know you have a pet and they will guide you to the kennel (by the front) They also have a small playground area for kids. Beautiful picnic area to hang out and a cool gift shop with food, soda machine, ice cream, and very nice bathroom.

    Inside the cavern
    Alexandra P.

    Visited with a group. Everything is very well organised. Beautiful experience. The transportation to and from Caverns is very easy and comfortable.

    View of Shasta Lake

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    Been here a few years ago and it was fantastic, I hear that with the new renovations they are making it will be even better

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    1 year ago

    expensive for a muddy cave ! To much made of this tour .. way more caves in California that are prettier and less expensive for a family..

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    Page 1 of 9

    Ask the Community - Lake Shasta Caverns

    I understand there are no backpacks allowed, what about a purse that is a backpack style, as in a lounge fly mini backpack?

    Can babies go on this tour?

    We do allow babies on the tour! We do not allow backpack carriers, but slings and front carriers are fine. Children 2 and under are free of charge.

    How many stairs are there?

    There are several flight of stairs. To get down to the boat that takes you to the cavern are stairs, probably 40. Once you are inside the caverns there is part of the tour that's 50 stairs on one shot.… Read more

    Is it cold inside? We are packing for out trip and wonder if we need long pants and light jacket.

    It is cool inside but if you are going when it's hot you can dress in shorts and a T-shirts. If you are a person that gets cold easily I would bring a little jacket and wear closed toe shoes because of all the climbing and walking.

    Is everyone wearing a mask ?even the employees? I'm reading a couple comments stating employees are not wearing masks

    We were there about 4 months ago. Tour guides were not masked.

    As of 2021, are online tickets honored or not? I'm concerned about the multiple reviews saying it's not honored and can sell out. What would be the point of advance purchase then?

    I don't know how about 2021, but we visited in Nov 2020 with online tickets and everything was OK.

    Are dogs allowed?

    Service dogs are allowed and friendly pets that can be carried the whole tour.

    Can I catch a tour if I am on a houseboat on the lake already?

    You can Meet and pay the bus driver At the caverns side.

    About how much time should I budget for the entire experience?

    call and determine from the office how long the tour usually takes

    Has anyone seen any Lemurians (sleestak) in the caverns?

    Yes. I saw one but it poked me in my third eye and ran away before i could take a picture of it :(

    View All 12 Questions

    Review Highlights - Lake Shasta Caverns

    The boat ride was nice and it was great to be on the water on Shasta Lake and see the beautiful scenery.

    Mentioned in 16 reviews

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    Lava Beds National Monument

    Lava Beds National Monument

    4.8(104 reviews)
    75.2 mi

    I've been to where lava flows were before but never have I walked/climbed through where lava tubes…read moreactually are before. This was definitely an experience if you haven't done it! $15.00-25.00 to bring your horse, bicycle, motorcycle cycle, car or RV into the park. Doesn't matter how warm outside as the caves are cool to freezing with ice depending on which cave and how far down it goes. Headlamps/flashlights are needed but headlamps easiest so you can use both your hands. The fantastic Park Rangers will not only give you expert advice on what caves are best suited for you but the history about this amazing park. Skull Cave before you get to the visitors center was my first cave. After descending the short rock staircase then a rock floor then to a metal landing and down the metal staircase lower and lower into the cold dark earth. At the bottom is a Skull, bones and ice. The hand rails were freezing. Wish I would have brought my gloves. The visitors center can help with what caves are where and offer helmets, flashlights and other needs via borrow, rent or buy. Closed shoes, knee pads, etc for tight caves recommended. The others I tried weren't near that cold but still really incredible in different ways. To see all the melting of rock and burn scars through these tubes is spectacular. Our earth is alive and so amazing. There are some bathrooms at some of the sites but not all so take advantage. Also, make sure to wear clothing you've never worn in other caves. Transfer of biologicals is real and could very negatively effect the bats in here. An awe experience and I highly recommend it. Some spaces also might be a bit small in case you're claustrophobic. Many are not tight but pitch black. Better than any Halloween haunted house with the creep jumping out at you. A park experience not to miss!

    Most Californians don't even know this place exists, and that's a genuine shame. Lava Beds sits…read morenear the Oregon border and holds over 800 lava tube caves -- some small enough to belly-crawl through, others you can walk through upright. Above ground, the Schonchin Butte Trail (1.8 mi) climbs to a fire lookout with massive panoramic views of the high desert. There's also Native American rock art at Petroglyph Point! Spring wildflowers fill the basalt fields, and the dark skies here at night are about as good as it gets in the state.

    Photos
    Lava Beds National Monument
    Lava Beds National Monument - Scrub those shoes in the Bio-cleaning station

    Scrub those shoes in the Bio-cleaning station

    Lava Beds National Monument - Entrance to Skull Cave

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    Entrance to Skull Cave

    Interstate 5 - 5

    Interstate 5

    2.8(44 reviews)
    1.3 mi

    Interstate 5 is the formal name. I grew up knowing it as the 5. Which is correct?!?! Who knows!! ;)…read more I drive the 5 in Sacramento at least five times a week. It's my go to favorite path to work. For the most part, this area is my favorite drive. I don't like the slow down of construction, but I also understand improvement is best for all. Accidents happen. Slow downs from this gets crazy. Impatiently waiting to be on my way. Now, when on the 5 heading towards Los Angeles....oh my!! The two lane area can get tricky. For example, the right lane which is considered the slow lane has the most holes and or bumps in the road. I guess the heavy traffic of eighteen wheelers tear up the roads. The left lane is better, but considered the fast lane! People drive like they're late for an important meeting. In the Los Angeles area, there's more holes in every other lanes. You have to pay close attention. I'm always afraid I'm going to have a flat on a crazy busy highway. San Diego is better, but not perfect! It has its own issues. Problem areas as well. Overall, our family enjoys road trips and creating memories. The 5 is our favorite choice to travel on. I cannot complain. No where is perfect. Accidents happen. Repairs are a must. Look ahead. Look left and right. Check your rear view mirror! BE SAFE! DRIVE RESPONSIBLY!! Relax and enjoy your path!!!

    As an East Coaster, I'm still going to refer to it as "Interstate 5" and not like you Californians…read morethat call it "the five." Because that's just silly. I have spent a good amount of time on this road, as far north as the Canada border and as far south as the San Diego airport. I am not interested in driving in to Mexico, thanks! I-95 follows the east coast from Canada, it continues down into Florida and not the Canada border. And while I-35 goes from Laredo Texas, it terminates in Duluth Minnesota and not at the Canada border. That makes I-5 special! Rest areas along the way are mostly open and many of them allow overnight parking. And you can expect the highway patrol of all three states to be looking out for speeders. So use caution, don't speed and you'll, as they say, "Arrive alive." [Review 20936 overall - 483 in California - 1920 of 2023.]

    Photos
    Interstate 5 - Near Mt Shasta, on the way to Seattle, Washington

    Near Mt Shasta, on the way to Seattle, Washington

    Interstate 5 - Ahhh Saturday light

    Ahhh Saturday light

    Interstate 5 - Near Yreka.

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    Near Yreka.

    Shasta State Historic Park - 05.26.24 Western Star Lodge No.2

    Shasta State Historic Park

    3.7(12 reviews)
    17.3 mi

    Pulled over on the highway to check out this old courthouse. Staffed by a park employee, it…read moredoesn't take long to see everything, but you can stay a while if you read all of the interesting story boards. I recommend visiting this locale if you have any interest in the history of Shasta.

    An original town in Shasta County…read more This historic park houses the remains of Shasta City, once alive and bustling during the Gold Rush days, and now a ghost town with restored stagecoach, barn and courthouse. Due to Covid-19 the museum is temporarily closed but we stopped and walked among the Southside Ruins, strolling and stopping to read the markers and interpretive signs at the brick ruins, imagining for a moment what it was like in 1849. The authentic brick buildings have crumbled and are the decayed remnants of a once thriving gold rush shopping district. Across the street is an open picnic grounds with lots of picnic benches under shady trees. The park hours sign read: open from Sunrise to Sunset. The temperatures here reached over 100° F this past weekend and is probably like this every summer so take extra water. We did not see the cemetery. We hope to return again someday to explore and learn more. Easy access. The park is six miles west of downtown Redding and Highway 299 passes through the town's Main Street. Review #1910

    Photos
    Shasta State Historic Park - 05.26.24 Shasta State Historic Park Courthouse Museum

    05.26.24 Shasta State Historic Park Courthouse Museum

    Shasta State Historic Park - 05.26.24 Shasta State Historic Park Courthouse Museum

    05.26.24 Shasta State Historic Park Courthouse Museum

    Shasta State Historic Park - 05.26.24 do you see it?? ... I don't either ¯\_('~')_/¯

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    05.26.24 do you see it?? ... I don't either ¯\_('~')_/¯

    Lake Shasta Caverns - landmarks - Updated July 2026

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