40 Fun Things to Do with Kids in the Shasta-Cascade Region: Where to Stay and Where to Eat!
Planning a Shasta-Cascade trip with kids? Base yourself in Redding to walk the glass-decked Sundial Bridge, ride a boat and bus up to Lake Shasta Caverns and tour Shasta Dam. Then take day trips to roaring Burney Falls, the steaming mud pots of Lassen Volcanic National Park and the snowy slopes of Mount Shasta.
We rounded up 40 things to do in the Shasta-Cascade region with kids, 9 family-friendly places to stay, and 10 places to eat that kids actually love, with prices, seasons and a parent tip for every pick. You'll also find the 2026 holiday dates in Redding, honest drive times from LA and a sample family itinerary.
Key Takeaways
Best home base: Redding for the most hotels, restaurants and easy day trips; Mount Shasta city or Dunsmuir for mountain fun; Shasta Lake for a houseboat stay.
Best free fun: The Sundial Bridge, the Sacramento River Trail, McConnell Arboretum, Kids' Kingdom, Mount Shasta City Park, Hedge Creek Falls, McCloud River Falls and the free Shasta Dam tours.
Book ahead: Summer houseboats on Shasta Lake, Manzanita Lake Camping Cabins in Lassen and Redding Garden of Lights tickets.
2026 holiday dates: Redding Garden of Lights runs on select nights from Nov. 20, 2026, to Jan. 3, 2027; the Redding Christmas Tree Lighting is Dec. 4; and the Redding Lighted Christmas Parade is Saturday, Dec. 5.
Heads up: The highway through Lassen Volcanic National Park closes to cars for the winter once the snow arrives, and Subway Cave closes for the season, too. Check the websites before you go.
Getting there: Redding is about 545 miles from Downtown LA, so plan on a full day of driving or fly into Redding or Sacramento.
Planning a Trip to the Shasta-Cascade Region With Kids From LA
Getting to Redding and Mount Shasta From LA
Redding is about 545 miles north of Downtown LA, almost all of it on the I-5, so plan on eight to nine hours of driving without long stops. Mount Shasta city is about an hour farther north. Many families break up the trip with a night in Sacramento or the Central Valley.
Flying saves a day each way. Redding's airport (RDD) has connecting flights (check airlines for current routes), or you can fly into Sacramento and drive about two and a half hours north on the I-5.
Getting Around the Shasta-Cascade Region With Kids
You'll need a car, since this region is huge. From Redding, it's about an hour to Mount Shasta city, Lassen Volcanic National Park or Weaverville, about an hour and 15 minutes to Burney Falls and about three hours to Lava Beds National Monument.
In winter, carry snow chains for mountain roads around Mount Shasta, Lassen and the Highway 299 passes, and check road conditions before you leave.
When to Visit and How Long to Stay
Late spring and early fall are lovely for waterfalls and hiking. Summer is peak season for Shasta Lake houseboats and Lassen's high-country trails, but Redding often tops 100 degrees, so plan lake time in the afternoons. Winter brings skiing and snow play around Mount Shasta.
Plan at least four or five days so you aren't spending the whole trip in the car. Lassen's main highway usually opens fully by early summer and closes with the first big snows, so check the website for current road status.
Things to Do in Redding and Shasta Lake With Kids
Redding is the hub of the Shasta-Cascade, with a riverfront science park, an iconic bridge, a giant dam and a cave you reach by boat.
Address: 844 Sundial Bridge Drive
Redding, CA 96001
Cost: About $22 adults and $18 kids 4 to 15 (check the website for current prices)
Ages: All ages
This 300-acre riverfront park has a natural history and science museum, botanical gardens, animal shows and miles of trails along the Sacramento River.
Parent Tip: Check the daily calendar on the website for animal show times, and plan a full morning here.
Where: Turtle Bay Exploration Park, Sundial Bridge Drive
Redding, CA 96001
Cost: Free
Ages: All ages
Designed by architect Santiago Calatrava, this striking 700-foot footbridge spans the Sacramento River and works as a giant sundial. Kids love walking across its translucent glass deck high above the water.
Parent Tip: Visit at sunset or after dark, when the bridge is lit up, and bring a stroller, since the walk is flat and smooth.
Where: Turtle Bay Exploration Park
Redding, CA 96001
Season: Some exhibits are seasonal (check the website)
Cost: Included with Turtle Bay admission
Ages: Best for ages 2 to 10
This outdoor area at Turtle Bay has two playgrounds, a lorikeet aviary where kids can feed the birds, a butterfly house in season, a mini Sacramento River water exhibit and a historic steam engine.
Parent Tip: Buy a cup of nectar for the Parrot Playhouse, and let little ones burn off energy at Babe's Corral, the playground for younger kids.
Address: 1125 Arboretum Drive
Redding, CA 96003
Cost: Free
Ages: All ages
On the north side of the Sundial Bridge, these gardens have walking paths, a children's garden area and plants from Mediterranean climates around the world.
Parent Tip: Walk across the Sundial Bridge from Turtle Bay to the gardens and back for an easy morning loop.
Where: Trailheads at the Sundial Bridge, Caldwell Park and along the river
Redding, CA 96001
Cost: Free
Ages: All ages
This paved trail follows the Sacramento River through Redding, with river views, bridges and plenty of benches. It's perfect for bikes, scooters and strollers.
Parent Tip: Start at the Sundial Bridge and go as far as little legs want, then turn back. Bring water in summer, since there's not much shade in spots.
Address: 4000 Victor Avenue
Redding, CA 96002
Cost: Free
Ages: Best for ages 1 to 10
Redding's favorite playground has a castle-style play structure, swings, slides, a zip line and a splash pad in warmer months, all inside a fenced area.
Parent Tip: Bring towels and a change of clothes in summer for the splash pad, and arrive early, since parking fills up.
Address: 1644 Magnolia Avenue
Redding, CA 96001
Hours: Public shows on select Friday evenings (check the website)
Ages: Best for ages 5 and up
This planetarium hosts public shows about stars, planets and space under its dome, plus hands-on activities for kids.
Parent Tip: Check the schedule before your trip, since public shows are usually on Friday nights only, and pick up astronaut ice cream in the gift shop.
Address: 15312 Highway 299
Shasta, CA 96087
Hours: Thursday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (check the website)
Cost: Small museum fee (check the website for current prices)
Ages: Best for ages 5 and up
This Gold Rush town just west of Redding has brick ruins, an old courthouse museum with a jail downstairs and a historic general store.
Parent Tip: Let kids peek into the old jail cells, then read the history signs along the main street as you walk.
Address: 24411 Coleman Fish Hatchery Road
Anderson, CA 96007
Cost: Free
Ages: All ages
This big salmon hatchery on Battle Creek has fish ponds, a fish ladder and shady picnic areas. In fall, kids can watch salmon jumping as they return to spawn.
Parent Tip: Visit in October or November for the salmon run, and pack a picnic, since there's no food on site.
10. Shasta Dam
Address: 16349 Shasta Dam Boulevard
Shasta Lake, CA 96019
Hours: Visitor center Friday to Tuesday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.; closed Wednesday and Thursday (check the website)
Cost: Free tours
Ages: Best for ages 6 and up for the tour
One of the largest concrete dams in the country, Shasta Dam has a visitor center with a short film, and you can walk across the top for views of the lake and Mount Shasta. Free guided tours include an elevator ride deep into the dam and a peek at the powerplant.
Parent Tip: Tours are first come, first served, with tickets handed out an hour before each tour and only 20 spots, so arrive early. Security is strict, so leave bags in the car and call ahead for tour times.
Address: 20359 Shasta Caverns Road
Lakehead, CA 96051
Cost: Check the website for current prices
Ages: Best for ages 5 and up
The adventure starts with a boat ride across the McCloud Arm of Shasta Lake, followed by a bus ride up the mountain to the cave entrance. Inside, a guide leads you past glittering formations on a tour of about an hour.
Parent Tip: Plan about two hours in all, and wear sturdy shoes, since there are hundreds of stairs inside. The cave stays cool year-round, so bring a light jacket.
Where: Marinas around Shasta Lake, including Bridge Bay and Holiday Harbor
Redding, CA 96003
Season: Best from late spring to early fall
Ages: All ages
Shasta Lake is the houseboat capital of California, with miles of coves to explore. Families can rent a houseboat for a few days or a patio boat for an afternoon of swimming and tubing.
Parent Tip: Book summer houseboats many months ahead, and pack life jackets that fit each child, even if the marina provides them.
Where: Brandy Creek Road, Whiskeytown National Recreation Area
Whiskeytown, CA 96095
Cost: Entrance pass required (check the website)
Ages: All ages
Whiskeytown Lake has clear water and sandy beaches with mountain views, and Brandy Creek Beach is a favorite for summer swimming and picnics.
Parent Tip: Get a park entrance pass at the visitor center or online before you go. In winter, the beach is walk-in only.
Where: James K. Carr Trailhead, Crystal Creek Road, Whiskeytown National Recreation Area
Whiskeytown, CA 96095
Cost: Entrance pass required (check the website)
Ages: Best for ages 7 and up
This hike climbs through the forest to a beautiful 220-foot cascading waterfall. The area burned in the 2018 Carr Fire, and kids can see how the forest is growing back along the way.
Parent Tip: The trail is about 3.4 miles round trip with some steep sections, so start early, bring snacks and plenty of water, and check trail conditions with the park first.
Where: Crystal Creek Road, Whiskeytown National Recreation Area
Whiskeytown, CA 96095
Cost: Entrance pass required (check the website)
Ages: All ages
A short, easy path leads to this pretty waterfall, making it a good pick for families with toddlers or anyone who wants a waterfall without a long hike.
Parent Tip: Stop at the Whiskeytown Visitor Center off Highway 299 first for maps and a Junior Ranger booklet.
Things to Do in Mount Shasta, Dunsmuir and McCloud With Kids
An hour north of Redding, snowy Mount Shasta towers over little mountain towns, cold springs, alpine lakes and waterfalls you can walk behind.
Address: 1315 Nixon Road
Mount Shasta, CA 96067
Cost: Free
Ages: All ages
Here, cold, clear spring water bubbles out of the ground to form the start of the Sacramento River. The park also has two playgrounds, big lawns and shady walking paths.
Parent Tip: Bring a water bottle to fill at the spring, and let the kids walk the small log bridges over the creek.
Address: 1 North Old Stage Road
Mount Shasta, CA 96067
Hours: Thursday to Monday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. (check the website)
Ages: Best for ages 4 and up
This small, kid-friendly museum covers local history, mountaineering, Native American basketry and a model railroad. It sits on the grounds of the historic Mount Shasta Fish Hatchery.
Parent Tip: Ask at the museum whether the hatchery ponds are open to visitors during your trip, since access has changed at times.
18. Lake Siskiyou
Address: 4239 W.A. Barr Road
Mount Shasta, CA 96067
Season: Swimming and boating are best in summer
Ages: All ages
This mountain lake has one of the best views of Mount Shasta anywhere, plus a sandy swim beach, boat and paddleboard rentals and a camp store.
Parent Tip: Go early on summer mornings, when the water is calm and the mountain reflects in the lake.
Where: Everitt Memorial Highway, about 11 miles above Mount Shasta city
Mount Shasta, CA 96067
Cost: Free
Ages: All ages
This scenic road climbs the side of Mount Shasta to Bunny Flat, at nearly 7,000 feet, with huge views of the mountain. In winter, it's a popular spot for sledding and snow play.
Parent Tip: Bring warm layers in every season, and carry chains in winter. Check road conditions before driving up.
Address: 20022 Castle Creek Road
Castella, CA 96017
Cost: Day-use fee per vehicle (check the website)
Ages: All ages
Giant granite spires tower over this forested park along the Sacramento River. A short walk leads to Vista Point, with views of the crags and Mount Shasta.
Parent Tip: Little kids will love the easy Vista Point walk, while older kids can try the steep Crags Trail with a parent. Start early on warm days.
Address: 4131 Dunsmuir Avenue
Dunsmuir, CA 96025
Cost: Free
Ages: All ages
A short, shaded trail drops down to a waterfall that you can walk behind, with a small cave beside it. It's one of the easiest and most fun waterfall walks in the region.
Parent Tip: The walk is about half a mile, but it's uphill on the way back, so bring a carrier for toddlers. Wear shoes with good grip near the falls.
Where: Dunsmuir Avenue and Sacramento Avenue
Dunsmuir, CA 96025
Cost: Free to explore
Ages: All ages
This little railroad town sits in a canyon along the Sacramento River, with historic storefronts and trains rumbling through the depot.
Parent Tip: Train-loving kids can watch for freight trains and the Amtrak Coast Starlight, which stops in Dunsmuir.
Where: Off Highway 89, near Fowlers Campground east of McCloud
McCloud, CA 96057
Cost: Free
Ages: All ages
The McCloud River tumbles over three waterfalls, called Lower, Middle and Upper Falls. Each has a parking area, and a trail connects them along the river.
Parent Tip: Lower Falls is the easiest to reach with little kids. Drive between the falls if you're short on time, and keep kids back from the cliffs above Middle Falls.
Where: Main Street
McCloud, CA 96057
Cost: Free to explore
Ages: All ages
This former lumber company town has a historic main street with the McCloud Mercantile, old railroad buildings and views of Mount Shasta.
Parent Tip: Grab a burger or a soft-serve cone at Floyd's Frosty, then head to McCloud River Falls for the afternoon.
Lassen Volcanic, Burney Falls and Lava Beds With Kids
East of Redding, volcanoes have left behind steaming mud pots, lava tube caves and one of California's most beautiful waterfalls.
Address: Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center, 21820 Lassen Peak Highway
Mineral, CA 96063
Cost: Entrance fee per vehicle (check the website)
Ages: All ages
This national park has all four types of volcanoes, plus boiling springs, mud pots and alpine lakes. The Kohm Yah-mah-nee Visitor Center near the southwest entrance has exhibits, a film and a cafe.
Parent Tip: Pick up a free Junior Ranger booklet at the visitor center. The main park highway closes to cars for the winter once snow falls, so check road status before you go.
26. Bumpass Hell
Where: Lassen National Park Highway, Lassen Volcanic National Park
Mineral, CA 96063
Season: Usually summer to early fall, depending on snow (check the website)
Ages: Best for ages 6 and up
The park's largest hydrothermal area has boardwalks over bubbling mud pots, steaming vents and turquoise pools. The trail is about 3 miles round trip.
Parent Tip: Stay on the boardwalk and hold hands, since the ground and water can be dangerously hot. The rotten-egg smell is part of the fun.
27. Sulphur Works
Where: Lassen National Park Highway, near the southwest entrance
Mineral, CA 96063
Ages: All ages
Right beside the road, a short sidewalk leads to a bubbling mud pot and steaming vents. It's the easiest way for little kids to see Lassen's volcanic activity.
Parent Tip: Make this your first stop if you have toddlers or only a little time in the park.
28. Lake Helen
Where: Lassen National Park Highway, below Lassen Peak
Mineral, CA 96063
Season: Usually summer to early fall, depending on snow
Ages: All ages
This deep blue lake sits at the base of Lassen Peak, and snow often lingers around it well into summer. It's a quick, beautiful stop right by the road.
Parent Tip: Kids love throwing snowballs in July here, so bring jackets even in summer.
29. Manzanita Lake
Where: Near the northwest entrance on Highway 44, Lassen Volcanic National Park
Shingletown, CA 96088
Ages: All ages
An easy, flat loop trail of about 1.8 miles circles this lake, with reflections of Lassen Peak. In summer, the camper store rents kayaks and paddleboards.
Parent Tip: Walk the loop early or late in the day to spot deer and ducks, and check the camper store's season before planning a paddle.
30. Subway Cave
Where: Highway 89, about 1/4 mile north of the junction with Highway 44, across from Cave Campground
Old Station, CA 96071
Season: Usually late May through October; closed in winter
Cost: Free
Ages: Best for ages 5 and up
This lava tube cave in Lassen National Forest runs about 1,300 feet underground, with a trail of about a third of a mile. It's pitch black inside and stays about 46 degrees year-round.
Parent Tip: Bring a strong flashlight or headlamp for each person, a jacket and closed-toe shoes, since the floor is rocky.
Address: 24898 Highway 89
Burney, CA 96013
Cost: Day-use fee per vehicle (check the website)
Ages: All ages
Spring water pours over 129-foot Burney Falls at about 100 million gallons a day, making it one of California's most spectacular waterfalls. A paved path drops down to the base of the falls.
Parent Tip: The Falls Loop Trail is about a mile and fine for most kids, but it's steep in spots. Come early in summer, when parking fills fast.
32. Lake Britton
Where: McArthur-Burney Falls Memorial State Park
Burney, CA 96013
Season: Swimming and boating are best in summer
Ages: All ages
Just below Burney Falls, this long lake has a swim area, boat rentals in season and a famous railroad bridge that appeared in the movie Stand By Me.
Parent Tip: Walk the Burney Creek Trail from the falls down to the lake, and bring water shoes for the rocky shore.
Address: Visitor Center, 1 Indian Well Headquarters
Tulelake, CA 96134
Hours: Visitor center daily, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (check the website)
Cost: Entrance fee per vehicle (check the website)
Ages: Best for ages 5 and up
This remote monument has hundreds of lava tube caves to explore, from easy, lighted Mushpot Cave near the visitor center to crawl-through caves for older kids.
Parent Tip: Stop at the visitor center for cave advice and a loaner flashlight, and start with Mushpot Cave. Several caves are closed until mid-April 2027, so check the website for which are open.
Things to Do in Weaverville and Trinity Lake With Kids
An hour west of Redding over Highway 299, Weaverville is a Gold Rush town at the edge of the Trinity Alps.
Address: 780 Main Street
Weaverville, CA 96093
Hours: Check the website for current hours
Ages: Best for ages 5 and up
This local history museum is packed with Gold Rush mining tools, a relocated jail cell, Native American and Chinese artifacts and other treasures from Trinity County's past.
Parent Tip: Pair it with the Joss House, just down Main Street, for an easy history morning.
Address: 630 Main Street
Weaverville, CA 96093
Hours: Thursday to Sunday, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with guided tours (check the website)
Cost: Small tour fee (check the website for current prices)
Ages: Best for ages 6 and up
Built in 1874 by Chinese miners, this is the oldest Chinese temple in California and is still used for worship today. Inside, kids can see colorful altars, lanterns and carvings.
Parent Tip: You need to join a guided tour to go inside, so plan your visit around the tour times.
36. Trinity Lake
Where: Along Highway 3, north of Weaverville
Trinity Center, CA 96091
Season: Best in summer
Ages: All ages
This big, quiet lake sits below the Trinity Alps, with marinas, campgrounds, houseboats and coves for swimming.
Parent Tip: It's much less crowded than Shasta Lake, so it's a good pick for a mellow summer boat day.
Holiday Fun in the Shasta-Cascade Region (2026)
Redding celebrates the holidays with a glowing light walk, a downtown tree lighting and a lighted parade, while Mount Shasta brings the snow.
Dates: Select nights from Friday, Nov. 20, 2026, to Sunday, Jan. 3, 2027
Where: McConnell Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, Turtle Bay Exploration Park
Redding, CA 96003
Cost: About $25 to $35 adults and $18 to $20 kids 3 to 15; kids 2 and under free (check the website for current prices)
Ages: All ages
Turtle Bay's gardens glow with light displays and holiday decorations along a walking path. It's Redding's biggest holiday tradition for families.
Parent Tip: Buy tickets online ahead of time, bring warm layers and pack your own hot cocoa to save money.
Date: Friday, Dec. 4, 2026
Where: Downtown Redding
Redding, CA 96001
Cost: Free
Ages: All ages
Downtown Redding has been lighting its community Christmas tree for more than a century, with music and holiday cheer.
Parent Tip: Check the website for the start time, and stay the weekend for the parade the next night.
Date: Saturday, Dec. 5, 2026, from 6 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Route: California Street, downtown Redding
Redding, CA 96001
Cost: Free
Ages: All ages
Floats, bands and glowing lights roll through downtown Redding in this long-running holiday parade.
Parent Tip: Bring chairs and blankets, arrive early for a curb spot and check the website for the full route.
Address: 4500 Ski Park Highway
McCloud, CA 96057
Season: Winter, with opening day depending on snow (check the website)
Cost: Check the website for current prices
Ages: All ages
This family-friendly ski area on the slopes of Mount Shasta has beginner runs, ski and snowboard lessons, snow tubing and night skiing.
Parent Tip: Plan a winter break visit once the park opens, book lessons ahead and carry chains for the drive up.
Where to Stay in the Shasta-Cascade Region With Kids
Redding is the easiest home base, with family hotels near the I-5 and the Sundial Bridge. For mountain fun, stay near Mount Shasta or Dunsmuir, and for a true lake adventure, rent a houseboat on Shasta Lake.
Every hotel name below links to live rates so you can compare prices for your dates.
Neighborhood: Turtle Bay
Address: 820 Sundial Bridge Drive
Redding, CA 96001
Best for: Walking to the Sundial Bridge and Turtle Bay
This hotel sits right next to Turtle Bay Exploration Park, with a pool and easy access to the Sacramento River Trail.
Parent Tip: Walk to the Sundial Bridge after dinner to see it lit up at night.
Neighborhood: South Redding
Address: 5050 Bechelli Lane
Redding, CA 96002
Best for: Families who want a pool near the freeway
This dependable hotel has a pool and a restaurant, and it's an easy hop to the I-5 for day trips.
Parent Tip: It's a convenient first or last night on the long drive to and from LA.
Neighborhood: Hilltop Drive
Address: 2300 Hilltop Drive
Redding, CA 96002
Best for: Families on a budget
This good-value hotel has a pool, hot breakfast and a restaurant on site, close to shops and restaurants on Hilltop Drive.
Parent Tip: Ask for a room away from the street for a quieter night.
Neighborhood: Shasta Lake
Address: 10300 Bridge Bay Road
Redding, CA 96003
Best for: Lakefront rooms and boat rentals
This lakeside resort and marina has rooms, houseboat and patio boat rentals and a restaurant right on Shasta Lake.
Parent Tip: Rent a patio boat for a day of swimming in quiet coves.
Neighborhood: Shasta Lake
Address: 20061 Shasta Caverns Road
Lakehead, CA 96051
Best for: Houseboat rentals near the caverns
This marina rents houseboats of all sizes on the McCloud Arm of Shasta Lake, right down the road from Lake Shasta Caverns.
Parent Tip: Tour the caverns on the day you check in or out, since they're just minutes away.
Neighborhood: Mount Shasta
Address: 1000 Siskiyou Lake Boulevard
Mount Shasta, CA 96067
Best for: Chalets with kitchens and mountain views
This resort has chalets with kitchens and fireplaces, a golf course and a restaurant, near the shore of Lake Siskiyou.
Parent Tip: Book a one- or two-bedroom chalet for more room to spread out.
Neighborhood: Lake Siskiyou
Address: 4239 W.A. Barr Road
Mount Shasta, CA 96067
Best for: Lakeside cabins and camping
This lakeside resort has cabins, campsites and RV sites, plus a swim beach, boat rentals and a camp store.
Parent Tip: Bring your own floaties and beach toys, and book summer cabins early.
Neighborhood: Dunsmuir
Address: 100 Railroad Park Road
Dunsmuir, CA 96025
Best for: Sleeping in a real train caboose
Formerly known as Railroad Park Resort, this lodge has converted train cabooses to sleep in, a dining car restaurant, a pool, a playground and views of Castle Crags.
Parent Tip: Ask for a caboose with a cupola, the little lookout seat kids love climbing into.
Neighborhood: Lassen Volcanic National Park
Address: 39489 Highway 44
Shingletown, CA 96088
Best for: A rustic cabin stay inside the park
These simple cabins near Manzanita Lake are the only way to sleep indoors inside the park, with fire rings, bear boxes and the lake steps away.
Parent Tip: The cabins are usually open from mid-May to mid-October, so book through Recreation.gov early for 2027, and bring your own bedding.
Where to Eat in the Shasta-Cascade Region With Kids
Food in the Shasta-Cascade is casual and hearty, from giant burgers and fresh crab to diner breakfasts and soft-serve after a hike.
Address: 1551 Market Street
Redding, CA 96001
What to order for kids: Pizza, tacos or a sweet treat from the food stalls
This downtown food hall has lots of food counters under one roof, so everyone can pick what they want.
Parent Tip: It's a great choice for picky eaters, and there's plenty of room for families to sit together.
Address: 2159 East Street
Redding, CA 96001
What to order for kids: Fish and chips or a crab sandwich
This longtime Redding favorite serves fresh seafood, fish and chips and chowder in a casual setting.
Parent Tip: Order at the counter and grab a table on the patio when the weather's nice.
Address: 18509 Lake Boulevard East
Redding, CA 96003
What to order for kids: A burger and fries
This classic burger stand is known for its huge, juicy burgers and old-school vibe.
Parent Tip: The burgers are big, so kids can often share one.
Address: 1427 Market Street
Redding, CA 96001
What to order for kids: Pancakes or a slice of pie
This downtown cafe serves breakfast, sandwiches and homemade pies in a cozy space.
Parent Tip: Take a slice of pie to go for a treat on the Sundial Bridge.
Address: 1730 Gold Street
Redding, CA 96001
What to order for kids: Pancakes or French toast
This friendly breakfast spot serves big, homestyle breakfasts and lunches.
Parent Tip: Go early on weekends, since it's a local favorite.
Address: 401 West Lake Street
Mount Shasta, CA 96067
What to order for kids: Pancakes or a kids' burger
This is the original Black Bear Diner, which opened in Mount Shasta in 1995, with big portions and bear decor kids love.
Parent Tip: Fuel up here before a day at Lake Siskiyou or Bunny Flat.
Address: 304 Maple Street
Mount Shasta, CA 96067
What to order for kids: A cheese or pepperoni pizza
This casual pizza place is an easy family dinner after a day in the mountains.
Parent Tip: Order ahead for takeout and have a pizza picnic at Mount Shasta City Park.
Address: 4917 Dunsmuir Avenue
Dunsmuir, CA 96025
What to order for kids: A burger or a slice of their famous bacon bread
This popular roadside spot is known for creative burgers, comfort food and baked goods.
Parent Tip: It's an easy stop off the I-5 near Hedge Creek Falls, but expect a wait at peak times.
Address: 125 Broadway Avenue
McCloud, CA 96057
What to order for kids: A burger or a soft-serve cone
This small-town burger and ice cream stand is a sweet stop in McCloud.
Parent Tip: Grab cones after a morning at McCloud River Falls.
Address: 480 Main Street
Weaverville, CA 96093
What to order for kids: A sandwich or a scoop of ice cream
This Weaverville shop serves sandwiches, coffee and ice cream on the town's historic main street.
Parent Tip: Stop here for lunch between the Joss House and the Jake Jackson Museum.
A Sample Shasta-Cascade Itinerary for Families
Here's how we'd spend a first long weekend in the Shasta-Cascade region with kids, plus extra days if you can swing them.
Day 1 (Redding): Turtle Bay Exploration Park and Paul Bunyan's Forest Camp in the morning, lunch downtown, then the Sundial Bridge and Sacramento River Trail at sunset.
Day 2 (Shasta Lake): Shasta Dam's visitor center and a free tour, Lake Shasta Caverns in the afternoon and a swim at Whiskeytown Lake in summer.
Day 3 (Mount Shasta and Dunsmuir): Mount Shasta City Park and the headwaters, Lake Siskiyou, then Hedge Creek Falls and dinner in Dunsmuir.
With more time: Add a day for Burney Falls and Lassen Volcanic National Park in summer, a day in Weaverville or a winter day at Mt. Shasta Ski Park.
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Takeaway
The Shasta-Cascade region with kids is a big, wild adventure with waterfalls, volcanoes, caves and a giant lake. Base yourself in Redding, and plan day trips to Mount Shasta, Lassen and Burney Falls.
Give yourself at least four or five days, since it's a long drive from LA. Check road and trail status before you go, especially in Lassen, and book summer houseboats and holiday tickets early.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Shasta-Cascade region good for kids?
Yes. The Shasta-Cascade region is great for kids, with the Sundial Bridge and Turtle Bay in Redding, boat-and-bus tours at Lake Shasta Caverns, Burney Falls, bubbling mud pots in Lassen Volcanic National Park and snow play around Mount Shasta. Many top sights are free or low-cost and easy for little hikers.
How far is Redding from Los Angeles?
Redding is about 545 miles from Downtown LA, and the drive takes about eight to nine hours on the I-5 without long stops. Many families split the drive with a night in Sacramento. You can also fly into Redding's airport or Sacramento, then drive the rest of the way.
Where should families stay in the Shasta-Cascade region?
Redding is the best home base, with family hotels like the Sheraton Redding at the Sundial Bridge and easy access to day trips. For mountain fun, stay at Mount Shasta Resort or the caboose rooms at Jubilee Railroad in Dunsmuir. For a lake adventure, rent a houseboat at Bridge Bay or Holiday Harbor.
When is the best time to visit Lassen Volcanic National Park with kids?
Summer and early fall are best, when the main park highway is fully open and trails like Bumpass Hell are usually snow-free. The highway closes to cars for winter once snow arrives and often doesn't fully reopen until early summer, so check the park website for current road status before you go.
What is free to do in Redding and Mount Shasta with kids?
Free favorites include walking the Sundial Bridge, the Sacramento River Trail, McConnell Arboretum, Kids' Kingdom, Shasta Dam tours and the Coleman National Fish Hatchery. Around Mount Shasta, Mount Shasta City Park, Hedge Creek Falls, McCloud River Falls and Bunny Flat are free, and the Redding Lighted Christmas Parade is free, too.
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