New lessee Highway West reports strong first season at Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort

Highway West Vacations, the new lessee of Lake Siskiyou Camp Resort, presented a first-season update to the Siskiyou County Board of Supervisors on Oct. 7, reporting more than 248,000 visitors and nearly $4.7 million in sales for the 2025 season.

Why it matters: The resort sits on county-owned land under lease and is a major visitor draw for Mount Shasta and surrounding communities; the lessee's performance affects local tourism revenues, jobs and the county's lease receipts.

What the company told the board: JD (president of Highway West Vacations) and his team described the company's portfolio and community-focused operating model. Trevor Bridge, regional vice president, said Highway West assumed operations in April 2025 and ran the property for the season. "Guests love this place," Bridge said, summarizing occupancy and use.

Operational figures provided in the presentation included 13,914 RV-site rentals, 11,026 private tent-site rentals, 3,754 cabin stays, 2,370 marina boat rentals, approximately 79,000 meals served (including retail transactions), and a total of roughly 105,000 overnight reservations. The presenters said these numbers equaled approximately 248,000 visitors overall.

Financials and county revenue: Highway West reported about $4.7 million in total sales for the season, which the company said translated into just under $500,000 in lease fees to the county under the current agreement.

Local hiring and community programs: General Manager Sarah Strickland and other staff emphasized local hiring, workforce-development efforts (including internships and college/high-school work opportunities), and community outreach programs. The company instituted a weekly "locals day" allowing county residents free access on Wednesdays and worked with the Boys & Girls Club for youth fishing days and other activities.

Company priorities and next steps: Highway West described environmental initiatives across its portfolio and said it is evaluating property improvements and branding updates for Lake Siskiyou over the next three seasons. Company speakers said they plan continued capital reinvestment and community partnership to grow the resort's regional draw.

Board reaction: Supervisors welcomed the update and said they had received positive community feedback on the operation this season. The board did not take an action on lease terms; the session was a status report and request for continued partnership.

Context and background: Highway West operates hospitality properties across the western U.S. and took over the Lake Siskiyou lease from the prior operator in March 2025. County staff and company representatives said relations between the county and the operator were cooperative through the season.