ABOUT REDDING

About Redding

Redding is a beautiful city in Northern California located in Shasta County. It's known for its natural beauty, outdoor recreation opportunities, and welcoming community.

Location

Redding is in the northern Sacramento Valley, near the Sacramento River and Shasta-Trinity National Forest.

Climate & Seasons

• Summer: Hot and dry (85-100°F)
• Fall: Mild and pleasant (60-80°F)
• Winter: Cool and occasionally rainy (40-60°F)
• Spring: Warm and beautiful (60-80°F)

Outdoor Recreation

Redding is an outdoor enthusiast's paradise! Popular activities include hiking and camping in Shasta Trinity National Forest, fishing on the Sacramento River, biking on scenic trails, water sports at nearby lakes and rivers, and rock climbing.

Finding Housing in Redding

BSSM does not provide or manage student housing, but we've put together a guide to help you find a good housing situation. We recommend starting your search 2-3 months before your arrival.

Housing Options

Rooms in Shared Housing: Budget $450–$900/month for a shared or private bedroom, depending on location and amenities. Utilities may or may not be included.

Housing Search Resources

• Zillow, Apartments.com
• Facebook groups: "Redding Housing" / "BSSM Housing" Check full Housing guide at Housing guide

Getting Around Redding

Plan how you’ll travel between your housing, school, church, and everyday activities.

Local Transportation

A personal vehicle, carpooling, or rideshare can help you get around Redding. If you plan to take the bus, check Redding Area Bus Authority (RABA) routes and schedules for your regular trips.

View RABA routes and schedules

Before bringing, buying, or borrowing a car, check California’s requirements for your driver’s license, vehicle registration, insurance, and smog inspections.

Explore California DMV requirements

Airports

Compare flights to Redding (RDD) and Sacramento (SMF), and arrange your onward transportation to Redding.

Healthcare & Medical Services

Medical care can be expensive, so we strongly recommend having health insurance coverage before arriving in Redding.

Insurance

For International Students: Purchase travel/healthcare insurance before arriving—it's typically cheaper and more comprehensive than US insurance.

Hospitals

Redding has two major hospitals with 24/7 emergency services:

• Shasta Regional Medical Center
• Mercy Medical Center Redding

Emergency

Dial 911 for any emergency medical situation.

BSSM for Families

If you're considering bringing your family to Redding, we want to help! Redding is a great place for families with excellent schooling and childcare options.

Schools

Bethel Christian School: Pre-K through 8th grade, Christ-centered education. bcsredding.org

Public Schools: Shasta Unified School District operates several elementary, junior high, and high schools.

Family Resources

Bethel Church has a thriving children's ministry focused on bringing kids into encounters with God. The community is very family-friendly with parks, trails, and activities for children.