Blue Lake Campground

Bureau of Land Management, Eagle Lake Field Office, 2550 Riverside Drive, Susanville, CA, 96130, USA

Tucked away in Nevada's high desert, Dodge Reservoir Campground offers a peaceful escape for those seeking solitude beneath endless skies. This hidden gem sits alongside a 480-acre reservoir that has been quenching the desert's thirst since 1937, when it first began serving local irrigation needs. Today, visitors find a rustic camping experience where sagebrush-scented winds whisper through scattered junipers and simple amenities keep the focus on nature's raw beauty. With picnic tables and a wheelchair-accessible vault toilet as your only companions to the basics, this is camping stripped down to its essence—no running water, no trash service, just you and the wide-open desert. Come prepared with all your supplies and a commitment to leave no trace in this pristine landscape.

710 Townsend St, Cedarville, CA, 96104

Nestled deep within the South Warner Mountains of Modoc National Forest, Blue Lake Campground Group Site offers an escape into pristine wilderness where solitude reigns supreme. This remote sanctuary centers around the remarkable Blue Lake, whose crystal-clear waters remain bracingly cold throughout summer—a refreshing testament to its unique origins as a landslide-formed natural wonder. Here, nature enthusiasts discover a rare haven where the modern world fades away, replaced by the whisper of wind through pines and the gentle lapping of mountain waters.

Patterson Guard Station, 225 W 8th St., Alturas, CA 96101

Step back in time at Patterson Guard Station, where a meticulously restored 1921 cabin stands as a testament to the early days of forest protection in Modoc National Forest. This charming historic retreat offers visitors a choice between the authentic rustic experience of staying in the original guard station cabin or setting up camp at one of six thoughtfully developed campsites nestled among the pines. Here, modern adventurers can experience the same sweeping mountain vistas that greeted forest rangers a century ago.

East Creek Campground, County Road 64/Jess Valley Rd., Likely, CA

Nestled in the rugged beauty of Modoc National Forest, East Creek Campground beckons equestrian enthusiasts with its specialized horse camping facilities and direct gateway to the South Warner Wilderness. This intimate campground caters exclusively to riders and their four-legged companions, featuring dedicated corrals and stock water facilities designed with your horses' comfort in mind. While the East Creek Trail awaits future reopening, adventurers can still access the spectacular Summit Trail through nearby Patterson Campground, opening up miles of pristine wilderness exploration on horseback.

County Road 40, Modoc National Forest

Tucked away at the gateway to the South Warner Wilderness, Emerson Campground offers adventurers a peaceful retreat where towering trees create a natural cathedral of shade. This hidden gem rewards those willing to navigate its rough dirt access road with an authentic wilderness experience far from the crowds. As the starting point for the renowned Emerson Trail, this intimate campground serves as your basecamp for exploring one of Northern California's most pristine wilderness areas.

Lassen National Forest

Escape into the heart of the wilderness at Mill Creek Trailhead/Black Rock Campground, where adventure begins at your tent flap. This secluded backcountry haven offers 20 pristine campsites nestled among towering pines, serving as your gateway to untamed trails and hidden natural wonders. Whether you're seeking solitude under the stars or planning your next hiking expedition, this tent-only sanctuary provides the perfect blend of rustic charm and essential amenities for the modern explorer.

Modoc National Forest

Nestled at the gateway to the South Warner Wilderness, Mill Creek Falls Campground beckons adventurers with its tranquil hillside setting among towering Jeffrey pines and fragrant firs. This intimate single-loop campground rises gently above the verdant expanse of Jess Valley, where ancient trees filter the mountain sunlight and create a natural cathedral of shade and serenity. Here, the modern world fades away, replaced by the whisper of wind through pine needles and the distant murmur of cascading water.

Soup Springs Campground, Modoc National Forest, California

Nestled at the gateway to the South Warner Wilderness, Soup Springs Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts seeking authentic wilderness experiences. This thoughtfully designed family-friendly retreat seamlessly blends rustic camping with modern conveniences, featuring dedicated equestrian facilities set apart from the main camping area. While your horses enjoy spacious corrals at the nearby trailhead, you'll find peace in the tranquil campground where the wilderness begins at your tent flap.

Bureau of Land Management, Applegate Field Office, 708 West 12th Street, Alturas, CA, 96101, USA

Nestled in pristine wilderness, Divine Springs Campground offers an intimate escape with just five generously sized campsites, each thoughtfully appointed with sturdy metal fire ring/BBQ pits and picnic tables. A babbling creek meanders through the grounds, creating a natural soundtrack for your outdoor adventure. The entire area is carefully fenced to preserve the tranquil atmosphere while keeping local livestock at a respectful distance.

Modoc National Forest

Nestled at the gateway to the South Warner Wilderness, Pepperdine Campground offers three distinct camping experiences in one remarkable location. Equestrian enthusiasts will discover a dedicated horse camp complete with convenient stock water and pole stalls at select sites. The trailhead staging area beckons adventurers with ample parking and corrals, serving as your launching point into the wilderness. For those seeking a more intimate experience, a cozy family camping loop awaits beneath a canopy of ancient fir trees. As a pack-it-in, pack-it-out facility, Pepperdine encourages visitors to embrace Leave No Trace principles while immersing themselves in this pristine mountain environment.

Modoc National Forest

Where riders and their trusty steeds find their perfect mountain retreat, Pepperdine Equestrian Campground offers a rare blend of wilderness adventure and equine comfort. Each thoughtfully designed campsite comes complete with sturdy 12' X 12' metal corrals nestled beneath a canopy of towering trees, creating an intimate basecamp where the bond between horse and rider deepens with every sunset. This specialized haven understands that some of the best camping memories are made on four hooves rather than two feet.

710 Townsend St, Cedarville, CA, 96104

Lassen National Forest

Modoc National Forest

Patterson Guard Station, 225 W 8th St., Alturas, CA 96101

Modoc National Forest

Soup Springs Campground, Modoc National Forest, California

Bureau of Land Management, Eagle Lake Field Office, 2550 Riverside Drive, Susanville, CA, 96130, USA

Modoc National Forest

County Road 40, Modoc National Forest

East Creek Campground, County Road 64/Jess Valley Rd., Likely, CA

INYO, CA, USA

Nestled in the heart of the Eastern Sierra, Big Pine Canyon offers adventurers a gateway to some of California's most dramatic alpine wilderness. This stunning canyon serves as your basecamp for exploring ancient glaciers, crystal-clear mountain lakes, and towering granite peaks that pierce the sky at over 14,000 feet. Whether you're seeking challenging mountaineering routes or peaceful streamside camping, Big Pine Canyon delivers an authentic High Sierra experience that will leave you breathless—both from the altitude and the sheer beauty surrounding you.

1 Visitor Center Dr Lee Vining, CA 93541

Tucked into a scenic bend along the melodious Lee Vining Creek, Big Bend Campground invites adventurers to claim one of its 17 intimate campsites within the majestic Inyo National Forest. This hidden gem serves as the perfect basecamp for those drawn to both Yosemite's stunning Tuolumne Meadows entrance and the otherworldly landscapes of Mono Basin Scenic Area. Each site comes equipped with essential amenities including vault toilets, fresh potable water, and bear-proof food storage lockers to ensure both comfort and wildlife safety during your stay.

Modoc National Forest

Nestled at the gateway to the South Warner Wilderness, Pepperdine Campground offers three distinct camping experiences in one remarkable location. Equestrian enthusiasts will discover a dedicated horse camp complete with convenient stock water and pole stalls at select sites. The trailhead staging area beckons adventurers with ample parking and corrals, serving as your launching point into the wilderness. For those seeking a more intimate experience, a cozy family camping loop awaits beneath a canopy of ancient fir trees. As a pack-it-in, pack-it-out facility, Pepperdine encourages visitors to embrace Leave No Trace principles while immersing themselves in this pristine mountain environment.

Shasta-Trinity National Forest

Gather your favorite people at Camp 4 Group Campsite, where up to 35 adventurers can create lasting memories together in the heart of nature. This thoughtfully developed campground welcomes groups with everything needed for the perfect outdoor gathering – spacious picnic tables for shared meals under towering trees, crackling fire pits for evening storytelling, convenient vault toilets, and regular garbage collection that lets you focus on what matters most: quality time with friends and family.

Upper Soda Springs Campground, Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546

Nestled in the heart of Reds Meadow Valley, Upper Soda Springs Campground offers an intimate escape where the melodic San Joaquin River becomes your constant companion. This tranquil retreat features 28 thoughtfully spaced campsites, each equipped with bear-proof lockers, picnic tables, and access to pristine pit toilets and fresh potable water. Adventure beckons from every direction—cast a line into the crystal-clear river waters, set out on scenic trails that wind through ancient forests, or venture to the nearby geological wonder of Devil's Postpile National Monument and the breathtaking cascade of Rainbow Falls.

13652 Highway 79 Julian, CA 92036

Saddle up for an unforgettable equestrian adventure at Los Vaqueros Group Horse Campground, where the spirit of the Old West meets modern camping comfort. This specialized horse-friendly retreat beckons riders and their four-legged companions with direct access to the legendary California Riding and Hiking Trail. Well-appointed horse corrals ensure your equine partners rest as comfortably as you do, making this the perfect basecamp for exploring miles of scenic trails that wind through California's stunning backcountry.

Doran Regional Park

Nestled along a stunning 2-mile stretch of sandy beach on Bodega Bay, Doran Regional Park Campground offers 112 year-round campsites where the Pacific Ocean meets coastal adventure. With five distinct camping zones ranging from harbor-side spots to tent-only areas, this family-friendly destination combines beach camping with exceptional access to fishing, kayaking, and birdwatching. Whether you're launching your kayak into the bay, exploring tide pools along the rock jetty, or simply enjoying soft sand and mellow surf, Doran delivers a quintessential California coastal camping experience.

Mendocino National Forest

Tucked into a peaceful inlet at Lake Pillsbury's northwestern corner, this campground offers the perfect blend of lakeside tranquility and easy water access. Just a short stroll from your campsite, the shimmering waters of Mendocino National Forest's largest lake beckon with endless possibilities for adventure. Whether you're launching your boat from the nearby ramp at dawn, casting a line into the crystal-clear waters, or taking an afternoon swim, this scenic basecamp puts you at the heart of one of Northern California's most beloved recreational lakes.

17119 Avenue of the Giants, Weott CA 95571

Escape into the cathedral-like sanctuary of Hamilton Barn Environmental Campground, where primitive hike-in campsites nestle beneath towering old-growth redwoods. This hidden gem rewards adventurous souls with unparalleled privacy and profound solitude, offering a rare chance to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature's ancient rhythms.

CA-108, Humboldt-Toiyabe National Forest, California

Nestled along the scenic Sonora Pass on CA-108, Sonora Bridge Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 22 tranquil sites carved into a landscape of towering Jeffrey pines and aromatic sagebrush. Here, where the melodious West Walker River flows just steps away, anglers cast their lines into pristine waters while hikers set off to explore the dramatic high country. This rustic mountain retreat offers the perfect basecamp for your Sierra Nevada adventures, complete with firewood available on-site to fuel evening campfires under star-studded skies.