How much does camping cost at Patterson Guard Station?

Camping fees at Patterson Guard Station range from $75/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Patterson Guard Station first-come first-served or reservation?

Patterson Guard Station accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Patterson Guard Station before I book?

Yes! Patterson Guard Station has 8 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Patterson Guard Station?

Patterson Guard Station is open July 01 to October 31. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Patterson Guard Station?

Patterson Guard Station does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Patterson Guard Station have?

Patterson Guard Station has 6 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Patterson Guard Station?

Yes, pets are allowed at Patterson Guard Station. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Patterson Guard Station?

Patterson Guard Station offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Patterson Guard Station?

Popular activities at Patterson Guard Station include Hiking. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Patterson Guard Station

6 reviews

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

Peace & Quiet

Featured in:Boating Camping California

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

7,080 ft

Price

$75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Open and reservable ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Modoc National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

7,080 ft

Price

$75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

6 campsites

Season

Open and reservable ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Modoc National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Patterson Guard Station

$75.00 - $75.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Patterson Guard Station: $75.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

256,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

530-233-5811sm.fs.modoc_info@usda.gov

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Patterson Guard Station

Compare with similar sites, watch availability, and build a packing list — Camp Sage handles all of it.

Campground Map

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

Patterson Guard Station

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

Nearby places

Likely, CA (9 miles, approx. 15 minutes)

Cedarville, CA (31 miles, approx. 45 minutes)

Driving directionsFrom Alturas, California, travel South on U.S. Highway 395 for 18 miles to the town of Likely and turn left (East) onto County Rd 64. Continue for 9 miles toward Jess Valley and stay right at the fork toward Blue Lake (Blue Lake Road). This road is not maintained for winter travel. The pavement ends in approximately 6.5 miles, and the road becomes Forest Road 39N01 (South Warner Road). Continue 7.5 miles and turn left (North) at the sign for Patterson Campground (Forest Road 39N28), stay left to reach Patterson Guard Station.

Weather at Patterson Guard Station

Current alerts(2)

This facility is located in a remote area far from any services; before arriving for your reservation, become familiar with the nearest services (i.e., hospitals and gas stations) and seek local weather predictions from the National Weather Service, especially if visiting during…
This is a remote location. Access to the cabin is variable and the road is not maintained for winter use

Best Time to Camp at Patterson Guard Station

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access and the most comfortable conditions — daytime highs typically run 60–80°F with cool nights in the 30s–40s, making Patterson Guard Station a refreshing high‑country escape from valley heat. Trails, fishing/boating opportunities on nearby alpine lakes and streams, and the restored 1921 guard station cabin are all available, and campsites are open and reservable. Expect moderate weekend crowds in July–August but quieter weekdays and excellent wildlife viewing. Peak months: July, August, September, October Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Open July–Oct; summer temps 60–80°F with reliable access and trail/lake activities.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: July 01 to October 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open and reservable July 1 - October 31. Closed outside of these dates.

About Patterson Guard Station

Patterson Guard Station sits in the high-elevation alpine country of Modoc National Forest near Alturas, offering a restored 1921 guard station cabin alongside a handful of tent and RV sites. Operated by Modoc National Forest, this remote retreat provides access to hiking and nearby alpine lakes during the summer season. The setting delivers a quiet, historic escape with vault toilets and pet-friendly policies, ideal for visitors seeking solitude in the high country.

The Patterson Guard Station offers a historic and rustic cabin experience, with nearby developed campsites at the adjacent Patterson Campground.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access and the most comfortable conditions — daytime highs typically run 60–80°F with cool nights in the 30s–40s, making Patterson Guard Station a refreshing high‑country escape from valley heat. Trails, fishing/boating opportunities on nearby alpine lakes and streams, and the restored 1921 guard station cabin are all available, and campsites are open and reservable. Expect moderate weekend crowds in July–August but quieter weekdays and excellent wildlife viewing. Peak months: July, August, September, October Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation7080 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe guard station occupies a meadow surrounded by mixed forest at the edge of the Warner Mountains. Lodgepole and Ponderosa pines mix with juniper and sagebrush on exposed slopes, while north-facing ravines hold Douglas fir and aspen groves. The volcanic origins of the Warners show in the dramatic peaks and ancient lava flows defining this basin and range landscape. Views stretch east toward Surprise Valley and west into the rugged mountain interior.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe guard station offers a rustic lodging experience with one bunk bed (two mattresses) and two convertible chairs for sleeping. The cabin features a propane refrigerator and oven, as well as a wood-burning stove for heating. While cozy and restored, it lacks modern conveniences like potable water or electricity.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are explicitly mentioned for this campground.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum of 7 consecutive nights
maximum stay of 14 nights total per season.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum occupancy for the cabin is 8 people, though it sleeps only 4.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityEntry into the guard station requires navigating two stairs to reach the back door and three stairs leading to the front door/porch. No specific accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are described.

Site SizeThe cabin itself is small and accommodates up to four sleeping arrangements, with a maximum occupancy of eight persons. The nearby Patterson Campground offers additional space with 6 developed campsites.

PrivacyThe guard station is described as remote, surrounded by a meadow and forest, offering significant privacy for visitors.

Total Campsites6 campsites

Recommended SitesCampers should consider the cabin as a base for South Warner Wilderness exploration. Campsites offer privacy and are near trailheads.

Need help booking Patterson Guard Station?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Patterson Guard Station is a historic facility restored in 2022, offering a cozy cabin experience with essential amenities but limited modern conveniences. It features a bunk bed (two mattresses) and two convertible chairs, propane-powered appliances, a wood-burning stove, and basic cooking utensils. However, potable water is not available, and visitors must bring their own drinking and washing water. "The guard station features a new refrigerator and oven/range fueled by propane (provided)." An outhouse is located approximately 100 feet from the cabin. Additionally, there are no electrical or water hookups, and lighting must be battery-powered. Firewood is provided for the wood stove.

Firewood available

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The Patterson Guard Station provides access to a range of outdoor activities including hiking, horseback riding, boating, and star gazing. The nearby South Warner Wilderness offers trails for solitude and exploration, while Blue Lake, 9 miles away, has facilities for boating and fishing.

Hiking

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsThere are no flush toilets available. An outhouse is provided approximately 100 feet from the guard station's front door.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.