Modoc National Forest

Camping

The Modoc National Forest offers over one and a half million acres for your enjoyment, relaxation, and exploration. Within a seven-hour drive from the Bay Area, you can experience the solitude of the wilderness or enjoy camping near others in developed campgrounds. Camp in densely forested woodlands or open meadows, discover secluded flats along river banks and enjoy panoramic views of majestic mountains.

You should leave your campsite in better condition than you found it and carry out all trash and equipment with you. Return the site to a natural state. Use of Leave no Trace techniques will provide for a site others can enjoy.

map of campgrounds

Back Country and Undeveloped Camping Areas

If you prefer undeveloped camping areas, most of the forest is open for camping unless specifically prohibited. Dispersed camping is free of charge and is limited to 30 days per year. Your site must be at least 1/4 mile from developed sites. No vehicles may be driven to undeveloped sites unless via a Forest Service maintained road.

Fire permits are required for all uses of fire, gas lanterns, barbecues, and capstones outside developed campgrounds.

Fire Permits

A California campfire permit is required for a fire outside a designated recreation site . A permit is available free-of-charge from any Forest Service, California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection, or Bureau of Land Management office.

Campgrounds

Modoc National has developed campgrounds on each Ranger District. Campgrounds vary in amenities, location, restrictions, etc. On the right are links to the developed campgrounds on the Modoc National Forest.

Campground Courtesy

To insure everyone enjoys their stay please be courteous to your camping neighbors and provide a friendly and enjoyable experience for all. Although, pets are allowed in the campgrounds they must be on a leash when inside the developed campground.

Small campfires are permitted only in the sites provided. Wood for your campfire is free as long as you gather the dead and down wood. Use extra care with fire and make sure it is "DEAD OUT" when you leave.

Quite hours are between 10 PM and 6 PM. Forest Service Rules

Fees

Campground fees vary depending on the services provided. Family campsites accommodate up to five people per site, with a maximum of two vehicles. There is a fee charged for a second vehicle. A vehicle is a motor home towing another vehicle, a pickup with a camper towing a vehicle, a single car or motorcycle, or a vehicle towing a trailer. If you would like to picnic in a campsite for part of the day, you must pay the posted day use fee.

Pets

Pets must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet at all times. There is no charge for pets.

Hosts

Several campgrounds are staffed by volunteer hosts who provide a warm welcome and information to campers. Hosts also assist by reporting resource damage, disturbances, and needed maintenance repairs. Please contact them if you need assistance. If you are interested in serving as a campground host, please contact one of our offices.

Water

Not all developed campgrounds have potable water. See individual campground information on water availability. Water from creeks/rivers/streams should be boiled or filtered before consuming.

Reservations

All campgrounds are available on a first-come first-served basis.

For More Information

Please visit, call, or write one of our Forest Service offices . Unless otherwise indicated, office hours are Monday through Friday, 8:00 am - 4:30 pm.