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Map showing campground location near Forest Ranch, California
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NatureMap showing campground location near Forest Ranch, California

Butte Meadows Campground

6 ReviewsAdd Review
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

A self-pay campground running $12 per night, Butte Meadows sits within Lassen National Forest and operates on a no-host basis from April through October. The access road can be rough in spots, so drivers towing trailers should expect some bumps. A Cal Fire station sits directly adjacent to the campground, which means occasional radio noise and intermittent beeping can carry into the sites.

Creek access is the defining feature here. Several sites run alongside the water, and reviewers consistently mention the creek as a reason to return. Shade is plentiful, and dust is minimal, which makes the campground comfortable during warm summer days. Site 1, set apart from the main loop, provides the most separation from neighboring campers. The campground is also within walking distance of local Butte Meadows businesses, and Lake Almanor is roughly an hour's drive away, making this a workable base for a broader trip.

Bear activity has been documented on-site. Campers have found bear scat near Site 1, so proper food storage throughout the day matters here, not just at night. Note that pets are not permitted. Ann W. describes it as a "very quiet and clean campground," though weekend crowds may shift that dynamic. Nearby alternatives include Soda Springs to the northwest and West Branch Camp a few miles southeast. Weekday visits tend to be less crowded, and arriving with cash or a check for the self-pay envelope will save time at check-in.

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Map & DirectionsButte Meadows Campground is located in California near Forest Ranch

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Coordinates

40.078517 N
121.558811 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

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  • signal strength bars
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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

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Reviews6 Camper Reviews - Butte Meadows Campground

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

66%
17%
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4.5

out of 5

6 Reviews

Campers regularly cited the peaceful, creek-side setting with shaded spots and minimal crowds. Most found it very quiet, though proximity to cal-fire station may create occasional noise. Good value at $12/night with no hookups.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile
Reviewed Jul. 25, 2025

Great Find

Nice find while traveling through the area. Very quiet and clean campground. The creek running through the campground was nice for our dog. It is bear country and many other campers weren’t keeping there areas bear proofed throughout the day. Found some bear scat with candy wraps in the scat and that was found in site 1. Definitely will come back again.

Site12
Month of VisitJuly
Reviewed Jun. 15, 2024

Great location near Chico

This site is awesome, right on the river, close to the cal fire station and walking distance to the local Butte Meadows businesses. So many great hiking trails near by and it is about an hour from lake Almanor.

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Butte Meadows Campground by Stacy L., June 15, 2024
  • Review photo of Butte Meadows Campground by Stacy L., June 15, 2024
  • Review photo of Butte Meadows Campground by Stacy L., June 15, 2024
Reviewed Jun. 6, 2022

Butte meadows camp ground

My wife and I spent a few days here in a 16' trailer. Great spots along the creek. Little to no dust. Lots of shade.

Site7
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Butte Meadows Campground by Robert W., June 6, 2022
Reviewed Nov. 11, 2019

Mystical

We stopped here in the middle of a trip to Shasta and chose a campground farther away from the others and next to the river. Not crowded at all, very lovely environment, was a little had to find at first but well worth it.

Reviewed May. 6, 2019

Wonderful Gem

Great place. Always clean and cooler than the valley. Good fishing and family/per friendly

Reviewed Jul. 8, 2018

Cute little campground

The road is pretty rough. Even with our tiny 15 ft trailer we had a little trouble with some bumbs. Its right off the main road so there was some road noise but it’s such a quiet road that it was pretty minimal. The cal-fire stations was right in front so we kept hearing the radio and a constant beeping coming from the station. There was some sort of event there the week before and sadly the place was kind of trashed. Shoes and clothes left in one campground, trash, bottle caps, etc, There’s no hook ups and it is a no host campground for just $12/night. The only way I would come back is if we could get spot #1. it’s to the left of the main loop and completely secluded from the rest of the campground wIth a lIttle creek runnIng jIst a short walk away. Bonus was that we were the only people there during the week! I have a feeling it may be more of a party campground during the weekend though.

Showing results 1-6 of 6 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best spots and features of Butte Meadows Campground?

The most coveted spots at Butte Meadows Campground are those located along the creek, offering peaceful water sounds and natural beauty. The campground features plenty of shade trees throughout, which helps keep the area cooler than surrounding valley temperatures. Many campsites are situated near the river, providing easy water access and scenic views. The location offers excellent outdoor recreation with numerous hiking trails nearby. The campground's proximity to the local Butte Meadows businesses allows for convenient walking access while still maintaining a natural setting. The creek running through the property is perfect for cooling off and is pet-friendly.

How do I make reservations at Butte Meadows Campground?

Specific reservation information for Butte Meadows Campground isn't detailed in available information. For current reservation procedures, contact the campground directly or check with the managing agency (likely Forest Service). When planning your visit, consider that the campground can be less crowded during certain periods, making it easier to secure a spot. Remember that this is a bear country area, so proper food storage will be required when camping here. For the most up-to-date reservation policies, fees, and availability, verify with official sources before your trip.

What do visitors say about their experience at Butte Meadows Campground?

Visitors consistently praise Butte Meadows Campground for its clean facilities and peaceful atmosphere. Campers appreciate the cooler temperatures compared to the valley, making it a refreshing escape during warmer months. The campground's proximity to the river is frequently highlighted as a major benefit, with many enjoying the soothing sounds of running water. Families and pet owners find the environment welcoming and enjoyable. Some visitors note the access road can be somewhat rough, particularly for trailers, so caution is advised. The location offers good fishing opportunities and serves as an excellent base for exploring nearby hiking trails. Bear activity is present in the area, so proper food storage is essential.

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