Stough Reservoir Campground, near Cedarville, California, is a charming spot for those looking to escape into nature. Tucked away in Modoc National Forest, this campground offers a peaceful setting with a small reservoir and about ten sites, perfect for tent or RV camping.

The campground is known for its beautiful scenery, with the Warner Mountains providing a stunning backdrop. Visitors have enjoyed the solitude, often noting the lack of cell service, which makes it a great place to disconnect. As one camper shared, “I got the primo site across the water, solo spot with my own pit toilet,” highlighting the appeal of having your own space in such a serene environment.

While there are no electric hookups or showers, campers appreciate the drinking water available and the picnic tables and fire pits at each site. The area is also a great base for exploring nearby attractions, including hot springs and rockhounding opportunities in the Warner Mountains. 

Keep in mind that access can be tricky in early spring due to snow, so check conditions before heading out. Overall, Stough Reservoir Campground is a solid choice for those seeking a quiet retreat in the great outdoors.

Stough Reservoir Campground is only 1 mile off Hwy 299 on a gravel road. At 6,200 feet it provides relief from the heat of the valleys on either side. Small trailers and motorhomes will find access and turn-arounds manageable. The reservoir is small but is kept stocked by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Water is provided and campsites sit away from the shore with nice views of the reservoir. Stough Reservoir is Number 4 on the Basin & Range Birding Trail. Bring you camera and binoculars and expect to see Prairie Falcons, Rufous Hummingbirds and Wild Turkeys.

Stough Reservoir Campground

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Cedarville

The Best Camping Near Cedarville, California

Not far from Cederville on 299 towards Alturas you can find a DNR campground at Stough Reservoir. The road is 2+ miles of dirt - gravel to the CG.

The campground is sparse and lacks flushing toilets, pit toilet is available. Check the area sign for fire restrictions or warnings of large animals in the area. Keep your food locked up or hanging in a tree.

Primitive

Camped here in June 2020 and got the single prime spot across the little pond with its own pit toilet. Snowed when we were there in June. No hookups but there’s water around the campsites and picnic tables and fire pits. Excellent little campground with maybe a dozen or so sites. Clean &amp; well maintained. Beautiful Warner Mountains all around. 

If you keep going up the forest road there are dispersed camping spots at higher elevation with great views but roads only suitable for small rigs. There’s both a BLM and USFS office in nearby Cedarville for info plus hot springs in Surprise Valley and lots of good rockhounding in nearby Warner mountains on the west side towards Lakeview. Would camp here again.

Small but great and free

I swung thru this camp on a previous ride, and remembered it fondly. (dunno why I didn't review it then).

  

Up a decent gravel road, only about a mile in.  A beautiful, small reservoir with about 10 sites.  I got the primo site across the water, solo spot with my own pit toilet.  No cell service solitude with the high-passing jets as my only company.  Still a few patches of snow on the ground (5/2) and 26 degree morning.

Second Time here....Still a Jewel

Not much to report here, other than be aware of snow in May. We tried to get to this campground but were blocked by too much snow in the road. Other than the snow the road was in good condition and easy to drive in our class c. The website lists the status for this campground as “area not cleared,” so presumably if you have a vehicle that can get through the snow, then you’re ok to go camp here. 

  

Also as of Spring 2023 there will be a $15/night fee, so no longer free. Zero cell service here.

Photos of Stough Reservoir Campground

Real photos from real campers