A graded dirt road leads into Duncan Reservoir South Site, a free dispersed camping area within Modoc National Forest, California. The site sits near an old boat launch on the reservoir, and while water levels can drop low enough to prevent launching, the shoreline location draws waterfowl. Pelicans and herons have been spotted here by recent visitors. Cell service is listed as available, and a pit toilet is on-site, maintained seasonally.
The camping area itself is essentially a gravel lot, which means space fills up fast if more than a handful of rigs arrive. Crowd pressure has been low in practice. Stella R. notes she was there with "never saw another person" during her stay. Campfires are permitted, and fire rings are in place. The site is ADA accessible and allows pets and alcohol.
The dirt access road holds up well under dry conditions, though mud can become a traction issue in early spring or after rain, so vehicles with low clearance or minimal grip should approach with caution. Drivers coming from the highway cover only a few miles of dirt to reach the site. Nearby, Howards Gulch Campground sits roughly two miles southwest for those wanting a more developed alternative. Campers planning a longer stay in the region can also look at places to camp around Modoc National Forest to fill out an itinerary. Visiting in late spring or summer gives the best chance of passable roads and higher water levels at the reservoir.
Description
This is a primitive area without facilities. The boat ramp is gravel and dirt. There is parking for boat trailers and room for turn around. Small motor boats and car top boats can launch from Duncan South. Dogs on leash only. Please clean up after your dog. Garbage service is not provided. Please take all trash, garbage, fish guts and dog droppings with you when you leave.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsDuncan Reservoir South Site is located in California near Modoc National Forest
Coordinates
41.50993888795893 N
120.94503728746409 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 11 usersLast on 7/27/26
VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 7/27/26
AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 11 usersLast on 7/27/26
- VerizonLTESome CoverageVerified by 2 usersLast on 7/27/26
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Dispersed
Features
For Campers
- ADA Access
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
DISPERSED CAMPING
Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Duncan Reservoir South Site needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 12 min from Redding, CA
- 2 hrs 26 min from Medford, OR
- 2 hrs 52 min from Grants Pass, OR
