Camping options near Alturas, California cluster around the Warner Mountains, a volcanic range with peaks reaching over 9,000 feet. The surrounding Modoc National Forest covers approximately 1.6 million acres of diverse terrain including juniper woodlands, pine forests, and sagebrush flats. Winter temperatures typically drop below freezing from November through March, with campgrounds at higher elevations remaining snow-covered until late spring.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Stough Reservoir Campground, visitors can access a small reservoir for fishing. One camper noted, "A beautiful, small reservoir with about 10 sites. I got the primo site across the water, solo spot with my own pit toilet."
Wildlife viewing: The Warner Mountains provide habitat for mule deer, pronghorn antelope, and numerous bird species. According to a camper at Stough Reservoir, "Keep your food locked up or hanging in a tree" due to wildlife in the area.
Rockhounding: The volcanic geology around Alturas offers opportunities for rock collectors. A visitor commented, "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."
What campers like
Solitude: The remote campgrounds near Alturas provide quiet experiences away from crowds. One camper at Modoc Camp appreciated the "No cell service solitude with the high-passing jets as my only company."
Uncrowded campsites: Even during peak season, campgrounds rarely fill completely. A visitor observed, "During our visit there was only one family using the facility. It is a small campground, vault toilets and was clean when we were there."
Dispersed camping options: Beyond established campgrounds, the area offers dispersed camping at higher elevations. One visitor explained, "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."
What you should know
Seasonal accessibility: Snow impacts access well into spring. A visitor reported, "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."
Fee changes: Campgrounds previously free now charge fees. "As of Spring 2023 there will be a $15/night fee, so no longer free. Zero cell service here," noted one camper about Stough Reservoir.
Road conditions: Access roads to campgrounds vary in quality. A camper described, "The road is 2+ miles of dirt - gravel to the CG."
Tips for camping with families
Weather preparation: Spring temperatures fluctuate dramatically. A camper experienced, "Snowed when we were there in June. No hookups but there's water around the campsites and picnic tables and fire pits."
Limited facilities: Campgrounds near Alturas typically offer basic amenities. "The campground is sparse and lacks flushing toilets, pit toilet is available," one visitor noted at Stough Reservoir.
Check fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans may affect camping experiences. A camper advised, "Check the area sign for fire restrictions or warnings of large animals in the area."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most campgrounds accommodate smaller RVs only. A visitor noted, "There were 3 of the 8 sites that we could park our 26' fifth wheel trailer."
Dispersed options for small rigs: Boondocking opportunities exist for compact RVs. "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."
Road clearance needs: Unpaved access roads require appropriate vehicles. "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."
For those seeking horse campgrounds near Alturas, California, specialized equestrian camping facilities remain limited in the immediate area. While some campgrounds permit pets and potentially horses with proper management, dedicated horse corrals are not currently available at most established campgrounds. Riders exploring potential equestrian camping near Alturas should contact the Modoc National Forest office for updated information on horse-friendly camping options and trail access.
