Pet-friendly camping near Alturas offers visitors access to the Modoc National Forest at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 7,000 feet. Located in the northeastern corner of California, this high desert region experiences cold winters and warm summers with possible snow even in late spring. Campers find a mix of established campgrounds and dispersed sites with varying levels of amenities and accessibility.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Stough Reservoir Campground, visitors can fish in the small pond. "We pulled in a 16ft camp trailer with no problem. Plenty of camp sites to choose from," reports one camper at Plum Valley. Another visitor at Stough mentions, "We have caught largemouth bass and crappie in the reservoir by the campground and we have launched our small boat and fished the upper reaches."
Hiking trails: Explore the 1.5-mile trail at Howards Gulch Campground, which was "built by the U.S. Forest Service, California Department of Forestry and the California Department of Corrections." One visitor notes, "Trails like this one lead right from camp. Bring your binoculars." The campground is part of the Basin & Range Birding Trail system of Northern California and Southern Oregon.
Obsidian collecting: Near Plum Valley Campground, visitors can collect obsidian with proper permits. "Lots to do nearby mostly obsidian collection and fishing. Make sure if you are wanting to collect you get a free permit in town before heading out," advises one camper. The Davis Creek area is known for its high-quality obsidian deposits.
What campers like
Creek sounds: Many campers appreciate the natural white noise at Plum Valley Campground. "Quiet, serene forest setting, good overnight stop coming south on hwy 395," writes one reviewer. Another mentions, "Campground is in the shade which is great in the summer and has a creek running through."
Privacy and solitude: Several campgrounds offer secluded camping experiences. At Lower Rush Creek Campground, one visitor reports, "Shady, quiet spots, lovely creek passing through." Another camper notes, "Free usfs camping! Secluded little campground right off 299."
Affordability: Many campgrounds in the area are free or low-cost. One camper at Cedar Pass states, "Sweet little free USFS campground that is open." At Lower Rush Creek, a visitor appreciates that it has "space, bathrooms, and trash bins. You can't ask for more from a free spot than this!"
What you should know
Weather variations: Temperature fluctuations can be extreme. One camper at Lower Rush Creek mentions, "It was chilly even in June." At Stough Reservoir, a visitor reports, "Snowed when we were there in June."
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires careful navigation. For Big Sage Campground, "The road was well maintained and smooth. We will certainly come back to visit with the toyhauler and RZR. Many FS roads to explorer here." At Howards Gulch, "Pay attention to the signs. It's analog but it's right."
Limited services: Most campgrounds have minimal amenities. "There are water spigots, but since it isn't potable there isn't really much benefit," notes one camper at Howards Gulch. Another visitor at Lower Rush Creek advises, "The nearest town is at least 20+ miles if you need anything so come prepared."
Tips for camping with families
Pet-friendly options: All national forest campgrounds near Alturas welcome dogs. At Sully's RV Park, visitors note it "worked well for our camper van" and is "close to the wild refuge." One camper walked "the 3 mile loop before heading out of town."
Wildlife viewing: Many dog-friendly campgrounds offer wildlife viewing opportunities. At Howards Gulch, informational signs indicate "common birds of the area and their habitats." A camper suggests, "If you like birds you'll be pleasantly surprised."
Safety concerns: Be aware of wildlife and potential hazards. At Big Sage, one camper reports, "Based on the other review we expected to see wild horses and didn't see any or evidence of them either." However, another warns that "feral horses have shown up and they are aggressive."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most forest service campgrounds have restrictions on RV size. At Howards Gulch, sites are "for small, primitive camp in Northern California with 12 sites. Two which are walk in only and none which are for large RV's." Another camper estimates "Probably won't accommodate big rigs 35' max????"
Hookup availability: For those needing full hookups, commercial options exist. Sully's RV Park offers "5 FHU sites" and one visitor notes, "the RV sites are level, showers/bathrooms are clean, they have good laundry facilities, the Wi-Fi works well, and the place is quiet."
Maneuverability: Forest roads and campground loops can be challenging for larger rigs. At Plum Valley, "We were able to pull our 19 foot camper up the road and into the campground not sure if we would try with anything larger." At Lower Rush Creek, "The loop around is tight, but you could probably get through with a 24 or 25 foot trailer if you were careful. I wouldn't try anything bigger than that though."
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