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Best Tent Camping near Cedarville, CA

83 Reviews

Tent camping options in northeastern California's Modoc County include established campgrounds and primitive sites near Cedarville. Cave Lake Campground provides tent sites adjacent to a mountain lake, while Cal Pines offers a small collection of tent sites. Several Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas including Rattlesnake Creek Bluff provide additional options for tent campers exploring this remote region of the state.

Many tent campgrounds in the Cedarville area have limited amenities, particularly at higher elevations. Cave Lake Campground requires four-wheel drive or all-wheel drive vehicles to access due to steep, rocky terrain. Most tent sites include fire pits and picnic tables, though campers should note that fires may be restricted seasonally. Vault toilets are available at several locations including Cave Lake, but drinking water is generally not provided. Campers should prepare for self-sufficient camping by bringing all necessary water and supplies.

The tent camping experience near Cedarville offers exceptional solitude and natural settings. "Totally isolated during the week" with "stunning views of surrounding mountains and forest," according to feedback on The Dyrt about Cave Lake. Sites at higher elevations provide cooler temperatures during summer months, making them popular retreats from valley heat. Cal Pines campers report easy access to Rainbow Pond with ample shade and afternoon breezes. Stargazing opportunities are exceptional in these remote tent camping areas due to minimal light pollution. Most tent campgrounds operate seasonally, typically from June through October, with higher elevation sites closing earlier due to weather conditions.

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Best Tent Sites Near Cedarville, California (10)

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Recent Tent Camping Photos near Cedarville, CA

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Tent Camping Reviews near Cedarville, CA

83 Reviews of 10 Cedarville Campgrounds

  • Greg D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 10, 2024

    Wild Goose Meadows RV Park

    Convenient overnighter

    This place is under new ownership and they claim to be sprucing up the place. This may be so, but the restrooms are in need of repair, no electric outlets in bathrooms and one small sink, primitive mirror and a board shelf, no vanity, two out of three toilets in the ladies room are out of service and my wife said it smells awful. She spoke to another camper about it and they said they reported it earlier and nothing has been done yet. A little road noise but not too bad at night. Some shaded areas and all gravel. No fire rings or picnic tables. I’m assuming gas fire pit only as there are no fire rings

  • Greg B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 23, 2023

    Fish Spring Dispersed

    Remote, desolate & nearly perfect......

    On Thursday (10/12/23)  I left home with the plan of driving to the Virgin Valley Hot Springs via 299/8A to see the Annular Solar Eclipse.  I arrived at the state line a tad later than expected and followed a beautiful graded 'dyrt' road.  The first camp I came across was Fish Spring.  I saw some open spaces and figured things were going to get busy with the eclipse, so I grabbed a spot.  Beautiful simplicity!!!  No real defined spots, but several areas of access.  Some pull-throughs were occupied by RVs, other spots had nothing but a car/tent combo.  One vault toilet was very clean & well-stocked with paper.  I could not find the spring or water spigot.  There is a horse corral but looks to be in poor condition.  A sign requests "pelletized feed only'.  There were only a handful of fire rings and no picnic tables.  This was my camp for 2 nights.  The following day I drove the rough Mud Spring Canyon Rd to the Royal Peacock Mine & Virgin Valley, and on Saturday, witnessed the Annular Eclipse from here.

  • Ryan W.
    Aug. 18, 2017

    Howards Gulch Campground

    Howard's Gulch Campground in Modoc National Forest

    Howards Gulch Campground • Modoc National Forest • $12

    Northern California • Basin & Range Birding Trail 15 Northeastern location

    Just past a hundred miles of farmfield coming from the North we enter the Modoc National Forest, and turn left against our GPS’ wishes into Howard’s Gulch Campground (Forest Service). Pay attention to the signs. It's analog but it's right. It’s a small, primitive camp in Northern California with 12 sites. Two which are walk in only and none which are for large RV’s. The fee is $12 which is significantly more than the next campground down the road which is free, but the consistency of the Forest Service sites makes it worth it. 

    The trees are tall and red, and according to a conveniently placed sign, coniferous. There are also signs indicating common birds of the area and their habitats, along with a 1.5 mile trail built by the U.S. Forest Service, California Department of Forestry and the California Department of Corrections. The trail has been dedicated “for your hiking pleasure…” This campground is also part of the Basin & Range Birding Trail system of Northern California and Southern Oregon.

    Like all forest service campgrounds there is a fire pit and a picnic table in each site. Most of the sites are spaced relatively privately, but since you’re in the middle of nowhere you’ll probably be sharing the camp with one, maybe two other campers. In addition, some sites have a stand alone charcoal grilling set-ups.

    Trails like this one lead right from camp. Bring your binoculars.

    There are plenty of water taps. At least five, but since it isn’t potable there isn’t really much benefit. Since the water is being “treated with chemicals” I wouldn’t even recommend boiling it for use leaving it for the dousing of fires, but the camp is under no-burn restrictions. Rightfully so, considering the summer California has had so far.

    Toilets are standard vaults, but there are three of them for 12 sites. Two of which are recent new builds. Being low in the gulch you’re surrounded by walls on three sides to the outer side of the camp loop. The inner loop still backs up to a cliff wall for an unusually located tall mound...and OHMYGOD MY WIFE JUST CHOPPED HER THUMB! SHIT! SHIT!SHIT!SHIT!SHIT!SHIT!SHIT!

    ...

    The reason to camp here is…you’re on your way somewhere else most likely. Coming from Oregon to Yosemite or Tahoe or vice versa. But if you do you won’t be disappointed and if you like birds you’ll be pleasantly surprised. The nearest town is at least 20+ miles if you need anything so come prepared. My Wife's thumb is fine by the way. Despite a serious scare at the time. She field dressed it like a boss using our first aid kit (which we've since upgraded). She'll have a reminder scar, but her badass level went up like a million points. I give Howard’s Gulch 3 Tent Stakes of Awesomeness for being a solid campground with nice sites and trails leaving right from camp but not much else going on. Also, there is no indication of who Howard is. I certainly didn't meet him.

    Pro-Tip #1: Prepare for summer heat. You aren’t at elevation here.

    Pro-Tip #2: Bring binoculars.

    Pro-Tip #3: Bring water and anything else you might need. No place near by to get anything.

  • Ariel & John W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 27, 2020

    Stough Reservoir Campground

    Small but great and free

    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 & 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.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 20, 2025

    Lassen Creek Campground

    Great spot!

    This was a lovely spot next to a small creek, and several sites had access to it. We towed a 18ft travel trailer and found lots of spaces it would fit, though I wouldn't recommend anything longer than about 25 feet. The restrooms were clean and stocked and several sites had stone stoves as well as fire rings. We used our GPS vs Google maps, had no problem finding the campground. It was secluded and had plenty of shade. We only stayed one night traveling through, but would definitely stay again.

  • K
    Mar. 8, 2020

    Dodge Reservoir Campground

    Great campsight but read before you go

    This sight is great for boon-docking campers; it has maintained camp sights, picnic tables, and a few fire rings. A short walk from the camp sights there is a vault toilet that’s maintained during the dryer months. Great fishing, stargazing, and kayaking. But be prepared for no cell service at the campground, however about 2 miles south on the main road will provide 2 bars of service for those with Verizon. Also pack lots of food, water, and fuel as the closest gas is in Alturas and or Standish Litchfield “45 miles north or to the south on hwy 395.” I wouldn’t recommend swimming in the lake as the lake has been know to have very small leaches sad for swimming but great for fishing. Don’t forget to check your local fire restrictions and obtain a fire permit before heading out.

  • Bill T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 14, 2024

    Drews Creek

    Quiet and small

    A small quiet campground near, but not on Drews creek.  Only space for about 4 maybe 5 RVs.  All sites great for tents.  There are no services - no water, no electric, no dump.  It does have two very nice and clean modern pit toilets.  We had no cell service.

  • Mary C.
    Jun. 12, 2018

    Goose Lake State Recreation Area

    Open Campground

    This was a very open campground, very little privacy allotted for each site. There were some tree cover and grass. The lake was not very swimmable as it was dry, so we went to a nearby creek and enjoyed that.

    It was pretty awesome to be on the state lines of Oregon and California, able to be two places at once. The town of New Pine Creek spans both states and has lots of fun places to visit and see.

  • gabriel B.
    Aug. 2, 2020

    Dodge Reservoir Campground

    Quiet, secluded, and most importantly DARK!

    I came here for two nights with some friends at the beginning of summer. The campground is about 45 minutes - 1 hour from the road, and you will need some decent ground clearance to make it there. Once you arrive, there are several camp sites along the main road, some featuring grills and picnic tables. There is a well-maintained vault toilet, and when I went it was stocked with TP (but you should probably bring some just in case lol).

    While we were not the only group there, there were only at most two or three other groups and plenty of room to not have to bump into each other. Most people seemed to come for the fishing and leave before the night. There are also a good amount of ants and flying insects, so be sure to bring your bug spray!

    We went during new moon, so when night fell it got crazy dark! Be sure to bring a headlamp or lantern. The view of the night sky is the best I have yet to see, and it seems like there are shooting stars every few minutes. It is also easy to spot satellites and other interesting things in the sky. I may consider making the 10 hour trip here again, as the views of the stars are that good.

Guide to Cedarville

Cedarville, California, offers a variety of tent camping options that allow outdoor enthusiasts to immerse themselves in nature's beauty. From stunning views to unique amenities, there's something for everyone.

Tips for tent camping near Cedarville

  • Cave Lake Campground provides a secluded experience with breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and a crystal-clear lake perfect for swimming and fishing.
  • Cal Pines is a great spot at the top of the mountain, featuring plenty of shade and a refreshing breeze, ideal for setting up a hammock and relaxing.
  • Dismal Creek offers a peaceful environment, perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

  • At Cave Lake Campground, you'll find fire pits and picnic tables, making it easy to enjoy meals outdoors while taking in the stunning scenery.
  • Deep Creek Campground allows campfires and welcomes pets, providing a friendly atmosphere for families and furry companions alike.
  • Twin Springs Campground features picnic tables and toilets, ensuring a comfortable camping experience without sacrificing the beauty of nature.

Local attractions near Cedarville

  • Cave Lake Campground is not only a great camping spot but also a fantastic location for stargazing, with minimal light pollution enhancing the night sky.
  • BLM Dodge Reservoir is perfect for those who enjoy fishing and boating, offering a serene setting for water activities.
  • Red Tail Rim South Trailhead provides access to beautiful hiking trails, allowing campers to explore the stunning landscapes of the Modoc National Forest.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular tent campsite near Cedarville, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Cedarville, CA is Rattlesnake Creek Bluff with a 0-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find tent camping near Cedarville, CA?

TheDyrt.com has all 10 tent camping locations near Cedarville, CA, with real photos and reviews from campers.

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