Tent camping near Cedarville, California offers rugged outdoor experiences in Modoc County's high desert terrain. Sites in this northeastern corner of California range from 4,600 to nearly 7,000 feet elevation, creating distinct microclimates across campgrounds. Seasonal access varies significantly with many backcountry locations limited to summer and early fall due to snow conditions and muddy roads.
What to do
Fishing access: At Cave Lake Campground, visitors can fish in the crystal clear lake directly from campsites. The lake supports trout fishing throughout the summer months when water levels remain adequate.
Mountain hiking: Cal Pines provides easy access to Rainbow Pond via a short walking trail from the campground. "This was a great place at the top of the mountain. Rainbow pond was a great place to walk to from the campground," notes camper Cameron W., who enjoyed setting up hammocks near the pond.
Wildlife observation: Rattlesnake Creek Bluff features 10 primitive tent sites positioned along riparian zones that attract diverse wildlife. Spring camping offers optimal bird watching opportunities when migratory species pass through the area.
Stargazing: Light pollution is minimal throughout the Cedarville camping region, making astronomy activities productive. Twin Springs Campground near Lakeview provides elevated viewing areas away from tree cover for optimal night sky observation.
What campers like
Site isolation: Cave Lake Campground offers exceptional privacy during weekdays. According to camper Carolyn P., "Pros: Totally isolated (during the week). Stunning views of surrounding mountains and forest with a crystal clear lake (Cave Lake) for swimming and fishing."
Natural cooling: Higher elevation camps provide relief from summer heat. Campers at Cal Pines report comfortable temperatures even during July and August. "There was plenty of shade and a nice breeze in the afternoon that I looked forward to," reports one visitor.
Primitive experience: Many sites in the region operate without developed facilities, allowing for authentic backcountry camping. Red Tail Rim South Trailhead provides basic picnic tables and fire rings without water service, maintaining a more natural camping experience.
Cost efficiency: Several Forest Service sites near Cedarville operate at minimal cost or free. Twin Springs Campground offers no-fee camping with basic vault toilets, attracting budget-conscious tent campers seeking affordable outdoor recreation.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Access to Cave Lake requires appropriate transportation. "Difficult climb/drive without good tires or 4WD (very steep, high grade road that is mostly dirt and large rocks)," warns one camper who experienced a tire puncture during their visit. "4WD/AWD is a must. And drive slowly."
Water planning: No drinking water is available at most Cedarville area tent sites. Deep Creek Campground and other remote locations require campers to transport all potable water for their stay, typically 1-2 gallons per person per day.
Limited connectivity: Cell service is nonexistent at most camping areas around Cedarville. Consider bringing satellite communication devices for emergencies or notifying contacts of your itinerary before departing.
Road conditions: Unpaved access roads to many campgrounds deteriorate following rainfall. Bureau of Land Management sites like BLM Dodge Reservoir become impassable for passenger vehicles after storms, requiring schedule flexibility during spring visits.
Tips for camping with families
Moderate temperatures: Cal Pines offers family-friendly summer camping with cooler temperatures than valley locations. "I really enjoyed my time setting up a hammock and enjoying the scenery," reports a camper who appreciated the comfortable afternoon breezes.
Swimming access: Cave Lake provides natural swimming opportunities during summer months. Water temperature remains cool even during peak season, making afternoon swims refreshing for children after morning hiking activities.
Wildlife education: Dismal Creek sites offer educational opportunities to observe local flora and fauna. Morning and evening hours provide optimal wildlife viewing times when animals are most active around campgrounds.
Distance considerations: Most tent camping near Cedarville involves significant driving time on unpaved roads. Plan additional travel time when camping with children, as average driving speeds may drop to 15-20 mph on rougher access routes.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most campgrounds near Cedarville accommodate only smaller RVs and camper vans under 25 feet. Twin Springs Campground allows drive-in access but lacks designated RV parking or turnaround areas for larger vehicles.
Self-containment: No hookups are available at any tent camping areas surrounding Cedarville. RVers must operate completely self-contained with adequate water, waste capacity, and power for their intended stay duration.
Road clearance: High-clearance vehicles are strongly recommended for accessing most campgrounds in the region. Cave Lake and similar locations require vehicles with minimum 8-10 inches of ground clearance to navigate rough terrain safely.
Generator restrictions: Noise restrictions apply at most camping areas near Cedarville. Rattlesnake Creek Bluff and other sites prohibit generator use to maintain the natural soundscape for all visitors.
