Best Tent Camping near Chico, CA
Tent camping options near Chico, California include established campgrounds in the surrounding national forests and state recreation areas. Black Rock Campground in Lassen National Forest offers tent sites with basic amenities, while Christie Hill Basecamp provides dispersed camping opportunities just minutes from Lassen National Park's southern entrance. Several tent-friendly sites can also be found at Lake Oroville State Recreation Area, including boat-in and hike-in locations.
Most tent campsites in the region have limited facilities. Black Rock Campground provides pit toilets but no drinking water, requiring campers to bring their own supplies. The road to Black Rock can be challenging, with one review noting, "The road in took about an hour and a half and I would not recommend attempting it without 4WD and high clearance." Christie Hill Basecamp features dispersed camping with fire rings and relatively flat ground but lacks water sources and outhouses. Tent campers should be prepared for primitive conditions, especially at dispersed sites where bear-resistant food storage may be necessary.
Tent-only areas throughout the region offer varying levels of solitude and natural features. Sites at Black Rock Campground are nicely shaded to help reduce daytime heat, with nearby fishing opportunities a short walk from the campsites. A recent review noted, "This campground made for a great overnight getaway trip. The mosquitoes were out in full force so bug spray is a must." Christie Hill Basecamp provides quiet camping with decent cell signal and morning birdwatching opportunities. Many tent sites throughout the area feature fire rings, though seasonal fire restrictions may apply. Walk-in tent locations at Lake Oroville provide more seclusion than drive-in sites, though mosquitoes can be abundant near water sources. Tent campers frequently encounter wildlife including deer, quail, and evidence of bears, particularly at the more remote backcountry sites.
