Dispersed camping near Davis Creek, California spans across federal lands at elevations between 4,500-8,000 feet with volcanic terrain characterizing much of the landscape. The region experiences extreme seasonal temperature variations with summer highs reaching 90°F and winter lows dropping below 15°F. Fall camping offers the most moderate conditions with temperatures ranging from 40-70°F and reduced insect activity compared to summer months.
What to do
Wildlife viewing and birding: Sites near water sources provide exceptional viewing opportunities, particularly at Catnip Reservoir. "Reservoir active with waterfowl & other birds. Coyotes at night," notes Fred S. about Catnip Reservoir Dispersed Camping.
Dark sky astronomy: Minimal light pollution makes stargazing exceptional throughout the region. At Hogback Road Dispersed, one camper reports: "The night sky with Milky Way was amazing and we didn't hear any traffic during the night. In the morning, we awoke to a beautiful sunrise and sounds of migrating birds taking flight from their nighttime stopover at (mostly dried up) Crump Lake" (Tanya B.).
Fishing: Multiple reservoir locations offer trout fishing opportunities. Fred S. mentions that Catnip Reservoir provides "Fishing for cutthroat trout" and notes that "Other than fishing and star gazing, there is not much to do here, but I really liked this location."
What campers like
Solitude and tranquility: Many sites offer peaceful, uncrowded experiences. At Frog Camp BLM, campers enjoy a "Hidden oasis... across the reservoir from Gerber Reservoir campground. Just a couple of fire pits and a picnic table... Little bit of shade from the trees and great views" (Reeves).
Strategic overnight locations: Campers value these sites as convenient stopover points. Rich R. describes Duncan Reservoir as a "Great pit stop" with a "Graded dirt road a few miles from highway. Small camping area but not many people."
Convenience to attractions: Some sites provide excellent proximity to regional highlights. One camper found a site that's "Free camping on national land off of Lava Beds National Monument Rd... 10/10 basic stopover spot that's 20 mins from the Lava Beds Visitor Center" (Sarah P.).
What you should know
Access road conditions: Roads range from well-maintained to challenging. John L. notes that Lesson Trail Marker Road Side Stop has "Road side area, gravel surface. Step entry off road. Creek side good for stop over."
Limited facilities: Most sites have minimal amenities. Cheryl M. found Duncan Reservoir had "several fire rings, an older seasonally maintained pit toilet and minimal noise and light pollution made for a great stay. I am fully self contained."
Seasonal considerations: Conditions change dramatically throughout the year. Karen O. cautions about winter camping at Lava Beds: "First time I stayed in a campground with heated bathrooms which was great because we pulled into camp during a storm. I do not snow camp so that was a blessing. Next day was beautiful."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with basic amenities: Some dispersed camping areas provide minimal facilities that help with family camping. At Lava Beds National Monument Road, Karen O. reports, "First time I stayed in a campground with heated bathrooms... Even though it is a National Park the rangers allowed us to collect dead and down wood for the fire. They do not sell firewood in the park."
Anticipate insect activity: Prepare children for interactions with local wildlife. Sarah P. observed, "The flies and bees are plentiful but nothing I couldn't handle, and I don't like bugs lol."
Select sites with natural features: Look for locations with interesting surroundings. Tanya B. recommends watching for wildlife: "We also enjoyed watching a herd of Bighorn sheep grazing by the side of the road."
Tips from RVers
Connectivity considerations: Many remote sites surprisingly offer usable cell service. At 41.6653695, -121.3224946, Sarah P. found "Tmobile service actually worked great for once, I was even able to take a video meeting here in the morning! Coolest zoom background ever."
Road access for larger rigs: Some sites accommodate larger vehicles despite their remote location. Hilary S. reports: "Easy off the road. Was able to pull in our 26 foot travel trailer. There are several spots to choose from with some campfire rock rings already here. Good visibility for our Starlink."
Weather preparation: Be ready for rapid condition changes. Fred S. cautions about Catnip Reservoir: "Sites are level dirt surfaces surrounded by sagebrush. Can be muddy when wet. There are some tire ruts on the two tracks off of County Road 34A that you need to drive into the campground."
