Tent camping near Davis Creek, California occurs primarily in the high desert region where the Modoc Plateau meets the Warner Mountains at elevations between 4,500-8,000 feet. Most campsites in this area experience significant temperature drops at night, even during summer months, with temperature differentials often exceeding 30 degrees between day and night. The camping season typically runs from mid-May through mid-October depending on snowpack and seasonal road closures.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Fremont National Forest Holbrook Reservoir Forest Camp offers productive fishing in stocked waters. "We spent Memorial Day 2018 at this reservoir and it was gorgeous... The fishing was really good and both of my kids caught their first fish during this trip," reports Jonel W.
Bird watching: Several tent camping areas provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities for birders. "When we were there in early June, the reservoir had been stocked. Although we are not fisher folks, we enjoyed the birds that were enjoying the fish: white pelicans, ospreys, Buffleheads, Double-crested Cormorants, and a Bald Eagle," notes James at Holbrook Reservoir.
Mountain hiking: Cave Lake Campground serves as a base for exploring surrounding mountain terrain. Located just over the Oregon-California border, the area provides direct access to forest trails with minimal crowds during weekdays.
What campers like
Waterfront sites: Tent campers appreciate the direct lake access at several campgrounds. "Lots of mosquitoes but worth it. Sites were large and toilets were clean. Don't just stop at the first section like we did, there are sites along the back of the lake too," advises Lori F. about Holbrook Reservoir.
Privacy options: Most tent sites in the Davis Creek area offer significant spacing between campsites. "This was a great place at the top of the mountain. Rainbow pond was a great place to walk to from the campground. I really enjoyed my time setting up a hammock and enjoying the scenery," writes Cameron W. about Cal Pines.
Clear night skies: The remote location of Davis Creek tent camping areas provides exceptional astronomical viewing. "Stargazing was absolutely breathtaking. One of our very favorite sites just over the Oregon-California border," explains Carolyn P. about her experience at Cave Lake Campground.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most tent camping areas near Davis Creek operate with minimal amenities. "It's dry camping, but there are a couple outhouses provided. The area where we were camped did not have an outhouse, despite having campsites," notes Jonel W. about camping at Holbrook Reservoir.
Road conditions: Access to many campsites requires vehicles capable of handling rough terrain. "Difficult climb/drive without good tires or 4WD (very steep, high grade road that is mostly dirt and large rocks)... 4WD/AWD is a must. And drive slowly. We popped a tire in our SUV on the way up, but totally worth it," cautions Carolyn P. about Cave Lake Campground.
No connectivity: Cell service is unavailable throughout most of the camping areas. "It is fairly remote with no cell phone coverage," James confirms about his experience at Fremont National Forest Holbrook Reservoir.
Tips for camping with families
First-time fishing: Several reservoirs near Davis Creek offer productive fishing for beginners. "The fishing was really good and both of my kids caught their first fish during this trip," shares Jonel W. about Twin Springs Campground, making it ideal for families introducing children to angling.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be prevalent at many water-adjacent tent sites in summer. "Lots of mosquitoes but worth it," notes Lori F., so families should pack appropriate repellent and protective clothing, especially for evening hours.
Reservoir exploration: Many tent camping areas feature multiple camping zones around water features. "Don't just stop at the first section like we did, there are sites along the back of the lake too, go past the 1st lot with the bathrooms and follow until you find a site you like," Lori F. advises families seeking the best spots.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most tent camping areas near Davis Creek have restrictions for larger vehicles. Cave Lake Campground specifically notes road conditions unsuitable for most RVs. "Difficult climb/drive without good tires or 4WD (very steep, high grade road that is mostly dirt and large rocks)," reports Carolyn P.
Trailer accessibility: Some locations can accommodate smaller trailers despite limited amenities. "We were able to park our 20 foot trailer near the lake. The roads coming in are pretty typical forest service type roads requiring you to go fairly slowly and watch out for potholes," James explains about his experience at Holbrook Reservoir.
Site selection strategy: RVers with smaller units should explore beyond initial camping areas. "There appear to be about ten campsites dispersed around the reservoir in at least three different locations. The main campsite sits at the south end of the reservoir near the small dam," notes James, highlighting options for those with appropriate vehicles.
