Best Campgrounds near Dorris, CA

Camping options around Dorris, California include a mix of established campgrounds and dispersed sites across Northern California and Southern Oregon. The area features several notable camping areas like Juanita Lake Campground in Macdoel, approximately 15 miles south of Dorris, and Topsy Grade Road dispersed camping to the northwest. Accommodations range from basic tent sites to full-service RV parks with hookups, with some locations offering cabin rentals. Most campgrounds in this region provide access to outdoor recreation opportunities centered around lakes, rivers, and volcanic landscapes, with proximity to attractions like Lava Beds National Monument.

Seasonal considerations heavily impact camping experiences near Dorris, with many campgrounds operating only from May through October due to winter conditions. "As a native Californian I'm pretty ashamed I hadn't explored Modoc much prior to this recent experience. It's right up there with neighboring national forests in both California and Oregon in terms of its beauty but it's vastly underrated," noted one visitor about nearby Modoc National Forest. Road access varies significantly, with some areas requiring high-clearance vehicles, particularly for dispersed camping locations. Facilities range from primitive sites with no amenities to developed campgrounds with drinking water, toilets, and picnic tables. Cell service can be limited throughout the region, especially at more remote camping areas away from major highways.

Campers frequently mention the natural beauty and relative solitude of camping in this area compared to more popular destinations. The volcanic landscape provides unique scenery, while lakes and rivers offer recreational opportunities. A review of Juanita Lake Campground described it as having "wonderful campsites right next to the lake and the paved walk paths are lovely for an evening stroll," though noting it can be "a bit buggy and noisy in July." Proximity to Interstate 5 makes some campgrounds convenient for travelers, though this can introduce highway noise at certain locations. Many campgrounds in the region serve as good base camps for exploring nearby attractions like Mount Shasta, Crater Lake National Park, and Lava Beds National Monument, with several visitors noting the area's underrated beauty and relatively uncrowded conditions compared to more popular destinations.

Best Camping Sites Near Dorris, California (140)

    1. Keno Camp

    7 Reviews
    Klamath Falls, OR
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 891-4521

    $10 / night

    "The camp sites are a bit close, but the location is surprisingly not frequented often from what I’ve noticed. There is a boat launch, and other areas where you can simply fish off the banks."

    "Mature trees and right next to the water. So quiet all we heard were birds"

    2. Topsy Campground

    7 Reviews
    Dorris, OR
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 883-6916

    "Snuggled next to the lake, it is very relaxing."

    "The pier close by was perfect for Bass fishing. Not alot of boat activity which was nice. Tent camp areas were a decent size. We did see a few RV spots being used as well with hook ups."

    3. Klamath Falls KOA

    13 Reviews
    Klamath Falls, OR
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 884-4644

    "* Clean, clean bathrooms and laundry room (I observed them cleaning on a regular schedule) 

    • Easy access from highway 
    • Lots of road noise and bright lights all night 
    • Cramped spaces (they"

    "Great campground tucked in the middle of town, conveniently close to pretty much anything you could possibly need."

    4. Juanita Lake Campground

    4 Reviews
    Macdoel, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 398-4391

    $15 - $20 / night

    "The campsites are right next to the lake and the paved walk paths are lovely for an evening stroll."

    "The lake is beautiful and refreshing with a very nice paved path to walk around completely. There is a healthy day use parking lot and plenty of fishing spots with a very nice fish cleaning station."

    6. Juanita Lake Group Campsite

    1 Review
    Macdoel, CA
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 398-4391

    $50 / night

    "Walking distance to the water. Lots of obsidian with just a short walk. Very beautiful and secluded. Not many people and camp spots are located very far apart. Highly recommend. Nice star viewing."

    7. Indian Well Campground — Lava Beds National Monument

    15 Reviews
    Tulelake, CA
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 667-8113

    "Not just because there were few campers, but its location so far from any highway or city.  I would also like to give kudos to the the fire crews who saved this area from the fire last year. "

    "After a long drive, we visited the Lava Tubes and found a campsite at Indian Wells. The open sky and views were gorgeous. The night sky with very minimal light pollution was even better."

    8. Shafter Campground

    3 Reviews
    Macdoel, CA
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (530) 398-4391

    "Much quieter than the previous night at McArthur-Burney at a site next to the highway. I would choose Shafter for noise every time."

    "The campground sits on the outside of an open meadow with a creek that runs through. We fished the creek, but was unsuccessful. In late spring you can appreciate the wild irises that bloom."

    9. Military Park Kingsley Campground

    1 Review
    Klamath Falls, OR
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 885-6604

    $15 / night

    "Small location with no bells and whistles. Nice to have a safe location with full hookups available at a reasonable rate. Not much at the base. Will stay again when in the area."

    10. Merrill Mobile Manor & RV Park

    1 Review
    Tulelake, OR
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (541) 798-1654
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Recent Reviews near Dorris, CA

470 Reviews of 140 Dorris Campgrounds


  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Rail Line Dispersed Site

    Quiet and convenient

    Easy to locate. Dirt is very soft making it difficult to drive off the beaten path without an all wheel drive. All season tires were a plus with our rear wheel drive sprinter van. It’s at the Western foot of Shasta. Great views.

  • marcus K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    Trailer Lane Campground

    Ok Site

    Nice little campground just off the highway. We made reservations late in the day and arrived after dark. Email said to check “porch” for info but when we arrived it was not clear where to check in or find info. Not a big deal but we could not get bathroom codes til next day when another camper shared them.

    Keep in mind that its close to the highway and yes, road noise is quite loud. We turned on our fan and that blocked most of it. Fine stop for the night.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Sunset Campground at Lake of the Woods

    Great national forest campground

    Almost all the pads are paved. Bathrooms are flush and kept very clean. Large well separated sites. Most sites are reserved but mid week (Wednesday) on 9/3 most of the FCFS were open at check in.

  • HThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Fourmile Lake Campground

    Lovely Lake Views

    Great campground and excellent camp host. Just off hwy 140, take the dirt road for about 7-8 miles to the campground. The lake is clear and pristine, views for days. Not really a bad campsite. Pit toilets, no showers, no WiFi but Star Link works of course. Trails to hike, kayak, fish, boat.

  • wThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Topsy Grade Road

    Easy access relatively flat camping spot

    Approximately 40x40 circular camping spot cattle guard access to Klamath River. On a dirt road only a little traffic nice picnic spot down below at the river

  • N
    Sep. 1, 2025

    Upper Sand Flat

    very cliffy

    checked out the spot and too much cliffage around this. maybe better across the road there’s an obvious dirt road that goes into the forest.

  • M
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Klamath National Forest Orr Lake Campground

    Great little campground with nice views of Mt. Shasta

    I've had my eye on this little spot for a while now and finally got a chance to check it out for an overnight stay. I love this place! Nice and quiet and clean. Great views all around. Picnic benches, fire rings and the coolest BBQ I've ever seen in a campground. It does have a pit toilet but no water or electric. Going to have to come back and stay longer next time!

  • M
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Algoma Campground

    Nice quiet stop along the McCloud River

    I first camped here back in the 80's and loved it back then. Time has changed the area but not this peaceful little gem of a campground. No amenities except one pit toilet. The McCloud river runs right through the middle of the campground so the fishing is amazing! There are about 10 camp spots and plenty of dispersed sites available up the dirt road. 2 thumbs up!

  • M
    Aug. 29, 2025

    Medicine Lake Campground

    Nice camp spot for boaters

    I stopped by for one night while in the area and enjoyed the campground. It was a bit crowded but what do you expect on 4th of July. Campground has all the amenities. Nice spot!


Guide to Dorris

Camping near Dorris, California, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. With stunning landscapes and a variety of campgrounds, it’s a great spot for families, RVers, and tent campers alike.

What to do:

  • Explore Lava Beds National Monument: This area is famous for its unique lava formations and caves. One visitor said, “Caves were dope though! Highly recommend Skull Cave! Pictures don't do it justice.” You can camp at Indian Well Campground to be close to the action.
  • Star Gazing: The night sky here is incredible due to minimal light pollution. A camper noted, “The night sky with very minimal light pollution was even better. If you like astrophotography or star gazing, this is a great location.”
  • Fishing and Boating: At Lake of the Woods, you can enjoy fishing and boating. One reviewer mentioned, “Good swimming beach for kids,” making it a family-friendly spot.

What campers like:

  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peacefulness of the area. One review stated, “This is undoubtedly the quietest campground we have ever visited.” This makes it perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
  • Friendly Hosts: Campers often mention the helpful staff. A visitor at Klamath Falls KOA said, “Friendliest staff ever!” This can make your stay more enjoyable.
  • Clean Facilities: Clean bathrooms and well-maintained sites are a big plus. A camper at Rocky Point Resort noted, “The bathrooms on-site look new and are clean.”

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Indian Well Campground, have minimal amenities. One camper mentioned, “There isn’t any shade. There are bathrooms.” Be prepared to bring your own supplies.
  • Wildlife Encounters: Expect to see wildlife, especially deer. A visitor shared, “When we returned to our site, we saw tons of deer rummaging through campsites.” Keep your food secured!
  • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds are only open during certain months. For example, Howard Prairie Lake Resort is open from April 15 to October 31.

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots with activities for kids. One camper at Lake of the Woods said, “Fantastic campground. All types of cabins, tent, rv camping during Summer Season.”
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor gear. A family enjoyed their time at Sunset Campground, stating, “Great campsite right on the Lake of the Woods in Southern Oregon.”
  • Pack Snacks: Having snacks on hand can keep kids happy. A camper at Klamath Falls KOA appreciated the convenience of nearby stores.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger RVs. A reviewer at Indian Well Campground mentioned, “I would categorize it as a tent and teardrop campground.”
  • Bring Water Containers: At places like Rocky Point Resort, water access may be limited. One camper advised, “Be sure to bring some 5-gallon containers to haul water to your RV.”
  • Be Prepared for Dust: Some campgrounds can be dusty, so a visitor at Aspen Point noted, “Very dusty. Not much ground cover other than trees.”

Camping near Dorris, California, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With a little planning, you can have a memorable experience in this beautiful region.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Dorris, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Dorris, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 140 campgrounds and RV parks near Dorris, CA and 26 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Dorris, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Dorris, CA is Keno Camp with a 4-star rating from 7 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Dorris, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 26 free dispersed camping spots near Dorris, CA.