Dispersed camping sites near Dorris, California connect visitors with the volcanic landscapes of the Cascade Range's southern edge, typically at elevations of 4,000-5,000 feet. The region marks the transition between the Great Basin and Cascade ecosystems, creating distinct camping environments across public lands in both California and Oregon. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during day and 45-55°F at night, with significant temperature drops after sunset even in peak season.
What to do
Explore cave systems: Lava Beds National Monument offers more than 30 accessible caves of varying difficulty levels. A visitor to Indian Well Campground noted, "Explore the largest concentration of lava tubes in the whole world? Yes please! Headlamp and helmet are musts. Gloves and kneepads recommended if you're planning on crawling around."
Fish for multiple species: The lakes and rivers in the area support diverse fishing opportunities. At Topsy Campground, campers have access to prime fishing spots: "My family and I stayed a couple nights and we had a very relaxing time. The pier close by was perfect for Bass fishing. Not alot of boat activity which was nice."
Wildlife viewing: The region's varied habitats support diverse wildlife sightings. A camper at Indian Well Campground shared, "Woke up to deer in my camp," while others mention seeing eagles, particularly near Tule Lake.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds in the area maintain high standards of cleanliness. A visitor to Keno Camp wrote, "Showers are amazing and clean always! The host are return host there awesome!" Similarly, another camper noted, "Big clean heated bathrooms with flush toilets and free hot shower."
Affordability: Camping options range from $3.50-20 per night, with discounts available for pass holders. One camper at Topsy Campground shared, "Regular rates are only $7.00 a night but I paid only $3.50 because I'm disabled and have a federal parks access pass."
Water access: Several camping areas provide direct access to lakes or rivers. A visitor to Juanita Lake Campground commented, "The lake is beautiful! Perfect swimming temperature. Lots of fish from Bass, Rainbow Trout, Brook Trout. It's surprisingly clear too."
Educational opportunities: The region offers historical and geological learning experiences. At Indian Well Campground, a camper noted, "These are the ancestral lands of the Modoc people who were forcibly removed by settlers. The museum and park has excellent education and information about the horrific battle between the Modoc people and the white settlers."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds operate only from May through October. A visitor to Topsy Grade Road advised, "The actual campground is closed for the season, but the pull-offs and turnarounds are enough. There are large trucks that use this road but it was quiet enough and far enough off the road to not be a problem."
Insects: Certain times of year bring higher insect activity, particularly at lakes. A Klamath Falls KOA camper mentioned, "There are these bugs called midges that are harmless but look like mosquitos and are everywhere."
Limited services: Cell service ranges from adequate near towns to non-existent in remote areas. A visitor to Topsy Campground wrote, "There are no hook-ups but you can get water from a central location (fill your own containers) and there are bathrooms. No showers."
Train noise: Some campgrounds experience intermittent noise from nearby train tracks. A camper at Shafter Campground reported, "The trains could be heard much of the night, but they were far enough away to be a low rumbling rather than a heart-stopping clatter."
Tips for camping with families
Accessible recreation: Paved paths make some areas ideal for families with children or mobility concerns. A visitor to Juanita Lake Campground shared, "There is a 1.5 mile hike around the lake that is completely paved."
Playground access: Some camping areas include play facilities for children. A Keno Camp visitor noted, "Park / playground for kids safe secure peaceful!"
Wildlife awareness: Keep food secure from wildlife that frequently visits campsites. A Shafter Campground camper reported, "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."
Early arrival recommended: First-come, first-served campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. An Indian Well camper advised, "Only downside is that it is first come first serve, so get there early!"
Tips from RVers
In-town convenience: RVers can find full-service options within city limits. A camper at Military Park Kingsley Campground noted, "Great little getaway. Nice place to stage when visiting Klamath county. Small location with no bells and whistles. Nice to have a safe location with full hookups available at a reasonable rate."
Site sizing considerations: Campgrounds vary significantly in their ability to accommodate larger rigs. An Indian Well camper mentioned, "Some RVs will not fit so check if you are using one."
Seasonal availability: Off-season camping offers quieter experiences but with limited services. A visitor to Topsy Grade Road shared, "Not a long drive after leaving the highway. Several spots were all empty when I got here mid-November."
