Dispersed camping near Forest Ranch, California provides primitive overnight options on public lands within the Lassen National Forest. The area sits at elevations between 2,000-5,000 feet with mixed conifer forests creating natural shelter and shade. Summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F during day and drop to 45-55°F at night, while seasonal creek access varies dramatically between spring runoff and late summer dry periods.
What to do
Explore creek access: At 31N17N - North Manzanita Dispersed Camping, campers can enjoy natural water features. One camper noted, "We fell asleep to the sounds of the flowing water" and another mentioned, "About 100 yards further, you could walk up the road and grab some water from the stream."
Wildlife watching: The forest areas provide opportunities to observe local wildlife in their natural habitat. Near North Manzanita camping, one visitor shared, "We did hear coyotes off in the distance, which is so cool and spooky at the same time. Bear activity was reported in the area before we arrived, so keep that in mind."
Hiking and trail access: Perry Riffle Trailhead serves as a starting point for multiple trails. A camper described it as having "Several horse and hiking trails start from here" and another noted it's "in a hiking and equestrian area."
What campers like
Proximity to Lassen National Park: Christie Hill Basecamp provides easy access to the national park. One camper appreciated that it's a "Great location for dispersed camping just minutes from the southern lassen entrance."
Peace and quiet: Many rustic camping sites near Forest Ranch offer tranquility. At North Manzanita, a camper shared, "Nobody else around that we saw, even given the busy weekend!" At Perry Riffle, another noted, "It's quiet, peaceful, and about a 2 min walk from the river."
Level camping spots: Finding flat ground for tent setup is important. One camper at Olive Pit Dispersed Lot appreciated the "Very flat, leveled, and long paved spots" while a North Manzanita visitor noted, "It's quite level for our 23' rig."
What you should know
Fire regulations: Fire restrictions vary by location and season. One camper at North Manzanita advised, "Make sure you sweep at least a 20' fire ring down to dirt around the rock pit before you make a fire" due to "a thick layer of pine needles" on the ground.
Road conditions: Access roads to many sites require careful driving. At Christie Hill, a visitor warned, "If you have a low clearance vehicles, pick your pins carefully." However, at North Manzanita, another noted, "A 4 wheel drive is not required, it's just a dusty road."
Construction impacts: Some sites undergo periodic maintenance or logging operations. At 29N22 Dispersed near Lassen NP, a camper found "Most camp spots are right on the edge of the road but lots of room and plenty of privacy." At Christie Hill, someone noted, "There appears to be logging or construction going on... most of the pull ins are just areas that the bulldozer is pushed everything back."
Tips for camping with families
River access options: Families with children can enjoy water activities at select sites. At Perry Riffle, one camper mentioned, "The river was a nice way to cool off" during hot weather.
Wildlife awareness for kids: Teach children about safety around local wildlife. Near North Manzanita, a camper warned about "bumble bees coming out of holes in the ground so be careful picking your site, particularly at night so you don't wake up to an unpleasant surprise."
Shade considerations: When camping with children, finding shaded sites helps manage temperature. At Rogers Cow Camp, a visitor noted it was "a beautiful campground, primitive in the Plumas National Forest" before fire damage, highlighting the importance of checking current conditions.
Tips from RVers
Length limitations: Many dispersed sites have restrictions on RV size. At 29N22 near Lassen, a camper found "only one spot that was large enough to accommodate our 32 foot travel trailer. It is right along the road, but there is virtually no traffic here."
Leveling challenges: RVers should prepare for uneven terrain. One camper at Olive Pit appreciated that it has "Huge lot with lots of available spots. Around 10 spots for larger trailers and RVs, and lots of small spots for campervans."
Seasonal access: RV access changes with seasons and weather. At North Manzanita, "Going further south down the main road you can find many other more hidden camping spots deeper in the forest, but the road is rougher and only suited for a 4x4."
