Lower Rush Creek Campground is a free camping area located near Adin, California, roughly 35 miles from Alturas. The campground sits at approximately 4,500 feet elevation and experiences significant temperature drops during evening hours, even in summer months. The small Rush Creek runs through the property, though access can be challenging due to steep banks.
What to do
Wildlife watching: Blue Lake Campground offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, particularly birds. According to one camper, "There is a trail that circumnavigates the entire shoreline and is some of the best birding on the Modoc National Forest."
Fishing options: While enjoying Blue Lake Campground, visitors should note that fishing experiences vary. As one reviewer mentions, "The trout fishing is mediocre but can be good at times. The crawdad fishing is really the ticket however, lots of them and they are big."
Hammock relaxation: Many campsites in the region offer excellent tree coverage for hammock users. One visitor to Blue Lake Campground noted, "So many beautiful trees in the campground and plenty of places to hang a hammock."
What campers like
Free camping with basics: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the value of Lower Rush Creek. A reviewer noted, "Small campground with 10 or so sites. 6 of them are drive up, and there are 4 tent only sites that you have to cross a small bridge to get to."
Privacy in less-used areas: Some sites at Lower Rush Creek Campground offer more seclusion than others. According to one camper, "We walked around back there, and you can tell these barely ever get used."
Seasonal temperature variations: The climate near Alturas creates unique glamping conditions. A visitor mentioned it was "chilly even in June" at Lower Rush Creek, making it important to pack appropriate clothing layers for glamping close to Alturas, California.
What you should know
Site size limitations: Larger RVs may struggle at certain campgrounds. A Lower Rush Creek visitor advised, "Site #5 fit our 22 foot travel trailer and truck really well. The loop around is tight, but you could probably get through with a 24 or 25 foot trailer if you were careful. I wouldn't try anything bigger than that though."
Water access challenges: The creeks in the area can present hazards. One camper warned about Lower Rush Creek: "The creek is small, and access is somewhat hard to get to since it has steep sides on a lot of it. There are quite a few ticks that like the grass near the waters edge too."
Campground water systems: Water availability varies by season and campground. At Mile High Trailer and RV Park, visitors report reliable utilities: "Not much here but you get power, water, sewer and trash."
Tips for camping with families
Check proximity to private property: Some campgrounds in the area border residential areas. A Lower Rush Creek visitor mentioned, "You are within sight of several properties and houses right next to the campground, so it doesn't really feel all that remote or private."
Enforcement of rules: Families appreciate structured environments when glamping close to Alturas, California. At Blue Lake Campground Group Site, one visitor noted it was "Very well cared for with camp hosts present and ready to enforce rules."
Consider short stays: Some locations work better for brief visits. A camper suggested Lower Rush Creek was "a decent (and free!) place to spend a night if you are traveling through, but probably not worth it to spend more than a day."
Tips from RVers
Easy access options: RV travelers appreciate straightforward arrival procedures. At Mile High Trailer and RV Park, a visitor shared, "Making a reservation on the road was easy online. Got our spot number and just pulled in and plugged into the power."
Limited capacity considerations: Some smaller RV parks have few available spaces. An RVer noted that Mile High Trailer and RV Park has "Only 6 spots here."
Backing requirements: At many smaller RV sites near Alturas, backing skills are necessary. As one camper at Mile High Trailer and RV Park mentioned, "You need to back in though."
