The northeast California region surrounding Litchfield sits at approximately 4,000 feet elevation in Lassen County, where the Sierra Nevada mountains meet the Cascade Range. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 85°F during day, with winter snow limiting access to many camping areas from November through April. The volcanic soil and pine forest ecosystem create distinct camping conditions compared to other California mountain regions.
What to do
Fishing at Eagle Lake: At Merrill Campground, anglers can catch the famous Eagle Lake trout, a species native only to this alkaline lake. "Great campsite in a nice remote area to take in nature, go hiking, bike riding, and fishing for trout!" reports Will M., who adds that while the lake offers excellent fishing, "there is no beach to the lake, so sun bathers be warned."
Wildlife viewing: The Lassen area provides opportunities to spot diverse wildlife including bald eagles, which frequent Eagle Lake. "The lake is appropriately named as we saw bald eagles daily," mentions Lori T. who camped at Merrill Campground. Bird enthusiasts should bring binoculars for spotting woodpeckers, chickadees, and ravens that inhabit the pine forests.
Mountain biking: The area offers both paved and unpaved trails for cycling enthusiasts. The 6-mile paved bike path along Eagle Lake provides accessible riding for all skill levels. Angela G. notes, "We travel with electric bikes and dog carrier in tow. There is a total of 6 miles of paved bike path. We loved it!"
What campers like
Privacy at dispersed sites: Laufman Campground offers a more secluded experience for those seeking solitude. "Road is gravel, one large pot hole in the middle of the road made it difficult for a compact or large RV to get into campground. Easy for a 4wd or high clearance rig," explains Dani P., adding that "Aspen filled Creek just a small walk south of campground."
Lake access: Grasshopper Flat campground provides convenient access to water recreation. Jennifer Q. notes, "Super easy access to the lake from this site where you can paddle board and kayak in peace." The campground features spacious sites and clean facilities while maintaining proximity to the water.
Clean facilities: Many campers praise the maintenance standards at area campgrounds. Brian P. who stayed at Merrill Campground reports, "The facilities were well maintained and very clean. The camp hosts were friendly and helpful." Similar sentiments are shared across multiple campgrounds, with regular host presence ensuring consistent standards.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer thunderstorms can develop quickly in the afternoon, while morning temperatures even in July can drop into the 40s. Always pack layers regardless of season. Ron G. notes at Little Bear RV Park, "Plumas is what Tahoe was like in the 1950's," suggesting a more rustic, less crowded mountain experience.
Road conditions: Many campgrounds in the area require driving on dirt roads or rough forest service roads. Alex P. observed at Laufman Campground, "It appeared that this campground hadn't seen much traffic recently, some of the sites were very overgrown."
Fire restrictions: Regulations vary by season and location. Check current fire restrictions before arrival as they change based on conditions. Days End RV Park, for instance, does not permit open fires, while other campgrounds may allow them seasonally.
Tips for camping with families
Larger sites for groups: Silver Bowl Campground offers particularly spacious sites ideal for families. Darin D. notes, "Most of the sites are enormous. Site 8, where we stayed, could have easily been a 40 person group site and not felt crowded."
Swimming options: While Eagle Lake has limited swimming due to its alkaline nature, other nearby lakes offer better swimming experiences. August M. at Silver Bowl Campground suggests, "You can also walk over the hill to Caribu lake which was gorgeous" for a better swimming option.
Mosquito preparation: The region's lakes and streams create ideal mosquito breeding grounds during summer months. Will M. warns about Merrill Campground: "The bad 🦟 Tons of mosquitoes!" Pack repellent and consider mosquito netting, especially for evening activities.
Tips from RVers
Full hookup options: Days End RV Park provides complete services for RVers needing all amenities. "Very clean, full hook ups, can accommodate big rigs. Weekly, monthly, overnight," notes Seathrough H., though they caution "there is nothing around to do" for activities beyond the park itself.
Dump station access: For those camping without sewer hookups, plan your trip around dump station locations. Ron G. reports about Lake Davis Dump Station: "Has water points for spraying out dump hose, spigot for connecting to black tank flush and a fresh water spigot to fill your fresh tank." However, he notes the $15 fee might lead some to "drive an hour down the road to Reno where I could dump for cheaper."
Glamping alternatives: For those seeking comfort without towing an RV, glamping close to Litchfield, California offers an appealing middle ground. The region features several upscale glamping options with amenities like furnished safari tents and yurts that provide heating and electricity, making them suitable for those new to outdoor recreation.
