Modoc National Forest is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Modoc National Forest is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your California camping adventure.
Lava Beds National Monument Road
14 min away
Tickner Rd
25 min away
"Found this unmapped camping spot by following a USFS access road to an old boat launch area."
"Graded dirt road a few miles from highway. Small camping area but not many people."
"Even though it is a National Park the rangers allowed us to collect dead and down wood for the fire. They do not sell firewood in the park. Views were spectacular and so much to do and see."
"And we have T-Mobile and were able to make calls and text and access the internet."
"Free camping on national land off of Lava Beds National Monument Rd."
"Road side area, gravel surface. Step entry off road. Creek side good for stop over. State land."
"Another one of these Dyrt campsites with zero info other than the location- thank you to whoever is adding these."
"I don’t know who’s adding these dispersed camping spots on The Dyrt (as there are no reviews or any additional info other than the location) but it’s much appreciated."
"There was greenery and living trees all around and it made for such a nicer environment. On Sunday, the area was completely silent, except for birds chirping."
"Coming in you drive a paved rd for 9 miles and then a well groomed dirt rd for 1/2 a mile. There’s 2 spots that would fit our 32’ 5th wheel. Not sure about further up this rd as we stopped here."
"One pit toilet/out house. Little bit of shade from the trees and great views."
RangerFound this unmapped camping spot by following a USFS access road to an old boat launch area. Water is too low now to launch, but several fire rings, an older seasonally maintained pit toilet and minimal noise and light pollution made for a great stay. I am fully self contained.
LegendAfter checking out South Lava Beds and West Tionesta (so named on The Dyrt app) this was the winner for us. There was greenery and living trees all around and it made for such a nicer environment. On Sunday, the area was completely silent, except for birds chirping. One logging truck drove by, as well as one park ranger truck, otherwise we didn’t see anybody. However. On Monday morning all the trucks started rolling through. We left about 9 or 10am and maybe 10 trucks had gone by. And they're noisy. And the dirt they kick up is fine and silty, so it just floats around long after they've passed. Definitely a buzz kill! We were debating staying two nights, but the trucks convinced us to leave.
Good enough (not great) cell service for both Verizon and ATT. We actually didn’t need to use our levels for this spot, which is always a treat. Easy access for our 26ft class c and I believe bigger rigs would be ok here as well. No amenities here, obviously, so please pack out your trash.
ScoutGraded dirt road a few miles from highway. Small camping area but not many people.
LegendAnother one of these Dyrt campsites with zero info other than the location- thank you to whoever is adding these. This spot is a little further down the road from South Lava Beds, and would be fine, but we decided to keep going and find something a little less surrounded by blackened and burned trees and debris. There are piles of them everywhere, so I don’t know if workers come through here periodically- we didn’t see anybody when we were here on a Sunday. The area is still recovering from a 2020 fire
(Caldwell Fire, I believe).
Good cell reception, to our surprise. Our 26ft Class C had no problems reaching this spot, just take it slow once you leave the paved road. The dirt road is ok but there were a few dips and ruts that we had to go around. This would make a fine spot to stop over at, but it was a little too barren for us to want to stay here.
LegendI don’t know who’s adding these dispersed camping spots on The Dyrt (as there are no reviews or any additional info other than the location) but it’s much appreciated. We stopped to check this place out and would have stayed here for the night but decided to keep going and check out one more place first.
The location is easily accessed from the main road, no problems for our 26ft Class C. Cell service was surprisingly good for both Verizon and ATT. There’s a messy little fire pit here, but no other markers. The spot is off the road and has some sad blackened or dead trees surrounding it.
This area is still recovering from a big fire in 2020 and there are piles of burned logs and debris all over the area, giving it a desolate feel. The area is nice and quiet though, and very little traffic. Would make a great stop for a few days.
GuideGorgeous spot in the woods. So quiet, birds singing. Yes this area had fires but plenty of big beautiful pines remain and new life is springing up everywhere. Coming in you drive a paved rd for 9 miles and then a well groomed dirt rd for 1/2 a mile. There’s 2 spots that would fit our 32’ 5th wheel. Not sure about further up this rd as we stopped here. We are only spending 1 night I expected it to not be great. If I’d known it was so beautiful we would have scheduled in a 2nd day & gone to the Lava beds & caves 5 miles away. We had 2 bars Verizon so not great but Full bars on our T-Mobile Home so great internet, and full streaming.
Experience the beauty of nature with dispersed camping near Modoc National Forest, California. This area offers a variety of spots where you can enjoy the great outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the regulations and permits needed for dispersed camping in Modoc National Forest?
Dispersed camping in Modoc National Forest is generally free and doesn't require specific permits for stays up to 14 days in a 30-day period. Camp at least 100 feet from water sources and use existing fire rings when possible. A valid California campfire permit is required for any open flame, including campfires, stoves, and BBQs. Practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash. At locations like Frog Camp BLM, you'll find minimal facilities (occasional pit toilets). Some areas like West Tionesta have no facilities, so come prepared to be fully self-contained. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as they change seasonally and can be strict during dry periods.
Can I find dispersed camping in Modoc National Forest near Lava Beds National Monument?
Yes, several excellent dispersed camping options exist near Lava Beds National Monument. Lava Beds National Monument Road offers multiple pull-offs with established fire rings, good for RVs up to 26 feet, and even features heated bathrooms during colder months. This area has good cell reception for T-Mobile users and Starlink connectivity. South Lava Beds provides additional dispersed options nearby. Many sites along these roads offer easy access from the main highway with coordinates at (41.6653695, -121.3224946) marking another free camping spot on national land off Lava Beds National Monument Road. Most sites are quiet with minimal development, perfect for self-contained camping near the monument's attractions.
Where are the best dispersed camping areas in Modoc National Forest?
Modoc National Forest offers several excellent dispersed camping areas. Duncan Reservoir South Site provides a peaceful setting with fire rings and minimal light pollution, accessible via a graded dirt road a few miles from the highway. Tickner Rd is another top option, featuring beautiful wooded surroundings with singing birds and ample space for larger rigs (up to 32' fifth wheels). The area has paved road access for about 9 miles followed by a well-maintained dirt road. Look for established fire rings and clearings when searching for dispersed sites throughout the forest. Most areas offer good privacy and natural settings, though amenities are typically limited to what you bring yourself.
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