Best Dispersed Camping near Modoc National Forest
Several dispersed camping areas surround Lava Beds National Monument near Modoc National Forest. South Lava Beds, West Tionesta, and Tickner Road offer free camping on dirt roads accessible to most vehicles, though some areas show evidence of the 2020 Caldwell Fire. Duncan Reservoir South Site provides primitive camping with seasonal pit toilets near an old boat launch area, while Lesson Trail Marker offers a simple roadside pull-off suitable for overnight stays.
Most sites feature existing fire rings, though seasonal restrictions may apply. Cell reception varies by location, with Tickner Road surprisingly providing adequate service for both Verizon and T-Mobile users. Roads generally accommodate recreational vehicles, but caution is advised on dirt sections. A review noted, "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." The 14-day camping limit applies throughout these public lands, and visitors should be prepared for self-contained camping with no drinking water available at most locations.
