Stough Reservoir Campground offers equestrian-friendly primitive camping in the Warner Mountains region of Modoc National Forest. Located at approximately 5,500 feet elevation, the area experiences significant seasonal temperature variations with snowpack often lingering into May. The campground stands as one of several options for horse camping throughout Modoc's 1.6 million acres of mixed forest and high desert terrain.
What to do
Trail riding access: The surrounding Warner Mountain range provides numerous riding opportunities with trails extending from the campground area. At Stough Reservoir Campground, riders can access routes with varying difficulty levels. "We plan to come back in the future. We visited on a Sunday afternoon," notes Patricia N., suggesting the area merits return visits for riding exploration.
Wildlife observation: Modoc National Forest hosts diverse wildlife populations including deer, antelope, and various bird species. "Keep your food locked up or hanging in a tree," advises Tom N., indicating larger wildlife frequents the area. Morning hours typically offer the best wildlife viewing opportunities along water features.
Seasonal rockhounding: The volcanic history of the region creates opportunities for mineral collection. "There's both a BLM and USFS office in nearby Cedarville for info plus hot springs in Surprise Valley and lots of good rockhounding in nearby Warner mountains on the west side towards Lakeview," shares Ariel & John W., highlighting additional geological activities near Modoc Camp.
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: The remote nature of these campgrounds provides exceptional privacy, particularly valuable for horse campers requiring additional space. "No cell service solitude with the high-passing jets as my only company," reports Greg B. about his experience at Stough Reservoir Campground.
Prime waterfront sites: Campers consistently mention specific sites that offer enhanced experiences. "Got the single prime spot across the little pond with its own pit toilet," notes Ariel & John W., describing a particularly desirable camping location with independent facilities.
Clean facilities: Despite primitive conditions, visitors report well-maintained campground infrastructure. "Clean & well maintained," confirms Ariel & John W., indicating that even without running water, the equestrian-friendly campgrounds maintain appropriate sanitation standards.
What you should know
Weather variability: Mountain elevations create unpredictable conditions even during summer months. "Snowed when we were there in June," reports Ariel & John W., highlighting the need for preparedness regardless of season.
Road access limitations: Seasonal conditions significantly impact accessibility, particularly for horse trailers and larger vehicles. "We tried to get to this campground but were blocked by too much snow in the road. Other than the snow the road was in good condition and easy to drive in our class c," explains Laura M., noting specific access challenges at Stough Reservoir Campground during May.
Fee structure changes: Recent policy updates have altered the cost structure at some horse campgrounds. "As of Spring 2023 there will be a $15/night fee, so no longer free," Laura M. states, confirming the transition from previously free camping to a paid system.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Families with horses should target specific sites that accommodate both livestock and children. "There were 3 of the 8 sites that we could park our 26' fifth wheel trailer," Patricia N. explains, identifying limited options for larger family setups.
Temperature preparation: Significant day-night temperature fluctuations require appropriate clothing and sleeping gear. "26 degree morning," Greg B. reports from a May visit to Stough Reservoir Campground, underscoring the need for cold-weather equipment even in late spring.
Water planning: Limited or absent water facilities necessitate bringing sufficient supplies for both humans and horses. "The campground is sparse and lacks flushing toilets, pit toilet is available," notes Tom N., highlighting the primitive water situation requiring advance planning.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Horse trailers with living quarters face specific limitations at Modoc equestrian campgrounds. "If you keep going up the forest road there are dispersed camping spots at higher elevation with great views but roads only suitable for small rigs," advises Ariel & John W., noting the trade-off between scenic locations and accessibility.
Road assessment: Approach roads require careful navigation, particularly with horse trailers. "The road is 2+ miles of dirt - gravel to the CG," Tom N. explains, providing specific distance measurements for access planning to Stough Reservoir Campground.
Early season preparation: RVers arriving during shoulder seasons should plan for potential access issues. "Not much to report here, other than be aware of snow in May," Laura M. cautions, indicating the need for contingency planning when visiting horse campgrounds near Modoc National Forest during transition months.
