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.
"4d-120.9699697) • $12
Northern California • Basin & Range Birding Trail 15 Northeastern location
Just past a hundred miles of farmfield coming from the North"
"Its ideal if you’re coming from California and headed to Oregon. A couple hours away from Crater Lake."
"This campsite is nestled in the forest away from the highway. It has cabins, RV, and tent camping available. There is a new playground for children. When you stay, a free shower is included."
"The property looked very well maintained and I would recommend it to anyone road tripping with an RV or looking to stay at a cute cabin close to the lava beds, especially considering the kind hospitality"
"Graded dirt road a few miles from highway. Small camping area but not many people."
$20 - $35 / night
"Great proximity to Lava Beds National Monument.
Will definitely put this on our list if we pass through again."
"This place is out of the way a little from the main highway. However, friendly staff and clean bathrooms and showers."
"Tucked away, this place was great! We didn’t have too many people there but it was a gorgeous sight!"
"This campground is not far from the highway, on a nicely maintained gravel road. Some private homes not too far from the grounds. There were about 10 sites here, each had fire pit."
"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."
LegendHowards Gulch Campground • Modoc National Forest • $12
Northern California • Basin & Range Birding Trail 15 Northeastern location
Just past a hundred miles of farmfield coming from the North we enter the Modoc National Forest, and turn left against our GPS’ wishes into Howard’s Gulch Campground (Forest Service). Pay attention to the signs. It's analog but it's right. It’s a small, primitive camp in Northern California with 12 sites. Two which are walk in only and none which are for large RV’s. The fee is $12 which is significantly more than the next campground down the road which is free, but the consistency of the Forest Service sites makes it worth it.
The trees are tall and red, and according to a conveniently placed sign, coniferous. There are also signs indicating common birds of the area and their habitats, along with a 1.5 mile trail built by the U.S. Forest Service, California Department of Forestry and the California Department of Corrections. The trail has been dedicated “for your hiking pleasure…” This campground is also part of the Basin & Range Birding Trail system of Northern California and Southern Oregon.
Like all forest service campgrounds there is a fire pit and a picnic table in each site. Most of the sites are spaced relatively privately, but since you’re in the middle of nowhere you’ll probably be sharing the camp with one, maybe two other campers. In addition, some sites have a stand alone charcoal grilling set-ups.
Trails like this one lead right from camp. Bring your binoculars.
There are plenty of water taps. At least five, but since it isn’t potable there isn’t really much benefit. Since the water is being “treated with chemicals” I wouldn’t even recommend boiling it for use leaving it for the dousing of fires, but the camp is under no-burn restrictions. Rightfully so, considering the summer California has had so far.
Toilets are standard vaults, but there are three of them for 12 sites. Two of which are recent new builds. Being low in the gulch you’re surrounded by walls on three sides to the outer side of the camp loop. The inner loop still backs up to a cliff wall for an unusually located tall mound...and OHMYGOD MY WIFE JUST CHOPPED HER THUMB! SHIT! SHIT!SHIT!SHIT!SHIT!SHIT!SHIT!
...
The reason to camp here is…you’re on your way somewhere else most likely. Coming from Oregon to Yosemite or Tahoe or vice versa. But if you do you won’t be disappointed and if you like birds you’ll be pleasantly surprised. The nearest town is at least 20+ miles if you need anything so come prepared. My Wife's thumb is fine by the way. Despite a serious scare at the time. She field dressed it like a boss using our first aid kit (which we've since upgraded). She'll have a reminder scar, but her badass level went up like a million points. I give Howard’s Gulch 3 Tent Stakes of Awesomeness for being a solid campground with nice sites and trails leaving right from camp but not much else going on. Also, there is no indication of who Howard is. I certainly didn't meet him.
Pro-Tip #1: Prepare for summer heat. You aren’t at elevation here.
Pro-Tip #2: Bring binoculars.
Pro-Tip #3: Bring water and anything else you might need. No place near by to get anything.
GuideFalls were gorgeous. Rum trail is an easy little walk (largely paved). Large picnic area. Not much else to do in the park but good stop if you are thru hiking the PCT.
Bathrooms were clean, flush toilets, hot showers. NO cell service. Had a little camp shop.
NOT a very dog-friendly park, didn’t even see a pet area for them to get out and potty.
TravelerNice state park and so much to see and do in the area. Burney Falls is gorgeous. The only thing I didn’t like was the dirt..lol. This area is made from diatomaceous earth and every step you take,a little poof of dust rises up. I must have washed my feet 2 dozen times in one day. If you have pets, be carefull if they come into your tent or RV, you’ll have dust everywhere.
TravelerRoad side area, gravel surface. Step entry off road. Creek side good for stop over. State land.
LegendAs a native Californian I’m pretty ashamed I hadn’t explored Modoc much prior to this recent experience. It’s right up there with neighboring national forests in both California and Oregon in terms of its beauty but it’s vastly underrated.
“Located in the scenic Medicine Lake Highlands, Payne Springs is surrounded by many attractions. This campground is adjacent to the Modoc Volcanic Scenic Byway and the Lava Beds National Monument is located near by. It is a great place to visit and learn about the local geology and history. There is no drinking water. There are picnic tables and fire pits at each site with fair road conditions getting to the sites.”
First come first serve.
TravelerIts ideal if you’re coming from California and headed to Oregon. A couple hours away from Crater Lake.
GuideThis is one of my favorite campsites in California. There all the falls, which are beautiful, the lake for swimming and water sports and lots of hiking trails. The campsites are dry sites (no hookups), but they have updated bathrooms and showers. They also have cabin for rent, but you have to bring your own bedding. The visitors center is awesome and they always have programs going on for kids and adults alike. Both the falls and lake Britten is within walking distance. Even if I am not camping, I stop here to visit when going through CA.
TravelerCamped and enjoyed lake. Dog swam but we were unaware of BLUE GREEN ALGAE. Our yellow lab died 1 week later. Watch out especially if you aren’t familiar with your surroundings.
TravelerI was only going to stay 3 nights and i have extended for 7 night. Great owner ! Wide open sites. There are lots of trails I can take my dog for walks. Couple of the trails takes you to a cliff where you can sit and watch the sunset. Clean sites and campground. Washers and dryers. This one of my favorite campground. Beautiful ride in. I will be back. Internet good.
If you're looking for a pet-friendly camping experience near Modoc National Forest in California, there are several great options that welcome your furry companions. Enjoy the beauty of nature while ensuring your pets have a fantastic time too.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Modoc National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dog-friendly campground near Modoc National Forest is Howards Gulch Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 3 reviews.
What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Modoc National Forest?
TheDyrt.com has all 60 dog-friendly camping locations near Modoc National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.
Keep Exploring
