Lake of the Woods and surrounding areas near Tulelake, California offer distinctive camping and glamping options set at elevations between 4,000-5,000 feet. The region's volcanic landscape features stark lava fields alongside mountain lakes, creating unique habitat for wildlife. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 85°F during day, with most campgrounds operating seasonally from late spring through early fall.
What to do
Cave exploration at Lava Beds National Monument: Indian Well Campground provides the ideal base for exploring the park's extensive lava tube system. "Explore the largest concentration of lava tubes in the whole world? Yes please! Headlamp and helmet are musts. Gloves and kneepads recommended if you're planning on crawling around," shares Dan X. from Indian Well Campground.
Kayaking at Gerber Reservoir: The quiet waters here offer excellent paddling opportunities. "Clean camp. Nice restrooms. Wonderful hike down to the river below the dam," notes Eric O. about his visit to BLM Gerber Reservoir Campground.
Historical exploration: The area surrounding Lake of the Woods and Lava Beds contains significant historical sites. "Captain Jack's Stronghold and the Modoc history sites are fun and fascinating as well. You are a short ride from the flyway and a reserve where you can always see eagles. You are also near the Tule Lake Japanese Internment Camp, as well as a German POW camp," explains MarinMaverick at Indian Well Campground.
What campers like
Spacious campsites and wildlife viewing: Indian Well Campground offers well-spaced sites with frequent wildlife encounters. "Only $10 a day with spacious camp sites, water, bathrooms, and peace," writes Mack S., who adds, "Woke up to deer in my camp."
Quiet, secluded camping experience: The relatively remote location means less crowding at many area campgrounds. "When we first moved to Oregon, my family and I wanted to get out of a hotel while we searched the area for housing! The staff here was friendly, and easy to work with. There is a boat launch, and other areas where you can simply fish off the banks," reports Nicole W. from Keno Camp.
Comfortable cabins for glamping close to Tulelake, California: For those seeking luxury accommodations near Tulelake, Rainbow Bay offers upscale options. "They have cabins (tiny houses) for rent as well as spots for RVs! The lake is absolutely stunning and a great size for boating and fishing," notes Mica Z. about Rainbow Bay at Lake of the Woods.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Many campgrounds close during winter months. "Pushed through to stop here for the night only to find the entrance gated and the sign says 'Closed for the Season'," warns Glen G. about Keno Camp.
Variable shower facilities: While some sites offer free showers, others charge or don't have them at all. "I do not like that you pay to stay AND pay to take a shower, $1 for 2½ minutes, and you can only go up in increments of $1. I used $3, and it was not enough," cautions Laural O. at Rocky Point Resort.
Water activities timing: Lake access is seasonal with varying opening dates. "We came in mid March so they were still technically in their 'off season'. All the staff I spoke to were very kind and helpful. There was no one else tent camping so we had the whole area to ourselves. Since it was the off season the store, bathroom and restaurant were closed," reports Bella H. about Rocky Point Resort.
Campground crowding: Many sites fill quickly during summer months. "Great campground at the center of the monument. Really close to the visitor's center and the entrances to some of the more popular lava tubes. Only downside is that it is first come first serve, so get there early!" advises Jack L. about Indian Well Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly swimming areas: Some lakeside campgrounds feature designated swim zones. "Good swimming beach for kids. Friendly staff. Good spot, I'd go here again," says Kelly G. about Rainbow Bay at Lake of the Woods.
Recreation options for varied interests: Many campgrounds offer multiple activities beyond water sports. "Basketball area, exercise, ping pong, canoe, pontoon, trampoline and more! Word has it, they're making an area for a BATTING CAGE! What RV resort have you ever heard of with that?!" exclaims C.W. about Rocky Point Resort.
Summer temperature considerations: The area gets very hot during peak season. "Had a great stay here with our family! HOT in the summer but perfect for off season camping," warns Tess S. about Juanita Lake Group Campsite.
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection for privacy: Not all RV sites offer equal space or privacy. "4-5 pull thru sites. Pretty close together so the fire pit is a foot away from my slide out. There are some back in sites on the edges of the camp," notes Tyson T. about Rocky Point Resort.
Limited big rig access: Some campgrounds have size restrictions for larger RVs. "I booked a pull through spot online, when I arrived the owner walked around with me recommending available spots with a better view. We stayed at a nice full hook up site with a great view of the lake," shares Matt D. about Rocky Point Resort.
Check-in process varies: Some campgrounds have limited staffing hours. "Beautiful location but stuffed full of people. I got in late on a Friday night for an RV spot for my campervan. No staff around so I found an open spot and started getting ready for bed," explains Charlie B. about his experience at Rocky Point Resort.
