Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Tulelake, CA has a lot to offer. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Tulelake is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Find the best campgrounds near Tulelake, CA. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.
Lava Beds National Monument Road
24 min away
Tickner Rd
35 min away
$10 / night
"The camp sites are a bit close, but the location is surprisingly not frequented often from what I’ve noticed. There is a boat launch, and other areas where you can simply fish off the banks."
"Mature trees and right next to the water. So quiet all we heard were birds"
"They offer day use, horse use, and overnight use. The overnight use has 6 available spots at $10/day which is a deal given that the sites are ample with awesome picnic benches and fire pits. "
$6 / night
GuideI knew nothing about this place before going here. I was just here as a base camp to scout for elk, which I saw none of, for an upcoming hunting trip. This place was absolutely beautiful! They offer day use, horse use, and overnight use. The overnight use has 6 available spots at $10/day which is a deal given that the sites are ample with awesome picnic benches and fire pits. I’m never excited to use a campsite bathroom but this was immaculate and never smelled. Cleanest public bathroom I have ever encountered. There is a small stream that flows through the area coming from a beautiful meadow. All sorts of wildlife loves to visit, even deer. The camp is surrounded by a barbed wire fence to keep cows out, I’m assuming. There are cattle guards at both entrances of the site as well. This is my new favorite spot.
GuideWhen 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. They have clean bathroom facilities with nice hot showers! The camp sites are a bit close, but the location is surprisingly not frequented often from what I’ve noticed. There is a boat launch, and other areas where you can simply fish off the banks. Short trails are here as well! If you’re looking for longer trails there are plenty all around that you could do a short drive to or walk along the highway (don’t worry, the camp itself is not directly on the road!). The small town of keno is not far from camp either, so if you are in need of more ice or propane, they have small town “stores” to get your essentials from! Or, if you are in need to restock larger items, Klamath Falls is only 25 mins away. There’s lots of wildlife here as well! Deer, fish, birds, rabbits, the occasional mountain lion as well. Have fun, be safe!!
ScoutEasy check in. Nice senior couple are the hosts.$20 a night for our van to park. Big clean heated bathrooms with flush toilets and free hot shower. Dumpsters for our trash made it easy to do cleanup at the end of the day. Mature trees and right next to the water. So quiet all we heard were birds
TravelerPushed through to stop here for the night only to find the entrance gated and the sign says “Closed for the Season”
GuideGorgeous river small damn fishing kayaking boat dock! Park / playground d for kids safe secure peaceful! Showers are amazing and clean always! The host are return host there awesome! Living the life!
ScoutWe stopped in for a night and there were plenty of spots. Very clean and spacious. If you love camping in the woods you will love this place, plus you can’t beat the price $10 a night.
LegendI stayed here because of the reviews but it wasn’t my favorite. The water was nice but I probably wouldn’t return unless I needed a spot to sleep.
GuideNot the best place
But not a bad place
ScoutRoad ip is gravel & steep. No place to pull over. Graffiti on rocks and seems to be a party place.
Horse camping in California offers a unique way to explore the great outdoors while enjoying the company of your equine friends. With a variety of campgrounds catering to horse enthusiasts, you can find the perfect spot to set up camp and ride the trails.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are horses allowed in Tulelake Refuge?
Yes, horses are allowed in the Tulelake Refuge area with designated facilities for equestrian use. Martins Dairy Campground specifically offers horse use areas, making it an excellent base for riders exploring the refuge. The campground provides dedicated equestrian facilities at an affordable $10/day rate. When riding in the refuge, stay on designated trails and follow posted regulations to protect the natural habitat and wildlife. Always carry proof of current negative Coggins test and any required permits when bringing horses to public lands in the area.
What horse trails are available around Tulelake?
The Tulelake area offers several excellent horse trails with varying terrain and difficulty levels. The trails around Keno Camp provide beautiful riverside riding opportunities with mature trees and scenic views. Many trails connect to the extensive network in the nearby national forest land, offering everything from gentle meadow rides to more challenging mountain paths. The region features both loop trails and point-to-point routes, with some trails connecting to the larger Pacific Crest Trail system. Always check current trail conditions with local ranger stations before heading out, especially during spring thaw or after storms.
What is the best season for horseback riding in Tulelake?
Late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the best horseback riding conditions in the Tulelake area. Summer provides reliable dry trails, though early mornings are recommended to avoid midday heat. Avoid No Name Ridge during wet seasons as the steep gravel roads become treacherous for horse trailers. The Fremont National Forest Cottonwood Complex Campground area provides good riding options through fall with its more protected trails. Note that some campgrounds like Keno Camp close seasonally, typically shutting down in late fall, so always verify operating dates before planning your riding trip.
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