RV campgrounds near Tulelake, California provide various amenities depending on their location and setting. The area sits at approximately 4,000 feet elevation in the high desert region of northeastern California, with seasonal temperature variations creating distinct camping experiences throughout the year. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing while summer days can reach the 90s with cool evenings, affecting camping preparation needs.
What to do
Explore Lava Beds National Monument: Located within 20-30 minutes of most Tulelake camping areas, the monument features volcanic cave systems and historic sites. "Great proximity to Lava Beds National Monument," noted a visitor at Eagle's Nest RV Park.
Fishing opportunities: The Williamson River provides recreation for anglers. "The river is great for fishing, and in the late summer you can catch crawdads for a delicious crawdad boil," according to a camper at Waterwheel RV Park & Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Several wildlife refuges surround the Tulelake area. A camper at Tulelake Butte Valley Fair noted, "It is right off of Hwy 395 and very peaceful and quiet. Close to the wildlife refuges."
Hiking trails: The region offers walking paths of varying difficulty. "Lots of Hiking available," mentioned a reviewer at Topsy Campground, with easy access to forest trails.
What campers like
Clean bathroom facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept restrooms with hot showers. A guest at Keno Camp appreciated the "big clean heated bathrooms with flush toilets and free hot shower."
Full hookup options: RV sites with complete services are available at multiple parks. At Hawk's Nest Tionesta RV & Cabins, a camper noted, "Good campsite nestled in the trees. Approximately 10 tent sites, 20 RV, and 15 cabins. RV are full hookup."
Spacious pull-through sites: Several RV parks offer convenient pull-through access. According to a visitor at Hawk's Nest, "All pull through sites big enough to keep toad hooked up."
Waterfront locations: Some campgrounds feature river or lake frontage. A reviewer at Waterwheel RV Park mentioned, "Site#11 is the best, in my opinion, as your patio would be right on the river!"
What you should know
Seasonal variations: Hunting season brings increased occupancy to area campgrounds. "The owner said their main season is hunting season which starts the end of September," explained a visitor at Hawk's Nest.
Cell service considerations: Coverage varies by location and carrier. A camper at Waterwheel RV Park reported, "Cell signals from AT&T and Verizon provided enough connectivity for us to work during the week. AT&T, in particular, had a very good and strong signal."
Electricity costs: Some parks charge additional fees for power usage. At Eagle's Nest RV Park, "you pay a nominal additional fee for the actual amount of electricity you use."
Midges insects: Non-biting insects can be present near water. At Klamath Falls KOA, a camper warned, "There are these bugs called midges that are harmless but look like mosquitos and are everywhere."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds available: Several campgrounds offer play equipment for children. A reviewer at Topsy Campground mentioned, "The pier close by was perfect for Bass fishing. Not alot of boat activity which was nice. Tent camp areas were a decent size."
Swimming options: Some locations permit water recreation. At Waterwheel RV Park, a camper noted, "Plus, you and your dog can swim in the Williamson River that is there onsite."
Cabin alternatives: For those without camping equipment, cabins provide shelter options. At Hawk's Nest, a visitor observed, "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."
Wildlife viewing for kids: Local wildlife offers educational opportunities. A camper at Keno Camp reported, "There's lots of wildlife here as well! Deer, fish, birds, rabbits, the occasional mountain lion as well."
Tips from RVers
Late arrivals accommodated: Some parks allow after-hours check-in. At Hawk's Nest, a camper shared, "The attendant on the grounds is very nice and friendly. We arrived late (9pm) and she was able to assist us with getting settled."
Surface considerations: Tent sites may have rough ground surfaces. At Hawk's Nest, a reviewer advised, "For those tent camping, bring a tarp for your tent to sit on. It's a dirt, rock, and pine needles area."
Site leveling needs: Some campgrounds have uneven sites. A camper at Klamath Falls KOA noted, "Some sites, including ours had a fair bit of slope front to back."
Noise factors: Highway proximity can create ambient sound. A visitor to Waterwheel RV Park cautioned, "Note that this park is located on Highway 97 and you will hear road-noise, especially at night when everything else quiets down."
