Tent camping near Westwood, California occurs mainly from May through October at elevations between 4,500 and 6,000 feet. Summer daytime temperatures typically range from 75-85°F, dropping to 45-55°F at night. Most forest service roads leading to dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles and can take 30-90 minutes to navigate from main highways.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Boulder Creek Campground, anglers can access Antelope Lake for bass and trout fishing. "Antelope Lake is always gorgeous though and worth the trip," notes one camper who visited despite changes in management.
Hiking trails: The Osprey Overlook trail near Aspen Grove Campground offers panoramic views of Eagle Lake. As one visitor explains, "I highly recommend hiking up to Osprey Overlook, not far from the campground. It has great panoramic views of the lake."
Natural springs: While staying at Yellow Creek Campground, visitors can explore the historic Soda Springs site where local Maidu indigenous people gathered. One camper shares, "There's a natural soda spring on the entrance road where the local indigenous Maidu used to gather and drink for healing."
What campers like
Lake access: Campers at Juniper Lake Campground appreciate the pristine water and mountain views. "If you're lucky enough to get a spot on the lake you'll have one of the most beautiful camping spots in Northern California with an epic view of Mt. Lassen," notes one visitor.
Solitude on weekdays: Finding a campsite at popular locations improves significantly during mid-week visits. A Juniper Lake camper advises, "Over the last few years the popularity of Juniper Lake has grown and it is difficult to find a spot on weekends, but early to mid week there's a pretty good chance you can find a spot."
Creek-side camping: The sound of running water enhances the camping experience at several locations. A visitor to Last Chance Campground mentions, "A stream runs down the side of the campground, so you can hear the water all night."
What you should know
Reservation systems: Some campgrounds operate entirely on first-come, first-served basis while others require advance booking. One visitor to Ponderosa Flat notes, "Most of the sites are reservation based, and some are closed right now, so not a lot of neighbors."
Bear precautions: Bear activity requires proper food storage at all campgrounds in the region. Most established sites provide bear boxes, as mentioned by a Snake Lake Campground visitor: "Fire rings (need annual campfire permit, free at park offices) and bear boxes."
Road conditions: Access to Christie Hill Basecamp and other dispersed camping areas requires careful vehicle selection. "If you have a low clearance vehicles, pick your pins carefully," warns one camper, while another notes, "We had a Ford van that had no problem driving over the dirt and gravel road."
Tips for camping with families
Tent-only options: Families seeking a quieter tent camping experience should consider Aspen Grove Campground at Eagle Lake. "This is one of several campground at Eagle Lake. The unique aspect of Aspen is it is set aside for Tent camping only. No RVs or cabovers are allowed here," explains one visitor.
Transport assistance: Some walk-in tent sites provide equipment to help transport camping gear. "There are wheelbarrows available to help campers move things to and from their sites," notes an Aspen Grove camper.
Wildlife viewing: Children can observe various wildlife at campgrounds throughout the region. Many campers report seeing deer, birds, and small mammals at dawn and dusk when animals are most active.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many campgrounds in the Westwood area have limited space for larger rigs. At High Bridge Campground, sites vary in size with some better suited for smaller trailers and vans rather than large motorhomes.
Campground loops: High Bridge Campground features two distinct camping areas worth exploring before setting up. "The campground itself is separated into two loops. The first is directly in front of you as you drive in and the sites are located on, or close to, Warner Creek. The second is up and over a slight ridge, where the sites are located on, or close to, the North Fork of the Feather River," advises one visitor.
Supply runs: RVers staying at remote campgrounds should stock up in nearby towns. "Chester is a good town to fill up your gas tank, get supplies, etc. There are lots of small places to eat, a great grocery store called the Holiday Market, and quite a few outdoor equipment stores," explains a High Bridge camper.
