The area surrounding Whitmore, California sits at approximately 2,700 feet elevation, nestled between the northern Sierra Nevada and southern Cascade mountain ranges. This transition zone creates diverse habitats for wildlife and varying terrain for outdoor activities. Summer temperatures typically reach 90-95°F during daytime hours with cooler evenings dropping into the 50s, making early morning and evening the most comfortable times for outdoor exploration.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: While dedicated equestrian facilities are limited near Whitmore, the surrounding national forest areas offer riding opportunities. The Hat Creek area provides access points for those bringing horses. "Close to Lassen Volcanic NP... Wonderful place convenience store was great too!" notes Frank P. about Hat Creek Resort & RV Park.
Fishing access: Multiple waterways provide fishing options within short driving distances. "We fished Lewiston lake less than 10 min. away and Whiskeytown Lake about 20-25 min. away with great luck," shares Corey L. about Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort, which also features a fish cleaning station.
Hiking excursions: Several trail systems accommodate hikers of various skill levels. "The Cinder Cone hike along the old lava flow behind the campsite is spectacular! Don't let the climb up the cinder cone dissuade you; the panoramic view from the top is well worth it!" advises Laura F. about trails accessible from Butte Lake Campground.
Water activities: Lakes in the region offer swimming and non-motorized boating options during summer months. "The lake is close to the campground, quiet and peaceful. No motor boats. You must wear a life preserver if you put your boat in the water," explains Jeff B. about recreation at Butte Lake.
What campers like
Remote camping experiences: Less-developed areas appeal to those seeking quieter environments away from crowds. "Go to this camp for the quiet. Hiking is good going up or down Mill Creek. Fly fishing good and rarely more than one other camp used," reports Gordon C. about Black Rock Campground in the Ishi Wilderness.
Creek access: Waterfront sites remain popular for cooling off during hot summer days. "We got a spot right on the water. The spots had a bunch of space between them and you had a feeling of privacy," notes Jason D. about the creek-side locations at Hat Creek Resort.
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse animal populations for nature observation. "We saw some salmon, deer, quail, and frogs. There was evidence of bears around our site but we didn't have any issues," reports alissa C. about her experience at Black Rock Campground.
Spacious sites: Many campgrounds offer well-separated sites that provide a sense of seclusion. "The sites are large and spaced far apart and shady. The lake is only a short walk away and great for swimming, kayaking or paddle boarding," writes Moni R. about Butte Lake Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to several campgrounds requires traveling unpaved routes. "The road to get there was the only headache especially since we drove a small car. We made it but I'd definitely recommend something with a higher clearance," advises kyle M. about reaching Black Rock Campground.
Bear awareness: Proper food storage remains essential throughout the region. "Make sure to read the signs about the wildlife and take the advice of how to store food seriously. We saw a bear just a mile outside the campground," warns Moni R. regarding Butte Lake Campground.
Water availability: Some primitive campgrounds have limited or no potable water sources. "There is no cell service, no dump site, nor any grey water dump pits. The latrines are very nice with running water and toilets. The toilet houses are the only place you can get drinking water and there are only about four locations," notes Bill T. about facilities at Butte Lake.
Weather considerations: Temperature fluctuations can be significant between day and night. "We went in late may and the weather was perfect for traditional camping activities. The mosquitoes were out in full force so bug spray is a must," recommends alissa C. about seasonal conditions at Soldier Meadows Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation amenities: Some properties offer additional facilities for children. "They had a volleyball court, cornhole and a basketball area. Great little spot! We would absolutely come back," shares Kristi D. about the family-friendly setup at Hat Creek Resort.
Swimming locations: Natural water features provide cooling options during hot days. "The lake was great (cold, not numbing) for swimming. Several people launched kayaks and lots of people did the many hikes around the area," reports Bill T. about Butte Lake.
Site selection strategies: Choose locations based on proximity to facilities when camping with children. "Just a short drive down a forest service dirt road and you'll find yourself at Soldier Meadows. The campsites are huge, with lots of room to spread out. There is no water at this campsite, but if you bring your filtration system you can get water just steps away from your campsite," advises Amy C.
Supply planning: Limited services mean advance preparation is necessary. "They had a little grocery store with ice cream..we had some ice cream. It was delicious... 12 minute drive to Park entrance. Otherwise, you are in the middle of nowhere. 20 minutes to a grocery store," notes Kristi D. about the location considerations at Hat Creek.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Consider vehicle dimensions when selecting sites for horse trailers or larger RVs. "Our 35 foot fifth wheel easily navigated the space," confirms Tara D. about Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort, though many campgrounds have more restrictive size limits.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited but available at select locations. "We stayed at a full hookup site in my 22 foot travel trailer. The spots had a bunch of space between them and you had a feeling of privacy," shares Jason D. about his experience at Hat Creek Resort.
Leveling challenges: Terrain can present setup difficulties at primitive campgrounds. "Sites are SUPER uneven and not really defined. The picnic table/fire pit area has large boulders around them and a road runs right between both sites," cautions Jules S. about conditions at Horse Camp Primitive Campground.
Camp host resources: Staff often provide valuable local information for equestrian campers and RVers alike. "We stayed for a week and became buddies with the camp host Craig who gave us great fishing tips for the area and had some great conversation with as well," recommends Corey L. about the helpful personnel at Old Lewiston Bridge RV Resort.
