Camping spots near Tulelake, California offer experiences within the volcanic landscape at elevations ranging from 4,000-5,000 feet. Nighttime temperatures can drop significantly even in summer months, with temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night common. The region's campgrounds provide access to geological features and wildlife viewing while serving as gateways to multiple national monuments and refuges.
What to do
Cave exploration at Lava Beds National Monument: Indian Well Campground serves as an ideal base for exploring over 800 lava tubes. "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," notes a visitor to Indian Well Campground.
Birding at wildlife refuges: Multiple wildlife refuges surround Tulelake camping areas, creating excellent birding opportunities. "You are a short ride from the flyway and a reserve where you can always see eagles," reports a camper about the area near Hawk's Nest Tionesta RV & Cabins.
Water recreation: Several camping locations provide water access for fishing and boating. At Keno Camp, "There is a boat launch, and other areas where you can simply fish off the banks. Short trails are here as well!"
What campers like
Affordable camping options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the value of camping near Tulelake. At Indian Well Campground, one camper noted, "Only $10 a day with spacious camps sites, water, bathrooms, and peace." Another mentioned, "The $10 camping fee is half priced if you have an annual national park pass."
Historical sites: The region offers numerous historical attractions. "Captain Jack's Stronghold and the Modoc history sites are fun and fascinating as well... You are also near the Tule Lake Japanese Internment Camp, as well as a German POW camp. Small museum at the fairgrounds at Tule Lake," shares a visitor to Indian Well Campground.
Quiet, uncrowded locations: Dispersed camping areas provide solitude. At Tickner Rd, one camper described, "Gorgeous spot in the woods. So quiet, birds singing. Yes this area had fires but plenty of big beautiful pines remain and new life is springing up everywhere."
What you should know
Fire recovery areas: Several dispersed camping areas are recovering from recent wildfires. A camper at South Lava Beds noted, "This area is still recovering from a big fire in 2020 and there are piles of burned logs and debris all over the area, giving it a desolate feel. The area is nice and quiet though, and very little traffic."
Cell service varies: Unlike many remote areas, some Tulelake camping locations offer surprisingly good connectivity. At Tickner Rd, a camper reported, "We had 2 bars Verizon so not great but Full bars on our T-Mobile Home so great internet, and full streaming."
Seasonal closures: Some campgrounds close during winter months. At Keno Camp, one camper warned, "Pushed through to stop here for the night only to find the entrance gated and the sign says 'Closed for the Season'."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Families with young children can find campgrounds with play areas. At Hawk's Nest Tionesta RV & Cabins, a visitor mentioned, "There is a new playground for children."
Educational opportunities: The volcanic landscape provides natural learning experiences. At Indian Well Campground, a camper shared, "The best reason to go are the caves. There are caves of every type and every kind. Some you walk thru and others you crawl through - caves for all ages and all abilities."
Wildlife viewing for kids: Wildlife sightings enhance family camping experiences. One camper at Indian Well Campground mentioned, "Woke up to deer in my camp," providing an unexpected nature encounter kids would enjoy.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions for large vehicles: RVers should consider road access when selecting camping spots near Tulelake. At Tickner Rd, a camper with a 32' 5th wheel reported, "Coming in you drive a paved rd for 9 miles and then a well groomed dirt rd for 1/2 a mile. There's 2 spots that would fit our 32' 5th wheel."
Leveling considerations: Some dispersed camping areas require minimal setup. A camper at Tickner Rd noted, "We actually didn't need to use our levels for this spot, which is always a treat. Easy access for our 26ft class c and I believe bigger rigs would be ok here as well."
Full hookup availability: Several established campgrounds near Tulelake offer complete RV services. At Klamath Falls KOA, a reviewer described, "Great RVPark, offering camping, propane, gasoline at an affordable price, full hook-ups, store, level sites. We were escorted to our site and was asked if it worked for us and if we needed anything else."
