The best campgrounds near Alturas, California with wildlife watching

Looking for the perfect camping spot near Alturas, California, where you can indulge in your passion for wildlife watching? Look no further than Mill Creek Resort! With over 590 options specifically tailored to your activity and terrain preference, you're sure to find the ideal campsite to immerse yourself in nature. From the highly rated Mill Creek Resort (638 reviews) to the picturesque Juniper Spur Ranch (119 reviews) and the tranquil Wild Plumas (111 reviews), these top campsites offer stunning views and unforgettable experiences. With amenities like cooking equipment, toilets, and trash facilities, and activities such as swimming, wildlife watching, and climbing, you'll have everything you need for an incredible outdoor adventure. Plus, with an average price per night of just $35 and options as low as $10, camping has never been more affordable. Start planning your wildlife-filled getaway today!

98% (84)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking for the perfect camping spot near Alturas, California, where you can indulge in your passion for wildlife watching? Look no further than Mill Creek Resort! With over 590 options specifically tailored to your activity and terrain preference, you're sure to find the ideal campsite to immerse yourself in nature. From the highly rated Mill Creek Resort (638 reviews) to the picturesque Juniper Spur Ranch (119 reviews) and the tranquil Wild Plumas (111 reviews), these top campsites offer stunning views and unforgettable experiences. With amenities like cooking equipment, toilets, and trash facilities, and activities such as swimming, wildlife watching, and climbing, you'll have everything you need for an incredible outdoor adventure. Plus, with an average price per night of just $35 and options as low as $10, camping has never been more affordable. Start planning your wildlife-filled getaway today!

98% (84)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Hawk's Nest Tionesta RV & Cabin

95%

(98)

40mi from Alturas · 11 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Tulelake, CA

Welcome to Hawk's Nest Tionesta RV &Cabins! Tucked away in spectacular Modoc National Forest at the base of Timber Mountain, Hawk's Nest Tionesta is one of the best kept secrets in the West. You won’t find a better place to enjoy Northern CA cabins and RV&tent camping. Just 15 minutes from Lava Beds Nat'l Monument, glass mountain, and medicine lake. we offer some of the best camping in Northern CA. Please do not try to contact us over cell phone. We live in an area with bad cell reception. If you try to reach us by cell phone there is a chance we won’t see your message. When you arrive you must check in at the office first. If there is no one at the office please call the office number posted on the sign.

2. Camp Freedom

100%

(24)

2mi from Alturas · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Alturas, CA

The recreation opportunities in the Alturas CA area are endless, fishing, hiking biking, hunting, boating and OHV. The camping site has nearly 3 acres with a view of the town of Alturas and is a great place to kick back and enjoy the atmosphere of fresh air and juniper trees. There are flat usable campsites around the property and one portion of the property is fenced for horses (bring your own water trough). The property is approximately 3 minutes from downtown Alturas with restaurants and stores. The sleepy town is a perfect place to hang out and relax at the big park in town behind the VFW Hall on Main Street, have refreshments at the two bars in town or try your luck at the Desert Rose Casino. The Wildlife Refuge has a self driving tour where you can see all kinds of birds and wildlife. Take a drive outside town to the "Ranches" to see deer, antelope, eagles and various waterfowl! Alturas is a high desert area with wonderful views of the Warner Mountains and has an enchanting feel to it. Temperatures in the summer rarely get over 100 degrees, mostly low 90's, and in the fall the cool nights make for great sleeping. Pop over Cedar Pass to Cedarville which is about 20 minutes away to check out the newly designated "Dark Sky" area. Come up and hang out in this very cool and special place, you will not want to leave!! The town of Alturas is also in the coveted X hunting zones, X3a, X3b and X2, for those of you who like to hunt. Two sites have full hook ups and the small trailer site on the above pad (see trailer picture) has electric only. During the winter, the pump house is turned off and drained due to freezing temperatures and the risk of blowing a pipe, so campers must bring their own water during November through March. Please ask if there are changes in these dates for the water hook ups.

3. Junipers Reservoir Campground

96%

(14)

49mi from Alturas · 5 sites · Tents · Lakeview, OR

Junipers Reservoir RV Resort was created approximately 30 years ago. The RV resort sits at the end of a one mile gravel driveway, on the edge of a juniper forest overlooking the 200 acre Junipers Reservoir and its surrounding meadows. A large lawn and cedar buildings sit at the center of the oval shaped RV park, with the generously sized camping sites angled along the outside edge to provide the best views. The resort boasts free fishing in the reservoir for trout, hiking and biking trails, rock-hounding, bird watching, wildlife viewing, horseshoes, and volleyball. The view from the open air pavilion is spectacular!Learn more about this land:Located in the heart of a 5,000 acre cattle ranch. We have hot showers, laundry machines, restrooms, BBQ's, Covered Pavilion, park benches, and lots of lawns. Plenty of room for tent campers. We have an enclosed dog off-leash run area. Plenty of trees for shade, fresh air and blue skies. At night we are far enough from town that the dark night lights up with stars. We have a 200 acre lake for fishing (trout) and miles of trails to hike or bike on the ranch. The rate shown here is for Tent Camping

4. Modoc National Forest

88%

(4)

274 sites · Canby, California

Over one and a half MILLION glorious acres of majestic and mysterious volcanic territory in NorCal.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

5. Goose Lake State Recreation Area

48 sites · New Pine Creek, Oregon

Waterfowl, deer, and campers coexist in this remote lakefront spot with seasonal camping.

6. Camp Calamity

100%

(1)

2.2mi from Alturas · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Alturas, CA

A beautiful place to camp. There is (1) 2 trailer or car camp spot and (3) single trailer spots. This is completely a dry camping site. There are 110 extension cords available. Located 5 minutes from town this is the perfect place to stop and rest if you are just passing through or if you plan on staying a while.

7. EverClear Ranch

100%

(8)

21mi from Alturas · 3 sites · RVs · Lake City, CA

Quiet Rv lots with a fantastic view of the warner mountains! Located ten minutes north of Cedarville; this easy access lot (right off county road 1) is the perfect hitchin' post for seasonal hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, or people who just want a quiet get away from the hustle and bustle of the city! By day play cornhole and explore the thousands of acres of public lands and off road trails; all within a 5 minute drive! Evenings present the perfect time to have a drink by the fire pit while enjoying the clear night sky boasting wonderful views of the stars and the milky way!!Learn more about this land:Quiet Rv lots with a fantastic view of the warner mountains! Located ten minutes north of Cedarville; this easy access lot (right off county road 1) is the perfect hitchin' post for seasonal hunters, outdoor enthusiasts, or people who just want a quiet get away from the hustle and bustle of the city! By day play cornhole and explore the thousands of acres of public lands and off road trails; all within a 5 minute drive! Evenings present the perfect time to have a drink by the fire pit while enjoying the clear night sky boasting wonderful views of the stars and the milky way!!

8. Lassen RV Resort

51mi from Alturas · 74 sites · Mc Arthur, CA

Lassen RV Resort stands out as a unique destination for nature lovers, nestled between the breathtaking landscapes of Mt. Lassen and Mt. Shasta. This charming campground offers a serene escape on 68 acres of stunning wild forest, providing guests with a perfect blend of rustic charm and modern amenities. At Lassen RV Resort, you can enjoy spacious RV camping sites and tent sites, all designed to ensure your comfort and privacy. The campground is a peaceful retreat, yet conveniently located with easy access to Highway 299, making it simple to explore nearby attractions and amenities. Adventure awaits just beyond your campsite. Discover the natural wonders of Lassen Volcanic National Park and the expansive Shasta-Trinity National Forest, both offering a plethora of outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, and swimming. After a day of exploration, unwind in the tranquil surroundings of the resort, where the staff is dedicated to making your stay peaceful and relaxing. Experience the beauty of nature at Lassen RV Resort, your ideal getaway destination.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

9. Fremont-Winema National Forest

60%

(5)

534 sites · Beatty, Oregon

Any Cheryl Strayed/Reese Witherspoon fans in the house? Retrace their Wild footsteps in the Fremont-Winema National Forest; part of the 2,650 mile Pacific Crest Trail falls along the forest’s western edge. And the forest certainly is “wild”: the 2.3 million acres of lush green forests and alpine meadows shelter elk, antelope, bobcats, and bears--plus intrepid adventure seekers, like yourself! In the summer, try hiking or biking along the Crane Trail, which offers incredible views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. And don’t fret when the weather turns cold and snowy; Fremont-Winema turns into a winter wonderland! Strap on ski goggles and coast downhill, or rev it up on a snowmobile at the Quartz Mountain Sno-park. Back at camp, warm up with a cup of hot cocoa--with extra marshmallows, thank you very much--and start planning for your next day in Oregon paradise.

Pets

Potable water

Toilets

Public campgrounds near Alturas

Big Sage Campground

7.4mi from Alturas · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Modoc National Forest

Stough Reservoir Campground

16mi from Alturas · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · in Modoc National Forest

Pepperdine Equestrian Campground

16mi from Alturas · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Modoc National Forest

Reservoir C Campground

16mi from Alturas · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Modoc National Forest

Soup Springs Campground

19mi from Alturas · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · in Modoc National Forest

Mill Creek Falls Campground

20mi from Alturas · 19 sites · Tents, RVs · in Modoc National Forest

100%

(1)

Howard's Gulch Campground

22mi from Alturas · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Modoc National Forest

Lower Rush Creek Campground

22mi from Alturas · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · in Modoc National Forest

Emerson Campground

26mi from Alturas · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · in Modoc National Forest

Red Tail Rim Trail South Trailhead/Campground

27mi from Alturas · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Modoc National Forest

Lassen Creek Campground

27mi from Alturas · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Modoc National Forest

Ash Creek Campground

27mi from Alturas · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Modoc National Forest

Stories from the community

R

Ricky

October 2025

30 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Camp Freedom

Super well kept property with new utilities. Perfect location for me while duck hunting the refuge which only 13 minutes away. Definitely will be back!

R

Rachel

September 2025

25 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Camp Freedom

What a beautiful spot this was! It felt so private and was nice and level. There was room for another camper, but we were there by ourselves and enjoyed the quiet. Stacie was very kind to work with.

Dimitra

September 2025

17 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at EverClear Ranch

The ranch was easy to find and easy to access. All utilities were in great condition with no troubles. The host, another camper, and related friends were warm, welcoming, generous, and so much fun! Clear sunny mornings, quiet starry nights, and an alpaca and a donkey for company, it’s the perfect launch pad from which to work or explore. We’ll be back and bring more apples for the donkey.

T

Tim

September 2025

26 ft Class C

7 nights at EverClear Ranch

It was so surprisingly quiet and we were the only ones there so it was awesome having the place to ourselves. We were having trouble with the sewer hookup but Hans came right over and fixed it. There was a block party going on near our spot so we checked that out and we had great burgers and it was awesome!

L

Laëtitia

September 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hawk's Nest Tionesta RV & Cabin

Conform to the description. Very calm and hot shower 😁👌🏻

Clarissa

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hawk's Nest Tionesta RV & Cabin

Great sized tent spaces, quiet, near the lava bed monument, hands down a great visit!

A

Adam

August 2025

21 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Camp Freedom

Very nice property with easy access and plenty of space. Would definitely recommend if you are planning to visit the area.

T

Tim

August 2025

26 ft Class C

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hawk's Nest Tionesta RV & Cabin

Great quiet place with full hookups. Staff was very nice. Great shower!

S

Stephanie

August 2025

23 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Hawk's Nest Tionesta RV & Cabin

Serene and quiet. Only a few miles off of Hwy 139 nestled in the trees.

J

Jaime

July 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Hawk's Nest Tionesta RV & Cabin

Peaceful and quiet, off the highway. The restrooms and warm showers were very much appreciated!

l

July 2025

26 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Hawk's Nest Tionesta RV & Cabin

Quiet little spot w nice showers and a friendly owner. Hike up to Timber Mt Lookout station and visit the ranger who lives up there.

C

Charles

June 2025

26 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Camp Freedom

Great views, private, quiet, level, new utilities, close to town. Highly recommend

K

Kate

June 2025

16 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hawk's Nest Tionesta RV & Cabin

Kids liked the playground. It was nice to do laundry also. The showers went a little cold when they were both on at the same time but other than that it was nice and peaceful.

M

Matt

June 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Hawk's Nest Tionesta RV & Cabin

Jim was very welcoming, easy sites, bit dusty, kids enjoyed the small playground. Thanks for having us!

Molly

June 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Camp Freedom

Very private, large site. Host is very kind and helpful! There are several barky dogs in the neighborhood that woke me up a few times but otherwise a perfect camping experience.

K

Katherine

June 2025

Tent

1 night at Junipers Reservoir Campground

Very clean and spacious. Very quiet spot off the highway.

D

Diana

June 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Camp Freedom

The property sits above the town and is peaceful and serene. Stacie is super responsive and helpful, the recommendation for the Basque restaurant in town was great! Loved it!

R

Rui

May 2025

23 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Hawk's Nest Tionesta RV & Cabin

Overall, it’s a nice camp for long drive to take a break. Jim is nice to welcome us and navigate us to the site. The site floor is pretty even, but only bother us is the tree with lower brunch touched the roof of trailer, that need to be removed. The camp has big space to walk around if you have dog, that’s a good camp for you

Travis

March 2025

34 ft fifth wheel

1 night at Camp Freedom

Camp Freedom is well loved and thoughtfully layed out for multiple campers. Easy to locate and host Stacie provides clear communication. 10/10 would stay again!

Travis

March 2025

34 ft fifth wheel

1 night at Camp Freedom

A beautiful, quiet, welcoming, and well loved retreat with great wonderful landscaping. Great communication with the host. Woke up with 4 deer investigating us while we made breakfast. 10/10 would recommend for anyone looking for a private camp space. Looking forward to staying again in a couple weeks!!