Bolan Lake Campground

Closed — Closed for the season. The campground typically operates during summer months only, with winter closure due to snow and road access limitations.

About

Bolan Lake Campground is a high mountain retreat situated along the shores of 12-acre Bolan Lake, perched high above the Illinois Valley in the Rogue River-Siskiyou National Forest. The campground features 12 dispersed campsites, each equipped with a picnic table and fire pit. Large conifers provide ample shade during the warm summer months, and the area is renowned for spectacular wildflower displays in early summer. The campground serves as a trailhead for Bolan Lake Trail #1245, which climbs to the old fire lookout on Bolan Mountain. The lookout is available for rent through Recreation.gov. Bolan Lake itself offers fishing opportunities, though only non-motorized boats are permitted on the water. The remote location provides a quiet, backcountry experience away from more developed recreation areas. Facilities are minimal: two vault toilets are available, but there is no drinking water or garbage service. Campers must bring their own water and pack out all trash. The campground is accessed via approximately 30 miles of forest roads from Cave Junction, with the final miles on Forest Road 4812-040. Access during early season can be hampered by late snowpack.

Directions

From Cave Junction, travel south on Highway 199 about 1 mile to Rockydale Road (first left after crossing the river). Travel south to the end of Rockydale (about 7 miles) and turn left on Waldo/Happy Camp Road. Head east on the Happy Camp Road about 13 miles to Forest Road 4812. Take Forest Road 4812 about 4.1 miles to junction with Forest Road 4812-040. The campground is about another 4 miles.

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