Closed

Currently closed for the season and spring project work. Traditionally opens July 1 and operates through October. During the annual Pit River Tribal Gathering in mid-July, Hemlock remains open while Medicine and A.H. Hogue loops close to the public.

Modoc National Forest

Fireworks and Explosives are always Prohibited

Fireworks and explosives (including explosive targets) are always prohibited on national forest lands. The prohibition of fireworks and exploding targets on national forest system lands is part of a set of permanent fire safety regulations in the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), listed below.…

Modoc National Forest

Forest Fire Restrictions 2026 have been lifted as of 09/27/2026

Alturas, Calif., Sept. 25, 2026— Fall is here, and cooler weather conditions have allowed the Modoc National Forest fire restrictions to be lifted as of 12:01 a.m. on Sunday, September 27, 2026.This means forest visitors on the Modoc National Forest may once again have campfires outside of…

Modoc National Forest

Camping Restrictions

Camping 14-day stay limits, group size limit of 8 people per campsite

About

Hemlock Campground sits along the shores of Medicine Lake in the Modoc National Forest at an elevation of 6,770 feet. Part of the Medicine Lake Recreation Area, Hemlock is one of five campgrounds sharing 86 total campsites in this volcanic landscape. The campground offers 16 first-come, first-served sites, each equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and BBQ grill. The campground provides vault toilets, water hydrants, and garbage dumpsters. Sites vary from somewhat rugged with limited parking to larger areas, though Hemlock cannot accommodate large trailers. Dogs are welcome but must remain on leash at all times within the campground. Medicine Lake offers excellent recreation opportunities including a concrete boat ramp and dock, designated swimming area, and fishing. Hiking and mountain biking trails are accessible from the area. The nearby Lava Beds National Monument provides additional exploration opportunities.

Directions

From Tulelake, take State Highway 139 south. Turn east onto Forest Road 49 (Medicine Lake Road) and continue approximately 30 miles to the Medicine Lake Recreation Area. Hemlock Campground is located along the lake shore.

Amenities

Water Yes
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station —
Wifi No
Pets Allowed Yes
Showers No
Electric Hookups —
Water Hookups —
Sewer Hookups —
Camp Store No
Price $15

Vehicle

Max RV Length —
Max Trailer Length —
Big Rig Friendly No
Pull Through Sites —

Contact

Email sm.fs.modoc_info@usda.gov
Phone +1 (530) 233-5811

Cell Service

AT&T None
Verizon None
T-Mobile None

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