Lava Camp
Open as weather permits. No reservations required. 14-day stay limit in effect. Fire restrictions are currently lifted forest-wide.
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.…
Forest Fire Restrictions
There are No current Fire restrictions in placeFire Restrictions Have Been Lifted on the Modoc National Forest on September 28, 2025 - Fall is here, and cooler weather conditions have allowed the Modoc National Forest fire restrictions were lifted at 12:01 a.m. on Sunday, September 28, 2025. This…
About
Lava Camp is a remote, undeveloped campground situated in the Big Valley Ranger District of Modoc National Forest. Located in the volcanic terrain of northeastern California, this primitive camping area provides an opportunity for solitude away from more developed recreation sites. The campground has no fees and no reservation system. This is bare-bones camping: there are no restrooms, no potable water, and no trash collection. Campers must be fully self-sufficient and practice pack-in, pack-out ethics. The 14-day stay limit applies. Pets are permitted but must remain leashed within the campground area. The campground opens as weather permits, typically becoming accessible after snowmelt in late spring. Road conditions can be rough, and access may be limited during wet periods or early season. The surrounding Modoc National Forest offers opportunities for exploring volcanic features, with Lava Beds National Monument located to the north.
Directions
From Adin, California, head west on County Road 87 for approximately 10 miles. Turn north onto County Road 91 and continue for about 19 miles. Then, turn west onto Forest Service Road 56 for approximately 11 miles. Finally, take Forest Service Road 42N23 south and proceed for about 7 miles to reach the entrance of Lava Camp Campground.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | — |
| Toilets | No |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | — |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (530) 233-5811 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| USFS Lava Camp Campground | |
| Modoc NF Alerts |
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