Finding a certified United States Forest Service, or USFS, campground in Northern California is relatively easy. Among the state's lush forests and rugged desert terrain are a wide variety of national forests and campgrounds that offer an array of outdoor recreational activities. ATV riding, hiking, swimming and fishing are only a few of the numerous activities enjoyed at some of Calfornia's USFS campgrounds. Northern California' USFS campgrounds are usually open Memorial Day to Labor Day, depending on snow accumulation, and peak season is generally late spring to early summer.
Situated on 1.2 million acres between the Sierra Nevada and the Cascade Range, the Plumas National Forest is home to many camping and recreational opportunities. Open year-round when weather permits, Feather Falls Campground is one of many sites found within forest boundaries. No fee is required, but there is a maximum stay of 14 days, and campsites are on a first-come, first-served basis. Access to potable water and vault toilets is available. Campground activities include a moderate-level mountain bike trail and a 9-mile day loop for day hiking. During mid- to late spring, wildflowers are in bloom and the main attraction -- Feather Falls -- is flowing at its strongest.
Camping in Modoc National Forest gives visitors access to water sports, hunting, fishing, horseback riding and more. Soup Springs Campground offers 14 units for tent camping and RVs up to 22 feet. A great retreat for horse lovers, the campground also boasts horse corrals and horse trailer parking. Also found on the grounds are vault toilets, drinking water stations, picnic tables and fire pits. Soup Springs charges a fee for use of its camping facilities. Backcountry camping in Modoc National Forest is also allowed, with some restrictions. Undeveloped camp sites must be at least 1/4 mile from developed campgrounds. Backcountry camping is free but limited to 30 days a year.
Located on the border of California and Nevada, the Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit offers an ideal camping experience. More than 75 percent of the Basin's 150,000 acres is public land, much of which offers access to hiking and biking trails, scenic beaches, historic sites and riding stables. Found in the South Lake Tahoe region of the basin, Campground by the Lake has scenic sites with lake access nearby. Amenities include an on-site library, camp store, ice arena, recreation complex, visitors center and museum. A disc golf course and dog park are also located nearby. RV and tent camping are available, and sites may accommodate up to six people. Canvas "tent cabins" are available for larger parties.
