Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park Campground
02 reviewsAhjumawi Lava Springs State Park is reachable only by shallow-draft boat.
Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park Campground
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Self-registration fee of $15 per night is required upon entry.
About this campground
Escape to true wilderness at this remote paddle-in campground, where three pristine camping areas await along the shores of Ja She Creek, Crystal Springs, and Horr Pond. Accessible only by canoe or kayak, this hidden gem offers adventurous souls a chance to disconnect from the modern world and immerse themselves in untouched nature. While amenities are limited to basic pit toilets, the reward is an authentic backcountry experience few ever discover.
Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park campground is exclusively primitive, with no modern facilities.
Historical SignificanceCamp on ancestral lands that echo with thousands of years of history. The Ajumawi people, whose name graces this sacred place, pioneered sustainable living here through ingenious rock fish traps that allowed them to harvest from the abundant waters while maintaining ecological balance. Their legacy of environmental stewardship continues today, as California State Parks acquired and preserved this treasure in 1975, ensuring future generations can experience the same pristine wilderness the Ajumawi called home.
Weather and SeasonsExperience dramatic seasonal contrasts in this high-desert paradise. Summer days sizzle with temperatures climbing between 85°F and 100°F, perfect for cooling off in the crystal-clear waters, while evenings bring blessed relief as temperatures drop to a comfortable 60°F-70°F for stargazing around the campfire. Winter transforms the landscape into a moody wonderland of cold, wet weather with occasional dustings of snow, as the area receives its annual 20 inches of rainfall.
ElevationPerched at 3,300 feet above sea level, this high-altitude sanctuary offers a unique camping experience where the thin mountain air enhances both the brilliance of the stars and the intensity of the seasons. The elevation creates a microclimate of temperature extremes that adds adventure to every visit, from crisp mornings that demand an extra layer to afternoon heat that invites a refreshing swim.
Natural Features and SceneryPrepare to be mesmerized by a landscape that seems painted by nature's most artistic hand. Turquoise bays shimmer like jewels against dramatic black basalt lava flows, while tree-studded islands dot the water like emerald stepping stones. Ancient junipers twist skyward alongside fragrant bitterbrush, mountain mahogany, and rare hybrid pines. This living gallery hosts an ever-changing cast of wildlife, from graceful migratory birds painting the sky to majestic deer herds moving through the shadows, and beneath the water, the endangered Shasta crayfish finds one of its last refuges.
Geological RegionJourney to the heart of the remote Fall River Valley basin, where the earth's raw power is frozen in time across a landscape two-thirds covered by jet-black basaltic lava. These otherworldly formations, birthed by the Medicine Lake Volcano just 3,000 to 5,000 years ago, create a moonscape of pit craters, undulating pressure ridges, and mysterious lava tubes waiting to be explored. It's a geologist's playground where every rock tells the story of our planet's fiery past.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe boat dock and a restroom at Horr Pond primitive campground are accessible. However, the park’s uneven lava terrain may limit accessibility for individuals with certain disabilities.
Sites SizeSites are primitive and their sizes are not described in detail.
Sites PrivacyGiven the remote nature, campsites are likely to offer significant privacy.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUser reviews suggest avoiding areas with thick pond scum or sediment build-up near Horr Pond.
Best CampsitesSpecific campsites or site numbers are not highlighted as best.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Self-registration at any time.
Check-out
Not explicitly stated.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay limits may apply, but the official documents do not specify exact days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest limits are not specified.
Groups
No group camping site details are specified.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features three separate primitive areas near Ja She Creek, Crystal Springs, and Horr Pond. Sites are remote and spaced apart.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Visitors should expect extreme weather variations between summer and winter.
Reservation PlatformsRegistration is self-pay upon entry; no online or phone reservation system stated.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability via self-registration envelopes.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation rules and penalties not provided.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park provides diverse outdoor activities, including boating, hiking, fishing, and birdwatching.
Hiking
The park features 20 miles of trails varying from 1.5 to over 5 miles in length. Trails offer stunning views of Mount Shasta, Mount Lassen, and Cascade Range peaks.Fishing
Licensed anglers can fish for Sacramento suckers, largemouth bass, and both brown and rainbow trout in Ja She Creek, Horr Pond, Big Lake, and Crystal Springs.Boating
Boating is required to access the park and provides opportunities to explore waterways, pools, and lava flows. Visitors must bring their own shallow-draft boats.Wildlife viewing
Birdwatching is popular, with species such as bald eagles, ospreys, and Canada geese frequenting the area. Non-native muskrats and herds of black-tailed deer can also be seen.Winter Activities
Winter activities may include birdwatching and wildlife viewing, but reviews suggest limited recreational usability due to cold and wet conditions.Water Sports
Kayaking and canoeing are possible and necessary for park access, but non-motorized water sports are not explicitly described.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Light fires only in rings provided.
- Quiet hours are No explicit quiet hours provided.
Hazards
General hazardsAbundant rattlesnakes, ticks, stinging nettles, and mosquitoes. Hypothermia risks from cold waterways. Lava flows are unstable; sturdy footwear is essential.
Active alertsTemporary limited maintenance services. Visitors must pack out all refuse.
Weather forecast
93
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 19%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital and emergency services are in McArthur, approximately 6 miles from Rat Farm boat launch.
Good to know
Peak season datesOfficial peak season dates are not provided.
Trash and recyclingVisitors are required to pack out all refuse they bring, as maintenance services are limited.
Proximity to water featuresSituated near Ja She Creek, Horr Pond, and Crystal Springs, all fed by underwater springs.
Common complaintsSeveral user reviews note unpleasant odors and muck in specific waterways, particularly near Horr Pond. Visitors report challenging kayaking conditions with sediment.
HostNo host information provided in official sources.
Campground Map
Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park is reachable only by shallow-draft boat.
Driving directionsFrom McArthur, turn north off Highway 299 on to Main St., continuing past the Intermountain Fairgrounds, crossing over a canal and proceeding 3 miles north on a graded dirt road ending at Rat Farm boat launch and parking area. Visitors can then paddle through Big Lake to reach the park.
Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park is only accessible by boat. The access road leading to Rat Farm boat launch is graded dirt. Larger power boats are discouraged due to shallow access points.Nearby places
McArthur (6 miles, approximately 15 minutes by car to Rat Farm boat launch). Burney Falls Memorial State Park (approximately 20 miles).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in McArthur, roughly 6 miles from Rat Farm boat launch. Bring sufficient supplies as the campground itself lacks potable water and other resources.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Ahjumawi Lava Springs State Park Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the park's unique beauty and remote wilderness, but also note its lack of basic amenities and challenging conditions.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviewers appreciate the park's isolation, stunning vistas, and excellent birdwatching opportunities. "Absolutely unique state park! The only way to get here is by boat!"
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include the lack of potable water, challenging terrain, and areas with sediment resembling bird droppings. "There were tons of birds there... and strangely a lot of bird eggs in the water."
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should bring a water filter or carry adequate supplies of potable water. They should also wear sturdy shoes for hiking and prepare for cold or wet conditions during winter.
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer temperatures range from 85-100°F, while winters are cold and wet with occasional snow. Spring and fall temperatures are more moderate, making them ideal for camping.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Absolutely amazing and truly unique state park. The only way to get here is by boat!" "An absolutely beautiful water meadow with birds of many species."
Based on 2 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Specific campsite reviews are limited, but Horr Pond primitive campground is noted for its accessibility features.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
The boat dock and restroom at Horr Pond have accessible features, but the rugged terrain limits broader accessibility.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Dogs are allowed but must be confined to tents at night and leashed during the day. "Except for service animals, pets are not recommended."
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025