Alder Creek Campground
02 reviews900 E. Hwy 36 Chester, CA 96020
Alder Creek Campground
$10.00 - $10.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
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
Single Site fee is $10 per night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount to Single Campsites physically occupied by the pass holder.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of nature, Alder Creek Campground offers an intimate escape with just six thoughtfully placed sites along the banks of pristine Deer Creek. This semi-developed gem provides the perfect balance between wilderness adventure and camping comfort, where the gentle murmur of flowing water creates a natural soundtrack for your outdoor retreat. The limited number of sites ensures a peaceful, uncrowded experience that feels like your own private slice of paradise.
Alder Creek Campground is suitable for tent and small group camping. There are 6 designated sites.
Historical SignificanceWhile Alder Creek may not boast ancient ruins or historic landmarks, its untouched natural beauty tells a timeless story of the wilderness that has captivated adventurers for generations. This pristine corner of the forest remains much as it has for centuries, offering modern campers a chance to connect with the raw, unspoiled landscape that defines the American wilderness experience.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of changing seasons at Alder Creek, where crisp winter mornings give way to snow-dusted landscapes and summer brings warm, sun-drenched days perfect for creek-side relaxation. The campground transforms with each season, offering cozy winter camping for the hardy adventurer and idyllic summer conditions for families seeking the quintessential outdoor experience. Spring and fall paint the surrounding forest in spectacular colors, creating magical transitions between nature's extremes.
ElevationPerched at 3,900 feet above sea level, Alder Creek Campground sits in the sweet spot of mountain elevation where the air is refreshingly crisp but not too thin, and the climate remains comfortable for most outdoor activities. This moderate altitude provides stunning forest vistas while keeping you below the harsh conditions of higher peaks, making it accessible for campers of all experience levels.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground's crown jewel is its prime location alongside the crystal-clear waters of Deer Creek, where rippling currents dance over smooth stones and create peaceful pools perfect for quiet contemplation. Towering conifers provide a natural canopy overhead, filtering sunlight into dappled patterns across the forest floor. The semi-developed setting preserves the area's wild character while offering just enough amenities to ensure a comfortable stay, creating an authentic backcountry experience without sacrificing basic conveniences.
Geological RegionSituated within the majestic expanse of Lassen National Forest, Alder Creek Campground rests in a region shaped by ancient volcanic forces and carved by centuries of flowing water. Deer Creek has sculpted this landscape over millennia, creating a riparian corridor that supports diverse ecosystems and offers campers a front-row seat to the geological wonders of Northern California's volcanic heritage. The surrounding forest showcases the resilient beauty of a landscape that has evolved through fire, water, and time.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no information regarding accessibility features for campers with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe campground has 6 designated sites with limited space.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Fishing is excellent." - User Review
Best CampsitesNull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
Fee must be paid prior to each night.
Guests Allowed Per Site
1vehicle and 8 persons allowed per site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutNull
Open and Closed SeasonGenerally open to first-come-first-serve camping through Labor Day weekend.
Reservation PlatformsNull
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come-first-serve camping model applies.
Cancellation PolicyNull
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Alder Creek Campground offers fishing opportunities in the adjacent Deer Creek and features scenic views. "Fishing is excellent," according to user reviews. Additional recreational activities include hunting and shooting.
Fishing
Fishing is available in Deer Creek and is described by users as 'excellent.'Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed only in provided fire rings.
- Quiet hours are 10pm to 6am.
Hazards
General hazardsHazardous trees mentioned as the reason for being currently closed.
Active alerts"Closed for the season. Unsafe to occupy due to hazardous trees."
Weather forecast
88
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 24%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Almanor Ranger District, 900 E. Hwy 36 Chester, CA 96020, Phone: (530) 258-2141.
Good to know
Peak season datesNull
Trash and recyclingThere is no information about trash or recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Deer Creek.
Common complaintsNull
HostNull
Campground Map
900 E. Hwy 36 Chester, CA 96020
Driving directionsAlder Creek Campground is located on Highway 32 approximately 20 miles southwest of Chester.
Accessible via Highway 32. No mention of seasonal closures or challenging terrain in authoritative sources.Nearby places
Chester: 20 miles southwest
Nearby supplies
Null
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews
Alder Creek Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Users describe Alder Creek Campground as a 'great camping site and fishing hole on the way to Mount Lassen.' The campground is noted for its affordability and excellent fishing.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
Fishing opportunities in Deer Creek are highly praised. The campground is described as peaceful and well-maintained. At $10 per night, the price is considered a significant positive.
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
No specific concerns or complaints were raised in user reviews.
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users encourage bringing cash or check to pay for the campsite. They also highlight the importance of preparing for the lack of potable water on-site.
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is open seasonally until Labor Day weekend. Weather conditions and tree hazards may affect usability during the off-season.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Fishing is excellent." - Samuel Mcconnell
2. "Just another great camping site and fishing hole on the way to Mount Lassen." - Game Changer
Based on 2 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers are mentioned in user reviews.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
There are no reviews that specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must remain on a leash or confined at all times. There are no specific reviews from pet owners.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025