Ash Creek Campground
4.3110 reviewsAsh Creek Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
No fees are required to use this campground.
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About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Modoc National Forest, Ash Creek Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience. This intimate, primitive campground serves as your gateway to pristine fishing waters, scenic hiking trails, and prime hunting grounds, offering a true escape from the modern world where nature takes center stage.
Ash Creek Campground is best suited for primitive camping, with small sites catering primarily to tent campers. It is described as quiet, remote, and basic, with no fees for use.
Weather and SeasonsThe seasons paint dramatically different portraits at Ash Creek. Early spring arrives with a wild temperament, bringing unpredictable weather that tests even seasoned campers. As summer unfolds, the campground transforms into a haven of blue skies and comfortable temperatures, creating that perfect balance outdoor enthusiasts dream about. Each season offers its own rewards for those willing to embrace nature's changing moods.
ElevationNestled at a lower elevation than many mountain campgrounds, Ash Creek awakens from winter's grip earlier in the season, welcoming eager campers when higher peaks still slumber under snow. This strategic positioning makes it an ideal destination for those anxious to start their camping season without waiting for summer's full arrival.
Natural Features and SceneryThe gentle murmur of Ash Creek provides the soundtrack to your stay, its crystal-clear waters teeming with trout that challenge anglers of all skill levels. Fly fishers find paradise along the creek's meandering banks, where perfect casting spots reveal themselves around each bend. For those seeking broader horizons, the Red Tail Rim Trail winds through the surrounding landscape, offering hikers stunning vistas and intimate encounters with the diverse ecosystem of Modoc National Forest.
Geological RegionThis lower-elevation sanctuary sits in a unique pocket of the landscape where spring arrives weeks earlier than in the surrounding high country. The gentle terrain and milder climate create an extended camping season, making Ash Creek a cherished secret among those who prefer to pitch their tents while snow still caps the distant peaks.
Campsite details
Sites SizeThe campsites are small, as noted by several user reviews, with one specifying that they are 'difficult to get into.'
Sites PrivacySites are relatively secluded, with user reviews noting the campground is 'remote' and 'quiet.'
Total Campsites5 campsites
Recommended CampsitesMore suited to tent camping according to user feedback. Users also note campsite entry difficulty.
Best CampsitesNot explicitly defined in official sources or reviews.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Camping limit 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact numbers are not stated.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSmall campground with approximately 5 sites according to user reviews.
Open and Closed SeasonEarly season opening due to low elevation.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served basis.
Amenities available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Ash Creek Campground offers a variety of recreation opportunities, particularly for those interested in fishing and hiking. Fishing is a major draw due to the stocked creek, and hiking enthusiasts can explore the nearby 22-mile Red Tail Rim Trail. Additional activities include hunting and picnicking.
Hiking
Located near the Red Tail Rim Trail, which is open to equestrian, mountain biking, and foot travel. The trail spans approximately 22 miles, providing ample opportunities for hiking.Fishing
Fishing is highly rated, with the creek stocked by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Several user reviews highlight trout fishing as a key attraction.Biking
Mountain biking is permitted on the nearby Red Tail Rim Trail, which is 22 miles long.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
Hazards
General hazardsBoil water advisory issued, and concerns about restroom cleanliness and potential wildlife hazards noted in user reviews.
Active alertsBoil water advisory in effect.
Weather forecast
84
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 23%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9.4 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
Good to know
Trash and recyclingThere is no trash service at the campground. Visitors must pack out all garbage, including pet waste.
Proximity to water featuresLocated close to Ash Creek with good trout fishing opportunities.
Common complaints"Restroom filthy and filled with trash and bat/rat compost." "Campsites are small and difficult to get into."
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Adin go east on County Road 527/Forest Road 39N08 approximately 7 miles to County Road 22. Turn left on County Road 22 and follow the signs approximately .6 mile to the campground on the right.
Exact road conditions are not described, but users are advised to avoid driving on soft roads or saturated soil to prevent resource damage.Camper Reviews
4.3
10 reviews
Ash Creek Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews describe Ash Creek Campground as a primitive and quiet camping destination, ideal for activities like fishing and hiking. While many appreciate its remote and serene setting, others criticize the poor maintenance of facilities, particularly the vault toilets.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers appreciate the quiet, remote location, and its suitability for fishing and hiking. One user wrote, 'Small little campground with great trout fishing,' while another mentioned, 'Nice little...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent complaints include the poor condition and cleanliness of the vault toilets. One user explicitly called the restroom a 'health hazard' due to trash and bat/rat compost.
Based on 10 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring sufficient water for drinking and cleaning due to the lack of potable water. Prepare for primitive conditions and pack out all trash.
Based on 10 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Ash Creek Campground is accessible earlier in the season due to its low elevation. Seasonal weather can vary significantly, with the risk of extreme conditions highlighted in the official sources.
Based on 10 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Small little campground with great trout fishing.' 2. 'More catered to tent camping, maybe 5 small sites.' 3. 'The restroom filthy and filled trash and bat/rat compost.'
Based on 10 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Specific reviews mention the campground has approximately 4–5 sites. One user described the sites as 'small and difficult to get into,' while another highlighted that the campground is 'quiet' and...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, as long as they are kept on a leash. One user praised the campground's suitability for dogs.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025