Lower Rush Creek Campground
3.946 reviewsnull
Lower Rush 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
There is no fee for camping at Lower Rush Creek Campground.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Modoc National Forest, Lower Rush Creek Campground beckons adventurers seeking an authentic wilderness experience without the crowds or fees. This hidden gem unfolds across two distinct camping areas, each with its own character. The first section welcomes RVs up to 22 feet and traditional tent campers in a cozy loop configuration, while the second area reveals secluded walk-in tent sites perfect for those craving solitude. Towering cedar and Ponderosa pines cast dappled shadows across the grounds as Rush Creek whispers its timeless melody through both sections. While this free campground offers no modern amenities like potable water, it compensates with raw natural beauty and the freedom to disconnect. Pack your water and supplies, and prepare for a genuine back-to-basics camping experience. Note that winter snows can render access roads impassable, transforming this summer sanctuary into a snow-locked wilderness.
Lower Rush Creek Campground provides primitive camping with minimal facilities, tent sites, and some RV accommodation. The campground caters to individual campers and small groups.
Historical SignificanceWhispers of history echo through the pines at Lower Rush Creek, where observant visitors have discovered remnants of the past. A mysterious historical marker near the campground hints at old land boundaries, suggesting this peaceful forest once played a role in defining territories in California's complex past. While official records remain elusive, these subtle traces add an intriguing layer of human history to the natural landscape.
Weather and SeasonsThe campground experiences dramatic seasonal transformations throughout the year. Summer brings warm, pine-scented days perfect for creek-side relaxation, while autumn paints the forest in golden hues. Winter's arrival brings freezing temperatures and heavy snows that often block access roads, creating an isolated winter wonderland. Spring emerges slowly at this elevation, with wildflowers gradually reclaiming the forest floor. The sweet spot for camping runs from mid-May through the end of October, when nature strikes the perfect balance between accessibility and comfort. Plan your visit between May 15 and November 1 to ensure the roads welcome your arrival.
ElevationPerched at 4,700 feet above sea level, Lower Rush Creek Campground offers a refreshing escape from the heat of California's valleys. This mountain elevation creates a natural air conditioning system, where summer temperatures remain pleasantly cool even as lower elevations swelter. The thin mountain air carries the crisp scent of pine resin and wildflowers, while nights bring a blanket of stars unobscured by city lights.
Natural Features and SceneryNature takes center stage at Lower Rush Creek, where shady groves of aromatic cedar and stately Ponderosa pine create a cathedral-like canopy overhead. The campground's namesake creek serves as its liquid heartbeat, gurgling over smooth stones and creating peaceful pools that reflect the forest above. Morning mist often dances above the water, while afternoon sunlight filters through the pine needles, creating an ever-changing tapestry of light and shadow. This pristine forest setting offers photographers endless compositions and provides all visitors with a front-row seat to nature's daily performance.
Geological RegionRising from the volcanic landscapes of northeastern California, Lower Rush Creek Campground sits within the vast Modoc National Forest at 4,700 feet elevation. This region tells an ancient geological story through its diverse terrain, where volcanic activity once shaped the land now clothed in cedar and Ponderosa pine forests. Rush Creek has carved its own chapter into this landscape, creating a riparian corridor that supports diverse wildlife and adds a soothing soundtrack to the camping experience. The surrounding forest represents a unique ecosystem where Great Basin meets Cascade Range influences, creating a botanical crossroads rarely found elsewhere in California.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-friendly toilets are not available; accessibility features are limited.
Sites SizeStandard-sized sites, with volcanic cinder parking aprons.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy between campsites is good, especially in the walk-in tent section near Rush Creek.
Total Campsites10 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor those seeking privacy and proximity to the creek, the walk-in tent sites are recommended. RV campers should ensure their vehicle is under 22 feet in length due to road limitations.
Best CampsitesNo specific sites are highlighted as the best, but the walk-in tent sites near Rush Creek offer more privacy and closeness to the water.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
Camping limit is 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
- Group camping is not specifically mentioned
- sites are intended for individual use.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into two sections separated by Rush Creek: a small loop for RVs and tents, and a set of walk-in tent sites near the creek.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from May 15 to November 1, dependent on weather conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not available. Sites are first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are first-come, first-served; no reservations allowed.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are not applicable as the campground is first-come, first-served.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Camping at Lower Rush Creek Campground centers around enjoying nature, scenic drives, and exploring the nearby Ash Creek Wildlife Area. Activities like hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing are possible, though amenities for these are minimal.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities for rainbow trout are available in Rush Creek.Wildlife viewing
The nearby Ash Creek Wildlife Area provides opportunities to observe wildlife.Winter Activities
Winter camping is discouraged due to inaccessible roads and inclement weather.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing are available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No specific fire policies were provided in the materials.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsNo potable water is available, and roads may become impassable during inclement weather. Wildlife concerns include the presence of plague-infected nests, as noted by a user review. Campers should keep pets on a leash and watch for private property boundaries.
Active alertsNo current alerts are specifically mentioned, but seasonal accessibility depends on weather conditions.
Weather forecast
85
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 23%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.5 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
The nearest emergency services would likely be in the town of Adin, which is 7 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesPeak season is likely May 15 to November 1 as the campground is closed outside this period due to weather conditions.
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are available; recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresRush Creek runs through the campground, separating the two sections. The creek is described as 'cool and meandering' by user reviews.
Common complaintsSome user reviews note the lack of potable water and occasional dustiness near the road, as well as concerns about mosquitoes near the creek. One review mentions the campground as 'not well taken care of.'
HostNo information available about campground hosts.
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom Adin, CA, take State Routes 299/139 east 7 miles to Forest Route 22 (County Route 198). Turn right onto Route 22 and go less than 0.1 miles to campground sign. Turn left at sign onto Forest Route 40N05 (dirt and gravel) and go 0.6 miles to Lower Rush Creek Campground sign. Turn right after sign into campground.
"From Adin, travel north on Hwy 139/299 for 7.6 miles to County Road 198. Turn right on County Road 198 and go 0.1 miles to Rush Creek Drive/Lower Rush Creek Road. Turn left and continue for 0.5 miles to Lower Rush Creek Campground." Roads are gravel and dirt; trailers over 22 feet are not recommended. During winter, roads may become soft or impassable due to weather conditions.Nearby places
Adin (7 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Adin, a town on Hwy 299 approximately 7 miles from the campground, likely offers basic supplies, dining options, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
3.9
6 reviews
Lower Rush Creek Campground has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the campground's natural beauty, cleanliness, and quiet atmosphere. Several users appreciated the creek, shaded sites, and privacy between campsites. Complaints focused on the lack of potable water and cell phone service.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
"Nicest campsite of our 5-day trip." "Free, quiet, easy half mile off paved road." "Cleanest bathroom I’ve ever seen at a campground." "Nice camp sites and sweet little creek and paths."
Based on 6 reviewsCommon Concerns
"The place is not well taken care of." "No potable water." "No cell service whatsoever."
Based on 6 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water. Keep pets on a leash due to potential wildlife hazards. Avoid winter visits due to impassable roads and extreme conditions. Stop in the nearby town on Highway 299 for supplies.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Spring and fall are popular due to moderate temperatures and quieter settings. Winter camping is discouraged due to weather-related challenges, and summer can bring dust and mosquitos.
Based on 6 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Surprisingly developed for BLM land. Having trash bins and picnic tables is very handy." "Only one other person there, over Memorial Day Weekend." "Cleanest bathroom I’ve ever seen at a campground."...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
One user noted: "Dusty closer to the road, but I preferred that to the mosquitos near the stream." Another stated: "Lower Rush is pretty tight but we have a very small RV and it was absolutely lovely...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features were found.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
"Kept him on a leash per the suggestion on the sign." Users highlighted leash policies and potential wildlife hazards as important considerations for pet owners.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025