Medicine Lake Recreation Area
4.2143 reviewsMODOC NATIONAL FOREST, DOUBLEHEAD RANGER DISTRICT OFFICE, 49870 HIGHWAY 139, Tulelake, CA, 96134, USA
Medicine Lake Recreation Area
$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
The standard recreation use fee is $15 per night during peak season (July 1 to September 25). Additional fees such as reservation service fees ($8 online, $9 via contact center, $3 in-person) may apply. Senior Annual Pass holders may qualify for discounts.
About this campground
Discover a mountain paradise where four distinct campgrounds embrace the pristine shores of Medicine Lake, deep within the enchanting Modoc National Forest. Here, families gather beneath towering pines to create memories around crackling campfires, while days unfold with endless adventures—from morning swims in crystal-clear waters to sunset hikes along volcanic ridges. Whether you arrive with a tent or RV, you'll find your perfect basecamp among sites that balance rustic charm with essential amenities like vault toilets and drinking water. While the area maintains its wild character with occasionally temperamental facilities, the authentic outdoor experience and breathtaking natural beauty more than compensate for any minor inconveniences.
Medicine Lake Recreation Area includes options for tent camping, RVs, and dry camping. Group camping areas are available, and cabins or glamping options are not offered.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape where ancient traditions meet geological wonders. Every July, the Medicine Campground Loop comes alive with the rhythmic drums and vibrant regalia of the annual Pit River Tribe powwow, a celebration that has blessed these grounds for generations during the third weekend of the month. Just beyond the campground, the fascinating Lava Beds National Monument tells stories written in stone—tales of volcanic fury and human resilience that stretch back thousands of years, adding layers of meaning to every sunset viewed from your campsite.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic dance of mountain weather at nearly 7,000 feet, where summer days invite you to bask in gentle warmth while evenings call for cozy layers around the campfire. Early July visitors often wake to crisp mornings that give way to perfect hiking weather, while autumn transforms the landscape into a golden wonderland ideal for camping—right up until winter's first snowflakes close the curtain on the season. The dry mountain climate means you'll enjoy mostly clear skies and minimal rain, though winter brings a blanket of snow that transforms this summer playground into a frozen wilderness.
ElevationPerched at 6,770 feet in the dramatic Medicine Lake Highlands, this alpine sanctuary offers a refreshing escape from valley heat. Here, the thin mountain air carries the scent of pine and volcanic earth, while expansive vistas reveal a landscape sculpted by ancient fire and ice. The elevation gifts visitors with naturally air-conditioned summers and panoramic views that stretch across volcanic peaks and pristine wilderness, creating an atmosphere that feels worlds away from everyday life.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where ancient lodgepole pines stand sentinel over the glassy waters of Medicine Lake, their branches creating a natural cathedral that shelters campsites from mountain winds. Your days here unfold against a backdrop of geological drama—the glittering obsidian slopes of Glass Mountain catch morning light while the dark, mysterious contours of Burnt Lava Flow tell stories of Earth's fiery past. Lucky visitors might share their morning coffee with curious deer, as noted by past guests, while the lake itself serves as nature's mirror, reflecting volcanic peaks and endless sky in its calm waters.
Geological RegionWelcome to a land forged by fire and shaped by time, where the Medicine Lake Highlands showcase nature's most dramatic artistry at 6,770 feet within the Modoc National Forest. This volcanic wonderland serves as your basecamp for exploring an extraordinary geological tapestry—from the otherworldly Medicine Lake Lava Flow to the shimmering obsidian formations of Glass Mountain and the haunting beauty of Burnt Lava Flow Geologic Area. Venture beyond to discover the underground mysteries of Lava Beds National Monument or witness millions of migrating birds at Tulelake National Wildlife Refuge, each destination revealing another chapter in this region's remarkable story of volcanic creation and ecological resilience.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific or detailed information provided about accessibility features.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, accommodating everything from tent campers to 35 ft motorhomes. Some sites are described as "spacious," while others are rugged with limited parking.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies; some sites offer proximity to the lake, while others are clustered, making them less private. User reviews highlight both family-friendly and less secluded options.
Total Campsites86 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites close to the lake for scenic views and easy access to water activities, such as sites 024 and 040. Fall camping is recommended for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Best CampsitesSite-specific recommendations from user reviews include campsite 040 (close to water and wind-sheltered, ideal for fishing) and 051 in A.H. Hogue for quiet post-Labor Day camping.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in is at 11:00 AM local time.
Check-out
Check-out is at noon local time.
Stay Limit
Reservations allow a maximum consecutive stay of 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 10 guests and 2 vehicles may occupy a single site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is divided into loops such as Medicine, A.H. Hogue, and Hemlock, with a mix of tent-friendly and RV-friendly sites. Some provide lake access or are sheltered from wind.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations from July 1 to September 25 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available on Recreation.gov, through mobile apps, or via the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is limited, particularly during peak season. User reviews emphasize that on-site management of walk-up spaces is unreliable and the absence of campground hosts exacerbates the issue.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before your scheduled arrival date, with a $10 cancellation fee applied. Late cancellations (after midnight the calendar day before the scheduled check-in) will forfeit the first night's recreation fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's fees as well. The facility may refuse refunds.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Medicine Lake Recreation Area offers a variety of activities, including camping, boating, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and swimming. "Plenty to do, from trout fishing to bike rides to hiking numerous trails around the lake and surrounding forest." The lake is also suitable for tubing and water skiing.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available, with the trail to Little Mt. Hoffman being the longest. A user review mentions, "The hike toward the Glass Mountain Lava Flow was right across the street."Fishing
Fishing opportunities include trout fishing in Medicine Lake and two smaller lakes nearby. One review notes, "Fishing is great," while another points out, "Good fishing despite the lake being very low."Swimming
Swimming is available in a designated area near the Picnic Area. User reviews highlight the lake's "clean, clear waters" and its suitability for swimming.Biking
Mountain biking opportunities are present along trails originating from the campground. Specific trail details are not provided.Boating
Boating is supported with a concrete boat ramp and dock. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing are popular. "It's a fishing, kayak, and canoe lake," noted one reviewer.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife, such as deer, can be seen walking through the campgrounds. User reviews also mention "migratory waterfowl" in nearby wildlife refuges.Beach activities
There is a sandy beach suitable for family-friendly activities. "Perfect sandy beach," as one reviewer describes.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, though access may be limited by snow.Water Sports
The lake supports water sports like tubing and water skiing. Kayaking and paddleboarding are also noted by reviewers.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted within designated fire rings and grills provided at each campsite.
- Quiet hours are enforced after 10:00 PM, although enforcement is inconsistent as per user reviews.
Hazards
General hazardsWater quality advisories are periodically issued, warning against drinking from faucets. Road conditions to the campground are challenging, especially the washboard surface near Lava Beds National Monument. User reviews highlight concerns with unsanitary restrooms and wildlife management.
Active alertsSeasonal water contamination advisories have been issued ('Do not drink the water' notices on faucets in Brian Hovander's review).
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 36%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 7.7 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
Doublehead Ranger District Office in Tulelake offers administrative assistance. Police and nearby emergency services are accessible in Tulelake, approximately 30 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 1 - September 25
Trash and recyclingTrash collection and garbage dumpsters are available all season. Multiple dumpsters are mentioned in user reviews, but no recycling facilities are explicitly described.
Proximity to water featuresMedicine Lake is directly adjacent to the campground, offering opportunities for swimming, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Other nearby lakes include one within the campground and a smaller one 3 miles away.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include unreliable reservation enforcement, unsanitary restrooms, lack of campground hosts, and periodic water contamination advisories. Several users commented on noisy campers, as loud generators and poorly managed large groups disturbed the tranquility.
HostCampground hosts are inconsistently present. Several reviews, such as Alex V, noted 'camping host is on duty' while others described a lack of any host presence.
Campground Map
MODOC NATIONAL FOREST, DOUBLEHEAD RANGER DISTRICT OFFICE, 49870 HIGHWAY 139, Tulelake, CA, 96134, USA
Driving directionsFrom McCloud go east on US Hwy 89 south for 16 miles to Forest Service Road 15/Harris Spring Rd. Turn left on Road 15 and go 4.4 miles to Forest Service Road 49/Medicine Lake Road. Follow the signs 27.5 miles to Medicine Lake. From Tulelake take US Hwy 139 south for 21 miles to Forest Service Road 97. Turn right on Road 97 and go 24 miles turning right on Road 49. Drive 2 more miles turning left into the entrance of Medicine Lake Recreation Area. Follow the signs to your final campground destination.
The roads to Medicine Lake Recreation Area vary in condition and difficulty. According to authoritative sources, roads are paved and accessible most of the way, but the last stretch can be a dusty and severe washboard surface, especially the 13-mile route to the Lava Beds National Monument. A marginally paved alternative route exists but is longer at 37 miles. User reviews such as Troy Shankles suggest signage on these roads is inadequate, with comments like 'The Forest service could spend less time driving around and more time upgrading some of the signs.' Satellite GPS is recommended due to the lack of cell service.Nearby places
Tulelake: 21 miles (~30-minute drive), McCloud: ~16 miles (~30-minute drive to Forest Service Road 15)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be accessed in Tulelake, which is approximately 30 miles away. There is no mention of supplies available directly within the Medicine Lake Recreation Area.
Camper Reviews
4.2
43 reviews
Medicine Lake Recreation Area is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives a mix of reviews. While many appreciate its natural beauty and recreational opportunities, others criticize poor management and a lack of basic amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 43 reviews
What Campers Love
"Nature in all its splendor," "Fishing is great," and "Clean, clear waters" are recurring highlights. Many users praise the campground's tranquility and beautiful surroundings.
Based on 43 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common issues include poor sanitation ("outhouses nearly full to the brim"), unreliable reservations ("sites given away despite reservations"), and lack of enforcement of rules ("dogs running wild,"...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Make reservations in advance, especially for larger RVs. Bring your own drinking water as "water faucets had a notice to not drink the water." Consider visiting in fall for fewer crowds and better...
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are busy, and the campground is often crowded. Fall offers quieter stays. Winter access may be restricted by snow.
Based on 43 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "I had been to this campground six years ago... and thought it was one of the best campgrounds in California." 2. "The area is gorgeous. Not one bad thing can be said about the natural beauty." 3....
Based on 43 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 51 (A.H. Hogue Campground) is noted for its quietness post-Labor Day; Site 40 is close to the water and less windy; Site 56 is highlighted for its nice host.
Based on 43 reviewsAccessibility Features
No detailed feedback on accessibility; however, vault toilets and the rugged terrain may pose challenges for individuals with mobility issues.
Based on 43 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Mixed reviews regarding pets. While pets are allowed, some users complain about unleashed dogs causing disturbances, with one stating, "Dogs barking 24-7, running in and out of our camp."
Based on 43 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025