Stough Reservoir Campground
4.676 reviewsnull
Stough Reservoir 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
The fee is $15 per single campsite per day, with a maximum of 2 vehicles per site.
About this campground
Escape to the tranquil waters of Stough Reservoir Campground, where pine-scented breezes and mountain serenity await at 6,200 feet in the heart of Modoc National Forest. This hidden gem offers the perfect balance of accessibility and seclusion, with well-appointed campsites that showcase stunning reservoir views while maintaining a respectful distance from the shoreline. Thanks to regular stocking by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife, anglers can cast their lines with confidence, while nature lovers revel in the peaceful mountain atmosphere that feels worlds away from the hustle of everyday life.
Stough Reservoir Campground accommodates a range of camping preferences, from tent camping to small motorhomes and trailers.
Historical SignificanceStough Reservoir holds a special place in the hearts of bird enthusiasts as Stop Number 4 on the prestigious Basin & Range Birding Trail. This designation celebrates the area's remarkable avian diversity and positions the campground as a crucial waypoint for both migrating species and dedicated birdwatchers following this renowned trail through California's dramatic landscape.
Weather and SeasonsFrom mid-May through late October, Stough Reservoir transforms into a high-altitude haven where summer temperatures remain refreshingly cool while the valleys below swelter. As winter approaches, the campground embraces its dormant season, with freezing temperatures and snow creating a pristine wilderness tableau. Spring's arrival brings the gradual awakening of the forest, making each season a unique chapter in the campground's annual story. Plan your visit during the operational months to experience the perfect blend of warm days and crisp, star-filled nights.
ElevationPerched at 6,200 feet above sea level, Stough Reservoir Campground serves as nature's air conditioning system. While the valleys on either side bake under the summer sun, this elevated sanctuary maintains temperatures that are often 15-20 degrees cooler, creating an alpine microclimate where wildflowers bloom later, mornings arrive crisp and dewy, and afternoon shade provides genuine relief rather than mere respite.
Natural Features and SceneryThe shimmering expanse of Stough Reservoir forms the centerpiece of this scenic campground, its waters reflecting the surrounding forest and sky in an ever-changing canvas of blues and greens. Beyond the postcard-worthy views, the area pulses with wildlife activity. Early risers might spot Prairie Falcons patrolling the thermals, while Rufous Hummingbirds dart between wildflowers with jewel-like precision. The distinctive gobble of Wild Turkeys echoes through the pines, adding to the symphony of nature that makes this birding hotspot a paradise for wildlife photographers and casual observers alike.
Geological RegionNestled within the diverse ecosystem of Modoc National Forest, this 6,200-foot perch occupies a unique position in California's Basin and Range Province. The dramatic topography creates natural climate zones that shift dramatically with elevation, making Stough Reservoir a cool mountain oasis when compared to the arid valleys below. As Stop Number 4 on the Basin & Range Birding Trail, the campground sits at the intersection of multiple habitats, where montane forests meet open water, creating the ecological diversity that draws both wildlife and those who seek to observe it.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeThe sites are noted as manageable for small trailers and motorhomes, with some sites better suited for tent camping or cab-over campers.
Sites PrivacySites sit away from the reservoir shore, offering views of the water. User reviews also suggest that certain sites have a higher level of privacy, such as the 'backside' site mentioned for its private view.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended Campsites"Get campsite on backside for a private view of the Bear kissing the Honeypot rock formation."
Best CampsitesSome reviews highlight the backside sites for privacy and views of unique rock formations.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
Camping limit 14 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 2 vehicles per site.
Groups
No specific group camping details are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are away from the shore of the reservoir. "The rest were great for tent spots or cab-over campers."
Open and Closed SeasonFacilities open as weather permits; usually mid-May to late October.
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Cancellation Policynull
Amenities available
Potable water
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Stough Reservoir Campground offers a variety of recreational opportunities. Activities include fishing in the small but stocked reservoir, non-motorized boating, and bird watching along the Basin & Range Birding Trail. Wildlife is abundant, with reports of Prairie Falcons, Rufous Hummingbirds, Wild Turkeys, and even Ospreys snagging fish from the reservoir.
Fishing
The reservoir is stocked by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. User reviews highlight its low water levels at times but note clear water and abundant wildlife.Boating
Non-motorized boating is listed as an activity at the reservoir, providing a peaceful experience.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife is abundant, as noted by user reviews: 'The lady ducks are really nice as well, and the Osprey snagging fish out of the tiny reservoir tops off the experience.'Winter Activities
User reviews indicate that the reservoir can be frozen over during winter, offering a picturesque setting.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking or canoeing may be possible, given the mention of non-motorized boating.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
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- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsnull
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 27%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.2 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
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Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingNo information is provided about trash or recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located near a small reservoir that is stocked with fish.
Common complaintsSome reviews note issues such as the reservoir being low and "weedy" at times.
Hostnull
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom Alturas go north 5 miles on US Hwy 395 to Hwy 299. Turn east on Hwy 299 toward Cedarville and go approximately 13 miles to Forest Road 43N07. Turn north and the campground is 1 mile on the left.
The campground is accessible via a gravel road one mile off Hwy 299. "Small trailers and motorhomes will find access and turnarounds manageable."Nearby places
Alturas (approximately 18 miles, including the drive along Hwy 395 and Hwy 299), Cedarville (approximately 14 miles)
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.7
6 reviews
Stough Reservoir Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground's quiet atmosphere, scenic views, and abundant wildlife. Common themes include the manageable access for trailers, clean restrooms, and the reservoir's low water levels at times.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the campground for its tranquility, cleanliness, and rich wildlife. One review states: 'Nice little quiet campground in a beautiful part of the Modoc National Forest.' Another mentions:...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some reviews mention low water levels in the reservoir, leading to dead fish and weedy conditions: 'The reservoir was really low so there was lots of dead fish.'
Based on 6 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors suggest choosing sites on the 'backside' for private views. The area is also suitable for bird watching, so bringing binoculars and a camera is recommended.
Based on 6 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is open from mid-May to late October. Winter visits reveal a frozen-over reservoir, described as 'beautiful.' Summer reviews mention the relief from valley heat due to the 6,200 ft...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Bathrooms clean. Quiet and gorgeous!!'
2. 'We lived our stay here! The reservoir was really low so there was lots of dead fish, but the water was so clear and the wildlife was abundant!'
3. 'Nice...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
'Get campsite on backside for a private view of the Bear kissing the Honeypot 🍯🍯 rock formation.'
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be leashed. User reviews do not elaborate further on pet-specific experiences.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025