Christie Campground

Star4.15
51 reviews
477-050 Eagle Lake Road, Susanville, CA, 96130, USA
Christie Campground
$28.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $28 for standard non-electric and RV sites to $50 for group sites. An additional fee of $5 is required for RV dumping at a station...
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Standard Site Fee$28.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$78.00

Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
530-825-3454

About this campground

Nestled along the southwestern shores of Eagle Lake, Christie Campground emerges as a hidden gem within Lassen National Forest's Eagle Lake Recreation Area. This peaceful retreat beckons those seeking respite from crowded campgrounds, offering an impressive 69 sites spread generously through towering conifers. With 47 sites available for reservation and 22 welcoming spontaneous adventurers on a first-come, first-served basis, Christie accommodates every camping style from luxurious RVs to cozy tents. Adventure extends beyond your campsite via the scenic 5.2-mile paved bike trail that winds through the forest, connecting you to neighboring facilities and endless exploration opportunities.
Christie Campground offers diverse accommodations, including spaces for RVs, tents, and group camping. Sites are available both for reservation and on a first-come, first-served basis.
Historical SignificanceWhile Christie Campground's recorded history may be modest, the land whispers ancient stories through its towering pines and the timeless waters of Eagle Lake. This pristine corner of Lassen National Forest continues to write new chapters with each visitor who finds solace beneath its canopy.
Weather and SeasonsSummer at Christie Campground unfolds with warm, sun-drenched days perfect for lake activities, though Mother Nature often punctuates afternoons with dramatic thunderstorms that roll across the mountain landscape. As daylight fades, the elevation works its magic, transforming hot afternoons into refreshingly cool evenings ideal for campfire gatherings. Pack your insect repellent for those magical dawn and dusk hours when mosquitoes join the symphony of nature, particularly active during the warmer months when they dance in the golden light filtering through the pines.
ElevationPerched at 5,100 feet above sea level, Christie Campground offers a natural air conditioning system that provides welcome relief from valley heat. This mile-high setting creates an invigorating atmosphere where the air feels crisp and clean, though newcomers to the elevation might notice their hearts working a bit harder during hikes or bike rides. The altitude gifts campers with spectacular star-filled nights and refreshingly cool mornings that call for that extra layer around the campfire.
Natural Features and SceneryChristie Campground immerses visitors in a cathedral of mature pines and firs that tower overhead, their branches creating a natural tapestry of shade and filtered sunlight. From this forested sanctuary on Eagle Lake's southwestern shore, the landscape reveals its remarkable diversity - where the rugged peaks of the Sierra Nevada and Cascade ranges give way to the expansive vistas of high desert. This unique positioning creates a visual feast that shifts from dense mountain forests to open skies, offering photographers and nature lovers an ever-changing canvas of California's most dramatic terrain.
Geological RegionChristie Campground sits at one of California's most fascinating geological crossroads, where the granite spires of the Sierra Nevada meet the volcanic legacy of the Cascade Range before yielding to the vast Great Basin. This convergence of three distinct geological provinces creates a landscape of extraordinary diversity, where ancient volcanic activity has sculpted the terrain alongside glacial forces. The mature conifer forests that shelter the campground tell the story of this unique geography, thriving in the volcanic soils and benefiting from the complex weather patterns created by this meeting of mountains and desert.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityAccessibility details are not explicitly mentioned. However, the paved bike/hike trail suggests some accessible pathways.
Sites SizeSite sizes vary, with group sites accommodating larger RVs and vehicles. One review noted that a group site could fit a 30-ft travel trailer, two trucks, and other vehicles.
Sites PrivacyMost sites offer reasonable spacing and privacy. "Most of the spaces had reasonable spacing between neighbors," mentioned a reviewer. Group sites offer additional space and privacy.
Total Campsites69 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGroup sites are ideal for large parties with bigger vehicles. Sites #24 and #33 offer good space for vehicles and are close to facilities.
Best CampsitesCampsites #19 and #48 have been highlighted positively for their layout and proximity to amenities.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in begins at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Specific guest limits are not outlined, but group sites are spacious and can accommodate multiple vehicles.
Groups
Group sites are spacious, accommodating up to several vehicles, including large RVs. For example, one group site allowed parking for a 30-ft trailer, two trucks, and a car. Overflow parking is available for $10 per night.
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, with a mix of pull-through and back-in sites. Group sites are larger and can accommodate multiple vehicles.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 15 to September 2 for reservations; other times are first-come, first-served with no advanced booking.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in Availability22 sites are designated as walk-in, available on a first-come, first-served basis. These tend to fill quickly according to user reviews.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are permitted with a $10 fee. Late cancellations (less than 24 hours for individual sites) incur additional penalties, including forfeiture of the first night’s fee.

Accomodation available

GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities

Activities you can enjoy

Christie Campground provides access to a variety of recreational activities. Fishing is a significant draw as Eagle Lake is home to the Eagle Lake Rainbow Trout. Other activities include kayaking, swimming, biking, hiking, and birdwatching. The 5.2-mile paved trail connected to the campground is a highlight for bikers and joggers. "Lots of birdwatching to be had, Stellar Jays, a Western Tanager, white pelicans, and a couple of eagles," shared one camper.
Hiking
A paved 5.2-mile hiking and biking trail runs from the campground to the marina and other campgrounds. The trail is mostly flat and accessible for all skill levels.
Fishing
Fishing for Eagle Lake Rainbow Trout is a primary activity. The lake is known for this unique species, making it a destination for anglers.
Swimming
Swimming access is available but less ideal near the campground. Gallatin Beach, accessible from the marina area, is recommended for swimming. One reviewer noted, "The lake doesn’t have any good shoreline; a good fishing lake from a boat but not a good shoreline lake."
Biking
A paved 5.2-mile bike trail connects the campground to the marina and other recreational facilities. It is suitable for both casual and experienced bikers.
Boating
The lake accommodates various boating activities, including motorized and non-motorized boats. There are no restrictions on 2-cycle outboard boat motors or personal watercraft.
Wildlife viewing
Campers frequently sight birds and other wildlife. Species such as Stellar Jays, Western Tanager, white pelicans, and eagles are often observed.
Winter Activities
Winter activities such as snowmobiling are available in the Lassen National Forest but are not specific to the campground.
Water Sports
Kayaking and personal pontoon boating are popular water sports at Eagle Lake.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Campfires are allowed in the provided fire pits unless fire restrictions are imposed due to dry conditions.
  • Quiet hours are from 10 PM to 8 AM.

Hazards

General hazardsThe lake may have blue-green algae and mud in some areas, potentially harmful to pets. Wildlife such as Stellar Jays, eagles, and other birds are commonly observed.
Active alertsSeasonal fire restrictions may be imposed. No current alerts were mentioned.

Weather forecast

48
Β°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 42%

Comfortable humidity levels

Wind: 2.5 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Emergency services are located in Susanville, CA, approximately 16 miles from the campground.

Good to know

Peak season datesMay 15 - September 2
Trash and recyclingTrash receptacles are located throughout the campground. Specific recycling information is not provided.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located 0.25 miles from the lake, with trails leading to the shoreline. The lake shore is muddy in places and affected by fluctuating water levels.
Common complaintsNoise during holiday weekends, off-leash dogs, and muddy lake conditions were noted as common issues by some campers.
HostHosts Mary and Diane were frequently praised for their friendliness and proactive maintenance of the campground.

Campground Map

477-050 Eagle Lake Road, Susanville, CA, 96130, USA
Driving directionsFrom Susanville, California, take Highway 36 west for 2 miles to County Road A-1. Turn north and continue 14 miles to the Eagle Lake Recreation Area. Continue past Gallatin Road, the first highway you will come to in the lake basin, and follow the signs to Christie Campground. Located on County Road A-1, 2 miles north of Merrill Campground.
Road access is via County Road A-1 with no mention of seasonal closures or terrain challenges. The road appears manageable for all vehicle types.
Nearby places
Susanville, CA (approximately 16 miles, 25-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Eagle Lake Marina store (approximately 5 miles away) offers gas, propane, fishing and camping supplies, as well as shower and laundry facilities. Additional supplies are available in Susanville, CA, about 16 miles away.

Camper Reviews

4.2
51 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Christie Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight a peaceful and well-maintained experience at Christie Campground. Positive feedback focuses on the serenity, cleanliness, and amenities such as flush toilets and potable water. Common complaints include noise during holiday weekends, muddy lake shores, and non-enforcement of quiet hours.
Review Summaries
Based on 51 reviews

What Campers Love

"Wonderful campground with the best host Mary and Dianne... Highly recommended. Beyond 5 stars." "Flush toilets, cold (yummy!) running water, [and] well-spaced campsites." Users also praised the bike...
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Based on 51 reviews

Common Concerns

Noise levels during holiday weekends, muddy and algae-filled lake conditions, and inconsistent enforcement of quiet hours. A few reviews mentioned racial bias from other campers.
Based on 51 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Carry rain tarps during thunderstorms, as afternoon showers can be intense. Bring bikes for the paved trail. Avoid swimming in algae-filled areas of the lake, and rinse off pets to prevent rashes.
Based on 51 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer months are popular, with varying noise and weather conditions. Thunderstorms are common in July afternoons, but they cool the temperature significantly. "Even during high danger fire season we...
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Based on 51 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The lake was a short walk... The shore was pretty muddy and gross." "The paths are well marked, some are paved and easy to walk or ride a bike on."
Based on 51 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #24 is noted for its proximity to the restroom and spaciousness. Site #18 in the TROY loop is described as fantastic, while site #19 required minimal leveling and had access to clean facilities....
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Based on 51 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility details are limited, but the paved bike path suggests easy navigation for certain disabilities.
Based on 51 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Mixed reviews: Many visitors appreciated the pet-friendly environment but raised concerns about off-leash dogs. "My dog swam in the lake and ended up getting a rash."
Based on 51 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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