About Blue Lake Campground Group Site - Modoc NF (CA)
Overview The Blue Lake Campground is situated in the beautiful South Warner Mountains of the Modoc National Forest in a tranquil and remote area of northeastern California. Blue Lake was formed from a massive landslide several thousand years ago. Over time, the land filled up with water from snow melt and rain where blue lake is today. Blue Lake is truly deep blue in color and remains ice cold even during the hotest days of summer! The fishing is great, and there's a 3 mile trail that goes around the entirety of the lake. Come enjoy your National Forest land by visiting the Blue Lake Campground this summer! Recreation There is a trail around the lake 3 mile, along with many opportunities to walk and bike around the paved campground roads and boat dock area. There are several wilderness trailheads within 6-15 miles from the site as well. The South Warner Wilderness has many trails to offer a true solitude experience away from the big city. Off-highway -vehcle (OHV) use is also a popular recreation activity in the neighboring area road systems. Facilities Water is available most of the summer season from late May-early October. Please call ahead of time and check if the water is potable early in the season! Sometimes it takes a while to get the system up and going for the season. Natural Features There are many ice cold mountain streams feeding into and coming out of Blue Lake. The campground is situated in a lower part of the mountains, but the entire campground is surrounded by mountain ridges scattered with ponderosa pine, Jeffrey pine, incense cedar, and aspen trees. There was an intense wildfire that came through the area back in 2003, so many of the hillsides near Blue Lake are in the process of regenerating tree stands. Fortunately, the campground was saved from the fire, so there are plenty of big pine trees for shade! Nearby Attractions
How to Get There
Head east from Likley, CA toward the Warner Mountains on Forest Service Road 64 (AKA the "Jess Valley Road") for approximately 8 miles. Take a right/south at the fork in the road towards Blue Lake Campground (still Road 64). You will drive about 7 miles on this road. The turn-off to Blue Lake Campground will be on your right. The campground is about 2 miles from the turn-off. The campground is a one-way loop with the Group Site being at the upper end of the loop adjacent from the Camp Host site past the fee station.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Blue Lake Campground Group Site - Modoc NF (CA)
Heading to Blue Lake Campground Group Site - Modoc NF (CA)? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Blue Lake Campground Group Site - Modoc NF (CA)?
No central reservation system listed for Blue Lake Campground Group Site - Modoc NF (CA). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/10005351) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Blue Lake Campground Group Site - Modoc NF (CA)?
Head east from Likley, CA toward the Warner Mountains on Forest Service Road 64 (AKA the "Jess Valley Road") for approximately 8 miles. Take a right/south at the fork in the road towards Blue Lake Campground (still Road 64). You will drive about 7 miles on this road. The turn-off to Blue Lake Campground will be on your right. The campground is about 2 miles from the turn-off. The campground is a o…
How do I contact Blue Lake Campground Group Site - Modoc NF (CA)?
You can reach the park at phone: 530-279-8311.
References & Official Resources
