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Stough Reservoir Campground
Stough Reservoir Campground is only 1 mile off Hwy 299 on a gravel road. At 6,200 feet it provides relief from the heat of the valleys on either side. Small trailers and motorhomes will find access and turn-arounds manageable. The reservoir is small but is kept stocked by the California Department of Fish and Wildlife. Water is provided and campsites sit away from the shore with nice views of the reservoir.
Stough Reservoir is Number 4 on the Basin & Range Birding Trail. Bring you camera and binoculars and expect to see Prairie Falcons, Rufous Hummingbirds and Wild Turkeys.
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | 11/2/2023: No drinking water |
|---|---|
| Reservations: | Reservations are not accepted. All sites are first come, first served. |
| Fees: | $15/night per site. |
| Open Season: | Facilities open as weather permits; usually mid-May to late October. |
| Usage: | Heavy |
| Busiest Season: | July and August |
| Restrictions: | Dogs on leash only. Please clean up after your dog. Camping limit 14 days. |
| Closest Towns: | Cedarville 7 miles, Alturas 18 miles. |
| Water: | Yes |
| Restroom: | Vault Toilet |
| Operated By: | US Forest Service |
| Information Center: | Warner Mountain Ranger District 530-279-6116 |
General Information
Directions:
From 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.
Activities
Campground Camping
This campground has it all. The setting includes tall trees and shady campsites, a lovely reservoir for boating and fishing and close proximity to the town of Cedarville. The elevation over 6,000 feet means campers enjoy cool nights and warm days.
| Reservation Info | Reservations are not accepted. All sites are first come, first served. |
| Fire Information | Fires are permitted only in fireplaces provided. Gathering of dead and down wood is permitted. |
| Sleeping Shelter | None |
RV Camping
Small Motorhomes and trailers will have no trouble with access at Stough Campground.
| Reservation Info | Reservations are not accepted. All sites are first come, first served. |
| Pavement Type for Parking | Gravel |
| Vehicle Clearence | Watch overhead for low hanging branches. |
| Size Restrictions | 22 feet |
| Fire Information | Fires are permitted only in fireplaces provided. Gathering of dead and down wood is permitted. |
| No. of Accessible sites | None |
Lake and Pond Fishing
Even though Stough Reservoir is small, you may catch some good sized trout here. California Department of Fish and Wildlife has been stocking here for many years. All anglers over the age of 16 must have a current CA Fishing License in possession.
River and Stream Fishing
Stream fishing is available at Soldier Creek and South Deep Creek by hiking approximately 1mile after a short drive from Stough Campground. Cedar Creek, Thomas Creek and North Deep Creek are just a few miles drive from Stough Campground. All anglers over the age of 16 must have a current CA Fishing License in possession.
Picnicking
Day use and picnicking are permitted at Stough Reservoir Campground. There is no fee and reservations are not accepted. All sites are first come, first served. Day users must exit the campground and the area by 10 pm.
| Fire Information | Fires are permitted only in fireplaces provided. Gathering of dead and down wood is permitted. |
| Usage: |
Construction work during the summer of 2011 may force closure. Call 530-279-6116 to learn status. |
|---|
Boating - Non-Motorized
Stough Reservoir is very small and not conducive to boats with motors. Boats are limited to those that can be carried to the water. Canoes, kayaks, car top boats and inflatable boats are appropriate. There is no launch ramp here. Boats operating on the Modoc National Forest are subject to the laws and regulations outlined by the CA Dept of Boating and Waterways and subject to inspection by law enforcement.