Welcome to Modoc National Forest
Your adventures await — embrace the journey.
From California's northeastern corner, enjoy a stunning vacation destination featuring diverse landscapes. Like the volcanic Cascades or the picturesque Warner Mountains. Or the lush forests, expansive ranges, and the unique Devils Garden.
Explore the forest from scenic drives and inviting picnic areas, to campgrounds with breathtaking vistas.
Embrace the wonder of star gazing in a dark sky sanctuary. Immerse yourself in the beauty of abundant wildlife. And embark on adventures through hiking, fishing, OHV, obsidian collecting, and more.
Permits for Obsidian Collecting
Free collection permits issued only at the Modoc National Forest Supervisor's Office in Alturas — 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Monday through Friday.
- Collecting obsidian with a valid permit runs from July 1 through Aug. 31, 2026.
- Daily limit of permits issued. Each person allowed up to 3 permits per season.
- More about permits: www.fs.usda.gov/r05/modoc/permits
Devil's Garden Plateau Wild Horses
The Devil's Garden Plateau Wild Horse Territory spans 500 square miles of rugged terrain, just outside Alturas, California. It's the largest wild horse territory managed by the Forest Service.
Learn more about the herd and horse adoptions.
Timber Sales
Public Feedback Opportunity
Your input helps shape the future of trails and recreational development in the Modoc National Forest.
After several in-person public meetings in 2025, four geographic zones were identified for trail improvements: Medicine Lake, Cedar Pass, Crowder Flat, and Ash/Rush Creek.
- Each of these zones feature unique landscapes with a range of recreation opportunities including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, motorized access, and winter activities. These concepts may include interpretive routes too.
- In each area, preliminary trail concepts have been designed in partnership with Trails Solutions LLC. The designs focus on enhancing accessibility to key points of interest, accommodating various skill levels, and improving current recreational experiences highlighted by community stakeholders.