Devil's Garden Ranger District
Address: 225 West 8th Street Alturas, CA 96101
Hours of Operation: M-F, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM (Closed on federal holidays)
Office Phone: Main Office (530) 233-5811; TDD: (530)-233-8708; FAX: (530)-233-8809
Office Email: sm.fs.modoc_info@usda.gov
Mailing Address: 225 West 8th Street Alturas, CA 96101
Additional Office Information
The Devil's Garden Ranger District is a stunning treasure in the heart of the Devil’s Garden Plateau, a mile-high wonderland of lava rock, cinder cones, juniper flats, pine forests, and shimmering seasonal lakes. Stretching from Alturas into Oregon, this breathtaking plateau was shaped by unique basalt lava flows millions of years ago. While early European settlers named it "Devil's Garden," Native peoples called it "The Smiles of Gods," a testament to its beauty.
Nestled beneath the Pacific Flyway, the area serves as a vital stop for migrating waterfowl and is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including Rocky Mountain elk, mule deer, wild horses, and pronghorn antelope. The district's reservoirs, stocked with bass and trout by the California Department of Fish and Game, offer delightful fishing opportunities.
For adventurers, four out of the five developed campgrounds provide the rare luxury of free camping, day use, and boat launching. This hidden paradise remains uncrowded, making it the perfect escape for those who discover its tranquil allure.