Stough Reservoir Campground

Area Status: Open

A table, fire ring and barbecue near the water at Stough 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:	7/20/2023: Open. Fees Apply.
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.

Recreation Map

Map showing recreational areas. Map Information

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.