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Big Valley Ranger District
Big Valley Ranger District, crescent shaped, encompasses a portion of the Modoc National Forest north, east and south of the town of Adin, CA. The lower elevation of this Ranger District allows campgrounds to open earlier in the spring and close later in the fall.
The beautiful Red Tail Rim Trail is something that this district boasts about. A shared trail by hikers, mountain bikers and equestrian units, this unique trail covers some 20 plus miles of the back-country.
At a Glance
| Current Conditions: | 7/20/2023: Open |
|---|---|
| Operated By: | US Forest Service |
General Information
Directions:Big Valley Ranger Station is located at 508 South Main Street/Hwy 299 in Adin.
Activities
Mountain Biking
Areas for Mountain Biking at Big Valley Ranger District
Campground Camping
Areas for Campground Camping at Big Valley Ranger District
- Ash Creek Campground
- Lower Rush Creek Campground
- Red Tail Rim Trail South Trailhead
- Willow Creek Campground
RV Camping
Areas for RV Camping at Big Valley Ranger District
- Ash Creek Campground
- Lower Rush Creek Campground
- Red Tail Rim Trail South Trailhead
- Willow Creek Campground
Dispersed Camping
Camping on the Modoc is not limited to developed campgrounds. Most of the forest is open to those who prefer the quiet and solitude of a completely undeveloped setting. This type of camping is called Dispersed Camping. Please choose a camping spot where you will leave a minimal impact.
• Always plan ahead for accumulation and storage of your garbage and take it with you when you leave. Never burn or bury garbage in the forest.
• Likewise, it is your responsibility to manage human waste. There are many commercial products on the market to deal with human waste. If you must bury it, be sure to dig a hole at least 6 inches or more down into soil and stay at least 100 feet away from any river, lake, stream, spring or trail. Never bury toilet paper or sanitary products. Animals will dig it up and scatter it around the area.
• Never damage trees or vegetation to create a campsite. Do not dig trenches or build tent platforms.
• A current California Campfire Permit is required to use a camp stove, barbecue or have a campfire outside of developed areas. Local fire restrictions supersede the campfire permit. Inquire at the Ranger Station before having a fire.
• You may disperse camp in any one location for 14 days and you may stay a total of 30 days per year on the forest. When you go home, leave the forest the way you found it or better for the enjoyment of the next visitor. For additional information on dispersed camping please see Dispersed Camping Ethics in our Learning Center.
River and Stream Fishing
Areas for River and Stream Fishing at Big Valley Ranger District
Day Hiking
Areas for Day Hiking at Big Valley Ranger District
Horse Riding
Areas for Horse Riding at Big Valley Ranger District
Viewing Wildlife
Big Valley Ranger District encompasses the southern most portion of the Modoc National Forest and lies almost entirely in Lassen County. This is a popular hunting area for deer, antelope and more recently, elk.
| Species | Deer, antelope, elk and an occasional black bear are the large mammals found here. Ash creek is known for excellent fishing. Sandhill cranes, geese and waterfowl visit the area during migrations. |
| Special Feature |
Viewing Plants
Viewing Scenery
Picnicking
Areas for Picnicking at Big Valley Ranger District
Rockhounding
Scenic Driving
Take the Adin, Canby, Lookout Loop and you'll take a step back in time. From Adin, up and over Adin Pass on Hwy 299 to Canby. Then north on Hwy 139 to Co. Rd. 91 and back south to Lookout and again to Adin.
Along the route are many side trips, from the Manzanita Lookout at 7,036 feet to the infamous Lookout Lynching site.
Stop by any Modoc National Forest Ranger District office for a brochure explaining this most historic tour.
Areas for Scenic Driving at Big Valley Ranger District
