BLM Dodge Reservoir campground

Are you a Californian yearning to escape the city lights and witness the sheer majesty of the night sky like never before? Do you seek a tranquil, off-grid camping experience where the only sounds are those of nature, and the only crowds are the countless stars above? Then BLM Dodge Reservoir Campground near Ravendale, CA, is calling your name. This "beautiful secluded campground" is a true hidden gem for those who appreciate primitive camping and the raw, unadulterated beauty of California's high desert.

Operated by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), Dodge Reservoir Campground offers a back-to-basics approach that focuses on the natural environment rather than extensive amenities. As one enthusiastic camper shared, it's "perfect for stargazing! Make sure you come during new moon to see the most stars. You will need a high clearance vehicle, 4x4 not necessary though." Imagine experiencing a night sky so clear and dark that "the night sky is AMAZING, with stars, milky way, and other celestial objects." This alone makes the journey to Dodge Reservoir an unforgettable experience for any California local.

While the campground provides essential basics like toilets and some sites with grills, it’s a place where self-sufficiency is key. Reviewers emphasize the need to "Bring all the food and water you will need + extra, you don't want to be too careful. Also there are no trash cans, so be prepared to carry any waste you have out with you." This adherence to "Leave No Trace" principles ensures the pristine environment remains untouched for future visitors. Despite its minimal amenities, the allure of Dodge Reservoir lies in its tranquility and the abundant opportunities for outdoor activities, including excellent "fishing" in the stocked lake and "plenty of opportunities for hiking."

If you're an adventurous Californian ready to trade city noise for the quiet grandeur of a remote wilderness setting, and are prepared for a true off-grid experience, BLM Dodge Reservoir Campground offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature and witness one of the most spectacular night skies our state has to offer.

BLM Dodge Reservoir Campground is located approximately 17 miles northeast of Ravendale, CA 96123, USA. This places it in Lassen County, in the northeastern part of California, within a picturesque high desert setting characterized by sagebrush hills and scattered juniper trees. The reservoir itself, covering 480 acres, was originally constructed in 1937 for irrigation purposes by the Dodge Brothers and now serves as a popular spot for fishing and camping.

Access to Dodge Reservoir Campground requires a degree of preparation and the right vehicle. While located in a remote area, it is accessible via Lassen County Road 502 and then County Road 506. Directions from Susanville often involve traveling 54 miles north on Highway 395 to Ravendale, turning right on County Road 502 for 12 miles, then right on County Road 506 for 11 miles, followed by a final turn and a drive of approximately one mile to the campground. It is crucial to note that County Road 506 is described as an "unimproved dirt road" that "can become impassable as a result of wet weather." While "4x4 not necessary," a "high clearance vehicle" is definitely needed, and the roads can be "rough and dusty."

The elevation of the reservoir is approximately 5,600 feet, contributing to its clear skies and high desert climate. For Californians, particularly those from Northern California, this location offers a convenient escape into a less-traveled, rugged landscape. However, given the nature of the access roads and the remote setting, it is essential to check current road conditions, especially after rain or snow, and to be prepared for potentially challenging driving conditions. This level of accessibility contributes to the campground's secluded and peaceful atmosphere, filtering out casual visitors and ensuring a truly wild experience.

BLM Dodge Reservoir Campground provides a truly primitive camping experience, focusing on fundamental amenities to support a self-sufficient outdoor adventure. It operates on a "no-fee" basis, with donations welcome to support maintenance. Here's what you can expect:

• Campsites: The campground offers "11 unit" sites. These are typically rustic, undeveloped sites suitable for tent camping and potentially smaller RVs or trailers, though large RVs might find access challenging due to road conditions. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring/grill.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite comes with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for outdoor meals.
• Fire Rings/Grills: Campsites also include fire pits or grills, allowing campers to safely build campfires for cooking and warmth. (Always check for local fire restrictions and burn bans before lighting a fire).
• Vault Toilets: The campground provides "toilets," specifically "vault toilets" (outhouses). One of these is noted as being "wheelchair accessible," which is a thoughtful provision in a primitive setting.

Crucially, what is NOT offered at BLM Dodge Reservoir Campground, and which campers must be fully prepared for, includes:

• No Potable Water: "No potable water" is available at the campground. Campers must "Bring all the food and water you will need + extra." This is a critical point for safety and comfort.
• No Trash Collection: "There are no trash cans," meaning campers are required to "carry any waste you have out with you." Adherence to "Leave No Trace" principles is paramount here.
• No Electrical Hookups: There are no electrical hookups for RVs or other devices.
• No Sewer Hookups: Similarly, no sewer connections will be available.
• No Showers: There are no shower facilities.
• Limited Cell Service: Given the remote location, expect limited to no cell phone reception, adding to the off-grid experience.

For a successful trip to Dodge Reservoir, campers must be entirely self-sufficient, packing in all food, water, and supplies, and packing out all waste. This ensures the campground remains pristine and enjoyable for everyone.

BLM Dodge Reservoir Campground offers several compelling features and highlights that make it a unique and highly desirable destination for California's outdoor enthusiasts:

• Unparalleled Stargazing: This is perhaps the most significant highlight. Reviews consistently rave about the "AMAZING" night sky, with "stars, milky way, and other celestial objects." Its remote, high desert location means minimal light pollution, making it "perfect for stargazing," especially during a new moon.
• Seclusion and Tranquility: Described as a "beautiful secluded campground," Dodge Reservoir offers profound peace and quiet. With a limited number of sites and challenging access roads, it’s rarely crowded, allowing for a true wilderness escape. One camper even mentioned being "the only camper in the entire campground" in early September.
• Free Camping: As a BLM-managed site, there is "no site fee" for camping, though donations are welcome. This makes it an incredibly affordable option for experiencing California's remote beauty.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: "The lake is stocked with trout," including Rainbow Trout, Lahontan Cutthroat Trout, and Brown Trout by the California Department of Fish and Game. "Plenty of opportunities for fishing" are available, particularly in spring and early summer when water levels are highest. A boat launch is also present for accessing the reservoir.
• Hiking Opportunities: The surrounding sagebrush hills and juniper stands offer "plenty of opportunities for hiking," allowing campers to explore the high desert landscape and potentially spot wildlife.
• Wildlife Viewing: The area is home to various wildlife, including mule deer, antelope, wild horses (from the nearby New Ravendale Herd Management Area), and numerous bird species, providing excellent opportunities for wildlife watching and photography.
• Remote High Desert Scenery: The unique landscape of "sagebrush hills with scattered junipers" at 5,600 feet elevation provides stunning, rugged beauty and a distinct California high desert experience.

BLM Dodge Reservoir Campground is an ideal destination for those seeking a true wilderness adventure, where the natural environment and cosmic wonders take center stage.

As BLM Dodge Reservoir Campground is a remote, primitive, and free campsite managed by the Bureau of Land Management, it does not have a dedicated on-site staff or direct campground phone number. Information and management fall under the relevant BLM Field Office.

Address: Ravendale, CA 96123, USA (Specific location approximately 17 miles northeast of Ravendale)

For the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding BLM Dodge Reservoir Campground, it is highly recommended to contact the managing BLM Eagle Lake Field Office:

BLM Eagle Lake Field Office

Phone: (530) 257-0456

Mailing Address: 2550 Riverside Drive, Susanville, CA 96130

Before planning your trip, it is crucial to contact the Eagle Lake Field Office to inquire about:

• Current road conditions, especially for County Road 506, as it can become impassable.
• Water levels at Dodge Reservoir, particularly if planning a fishing trip, as levels can be low later in the year.
• Any fire restrictions or bans in effect for the area.
• Current regulations regarding camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
• Any temporary closures or alerts.

Their staff will be able to provide the essential details you need for a safe and enjoyable primitive camping experience at Dodge Reservoir.

For Californians, BLM Dodge Reservoir Campground offers a truly unique and appealing escape, perfectly suited for those who crave genuine wilderness and a profound connection with nature that's increasingly rare in our populous state. As locals, we are often searching for places that allow us to unplug and experience the raw beauty of California without the crowds, and Dodge Reservoir delivers exactly that.

Its remote high desert location, combined with the requirement for a high-clearance vehicle, acts as a natural filter, ensuring that those who make the journey are truly committed to a primitive camping adventure. This results in unparalleled peace, solitude, and the opportunity to witness one of the most magnificent dark skies for stargazing in California – a truly humbling and unforgettable experience that every Californian should have.

The fact that it's a free BLM campground makes it an incredibly accessible option for budget-conscious adventurers. While it demands self-sufficiency, requiring campers to bring all their water and pack out all waste, this ethos aligns perfectly with the "Leave No Trace" principles that responsible outdoor enthusiasts in California embrace. For anglers, the stocked lake offers rewarding fishing opportunities, and for hikers, the surrounding hills provide ample trails for exploration and wildlife viewing, including the chance to spot wild horses.

BLM Dodge Reservoir Campground is ideal for Californians looking for a true off-grid experience, a break from urban light pollution, and a chance to truly immerse themselves in the rugged, beautiful landscapes that make our state so diverse. It's a place where you can create lasting memories under an endless canopy of stars, proving that some of California's best treasures are found off the beaten path.