California
Shasta-Trinity National Forest Medicine Lake Dispersed Sites
Dispersed Camping
Medicine Lake sits at 6,700 feet in a massive volcanic caldera, ringed by obsidian flows and cinder cones. Multiple dispersed sites scatter around the lake’s shoreline and along nearby forest roads — most accommodate medium-sized rigs with decent spacing between camps. The area stays cool even in summer, with excellent stargazing away from any light pollution. Fire restrictions common during dry months.
Access via Medicine Lake Road (Forest Road 49) from Highway 89 — paved most of the way, then good gravel. Open roughly May through October depending on snowpack. Sites fill on weekends during peak summer, but plenty of room to spread out on weekdays.
Volcanic caldera dispersed camping at 6,700 feet
Place Details
| Type | Dispersed Camping |
|---|---|
| Elevation (ft) | 6700 ft |
| Nearest town | McCloud, California |
| Miles from pavement | 12.8 mi |
| Minimum vehicle | Any vehicle |
| Access road surface | Gravel |
| Cell service | None |
| Capacity (# of rigs) | 25 rigs |
| Cost (USD/night, 0 = free) | Free |
| Reservation required | No |
| Stay limit (nights) | 14 nights |
| Best season | May-October |
| Land manager | USFS |
| Permit required | No |
| Amenities | Fire ring |
| Coordinates | Open directions |
| Find on Google | Search on Google → |