Campgrounds and RV parks near Susanville, CA

Fishing for the Eagle Lake Rainbow Trout, a California Heritage Trout, is the primary recreational activity on Eagle Lake. The 22,000-acre lake also supports swimming, kayaking, skiing and other boating activities by motor or sail, with no two-cycle restrictions for outboard motors or PWCs. The Eagle Lake Marina store offers gas, propane, fishing and camping supplies, shower and laundry facilities, and a boat launch. A 5.2 mile paved hiking and bike trail connects the south-shore campgrounds, day use areas, and marina, suitable for biking and walking with kids. The Osprey Overlook, another day use area, can be hiked or driven to for a scenic view of the southern end of Eagle Lake. In town, the Bizz Johnson National Recreation Trail follows a former rail grade through the Susan River Canyon. Lassen Volcanic National Park is an easy day's drive from the Eagle Lake area.

The Eagle Lake Recreation Area sits on the south shore of Eagle Lake at an elevation of 5,100 feet, so the camping season is shorter than at lower-elevation parks. Forest Service campgrounds on the south shore typically open in mid to late May and close in late October, with exact dates depending on snowmelt and water levels. Fire restrictions may be imposed at any time due to hot, dry weather conditions, at which time campfires and charcoal fires may not be allowed. July and August are the busiest months, with warm dry days, cool nights, and reliable boating conditions. Weekends around Independence Day and Labor Day book out earliest. Late May, June, and September tend to offer easier site availability, milder temperatures, and good trout fishing. Winter brings snow, sub-freezing nights, and closure of most lakeside campgrounds. Private parks in Susanville, such as Susanville RV Park and Days End RV Park, generally operate year-round, though winter travelers should be prepared for icy roads and possible chain controls on Highway 36 or Highway 44.

Roads into Susanville from Reno on US 395 and from Redding on Highway 36 are paved and RV-friendly, though Highway 36 includes steep grades and tight curves through Lassen National Forest. Plan fuel and grocery stops in Susanville itself, since services thin out quickly north of town. Forest Service sites range from non-electric walk-ins to a few with electric and water hookups, each with a paved spur, table, and campfire ring. An RV dump station is located about 2.5 miles away with a dump fee. Cell service is limited around the lake and Wi-Fi at campgrounds is spotty. Nights are cold at 5,100 feet even in summer, often dropping into the 40s. Mosquitoes can be heavy in early summer, and afternoon winds on Eagle Lake build quickly. Pack layers, repellent, and secure any loose gear at exposed sites.