Buckhorn Recreation Area

For Californians seeking a tranquil escape into nature with convenient amenities and a peaceful atmosphere, the Buckhorn Recreation Area in Corning, CA, stands out as an excellent choice. Nestled alongside the beautiful Black Butte Lake, this campground offers a serene environment perfect for an overnight stay or a longer family adventure. It’s particularly appealing for those who appreciate quiet nights and easy access to both essential facilities and a variety of outdoor activities. This comprehensive guide will illuminate what makes Buckhorn Recreation Area a suitable destination for local residents, covering its strategic location, the services it provides, its unique features, and how to plan your visit to this inviting Californian outdoor haven.

Buckhorn Recreation Area consistently earns praise from visitors for its calm ambiance and well-maintained grounds. Many campers highlight the convenience of having clean restrooms with running water and lighting, and even shower rooms, adding a layer of comfort to the rustic experience. The distinct lack of generator noise, a common concern at some campgrounds, contributes significantly to its peaceful setting, making it easy to relax and enjoy the sounds of nature. While some reviews mention occasional issues with restroom supplies, the overall consensus points to a highly enjoyable and tranquil camping experience. Whether you're a tent camper or bringing an RV, Buckhorn Recreation Area provides spacious sites and a welcoming environment for your next outdoor getaway in Northern California. It's a fantastic base for exploring the rich natural beauty of the region, including being a convenient stop for those heading to or from Lassen Volcanic National Park.

Buckhorn Recreation Area is located in Corning, CA 96021, USA. This position places it at the northern end of the Sacramento Valley, approximately 100 miles north of Sacramento and about 30 minutes south of Red Bluff. Its proximity to Interstate 5 makes it a very convenient stop for travelers and a relatively easy drive for many Californians. The recreation area is specifically situated on Black Butte Lake, which is formed by the Stony Creek, west of Orland.

This strategic location makes Buckhorn Recreation Area a popular meeting place for water sports enthusiasts, given the ample space on Black Butte Lake for boating, fishing, and swimming. Furthermore, it serves as a convenient overnight stop or a comfortable base camp for those planning to visit Lassen Volcanic National Park, which is a significant drive to the east but within reasonable reach for a day trip from the Corning area. The roads leading to the campground are generally well-maintained, ensuring good accessibility for various vehicle types, including RVs. The presence of mature oak woodlands and grasslands around the lake offers a scenic backdrop for your outdoor adventures.

• C.L.E.A.N. R.E.S.T.R.O.O.M.S. W.I.T.H. W.A.T.E.R. A.N.D. L.I.G.H.T.I.N.G.: Facilities include flush toilets, sinks, and lighting, contributing significantly to camper comfort.
• S.H.O.W.E.R. R.O.O.M.S.: Hot-water showers are available, a welcomed amenity for refreshing after outdoor activities.
• S.P.A.C.I.O.U.S. C.A.M.P.S.I.T.E.S.: Most sites are well-spaced, offering good privacy and ample room for multiple tents or larger setups.
• P.U.L.L.-T.H.R.O.U.G.H. P.A.R.K.I.N.G. A.V.A.I.L.A.B.L.E.: Many sites feature pull-through parking, especially convenient for RVs and trailers.
• B.B.Q. G.R.I.L.L.S. A.N.D. F.I.R.E. R.I.N.G.S.: Each campsite includes a fire ring and a grill, perfect for cooking outdoors (subject to fire restrictions).
• P.L.A.Y.G.R.O.U.N.D.: A designated playground area is available for children, making it a family-friendly destination.
• D.R.I.N.K.I.N.G. W.A.T.E.R.: Potable water is available throughout the campground.
• D.U.M.P. S.T.A.T.I.O.N.: An RV dump station is conveniently located within the recreation area for sewage disposal.
• D.I.S.C. G.O.L.F. C.O.U.R.S.E.: An 18-hole disc golf course is open year-round, offering an additional recreational activity.
• B.O.A.T. R.A.M.P.: Easy access to Black Butte Lake is provided via a multi-lane concrete boat launching ramp within the recreation area.

• Q.U.I.E.T. A.N.D. P.E.A.C.E.F.U.L. A.T.M.O.S.P.H.E.R.E.: The lack of generator noise (in designated areas) and generally respectful campers contribute to a very tranquil and relaxing environment.
• C.O.N.V.E.N.I.E.N.T. O.V.E.R.N.I.G.H.T. S.T.A.Y. O.P.T.I.O.N.: Ideal for a quick stopover, especially for those traveling to or from Lassen Volcanic National Park.
• P.R.O.X.I.M.I.T.Y. T.O. B.L.A.C.K. B.U.T.T.E. L.A.K.E.: Direct access to the lake for various water activities including swimming, boating, kayaking, fishing, and jet skiing. Black Butte Lake is known for its warm water fishery.
• G.O.O.D. S.P.A.C.I.N.G. F.O.R. P.R.I.V.A.C.Y.: Sites are generally well-spaced, providing a good amount of personal space for campers.
• O.P.P.O.R.T.U.N.I.T.Y. T.O. C.O.L.L.E.C.T. D.R.I.F.T. W.O.O.D. F.O.R. F.I.R.E.S.: Campers can collect driftwood for fires, adding to the rustic camping experience (where permitted).
• T.R.A.I.L.S. F.O.R. H.I.K.I.N.G. A.N.D. N.A.T.U.R.E. W.A.L.K.S.: The recreation area offers over 20 miles of hiking, mountain biking, and nature trails, providing scenic vistas and wildlife viewing opportunities.
• F.A.M.I.L.Y.-F.R.I.E.N.D.L.Y. F.A.C.I.L.I.T.I.E.S.: The presence of a playground and an exercise area makes it suitable for families with children.
• Y.E.A.R.-R.O.U.N.D. O.P.E.R.A.T.I.O.N.: Buckhorn Campground is open all year, though the number of available campsites may be reduced in the off-season.
• N.A.T.U.R.A.L. S.H.A.D.E.: The campsites are often shaded by native oak savannah and other trees.

Address: Corning, CA 96021, USA

For inquiries and reservations at Buckhorn Recreation Area (specifically Buckhorn Campground), which is managed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Black Butte Lake, you can use the following contact information.

Phone: 530-865-4781 (Information and Reservations)

For reservations, particularly for individual campsites up to 6 months in advance or group sites up to 12 months in advance, it is highly recommended to visit the official Recreation.gov website or call 1-877-444-6777. The Black Butte Lake Project Office can also be contacted via email at blackbutte-info@usace.army.mil.

Buckhorn Recreation Area in Corning, CA, offers a unique and highly suitable camping experience for California locals. Its location at the northern end of the Sacramento Valley, easily accessible via Interstate 5, makes it a convenient and practical choice for both quick overnight stays and longer family vacations without extensive travel. For those planning a visit to the majestic Lassen Volcanic National Park, Buckhorn serves as an ideal intermediate stop, allowing for a comfortable night's rest before or after exploring the park's wonders.

What truly sets Buckhorn apart for residents is its emphasis on a peaceful and quiet environment. The deliberate absence of generator noise in certain areas, combined with well-spaced campsites, ensures a serene escape from the urban clamor. The provision of clean restrooms with running water and showers adds a significant level of comfort, making it a more appealing option for families or those who prefer a less rustic experience. With Black Butte Lake right on its doorstep, locals have immediate access to a plethora of water activities, from swimming and kayaking to fishing and boating, ensuring there's something for everyone. Furthermore, the extensive network of trails and the presence of a playground make it a well-rounded destination for active families. Despite occasional reports of maintenance issues with restroom supplies, the overall consensus points to a well-managed and enjoyable campground. Buckhorn Recreation Area is more than just a place to set up camp; it's a valuable local resource for connecting with nature, enjoying outdoor recreation, and finding a peaceful retreat right here in California.

Buckhorn Recreation Area

Corning, CA 96021, USA