Goumaz Campground/Biz Johnson Trail

For Californians seeking a genuine connection with nature, away from the crowds and the hustle of daily life, Northeastern California offers a tranquil and rugged escape. Nestled within the expansive Lassen National Forest, near the charming town of Susanville, lies Goumaz Campground. This hidden gem isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's a gateway to outdoor adventure, offering a serene basecamp right alongside the historic Biz Johnson Trail and the flowing Susan River. It embodies the essence of rustic camping, providing a no-fee, first-come, first-served experience that appeals to those who value simplicity and immediate access to recreational opportunities.

Goumaz Campground is known for its intimate size, featuring only five "official" campsites, which contributes to its quiet and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors often share insights about snagging the prime spots, particularly the two at the "top end of the campground" that offer excellent access to the water and ample space for children to play. This local knowledge underscores the campground's appeal to families and groups who prioritize open space and proximity to the river for enjoyment.

The unique advantage of Goumaz Campground is its direct adjacency to the Biz Johnson National Recreation Trail. This renowned rail-trail, spanning over 25 miles, offers incredible opportunities for biking, hiking, and horseback riding through the scenic Susan River Canyon. Whether you're planning a leisurely stroll along the riverbanks, a challenging bike ride through old railroad tunnels and over historic bridges, or a peaceful day of fishing in the Susan River, Goumaz provides the perfect starting point. It's a "great little camp" for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty and historical richness of California's lesser-explored regions. While its limited number of sites means you might need to arrive early in the week to secure a prime spot, the reward is a truly engaging and memorable outdoor experience.

Goumaz Campground is strategically located at Korver Rd, Susanville, CA 96130, USA, within the beautiful Lassen National Forest. This places it in Northeastern California, a region celebrated for its vast forests, volcanic landscapes, and abundant outdoor recreation. The campground's position is particularly advantageous due to its direct adjacency to the Susan River and the renowned Biz Johnson National Recreation Trail.

Accessing Goumaz Campground typically involves driving from Susanville, a major town in Lassen County that serves as a regional hub. While the specific roads leading to the campground are not explicitly detailed in the provided information, the reference to "Korver Rd" suggests it's off the main thoroughfares. However, official Forest Service information advises that "Accessing Goumaz by way of 44 is recommended when towing trailers," indicating that while there might be multiple routes, Highway 44 offers a more suitable path for larger vehicles. The campground is situated between Highway 36 and 44, at the south end of Eagle Lake, further pinpointing its location within the forest.

Its integration with the Biz Johnson Trail means that once at the campground, visitors have immediate pedestrian and recreational access to miles of scenic pathways without needing to drive. This makes it an ideal spot for those looking to park their vehicle and immerse themselves directly into hiking, biking, or horseback riding adventures. Despite its relatively remote feel, its connection to Susanville ensures that essential supplies and services are within a reasonable driving distance, providing a convenient balance of wilderness and accessibility for Californians.

Goumaz Campground offers a straightforward, primitive camping experience, focusing on basic amenities to support a natural outdoor stay. It is managed by the Lassen National Forest, emphasizing a self-sufficient approach to camping.

• Campsites: The campground features 5 designated campsites. These sites are described as being along the Susan River and adjacent to the Bizz Johnson Trail. While specific dimensions aren't provided, reviews suggest some sites, particularly the "two at the top end," offer "lots of space," making them suitable for families and children to play.

• Campfire Pits: Each campsite is equipped with campfire pits, allowing visitors to build campfires (when fire restrictions permit) for cooking, warmth, and a traditional camping ambiance.

• Drinking Water: Public information from the Forest Service confirms that "drinking water is available" at Goumaz Campground. This is a significant amenity for a primitive site, although it's typically piped water from a spigot, not full hookups, and may be turned off during winter months.

• Vault Toilet: The campground is equipped with one vault toilet. These are non-flushable, environmentally friendly restrooms designed for minimal impact in natural settings. Visitors should be prepared to bring their own toilet paper and hand sanitizer.

• First-Come, First-Served: All sites at Goumaz Campground are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not accepted. Campers should plan to arrive early, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to secure a spot.

• No Fee: A notable advantage of Goumaz Campground is that there is "no fee" for camping. This makes it a highly attractive option for budget-conscious travelers seeking a free, primitive camping experience.

It is important to note that the campground is not maintained during winter months, and water availability is seasonal (turned on in April or May, turned off during winter). Visitors should always check current conditions with the Lassen National Forest before their trip. There are no electric hookups, showers, or dump stations at this primitive site.

Goumaz Campground offers unique features that make it a compelling choice for outdoor enthusiasts in California, especially those drawn to the tranquil beauty of the Lassen National Forest.

• Direct Biz Johnson Trail Access: The most prominent highlight is its direct adjacency to the Biz Johnson National Recreation Trail. This 25.4-mile multi-use trail, following an old railroad grade, is perfect for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The campground serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the scenic Susan River Canyon, passing through historic tunnels and over old railroad bridges. For many, this trail access is the primary reason to visit.

• Susan River Proximity and Access: With campsites located along the Susan River, visitors enjoy easy access to the water. The river is known for good fishing, particularly for rainbow and brown trout, especially in spring and early summer. The peaceful sound of the river flowing contributes to the serene ambiance of the campground, and some sites offer direct access for water play for children.

• Quiet and Intimate Setting: With only five official campsites, Goumaz Campground provides a more intimate and less crowded experience compared to larger campgrounds. This allows for greater peace and quiet, fostering a deeper connection with the natural surroundings. It’s a "great little camp" for those truly seeking solitude.

• Free Camping: The absence of a camping fee is a significant highlight, making Goumaz Campground an exceptionally budget-friendly option for exploring the Lassen National Forest. This encourages longer stays for those who prefer extended outdoor adventures without the burden of nightly fees.

• First-Come, First-Served Simplicity: While it requires early arrival to secure a spot, the first-come, first-served policy simplifies the booking process, eliminating the need for advance reservations often required at more popular sites. This suits spontaneous travelers and those who appreciate a less structured approach to camping.

• Seasonal Wildflower Viewing: The Lassen National Forest, including areas around the Susan River, can offer beautiful seasonal wildflower displays, particularly in late spring and early summer, adding vibrant colors to the landscape.

For current conditions, availability, and general inquiries regarding Goumaz Campground and the Biz Johnson Trail, visitors should contact the U.S. Forest Service office responsible for the Lassen National Forest.

Address: Korver Rd, Susanville, CA 96130, USA (This is the physical address for navigation to the campground. For administrative inquiries, contact the Forest Service office.)

Phone: (866) 763-5121 (This number is associated with the general Lassen National Forest inquiries, often directing to the Supervisor's Office or a specific Ranger District.)

Mobile Phone: +1 866-763-5121 (Same as above, providing a direct dial option.)

For more specific information regarding Goumaz Campground, it is advisable to contact the Eagle Lake Ranger District, which oversees this area within the Lassen National Forest. Their direct number is (530) 257-4188. Before your trip, it is highly recommended to call to confirm current operational status, water availability (as it's seasonal), fire restrictions, and any road conditions, especially given its first-come, first-served nature and limited sites.

For Californians, Goumaz Campground and its adjacent Biz Johnson Trail offer an ideal and truly authentic outdoor experience, especially for those in Northern California and the Central Valley. This destination perfectly caters to locals who cherish primitive camping, quiet natural settings, and direct access to diverse recreational activities.

The unique combination of a small, no-fee, first-come, first-served campground right on the Susan River and the famed Biz Johnson Trail makes it incredibly appealing. Californians can enjoy leisurely days fishing, hiking, biking, or horseback riding along the scenic trail, with the peaceful sounds of the river as their backdrop. The "huge" spaces and water access at certain sites are a significant draw for families looking for a relaxed environment where children can play safely.

Its rustic nature, with vault toilets and seasonal piped water, means it's best suited for self-sufficient campers prepared for a less amenity-heavy experience. However, for those willing to embrace this simplicity, the reward is immense: a genuine escape from the everyday, a chance to reconnect with nature, and an opportunity to explore the historical and natural beauty of the Lassen National Forest without the crowds or fees often associated with more developed campgrounds. Goumaz Campground is a cherished local secret, offering a tranquil and enriching outdoor adventure right in the heart of Northeastern California's wilderness.

Goumaz Campground/Biz Johnson Trail

Susan River, Korver Rd, Susanville, CA 96130, USA