High Bridge Campground

For Californians yearning for a serene escape into the pristine wilderness, High Bridge Campground offers an idyllic and often overlooked destination. Tucked away in the beautiful Lassen National Forest, this campground provides a tranquil haven where the calming sounds of nature take center stage. Unlike bustling, overcrowded sites, High Bridge is celebrated for its quiet and clean environment, making it a perfect retreat for those looking to truly unwind and immerse themselves in the great outdoors.

High Bridge Campground holds a special appeal for anglers, as it's uniquely situated at the confluence of Warner Creek and the Feather River. This natural convergence creates prime fishing opportunities right at your doorstep. Beyond the excellent fishing, the campground serves as an ideal base for exploring the diverse landscapes of the Lassen region, from its forested trails to its rugged terrain. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the experience, High Bridge Campground promises a peaceful and refreshing visit, allowing you to reconnect with nature's beauty and enjoy the simplicity of a well-maintained, uncrowded setting.

High Bridge Campground is located at Chester Warner Valley Rd, Chester, CA 96020, USA. This places it within the vast and diverse Lassen National Forest, a region renowned for its volcanic landscapes, pristine lakes, and extensive forests. The campground is approximately 17 miles north of the quaint town of Chester, a convenient stop for supplies, gas, and a bite to eat before heading into the wilderness.

Access to High Bridge Campground involves a journey along forest roads. From CA-36 in Chester, you would turn onto Feather River Road (on the east side of the bridge). After about half a mile, veer left onto County Road 312. Continue for approximately 4 miles, then veer right again to stay on CR-312, following signs towards Drakesbad. The campground is located a mile north of the Warner Valley Ranger Station via a gravel road. It's important to note that while the campground itself is accessible, the gravel access road can be steep and rutted, especially if continuing further towards Warner Valley Campground. Therefore, RVs and trailers are often not recommended for the final stretch of road leading to Warner Valley Campground, though High Bridge Campground itself is generally described as accessible for tent and small trailer camping. Always check current road conditions, especially during the shoulder seasons (late spring/early fall), as weather can impact accessibility. Despite the journey on forest roads, its location provides a genuine sense of escape and direct immersion into the natural surroundings, a significant draw for many Californians.

High Bridge Campground provides a fundamental yet highly appreciated set of services designed to facilitate a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience in a natural setting. It's a developed campground, meaning it offers more than just dispersed camping, but maintains a rustic charm. Here's what campers can typically expect:

• Developed Campsites: The campground features 12 individual campsites, each designed to accommodate up to 8 people. These sites are generally well-spaced, contributing to the quiet and uncrowded atmosphere.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient surface for meal preparation, dining, and other activities.
• Campfire Rings with Grills: Every site includes a fire ring, often with a grill grate, perfect for traditional campfire cooking and enjoying evening bonfires, provided there are no fire restrictions in place.
• Vault Toilets: Clean and maintained vault toilets are available for camper use, offering a basic but essential amenity.
• Potable Water: While some sources indicate potable water is available, others suggest it might be limited or require fetching from a visitor center nearby. It's always advisable to confirm current water availability or bring your own supply.
• Fee-Based Camping: There is a per-site, per-night fee for staying at High Bridge Campground, contributing to its maintenance and services.
• First-Come, First-Served: This campground typically operates on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not available. It's best to arrive early, especially during peak season, to secure a spot.
• No Hookups: For RV and trailer campers, it's important to note that there are no electric, water, or sewer hookups available at the campsites, reinforcing its natural, rustic appeal.

High Bridge Campground, while modest in its offerings, provides several key features that make it a compelling destination for Californians seeking a peaceful and authentic outdoor experience. Its highlights are rooted in its natural beauty and the tranquility it offers:

• Exceptional Fishing Opportunities: A standout feature is its location at the confluence of Warner Creek and the Feather River. This provides excellent fishing, making it a highly desirable spot for anglers seeking trout and other local fish species.
• Quiet and Uncrowded Atmosphere: Repeatedly praised by visitors, the campground is known for being quiet, clean, and not crowded. This fosters a truly relaxing environment where campers can enjoy the sounds of nature without excessive noise or disturbance.
• Beautiful Natural Setting: Nestled within the Lassen National Forest, the campground is surrounded by picturesque forested areas. The presence of a "really cool, fast flowing creek running through the campsite" (Warner Creek) adds to the scenic beauty and the soothing sounds of running water.
• Proximity to Lassen Volcanic National Park: Although not inside the park, High Bridge Campground is strategically located as a gateway to Lassen Volcanic National Park. This allows campers to easily access the park's unique hydrothermal features, hiking trails, and stunning vistas, making it an excellent basecamp for park exploration.
• Back-to-Nature Experience: With basic amenities and no hookups, the campground encourages a more traditional camping style, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the outdoor experience, away from modern distractions.
• Well-Maintained Environment: Despite its rustic nature, the campground is consistently described as clean and well-kept, which significantly enhances the overall comfort and enjoyment for campers.
• Wildlife Viewing: The natural habitat around the campground provides opportunities to observe local wildlife, adding another layer to the outdoor adventure.

For inquiries regarding High Bridge Campground, current conditions, or information about the surrounding Lassen National Forest area, you can contact the managing authority. As a U.S. Forest Service campground, general information and updates are typically available through the relevant ranger district.

• Address: Chester Warner Valley Rd, Chester, CA 96020, USA
• Phone: (530) 257-2151 (This is the phone number for the Lassen National Forest Supervisor's Office or the Almanor Ranger District, which oversees this area. They can provide the most current information regarding the campground's status, including opening/closing dates, fire restrictions, and water availability.)
• Mobile Phone: +1 530-257-2151 (Same as the main phone number for direct contact.)

Given that High Bridge Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, it's always a good practice for Californians planning a trip to call ahead, especially during peak season (typically May to October, weather permitting), to inquire about site availability and any specific alerts or closures that might be in effect.

For Californians, High Bridge Campground presents an exceptionally suitable and appealing option for a mountain getaway, particularly for those seeking a genuine and peaceful outdoor experience. Its primary allure lies in its serene, uncrowded atmosphere, a stark contrast to many of California's more bustling recreational spots. This quiet environment, coupled with its consistent cleanliness, creates an ideal setting for relaxation and rejuvenation away from urban noise and crowds.

The campground's unique location at the convergence of Warner Creek and the Feather River provides fantastic fishing opportunities right at your campsite, a significant draw for local anglers. Furthermore, its strategic proximity to Lassen Volcanic National Park makes it an excellent "base camp" for exploring one of California's most captivating and geologically active national parks. Californians can enjoy the tranquility of the campground while having easy access to the park's hiking trails, hydrothermal features, and stunning volcanic landscapes, offering a diverse array of activities for all interests.

The back-to-nature feel, with basic but well-maintained amenities, appeals to those who appreciate a more traditional camping experience without the frills of developed resorts. It offers a chance to disconnect and fully immerse oneself in the beauty of the Lassen National Forest. Despite the potentially rough access road, the reward is a secluded gem that feels far removed from everyday life. For Californians looking for a peaceful, clean, and authentic camping experience with excellent fishing and convenient access to a national park, High Bridge Campground stands out as a hidden gem, perfect for creating lasting memories in the heart of their home state's stunning wilderness.

High Bridge Campground

Chester Warner Valley Rd, Chester, CA 96020, USA