Old Fredonyer Campground

For California locals who define "camping" as getting away from it all – truly away from developed sites, noisy neighbors, and modern conveniences – Old Fredonyer Campground near Susanville offers an authentic, raw wilderness experience. This isn't your typical managed campground with paved sites and flush toilets. Instead, it's a testament to the beauty of dispersed camping, providing a genuine opportunity to reconnect with nature on a deeper level. If you're someone who thrives on self-sufficiency and prefers the solitude of the forest, this hidden gem in Lassen County might just be your next favorite spot.

Old Fredonyer Campground is nestled within the vast expanse of the Lassen National Forest, an area renowned for its diverse landscapes, from volcanic features to serene forests. While it might be listed on maps as a "campground," recent visitor reviews clearly indicate that it has largely reverted to a dispersed camping area. As one recent customer plainly stated, this "Campground" is "no longer used" in the traditional sense, with "no marked sites, no signs indicating anything." Instead, what you'll find is "dispersed camping at its finest," where you can select your own spot and create your temporary home in the wild. This natural evolution makes it perfect for those who know how to set up camp responsibly in undeveloped areas.

The allure of Old Fredonyer Campground, despite its lack of upkeep, is often found in its natural features. Campers have highlighted the presence of a "cute little creek that runs along it," providing a soothing natural soundtrack and a potential source of water (which must be filtered and treated). This intimate connection with a flowing creek adds a significant charm to the primitive setting. For those who understand and respect the principles of Leave No Trace, this area offers an unfiltered wilderness experience. It's a place to embrace the quiet, observe local wildlife, and enjoy the simplicity of camping under the vast California sky, far from artificial light and sound.

Location and Accessibility

Old Fredonyer Campground is located near Susanville, CA 96130, USA, within the Lassen National Forest. Its exact location is on Old Fredonyer Road (likely a forest service road), accessible from the general Fredonyer Pass area. Fredonyer Pass is situated along Highway 36, approximately 10 miles west of Susanville. Accessing the campground typically involves turning off the main highway onto unpaved forest roads. Based on reviews, these roads can be rough and may require a vehicle with higher clearance, such as a sturdy SUV or truck. Drive with caution and be prepared for changing road conditions, especially during or after inclement weather.

Given its designation as a primitive or dispersed camping area, cell service at Old Fredonyer Campground is highly unlikely to be available. This is a location where you truly unplug. It is essential to carry detailed maps, downloaded directions, and emergency supplies. Inform someone of your itinerary and expected return time. The campground is generally accessible during the warmer months, but snow can close roads at Fredonyer Pass from late fall through spring. Always check with the Lassen National Forest for current road conditions and any alerts or fire restrictions before planning your trip.

Services Offered

As a primitive or dispersed camping area, Old Fredonyer Campground offers extremely limited services:

• No Designated Campsites: While there may be remnants of an "old campground" with a single rock fire ring, there are no clearly marked or maintained individual campsites. Campers select their own spots in accordance with dispersed camping regulations.
• No Restrooms: There are "no bathrooms" of any kind, meaning campers must be prepared for Leave No Trace human waste disposal (e.g., catholes, wag bags).
• No Potable Water: There is "no potable water" source. While a "cute little creek" runs nearby, any water from natural sources must be filtered and treated before consumption. Campers are advised to bring all the water they will need.
• No Trash Service: Campers are expected to pack out everything they pack in, leaving no trace of their visit.
• No Fees: Typically, there are no fees associated with dispersed camping in national forests, but this can vary. Check with the Lassen National Forest for any specific area regulations.
• No Fire Rings: While one review mentioned a "fire ring made from rocks," it is not maintained. Campers should only have fires if conditions allow and with extreme caution, ensuring fires are fully extinguished. Always check for current fire restrictions or bans.
• Self-Contained Camping: This location is best suited for self-contained campers who bring all their own supplies and have methods for managing waste.

Features / Highlights

• Authentic Dispersed Camping: Offers a true, undeveloped wilderness camping experience, allowing campers to choose their own secluded spot.
• Serene Creek Access: Features a "cute little creek that runs along it," providing a peaceful ambiance and a natural water source (for treating/filtering).
• Natural Solitude: Ideal for those seeking quiet and isolation, far from crowded campgrounds and urban noise.
• Stargazing Opportunities: With minimal light pollution, the night sky can be incredibly clear and ideal for stargazing.
• Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding Lassen National Forest is home to various wildlife, offering opportunities for observation.
• Gateway to Lassen National Forest: Provides access to a vast network of forest roads and potential trails for hiking and exploration in the broader Fredonyer Pass area.
• Challenge and Reward: The potentially challenging access road contributes to the sense of adventure and the reward of finding a truly remote spot.
• Emphasis on Leave No Trace: Encourages and requires campers to practice responsible outdoor ethics, promoting a deep respect for the natural environment.

Contact Information

Address: Old Fredonyer Campground, Susanville, CA 96130, USA

Phone: For information regarding the Lassen National Forest, including road conditions, fire restrictions, and dispersed camping guidelines, contact the Lassen National Forest Supervisor's Office or the Eagle Lake Ranger District:

Lassen National Forest Supervisor's Office: (530) 257-2151

Eagle Lake Ranger District (Susanville): (530) 257-4188

Always verify current information directly with the managing agency before your visit, as conditions in primitive areas can change rapidly.

Conclusion: Why This Place Is Suitable for Locals

For California locals, particularly those in Northern California who have a deep appreciation for raw wilderness and a "Leave No Trace" ethos, Old Fredonyer Campground offers a rare and valuable opportunity. Unlike many of the state's more developed and often crowded campgrounds, Fredonyer provides a genuine dispersed camping experience. This means you won't find amenities like flush toilets or picnic tables, but what you gain is unparalleled solitude and the freedom to create your own adventure in the heart of the Lassen National Forest.

The "cute little creek that runs along it" adds a picturesque element and a convenient water source for those prepared to filter. This natural feature, combined with the quiet isolation, makes it perfect for local campers seeking a peaceful escape from everyday life. It's an ideal spot for experienced campers and those eager to practice advanced outdoor skills, as self-sufficiency is key. The potentially challenging access road further ensures that the area remains less frequented by casual visitors, preserving its pristine condition for those who truly seek it out.

For Californians, Old Fredonyer Campground embodies the spirit of exploration and responsible recreation. It encourages a deeper connection with the natural world, far from the distractions of technology and commercialization. If your idea of a perfect camping trip involves picking your own spot under the stars, listening to the sounds of a babbling creek, and leaving no trace behind, then Old Fredonyer Campground is perfectly suited for your next authentic California wilderness adventure. It’s a place for those who understand that the best amenities are often the ones nature provides.

Old Fredonyer Campground

Susanville, CA 96130, USA