Where to Stay

Lodging options for every adventure

A handful of family-run motels in Alturas, a few vacation rentals, USFS cabins and developed campgrounds in the national forest, and free dispersed camping anywhere on Forest Service land. There isn't much — book early in summer.

Hotels & Motels

Alturas — Most Options

The county seat offers the most lodging choices:

  • Hotels - Hotel Niles (4.3★), Trailside Inn (3.9★), Super 8 (3.9★), Modoc INN (4.1★)
  • Motels - Wagon Wheel Motel (4.4★), Rim Rock Motel (4.2★), Hacienda Motel (4.0★)
Complete Alturas Guide Search Hotels

Cedarville — Unique Stays

Small-town lodging with special character:

  • Sunrise Motel and RV Park - (4.9★)
  • Surprise Valley Hotsprings - Natural hot springs (4.6★)
  • The Cressler House - Inn (5.0★)
  • Cockrell's High Desert Lodging - Lodge (5.0★)
Complete Cedarville Guide Search Hotels

Campgrounds & RV Parks

Modoc County offers extensive camping opportunities, from developed campgrounds to dispersed backcountry camping.

Developed Campgrounds

USFS campgrounds in Modoc National Forest:

  • Medicine Lake - Near volcanic features, boat launch
  • Hemlock - Medicine Lake area
  • Patterson - Lakeside camping and fishing
  • Reservoir C - Remote, peaceful setting
  • Stough Reservoir - Small, quiet campground

Reserve on Recreation.gov

Dispersed Camping

Free camping throughout Modoc National Forest:

  • Camp anywhere on national forest land (outside developed campgrounds)
  • No facilities - pack in/pack out
  • 14-day stay limit
  • Follow Leave No Trace principles

Forest Service Camping Info

Vacation Rentals & Cabins

Find private homes, cabins, and unique stays in and around Modoc County.

Airbnb

Cabins, homes, and unique properties

Search Airbnb

VRBO

Vacation rentals by owner

Search VRBO

Forest Service Cabins

Rent historic lookout towers and cabins

Check Availability

Tips for Your Stay

Book Ahead

Lodging options are limited in this rural county. Book well in advance, especially during hunting season (fall) and summer vacation months.

Prepare for Remote Areas

Cell service can be spotty. Download maps offline, bring paper maps, and ensure your vehicle is in good condition.