Things to Do in Modoc County

Outdoor adventures and unique experiences in Northeast California

Whether you're planning a self-guided tour of Modoc County's natural wonders or seeking outdoor adventures off the beaten path, you'll find endless activities in this pristine corner of California. From fishing legendary lakes to exploring vast wilderness areas, here's your guide to experiencing the best of Modoc County.

Fishing & Water Sports

World-class fishing in pristine waters

Modoc County is an angler's paradise with over 1 million acres of public lands and countless lakes, reservoirs, and streams. Our waters are home to rainbow trout, brown trout, and trophy-sized fish.

Popular Fishing Spots:

  • Clear Lake Reservoir - Excellent trout fishing and boating
  • Big Sage Reservoir - Remote fishing experience
  • Pit River - Wild trout in scenic canyon settings
  • Eagle Lake - Known for Eagle Lake trout

Get a Fishing License

A tranquil mountain lake below steep volcanic cliffs in the South Warner Wilderness. A horse stands at the water's edge drinking, with patches of lingering summer snow scattered across the rocky slopes behind it. Bright turquoise water, rugged ridgelines, and sparse trees create a remote, high-elevation alpine scene.

Hiking & Backpacking

1.6 million acres of wilderness to explore

The Modoc National Forest offers endless opportunities for hiking, from easy nature walks to multi-day backpacking adventures. Discover volcanic landscapes, alpine meadows, and stunning mountain vistas.

Featured Trails:

  • South Warner Wilderness - 70,000 acres of pristine wilderness
  • Medicine Lake Highlands - Volcanic landscapes and lava tubes
  • Warner Mountains - High peaks and alpine lakes
  • Ash Creek Wildlife Area - Easy trails with wildlife viewing

Visit Forest Service Site

Medicine Lake recreation area Hemlock Camp Ground

Wildlife Viewing

Observe nature in its purest form

Modoc County is home to incredible wildlife diversity. See wild horses roaming free, pronghorn antelope racing across sagebrush plains, and bald eagles soaring overhead.

What You Might See:

  • Wild Horses - Devil's Garden herd, one of the largest in the US
  • Pronghorn Antelope - North America's fastest land animal
  • Bald Eagles - Winter concentrations at reservoirs
  • Mule Deer - Abundant throughout the county
  • Sage Grouse - Spring mating displays (leks)
  • Waterfowl - Thousands of migratory birds

CA Wildlife Resources

View of Surprise Valley from the Warner Mountains, Modoc National Forest

More Activities

Hunting

Premier big game hunting including deer, antelope, and upland birds.

Learn More About Hunting

Winter Sports

Snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing across vast winter landscapes.

Camping

Developed campgrounds and dispersed camping throughout the national forest.

Reserve Sites

Rockhounding

Hunt for obsidian, agate, and other volcanic minerals in this geologically rich area.

Expand Your Tour: Nearby Attractions

Extend your Modoc County adventure with these nearby destinations, perfect for multi-day tours of the region.

Lava Beds National Monument

Partially located in Modoc County, explore over 700 lava tube caves - the largest concentration in North America. Features Native American petroglyphs at Petroglyph Point and the historic Modoc War battleground. Learn more

Visit NPS Site

Tule Lake Area Attractions

Tule Lake National Wildlife Refuge - One of the premier birding destinations in North America with millions of migratory waterfowl. Perfect for wildlife photography and seasonal bird watching.

Tule Lake National Monument - Powerful WWII history site preserving the largest Japanese American incarceration camp. Educational tours available seasonally (advance planning recommended). Visit the Tule Lake Monument page

Wildlife Refuge National Monument