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Camping · California

Payne Springs Campground

USFS · Campground · Free

Free

Fast facts

Cost
Free
Managed by
USFS
Type
Campground
Reservations
fs.usda.gov
Nearest dump station
Medicine Lake Dump Station · 2.4 mi
Coordinates
41.5547, -121.5608
Last verified
September 18, 2026
41.5547° N · 121.5608° W
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Last verifiedSeptember 18, 2026

About this place

Located in the scenic Medicine Lake Highlands, Payne Springs is surrounded by many attractions. This campground is adjacent to the Modoc Volcanic Scenic Byway and the Lava Beds National Monument is located near by. It is a great place to visit and learn about the local geology and history. There is no drinking water. There are picnic tables and fire pits at each site with fair road conditions getting to the sites.

From the USFS.

Is Payne Springs Campground free?

Yes. Payne Springs Campground is free to use. It is managed by the USFS.

How do I get to Payne Springs Campground?

From McCloud go east on US Hwy 89 south for 16 miles to Forest Service Road 15/Harris Spring Rd. Turn lefeet on Road 15 and go 4.4 miles to Forest Service Road 49/Medicine Lake Road. Follow the signs 24 miles toward Medicine Lake. Turn right on 43N17 and follow the signs to Blanche Lake, Bullseye and Payne Springs. From Tulelake travel south 24 miles on State Hwy 139 to County Road 97. Turn west on County Road 97 past Tionesta and go approx. 22 miles to Forest Service Road 43N75. Turn lefeet on Road 43N75 and go 1.8 miles to Forest Service Road 43N17. Turn lefeet and follow the signs to the campground.

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What are the rules at Payne Springs Campground?

Water and garbage service are not provided. Bring enough water for drinking, cooking and washing as well as extra water to drown campfires each day. Please take all trash, garbage and dog droppings with you when you leave. Dogs on leash only. Please clean

Nearby

SourceData from the USFS. Last synced September 18, 2026. Community reports and photos are submitted by travelers and are not verified by the agency.

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Disclaimer TerrainKit is an independent product with no affiliation with, sponsorship from or endorsement by the U.S. Forest Service, the Bureau of Land Management, the National Park Service or any other public agency. Site and access information is compiled from publicly available sources and can go out of date without notice. Confirm current rules, closures, fire restrictions and stay limits with the managing ranger district or field office before you camp.
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47.5053° N · 111.3008° W
Payne Springs Campground, Free Camping in California - TerrainKit