Mill Creek cuts through the forest just steps from the six campsites at Black Rock, where fire rings and picnic tables sit among shaded spots that provide relief during warmer days. This free Forest Service campground operates without running water or cell service, creating conditions that Gordon C. describes simply: "Go to this camp for the quiet."
The access road demands attention and higher clearance vehicles. Reviewers consistently mention the challenging drive, with one stream crossing and rough conditions that can take over an hour from the main road. Those who make the journey find fishing opportunities along Mill Creek and wildlife sightings including deer, quail, and salmon, though mosquitoes can be heavy during late spring and early summer.
A pit toilet serves the campground, and campers must pack out all trash following Leave No Trace principles. The sites rarely fill up according to long-time visitors, and the creek provides both fishing access and ambient sound. For those exploring the broader region, camping near Lassen National Forest includes additional options at varying elevations.
Bring bug spray, especially for late May through early summer visits, and ensure your vehicle can handle rough forest roads before attempting the drive.
Description
Black Rock Campground is a dispersed campground situated in the Oak Woodlands along Mill Creek. 6 sites are available for primitive dispersed camping. Grills and tables are provided at each of the 6 sites. Black Rock Campground is open year round.Black Rock Campground is located on the Northeast corner of the Ishi Wilderness. Hiking in the Ishi and along Mill Creek is wonderful and the fishing in Deer and Mill Creeks can be very rewarding.__Black Rock Campground is accessible via Highway__36 east from Red Bluff to__Ponderosa Way. Ponderosa Way is a dirt road, not recommended for RVs, that leads to the Ishi Wilderness.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundBlack Rock Campground (Lassen NF) is located in California
Coordinates
40.183819 N
121.712367 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Equestrian
Features
For Campers
- Toilets
- Alcohol
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Black Rock Campground (Lassen NF) needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 58 min from Redding, CA
- 2 hrs 21 min from Yuba City, CA
- 3 hrs 9 min from Reno, NV









