In the far northeast corner of California is Modoc County, where you can visit turn of-the-century towns, ranches and farmlands, often called the “place where the west still lives” and frequently compared to the beautiful expanses of Montana.
The warm, dry summers encourage camping, hiking, fishing, and water sports against the backdrop of the uniquely beautiful Warner Mountains, with their clear alpine streams and a high desert dotted with serene lakes. An ideal habitat for diverse wildlife, Modoc County and the National Wildlife Refuge are home to bald eagles, peregrine falcons, goshawks, golden eagles, Rocky Mountain mule deer and elk, wild horses, burros and pronghorn antelope.
Alturas, the commercial center for northeastern California, lies in the broad valley of the Pit River offering lodging at the historic Niles Hotel, modern and historic shops, and restaurants. Modoc County provides a variety of bed & breakfast inns featuring amenities such as hot springs, ranch living, fishing, or wilderness access.
Cedarville, centrally located in the cattle ranching hub of Surprise Valley, is home to an unusual exhibit of historically significant 1800s buildings relocated to Cedarville, now comprising the mythical town of “Louisville”.
The Modoc Wildlife Refuge is home to bald eagles, peregrine falcons, goshawks, golden eagles, and many other endangered species. Rocky mountain mule deer and elk, wild horses, burros, and pronghorn antelope are just a few of the other inhabitants.
Over 700 lava tube caves - remnants of the arteries that transported lava from its source - are hidden within these flows. Crystal Ice Cave is open to park visitors on small ranger-guided tours during the winter months.
Modoc National Forest offers visitors solitude, breathtaking vistas, lava caves, excellent fishing, lakes and streams for family splashing, and unsurpassed star filled dark night skies.
