Juanita Lake Campground campground
Macdoel, California

Juanita Lake Campground

Mixed (reservable + first-come)
23 campsites
Open in maps

23

Total Campsites

Campground

22

Reservable Sites

Mixed (reservable + first-come)

Accessible

ADA-compliant sites

Organization

Managing agency

Overview

About Juanita Lake Campground

Overview Juanita Lake campground offers 23 campsites adjacent to Juanita Lake on the Klamath National Forest. The lake offers a unique combination of recreation opportunities including many water-based activities like fishing and swimming. Site map located in photo stream above. Currently, there is non-potable water available for use. Recreation The 55 acre Juanita Lake is excellent for small rowboats, rafts, and canoes. There is a paved boat launch ramp, a dock in the summer, and fish cleaning station. No motors are permitted on the lake. The lake is regularly stocked with trout and has a bass and catfish population. Those wanting to explore will enjoy the 1.5 mile paved, barrier free trail that circles the lake with two fishing jetties for easy lake access. For the more ambitious hiker, there is a 6 mile hike with a 2,700 foot elevation gain climbing up to Ball Mountain Lookout. Visitors interested in cooling off will delight in a swim or simply wading and water-play from the shoreline. Facilities The 55 acre Juanita Lake is excellent for small rowboats, rafts, and canoes. There is a paved boat launch ramp, a dock in the summer, and fish cleaning station. No motors are permitted on the lake. The lake is regularly stocked with trout and has a bass and catfish population. Those wanting to explore will enjoy the 1.5 mile paved, barrier free trail that circles the lake with two fishing jetties for easy lake access. For the more ambitious hiker, there is a 6 mile hike with a 2,700 foot elevation gain climbing up to Ball Mountain Lookout. Visitors interested in cooling off will delight in a swim or simply wading and water-play from the shoreline. Natural Features The partially shaded campground sits at an altitude of 5,130 feet and is located on the shores of Juanita Lake surrounded by a ponderosa pine forest. The lake is a favorite bird watching area with bald eagles and osprey regularly fishing the lake. Sit among the pines and fish or watch a diverse array of wildlife that uses the area. Nearby Attractions The Butte Valley Wildlife Area is within four miles.

  • 23 total campsites listed.
  • 22 reservable sites plus first-come options.
  • Most common site type: standard nonelectric (22).
  • Map coordinates are available for trip planning.
Juanita Lake Campground photo 2
Juanita Lake Campground photo 3

Our Take

What makes Juanita Lake Campground special

Nestled in the high country of the Klamath National Forest near Macdoel, California, Juanita Lake Campground offers 23 sites around a small, spring-fed lake that feels like a well-kept secret in the far north of the state. At over 5,000 feet in elevation, the air here is crisp and pine-scented, and the pace of life slows to match the gentle ripple of water lapping against the shore. Juanita Lake is a rare find: a quiet, non-motorized lake where canoes and kayaks glide without competition from speedboats. A paved trail circles the lake, making it accessible for wheelchairs and strollers and perfect for an easy morning walk with binoculars in hand. The birding is exceptional, with osprey, bald eagles, and a variety of waterfowl frequenting the lake and its marshy edges. Fishing for stocked trout adds another layer of simple, unhurried enjoyment. The campground itself is shaded by a mix of ponderosa pine and white fir, with well-separated sites that offer genuine privacy. Nights are cool even in midsummer, and the lack of light pollution makes for brilliant stargazing. Juanita Lake Campground is ideal for families with young children, paddlers seeking calm water, and anyone who appreciates a campground where the biggest decision of the day is whether to fish before or after breakfast.

Campsite Inventory

23 sites to choose from

STANDARD NONELECTRIC

22total sites

22

Reservable

0

Accessible

MANAGEMENT

1total sites

0

Reservable

0

Accessible

Amenities & Details

Everything you need to know

CAMPFIRE RINGS

Campfire Rings

Driveway length (ft)

35, 36, 37, 38

PAVED SITES

Paved Sites

Table & Benches

Table & Benches

Reservations & Contact

Plan your stay

Mixed (reservable + first-come)

Phone

(530) 398-4391

Email

N/A

Getting There

From I-5 at Weed, CA travel northeast on State Hwy 97 approximately 35 miles to Ball Mtn Road. Turn west (left) on Ball Mtn Road and go approximately 4 miles to Forest Service Road 46N04. Turn right on 46N04 and continue to Juanita Lake and campground.  From the north, traveling south on Hwy 97, turn west (right) approximately 3.8 miles south of the town of Macdoel on the Ball Mtn. Road. Travel approximately 4 miles to Forest Service Road 46N04. Turn right on 46N04 and continue to Juanita Lake and campground.

FAQ

Common questions

Everything you need to know before your trip to Juanita Lake Campground.

How do reservations work for Juanita Lake Campground?

Reservation availability for Juanita Lake Campground can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.

What campsite types are available at Juanita Lake Campground?

Juanita Lake Campground currently lists STANDARD NONELECTRIC (22), MANAGEMENT (1).

Where is Juanita Lake Campground located?

Juanita Lake Campground is in California near Macdoel. Coordinates: 41.8174, -122.1242.

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