MODOC COUNTY, California. In California’s far northeast, Modoc County offers enormous skies, volcanic tablelands and small high-desert communities. This California58 guide introduces destinations with different kinds of appeal: cultural landmarks, public landscapes and local communities.

Editorial methodology: these are curated recommendations, not the results of a public vote. We do not sell places on this list. Verify current opening hours, admission, access and travel conditions with the operator.

7 places and experiences worth exploring in Modoc County

  1. Alturas

    Begin in the county seat for museums, supplies and local history.

  2. Modoc National Wildlife Refuge

    Watch waterbirds and wetland wildlife on designated access routes.

  3. Cedarville

    Explore an historic town beneath the Warner Mountains.

  4. Surprise Valley

    Drive a broad high-desert valley with mountain views.

  5. Warner Mountains

    Explore public mountain landscapes, checking road and weather conditions.

  6. Goose Lake region

    Enjoy a remote lake-basin landscape, aware that water levels fluctuate.

  7. Devil’s Garden Plateau

    See remote volcanic tablelands and juniper country from public routes.

Planning an itinerary

Services and cell coverage are limited. Carry fuel and water; do not approach private ranch lands without permission. For a shorter trip, consider beginning with Alturas, then add Modoc National Wildlife Refuge only if the distance and daylight work. With more time, visit Cedarville and sample local businesses between stops.

For people living in the county

California58’s Modoc County encyclopedia profile connects county government, cities and useful public information. See reports and permits and emergency information for practical resident resources.

Help choose the community favorites

Which local destination deserves first place? Our California58 community rankings already support voting by registered users in statewide contests. County ballots are being added, with reader results shown separately from editorial choices and advertising.

Plan the trip with OptionTrip. Organize places and build a route at OptionTrip.com; discover more in Travel California. Your business could advertise here.

Check official information

Use Visit California, California State Parks and the relevant local agency or operator to verify fees, seasonal access and public safety.

Modoc County seasonal events and Halloween 2026

Looking for things to do with children this October? Explore our Modoc County Halloween 2026 family guide, or browse the statewide Halloween-by-county collection. Event dates and admission can change; verify details with the organizer before traveling. These 2026 listings are time-specific and remain labeled by year.

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