What to See and Do
Hiking and Biking
Eagle Lake Recreational Trail
This is a dog-friendly, paved path that is suitable for walking, hiking, or running. The best time to visit is from May through October. The trail overlooks a lake, and there are fishing opportunities along the way.
Length: 4.7 miles
Intensity: Easy
Bizz Johnson Trail
This hiking trail follows an old Southern Pacific railroad path. It crosses the Susan River 12 times with its bridges and trestles. The trail also takes you through two tunnels as it winds through the beautiful Susan River Canyon.
Length: 25.4 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Bathtub Trail
This is a short and peaceful place to take a leisurely walk. The best time to visit is from June through October.
Length: 1 mile
Intensity: Easy
Helipad Trail
This is a beautiful, family-friendly trail that is open all year. It provides visitors with a lovely view of Susanville from the top. It’s especially nice in the fall, when the leaves are changing color.
Length: 1.4 miles
Intensity: Moderate
Caribou Wilderness Area Trail
This trail is perfect for hiking or backpacking. You’ll discover several lakes as you make your way around the loop, and there are spots for camping along the way.
Length: 16.3-mile loop
Intensity: Moderate
Fishing and Boating
Eagle Lake is a 26,000-acre, closed basin lake that is great for trout fishing. In addition to fishing and boating, swimming is allowed at its Gallatin Beach. You can fish from Memorial Day weekend until October 31. Hours are from one hour before sunrise to one hour after sunset. There’s a limit of two trout per person.
Climbing
North Eagle Lake Campground in Susanville is the ideal location for climbing at the edge of the Sierra Nevada and Cascade ridges. Among the many available climbs, you’ll find Thumb One, which is a 90 foot, moderate-grade climb on granite with overhanging jugs. Riverview Crack is a 40-foot climb in a narrow corridor that’s perfect for new climbers, and High C is a 50-foot climb found on the far side of a crag.
Wildlife Viewing
The best wildlife viewing locations near North Eagle Lake Campground are Susan River’s California Watchable Wildlife Trail #34, Bismarck Wildlife Area, and Hang Lake Wildlife Area. Turkey vultures, red-tailed hawks, and great horned owls can be found overhead. Small animals around Susanville include raccoons, bats, and porcupine. You may even spot the occasional bobcat, mountain lion, or black bear.
Picnicking
Each site at North Eagle Lake Campground includes a fire ring for preparing meals and snacks, along with a picnic table. Trash removal services add convenience.