Big Valley Ranger District

Attractions - Big Valley offers many wetlands in its boundaries. The richness of the wetlands supports diverse species of songbirds, amphibians, reptiles, insects, and fish. Big Valley offers exceptional winter viewing of raptors, particularly bald eagles, rough-legged hawks and red-tailed hawks that may be seen in large numbers. Mule deer and pronghorn winter along the foothills. In the spring, waterfowl, waders, and shorebirds stop on their annual migration north. As the result of the abundance of wetlands and natural springs, there are many game refuges that overlap Big Valley Ranger District; caution is advised when hunting.

Big Valley has several campgrounds and great fishing opportunities in Rush, Willow and Toms creeks. Ash Creek is stocked with trout for fishing and the Pit River has great fishing for bass and catfish.

Recreation - The natural condition of Big Valley Ranger District is conducive to wildlife watching, big and small game hunting, fishing, camping, hiking, and more.

Climate - The variable climate ranges from warm, dry summers to cold, severe, moderately wet winters. Temperatures range from highs of over 100 degrees Fahrenheit for a few weeks intermittently each summer, although they can drop to below freezing every month of the year. Winter temperatures reach as low as -35 degrees Fahrenheit, although common daytime temperatures rise to the 30's and 40's. Approximately 13 inches of annual precipitation falls primarily as rain and about 25% as snow. Prevailing southwest breezes below daily clearing the air and bringing frequent weather changes.

Location - Big Valley Ranger District makes up the southern most part of Modoc National Forest. The District Office is located in Adin, California, approximately 100 miles east of Redding, California and 100 miles south of Klamath Falls, Oregon. California Highways 199 and 139 lead through the District.