California has its secrets, and the Warner Mountains hold some of the best. Out here, where the land ripples into high desert and pine-covered peaks, towns like Cedarville and Eagleville settle into the folds of the landscape, quiet and self-contained. The road to Likely is more suggestion than certainty, stretching through miles of nothing, then suddenly, a town, where the sky feels wider and time slows to a walk.
In Fort Bidwell, the wind carries stories from the past—gold rush dreams, frontier battles, and the kind of independence that never quite faded. Willow Ranch and Madeline sit in the hush of open rangeland, where the stars outshine the streetlights and front porches face an ocean of sagebrush. These aren’t places you stumble upon; they’re destinations for those who seek out stillness, solitude, and a life edged by wilderness.
The Warner Mountains don’t care about the rush of the modern world. They wait, unchanged, for those willing to trade traffic for open roads, noise for birdsong, and convenience for something harder to find—quiet. If you’re ready for a detour that leads far from the expected, these ten secluded towns are waiting.
10. Termo: Quiet Plains of Northern California
With a population of less than 50 people, Termo is a tiny settlement that offers unparalleled peace and quiet. Surrounded by vast undeveloped lands and rolling plains, it’s an ideal spot for those seeking solitude in nature. Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities like hiking, bird watching, and exploring the high desert terrain. The town lacks major industries, maintaining its untouched character and simplicity. What makes Termo truly secluded is its isolation from major highways and urban centers, allowing residents and visitors to disconnect from the fast-paced world. The expansive skies and open landscapes create a serene atmosphere that’s perfect for unwinding.
Where is Termo?
Termo is located in Lassen County in the northeastern part of California. Positioned along U.S. Route 395, it sits between the towns of Ravendale and Madeline. Its remote location contributes to its seclusion, with miles of open land surrounding the area and few neighboring communities. Getting to Termo involves a scenic drive through high desert landscapes, where traffic is sparse and the views are expansive. The town’s distance from larger cities and limited development ensure that it remains a quiet haven away from the bustle of modern life.
9. Rush Creek: Off-the-Grid Mountain Escape
Rush Creek is a remote community nestled within the Warner Mountains, offering an off-the-grid experience for those seeking true wilderness. The area is sparsely populated, with only a handful of residents who enjoy the untouched landscapes and abundant wildlife. Activities in Rush Creek revolve around nature, including hiking through dense forests, fishing in pristine streams, and camping under star-filled skies. There are no significant industries here, which adds to the secluded feel of the place. The lack of commercial development and modern infrastructure makes Rush Creek a perfect escape for those wanting to disconnect and immerse themselves in natural beauty.
Where is Rush Creek?
Located within Modoc County, Rush Creek is tucked away in the Warner Mountains of northeastern California. Its seclusion is heightened by its inaccessibility, with limited roads leading into the area and no direct highway connections. The challenging terrain and remote setting mean that getting to Rush Creek often requires careful planning and a sense of adventure. This isolation is precisely what draws visitors and residents who cherish the tranquility and pristine environment of this hidden mountain retreat.
8. Madeline: Remote Ranching Hamlet
Madeline is a small ranching community with a population of around 60 people. The town is characterized by sprawling ranches and vast open valleys that stretch as far as the eye can see. Visitors can experience the authentic rural lifestyle, participate in horseback riding, and explore the surrounding high desert landscapes. Ranching is the primary industry, contributing to the town’s rustic charm and close-knit community feel. Madeline’s minimal population and the encircling valleys create a secluded environment where life moves at a slower, more peaceful pace.
Where is Madeline?
Situated in Lassen County along U.S. Route 395, Madeline lies in the northeastern region of California. Its remote location, far from major cities and highways, enhances its seclusion. The town is surrounded by open rangeland and picturesque valleys, with few neighboring communities nearby. Travelers can reach Madeline by taking a scenic drive through the high desert, enjoying the solitude and expansive views along the way. The town’s distance from urban centers ensures that it remains a quiet and peaceful hamlet, perfect for those seeking an escape from the crowds.
7. Willow Ranch: Hidden Gem of Modoc County
Willow Ranch is an unincorporated community that epitomizes seclusion in the Warner Mountains region. With a very small population, it offers vast open lands and a tranquil environment untouched by significant development. Visitors can enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, wildlife watching, and exploring the natural surroundings. The lack of industries and commercial establishments contributes to the town’s serene atmosphere. Willow Ranch’s isolation and unincorporated status mean that it operates without the governance of a municipal corporation, allowing for a simpler, more laid-back way of life.
Where is Willow Ranch?
Willow Ranch is located in Modoc County near the California-Oregon border. Its remote position contributes to its hidden gem status, far from the main highways and urban areas. The community is surrounded by vast stretches of wilderness and open land, enhancing its secluded feel. Access to Willow Ranch typically involves traveling through scenic, less-traveled routes, which adds to the sense of adventure and discovery. The town’s distance from bustling centers makes it an ideal spot for those looking to experience the tranquility of Northern California’s natural beauty.
6. New Pine Creek: Borderline Serenity
New Pine Creek is a unique community straddling the California-Oregon border, with a population of around 100 residents. The town is nestled among pine forests and near picturesque Goose Lake, offering plenty of opportunities for fishing, hiking, and enjoying the great outdoors. The area is sparsely developed, preserving its natural charm and providing a peaceful retreat. What makes New Pine Creek secluded is its location away from major urban centers and its position right at the state line, giving it a distinctive character and a sense of being on the fringe of two worlds.
Where is New Pine Creek?
Positioned at the northern edge of Modoc County, New Pine Creek lies directly on the border between California and Oregon. The town’s remote location and limited accessibility contribute to its seclusion. It’s accessible via Highway 395, but with few services and amenities along the way, the journey emphasizes the town’s isolation. The surrounding pine forests and proximity to Goose Lake create natural barriers that further enhance the feeling of serenity and escape from the everyday hustle.
5. Likely: Peaceful Oasis in the High Desert
Likely is a quaint town with a population of about 60 people, offering wide-open spaces and a peaceful atmosphere. Surrounded by the Modoc National Forest, it’s a haven for outdoor enthusiasts interested in hiking, hunting, and observing wildlife. The main industry in Likely revolves around agriculture and ranching, maintaining the town’s rural character. Its remote location and the vast high desert landscapes make Likely an ideal spot for those seeking a quiet escape and a connection with nature.
Where is Likely?
Located in Modoc County, Likely sits along Highway 395 in northeastern California. The town’s seclusion is due to its distance from major cities and the expansive wilderness that envelops it. Access to Likely involves traveling through scenic high desert terrain, with few signs of civilization along the way. The surrounding Modoc National Forest acts as a natural buffer, reinforcing the town’s isolated feel and providing a backdrop of unspoiled natural beauty.
4. Davis Creek: Secluded Lakeside Retreat
Davis Creek is a small community situated near the Warner Mountains and adjacent to several pristine lakes, including the namesake Davis Creek Reservoir. With a population of around 70, it offers a tranquil setting for fishing, boating, and hiking in the nearby forests and mountains. The town lacks significant industries, which helps preserve its peaceful, small-town atmosphere. Natural barriers like the mountain ranges and lakes contribute to its seclusion, making it a perfect retreat for those looking to enjoy nature’s serenity.
Where is Davis Creek?
Davis Creek is located in Modoc County near the California-Oregon border along Highway 395. Its proximity to the Warner Mountains and surrounding lakes enhances its remote feel. The area is relatively inaccessible except by smaller highways and local roads, reinforcing its secluded nature. Travelers seeking out Davis Creek will find themselves enveloped by the beauty of the mountains and water, far removed from the noise and congestion of urban life.
3. Eagleville: Tranquil Ranching Community
Eagleville is a rustic town with a population of about 50 residents, nestled in the heart of Surprise Valley. Known for its expansive ranch lands and panoramic views, it’s an ideal spot for those seeking solitude and a taste of rural living. Activities in Eagleville include horseback riding, exploring the valley’s natural hot springs, and enjoying the quiet countryside. Ranching is the primary industry, which shapes the community’s way of life and fosters a strong connection to the land. The town’s remote location and vast open spaces contribute to its tranquil and secluded ambiance.
Where is Eagleville?
Located in Modoc County, Eagleville sits near the eastern base of the Warner Mountains, close to the Nevada border. Its seclusion is a result of its distance from major highways and urban centers, accessible mainly by local roads that wind through the scenic valley. The surrounding landscapes of high desert and mountain ranges create natural barriers that enhance the town’s isolation. Visitors to Eagleville can expect a peaceful journey through some of California’s most untouched and beautiful countryside.
2. Fort Bidwell: Historic Hideaway Amidst Alpine Beauty
Fort Bidwell is a historic town with a population of around 200 people, offering a glimpse into California’s past as a former military outpost. Surrounded by the untouched wilderness of the Warner Mountains and high desert landscapes, it’s perfect for those seeking privacy and a connection with history. Visitors can explore historic buildings, enjoy outdoor activities like hiking and bird watching, and experience the unique blend of alpine and desert environments. The absence of significant industries and commercial development helps preserve the town’s historic charm and secluded atmosphere.
Where is Fort Bidwell?
Nestled in the northeastern corner of Modoc County, Fort Bidwell is just a few miles from the Nevada and Oregon borders. Its remote location is accentuated by the surrounding Warner Mountains and the vast expanses of high desert. Access to Fort Bidwell is mainly via local roads, with the nearest larger towns being many miles away. This isolation enhances its appeal for those looking to step back in time and immerse themselves in natural beauty away from the crowds.
1. Cedarville: Gateway to Solitude in Surprise Valley
Cedarville is the largest of these secluded towns, with a population of approximately 500 residents. Nestled between the Warner Mountains and the Nevada border, it serves as a gateway to solitude in Surprise Valley. Visitors can enjoy geothermal hot springs, explore local artisan shops, and take part in outdoor activities like hiking, biking, and bird watching. The main industries include agriculture and small-scale tourism, which support the town’s economy without disrupting its tranquil atmosphere. Cedarville’s seclusion is due to its geographical location, natural barriers, and the surrounding vastness of the high desert, offering ultimate privacy for nature lovers.
Where is Cedarville?
Cedarville is located in Modoc County in the northeastern corner of California near the Nevada border. The town is accessible via State Route 299, which winds through scenic landscapes and contributes to its sense of isolation. The Warner Mountains to the west and the expansive Surprise Valley to the east create natural boundaries that enhance Cedarville’s secluded feel. Travelers to Cedarville can expect a journey through breathtaking vistas and a destination that feels worlds away from the hustle and bustle of city life.
