Modoc County

Modoc County is an administrative unit in northeastern California, bordering Oregon. The landscape alternates between forested mountains, wide plateaus, and desert sections that together form a thinly populated region.

The administrative unit formed in 1874 by splitting from Siskiyou County, after settlers moved into the area. Between 1872 and 1873 the area witnessed armed clashes between the US Army and the Modoc tribe.

The name comes from the Modoc people, who lived for centuries in the Pit River area. Visitors today see traces of this past in place names and small museums that preserve their story.

Alturas is the county seat and a starting point for exploring the surrounding area. Roads are often lightly traveled, gas stations and shops may be far apart, so carrying supplies is a good idea.

The volcanic hills and lava fields of the Modoc Plateau attract deer and wild horses that roam freely through the open landscape. Visitors often spot these animals crossing the thinly settled expanses, especially during early morning and evening hours.

Location: California

Inception: 1874

Capital city: Alturas

Shares border with: Klamath County, Lassen County, Siskiyou County, Shasta County, Lake County, Washoe County

Website: http://co.modoc.ca.us

GPS coordinates: 41.60000,-120.72000

Latest update: December 13, 2025 19:08