The topography is diverse, ranging from the forested Warner Mountain range in the east, to the high plateaus dominated by sage steppe and ancient lava flows around Alturas, and culminating at the Medicine Highlands (the largest shield volcano in North America) in the west. The high desert climate in the valley areas consists of four distinct seasons and an average precipitation of 13 inches, a large part of which comes in the form of snow during the winter months of December to March. Elevation levels in the Modoc range from 9,906 feet at Eagle Peak in the South Warner Wilderness, to 4,000 feet in the valleys.

There are ample opportunities for hiking, backpacking, horseback riding, hunting and fishing. The Modoc is home of more than 300 species of wildlife. The Pacific Flyway crosses directly over the area. During their migration from Alaska and Canada to Mexico, hundreds of thousands of waterfowl use local wetlands as rest stops. Rocky Mountain elk, wild horses, mule deer, and pronghorn antelope are some of the large, unique mammals that call the Modoc their home.

5-year financing: $100 down payment, then $100/month for 60 months. Total price of $6,100.

1-year financing: $375 down payment, then $375/month for 12 months. Total price of $4,875.

Cash price: $4,500.