[1] It is located on the former Great Northern Railway Bieber Line, 2 miles (3.2 km) northwest of Timber Mountain,[2] at an elevation of 4278 feet (1304 m).

Numerous outdoor activities are available, including camping, hiking, exploring the area and the over 800 caves at Lava Beds.

Tule Lake Segregation Center and Captain Jack's Stronghold are two of the many historical attractions also to be found in the surrounding area.

Modoc County Air Pollution Control District records show a facility named PG&E Tionesta Compressor Station, (permit #97-01) located at 41°38′57″N 121°19′06″W / 41.64917°N 121.31833°W / 41.64917; -121.31833 on State Route 139.

Federally, Tionesta is in California's 1st congressional district, represented by Republican Doug LaMalfa.