Places to Camp near Graeagle, CA

Camping near Graeagle, California

Nestled in the heart of Plumas National Forest, Graeagle, California, offers a serene escape for campers looking to immerse themselves in nature. With its picturesque landscapes, clear lakes, and abundant trails, this area is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you're an experienced camper or just looking for a weekend getaway, Graeagle has something for everyone.

One of the standout spots in this region is the Gold Lake 4x4 Campground. This campground is perfect for those who love a bit of adventure, as it requires a high-clearance vehicle to access. The reward for your effort is a peaceful, off-the-beaten-path camping experience with stunning lake views and plenty of outdoor activities.

What to do

Graeagle and its surrounding areas offer a variety of activities for campers. From hiking and swimming to exploring local trails, there's no shortage of things to do. The Gold Lake 4x4 Campground is a great base for these adventures.

  • Hiking and Trails: The area is rich with trails that cater to all levels of hikers. "There are many trails to explore. We drove and hiked the lookout tour and followed some trails," says April C. in her review.
  • Swimming and Water Activities: The clear waters of the local lakes are perfect for a refreshing swim. "We swam in the lake, it was so clear and the temperature was great," shares April C. in the same review.
  • Scenic Drives: The drive to the campground itself is an adventure, offering beautiful scenery along the way. Rich N. mentions, "The drive scenery was beautiful. You get to drive through some little cute towns," in his review.

What campers like

Campers love the tranquility and natural beauty of the Graeagle area. The Gold Lake 4x4 Campground is particularly praised for its serene environment and stunning views.

  • Peaceful Environment: "I loved this getaway! There is absolutely no cell service, so it was the perfect place to unplug and relax," says Sienna L. in her review.
  • Beautiful Views: The lake views are a highlight for many campers. Samantha V. shares, "Views of the lake are amazing. 10 out of 10," in her review.
  • Exclusive Feel: The challenging access route makes the campground feel exclusive and less crowded. "The 4x4 trail that leads to the camp site is more difficult than imagined making the site somewhat exclusive," notes Samantha V. in the same review.

What you should know

Before heading out to camp near Graeagle, there are a few things you should be aware of to ensure a smooth and enjoyable trip.

  • Vehicle Requirements: A high-clearance vehicle is essential for accessing the Gold Lake 4x4 Campground. Rich N. warns, "Low profile tires and trucks modified for street use, you WILL destroy your vehicle," in his review.
  • No Amenities: The campground is primitive, so you'll need to bring your own water and portable toilet. "It is primitive, bring water or filter water from the lake," advises April C. in her review.
  • First Come, First Serve: The campsites are not reservable, so it's best to arrive early, especially on weekends. "The camp area is first come first serve, so pack your patience," says Rich N. in his review.

Tips for camping with families

Camping with families near Graeagle can be a rewarding experience, but it's important to be prepared for the rustic conditions.

  • Bring Entertainment: With no cell service, it's a great opportunity to unplug and enjoy quality family time. "There is absolutely no cell service, so it was the perfect place to unplug and relax," mentions Sienna L. in her review.
  • Pack Essentials: Make sure to bring all necessary supplies, including water, food, and a portable toilet. "Pack a portable toilet. You'll need it!" advises Rich N. in his review.
  • Choose the Right Spot: Look for a campsite that suits your family's needs. "The site was big and flat for our rooftop tents," says April C. in her review.

Tips from RVers

RVers can enjoy camping near Graeagle, but there are some specific considerations to keep in mind.

  • Access Challenges: The route to the Gold Lake 4x4 Campground can be challenging, so ensure your RV is equipped for off-road conditions. "The trail in isn’t very challenging, the first rock section is a good 'gatekeeper' if you will," says Jake R. in his review.
  • Spacious Sites: The campsites are spacious enough to accommodate RVs. "The sites were spacious and able to comfortably fit an RV or tent," notes Sienna L. in her review.
  • Early Arrival: Arrive early to secure a good spot, especially on weekends. "If you get there on a weekend get there early because sites fill up fast," advises Jake R. in his review.

Camping near Graeagle, California, offers a unique and rewarding experience for those willing to venture off the beaten path. With its stunning natural beauty, peaceful environment, and variety of activities, it's a perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts. Just be sure to come prepared for the rustic conditions and enjoy the adventure!

Best Camping Sites Near Graeagle, CA (324)

    Camper-submitted photo from Gold Lake 4x4 Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gold Lake 4x4 Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gold Lake 4x4 Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gold Lake 4x4 Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gold Lake 4x4 Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Gold Lake 4x4 Campground

    1.

    Gold Lake 4x4 Campground

    10 Reviews
    23 Photos
    160 Saves
    Graeagle, California

    Overview

    Gold Lake 4x4 campground in northeast Plumas County, CA lies at 6,400 feet in elevation within the Plumas National Forest. The mountains, forest and lake setting provide a picturesque landscape for relaxation, adventure and exploration. A popular location with access to the backcountry, visitors should carefully review what this facility provides. This campground is not a luxury destination and may not meet your comfort level. This is a rustic campground with no utilities, water, hookups, trash service, or restroom facilities. Campers must pack out all their sanitation and trash. Families may decide one of the other campgrounds nearby is better suited to meet their needs and expectations. Visitors staying at the 4x4 campground will be within the Lakes Basin Recreation Area that requires camping within developed campsites. For those seeking a more dispersed experience, campers must ensure they are well outside the boundaries of the recreation area. The Lakes Basin & Sierra Buttes Map illustrates where boundaries and forest roads are found. These maps are available at the USGS Store online or from Plumas National Forest Offices.

    Recreation

    Visitors often use this campground as a home base to enjoy water sports, mountain biking, hiking, fishing, hunting and a host of other activities.____ The OHV access road continues beyond the campground and onto the adjacent Tahoe National Forest. From here, other roads lead north toward "A-Tree", LaPorte and Plumas Eureka State Park, southwest towards Downieville and Sierra City and south toward Packer Lake and Sardine Lakes. Make sure to take a suitable vehicle, a map, and extra food and water.

    Facilities

    Visitors often use this campground as a home base to enjoy water sports, mountain biking, hiking, fishing, hunting and a host of other activities.____ The OHV access road continues beyond the campground and onto the adjacent Tahoe National Forest. From here, other roads lead north toward "A-Tree", LaPorte and Plumas Eureka State Park, southwest towards Downieville and Sierra City and south toward Packer Lake and Sardine Lakes. Make sure to take a suitable vehicle, a map, and extra food and water.

    Natural Features

    As the Lakes Basin Recreation Area name implies, the region has many crystal clear alpine lakes to explore. Glacial carved granite peaks and ridges, sunrises and sunsets reflected in the waters over Gold Lake, the whisper of pines rustling in the wind or a glimpse of a shy doe will leave an indelible memory and entice you to return again and again. The region is rich in history that includes Native American use, gold discovery, westward migration, forestry, railroads, grazing, and agriculture. You may even find evidence of those that travelled here decades or centuries before you.

    Nearby Attractions

    Though in a remote location, Gold Lake 4X4 Campground is near several attractions worth visiting. Mills Peak Fire Lookout is manned during fire season and welcomes visitors.__ Mills Peak Trail, a premier mountain bike trail, descends from the lookout towards the community of Graeagle. Pan for gold and explore the hard rock mining history or attend one of the other interpretive activities at Plumas Eureka State Park.__ Try not to miss the spectacular views of and from the Sierra Buttes and its lookout. All aboard! Take a ride on the rails while checking out the Railroad Museum in Portola. The Reid Cattle Company can offer cowboys and cowgirls trail rides at the outlet of Gold Lake or from their Graeagle location.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash
    Camper-submitted photo from Sardine Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Sardine Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Sardine Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Sardine Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Sardine Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Sardine Lake

    2.

    Sardine Lake

    9 Reviews
    32 Photos
    173 Saves
    Sierra City, California

    Overview

    Sardine Lake Campground is located in the North Yuba River area, near the beautiful Sardine Lakes. Visitors enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities in the area, including hiking, hunting, fishing, canoeing and gold panning. This facility is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest.

    Recreation

    Boating, fishing and swimming are available at nearby Sardine Lakes and Sand Pond. Sardine Lakes Resort offers boat rentals, lodging, and a restaurant. A large network of trails is available in the area, including Deer Lake and Tamarack Lakes Trails and the Pacific Crest Trail.

    Facilities

    Boating, fishing and swimming are available at nearby Sardine Lakes and Sand Pond. Sardine Lakes Resort offers boat rentals, lodging, and a restaurant. A large network of trails is available in the area, including Deer Lake and Tamarack Lakes Trails and the Pacific Crest Trail.

    Natural Features

    The campground stretches along a wet meadow at the base of the scenic Sierra Buttes. A forest of lodgepole pine offers partial shade. Beautiful high mountain lakes and rugged peaks can be found throughout the surrounding area.

    Nearby Attractions

    Lakes Basin offers many opportunities for boating, fishing and hiking. Boating, fishing and swimming are available at nearby Sardine Lakes, less than a mile to the west. Sardine Lakes Resort offers boat rentals. Anglers will find rainbow and brook trout in many of the lakes, streams, and rivers throughout the basin. A more developed boat ramp is located at Gold Lake and accomodates launching of larger boats. Over 30 miles of maintained trails for hiking, mountain biking, and motorcycle singletrack branch out across the area and the Pacific Crest Trail can be accessed at a few spots in the Lakes Basin area. The historic towns of Sierra City and Downieville offer historic and cultural attractions, restaurants, shops, churches, and vistor information.

    Charges & Cancellations

    No Show Policy A no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date (or for day-use facilities, by check-in time the day of arrival).__ * No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival. * It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date. * It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date. There is no change fee if a customer extends or shortens a reservation if the change includes dates from the original reservation. If they choose to depart early, they may forfeit some or all of the recreation fees.__ There is no change fee if the customer changes campsites that are the same price and on the same reservation dates in the same campground. If the campsite the customer is changing to has a price difference, the customer will be responsible for any additional fees or be provided with a refund, based on the price difference.__ Where recorded, no-show customers are assessed a $20.00 no-show fee and forfeit the first night's recreation fee for a campsite or forfeit the entire day-use recreation fee for a day-use facility. We recommend customers contact the facility if they are en route to their reservation but cannot make it by the check-in date. In these cases, no refund will be issued, but the facility can ensure that a "no-show" fee is not assessed.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins

    $24 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Plumas-Eureka State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Plumas-Eureka State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Plumas-Eureka State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Plumas-Eureka State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Plumas-Eureka State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Plumas-Eureka State Park Campground

    3.

    Plumas-Eureka State Park Campground

    7 Reviews
    15 Photos
    85 Saves
    Graeagle, California

    Jamison Creek Campground (sites 1-70)

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $35 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Clio's Rivers Edge RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Clio's Rivers Edge RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Clio's Rivers Edge RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Clio's Rivers Edge RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Clio's Rivers Edge RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Clio's Rivers Edge RV Park

    4.

    Clio's Rivers Edge RV Park

    7 Reviews
    9 Photos
    61 Saves
    Clio, California
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Grasshopper Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Grasshopper Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Grasshopper Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Grasshopper Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Grasshopper Flat
    Camper-submitted photo from Grasshopper Flat

    5.

    Grasshopper Flat

    8 Reviews
    14 Photos
    74 Saves
    Portola, California

    Overview

    Grasshopper Flat Campground (5,886 feet) is one of three family campgrounds located in the Lake Davis Recreation Area. Campground loops around in the hills overlooking the lake providing most campsites with sweeping views of the lake's crystal blue water. Pine forest gives most campsites plenty of afternoon shade. A boat ramp and RV dump station are nearby. A trailhead for 7 mile long Lake Davis Trail is less than half a mile away.

    Recreation

    In addition to camping, the area offers a wide variety of popular water-related activities, including fishing, boating and swimming. Numerous fishing access points are located around the perimeter of the lake. Free trout fishing days are hosted by state agencies in June and September. Mountain biking, hunting and wildlife viewing are also available in the area. During winter months visitors enjoy ice fishing, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.

    Facilities

    In addition to camping, the area offers a wide variety of popular water-related activities, including fishing, boating and swimming. Numerous fishing access points are located around the perimeter of the lake. Free trout fishing days are hosted by state agencies in June and September. Mountain biking, hunting and wildlife viewing are also available in the area. During winter months visitors enjoy ice fishing, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.

    Natural Features

    The 4,000-acre Lake Davis was created in 1967 for recreational opportunities, as well as to rejuvenate fish populations in nearby rivers and supply water to the town of Portola. The lake offers 32 miles of shoreline and is surrounded by tall pine trees. A variety of wildlife make its home near the campground. Tall mountain peaks offer backdrop to lake views.

    Nearby Attractions

    The closest town is Portola, California, which is home to one of the largest railroad museums in the western United States. A state game refuge borders the lake to the east and the south.

    contact_info

    For facility specific information, please call (530) 836-2575.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins

    $100 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Little Bear RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Bear RV Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Little Bear RV Park

    6.

    Little Bear RV Park

    5 Reviews
    3 Photos
    64 Saves
    Blairsden-Graeagle, California
    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    $39 - $47 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from East Meadow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from East Meadow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from East Meadow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from East Meadow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from East Meadow Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from East Meadow Campground

    7.

    East Meadow Campground

    7 Reviews
    22 Photos
    153 Saves
    Sierra City, California

    Overview

    East Meadow Campground is located alongside the scenic Jackson Meadow Reservoir, in the Tahoe National Forest. Its location provides for a great base camp, allowing visitors to enjoy a wide range of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, hiking and hunting. East Meadow Campground is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest.

    Recreation

    The adjacent 1,000-acre lake offers excellent opportunities for boating, canoeing, water skiing, swimming and fishing. Anglers will find rainbow and brown trout. A boat ramp is located at Pass Creek Campground. A designated swim beach is nearby. The lake is an irrigation source, meaning its level will drop as the season progresses. A portion of the Pacific Crest Trail meanders along the east side of the lake. It is open to hiking and horseback riding and provides opportunities for viewing wildlife. Hunting and biking are popular activities in the surrounding area.

    Facilities

    The adjacent 1,000-acre lake offers excellent opportunities for boating, canoeing, water skiing, swimming and fishing. Anglers will find rainbow and brown trout. A boat ramp is located at Pass Creek Campground. A designated swim beach is nearby. The lake is an irrigation source, meaning its level will drop as the season progresses. A portion of the Pacific Crest Trail meanders along the east side of the lake. It is open to hiking and horseback riding and provides opportunities for viewing wildlife. Hunting and biking are popular activities in the surrounding area.

    Natural Features

    Jackson Meadow Reservoir is situated in a rolling forested valley, where visitors are awarded beautiful views of the Sierra Crest and English Mountain. The campground lies on the northeastern shore of the lake, in a forest of pine and fir trees. Some sites have a view of the lake, and boats can be moored nearby.

    contact_info

    For facility specific information, please call (530) 994-3401.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Equestrian
    • Cabins

    $24 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Bowman Campground

    8.

    Bowman Campground

    7 Reviews
    19 Photos
    163 Saves
    Sierra City, California

    Bowman Lake Campground is a very remote campground with limited services. There are 7 campsites with tables, fire rings and bear proof food lockers. There is no trash service. Bowman Lake is a large lake surrounded by rocky cliffs and scattered pines that are great for fishing and swimming. A few islands are found within the lake. Car top boat launch only. The road to access the campground is very rough, rocky, and narrow. A high clearance vehicle is needed, and towing boats or trailers is very difficult and dangerous. There are several stretches of the road where it is impossible for two vehicles to pass around each other and so if traffic is coming from both directions, someone will need to back up. Despite the difficult access, Bowman Lake is a popular, heavily used area.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
  1. 9.

    Everstoke - Camping & Glamping MTB park... by a brewery in the amazing Lost Sierra!

    3 Reviews
    36 Photos
    4 Saves
    Blairsden-Graeagle, California

    Everstoke is a mountain biker's paradise, with 8 tent / van / trailer campsites available and several of miles of really fun, hand built singletrack, including LOTS of challenging features on our 91 acres… and we've got lots more trail to build!

    In addition to campsites, we also have an awesome "tiny home" for those more into the comforts of "glamping". It has a master private bedroom (queen bed), and two lofts that have a queen on one loft and two twin beds on the other loft. It has a fully stocked kitchen, private bathroom with flushing toilet, shower and sink. An AC/heat unit keeps temps exactly how you like them.

    Regular campers have access to running water, a flushing toilet, a community kitchen area (grills, tables and some cooking/eating utensils), in addition to a community campfire ring, two "cool down" tubs to soak in, and a fun bike skills area at the base of Everstoke.

    Everstoke is located in the heart of the Lost Sierra. We're a short walk away from the beloved Brewing Lair, and super close to other world class riding and hiking trails in Lakes Basin, Downieville, Quincy (Mt. Hough), Mills Peak, and Beckworth Peak.

    How it all started: https://youtu.be/m4mXy08wOFI?si=GzBrMGHt3qWmciJl

    How it is evolving… and so much more to come! https://www.youtube.com/@mtbingadventures1551/videos

    We had Starlink hooked up, but cell coverage for all carriers is so strong at Everstoke, Starlink is not really needed.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $50 - $175 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Chapman
    Camper-submitted photo from Chapman
    Camper-submitted photo from Chapman
    Camper-submitted photo from Chapman
    Camper-submitted photo from Chapman
    Camper-submitted photo from Chapman

    10.

    Chapman

    4 Reviews
    18 Photos
    40 Saves
    Sattley, California

    Overview

    Chapman Creek Campground is located next__to Chapman Creek, near the North Yuba River. Visitors enjoy a wide variety of recreational activities in the area, including hiking, mountain biking, hunting, fishing and wildlife viewing,__ This facility is operated and maintained by the Tahoe National Forest.

    Recreation

    A large network of hiking trails is available in the area, including the nearby Pacific Crest Trail. The trailhead for the 2-mile long__Chapman Creek Trail is located within the campground.__ Boating, fishing and swimming opportunites are available at nearby Sardine Lakes, about five miles from the campground. Sardine Lakes Resort offers boat rentals.

    Facilities

    A large network of hiking trails is available in the area, including the nearby Pacific Crest Trail. The trailhead for the 2-mile long__Chapman Creek Trail is located within the campground.__ Boating, fishing and swimming opportunites are available at nearby Sardine Lakes, about five miles from the campground. Sardine Lakes Resort offers boat rentals.

    Natural Features

    The campground is split into two loops, with one overlooking Chapman Creek and the other, neighboring a small meadow.__ Stands of mature fir and lodgepole pine trees covers the area, providing pleasant shade at most campsites.

    Nearby Attractions

    The nearby Lakes Basin area offers boating, fishing, hiking and more than 30 miles of maintained trails, that are also open to biking and horseback riding. The lakes provide visitors with ample opportunities to enjoy boating, canoeing and fishing. Anglers will find rainbow and brook trout in many of the scenic bodies of water in the area. A boat ramp is located at Gold Lake.

    Charges & Cancellations

    No Show Policy A no-show customer is one who does not arrive at a campground and does not cancel the reservation by check-out time on the day after the scheduled arrival date (or for day-use facilities, by check-in time the day of arrival).__ * No-show customers are only recorded at staffed facilities. At most remote facilities, all customers are noted as automatically checked-in on the date of arrival. * It is recommended that staffed facilities hold a campsite until check-out time on the day following the arrival date. * It is recommended that staffed facilities hold group day-use facilities until check-in time on the arrival date. There is no change fee if a customer extends or shortens a reservation if the change includes dates from the original reservation. If they choose to depart early, they may forfeit some or all of the recreation fees.__ There is no change fee if the customer changes campsites that are the same price and on the same reservation dates in the same campground. If the campsite the customer is changing to has a price difference, the customer will be responsible for any additional fees or be provided with a refund, based on the price difference.__ Where recorded, no-show customers are assessed a $20.00 no-show fee and forfeit the first night's recreation fee for a campsite or forfeit the entire day-use recreation fee for a day-use facility. We recommend customers contact the facility if they are en route to their reservation but cannot make it by the check-in date. In these cases, no refund will be issued, but the facility can ensure that a "no-show" fee is not assessed.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash

    $24 - $48 / night

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Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Graeagle, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, Graeagle, CA offers a wide range of camping options, with 324 campgrounds and RV parks near Graeagle, CA and 19 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Graeagle, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Graeagle, CA is Gold Lake 4x4 Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 10 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Graeagle, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 free dispersed camping spots near Graeagle, CA.

What parks are near Graeagle, CA?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 16 parks near Graeagle, CA that allow camping, notably Plumas National Forest and Melvern Lake.